Optimizing Aircraft Turn Times with Volan’s Micro-Location Technology

Michael Bettua Square
September 7, 2024//Airports/airport monitoring, airports, micro location technology, real-time micro-location, turn time

Michael Bettua explains how Volan’s micro-location technology optimizes aircraft turn times by providing real-time tracking of ground support vehicles, such as fuel and luggage trucks. This enables more precise coordination, reducing idle times and increasing operational efficiency, which is critical for maximizing flight capacity and ensuring on-time departures. Volan is working with a major airport to reduce average turn times by up to 15%.

Efficiency is crucial in the airline industry, directly impacting profitability and passenger satisfaction. A critical factor in this efficiency is reducing turn time — the period from when an aircraft arrives at a gate until it departs again. Shorter turn times allow for more flights, increasing revenue and ensuring timely departures, which enhances the passenger experience.

Optimizing Aircraft Turn Times with Volan's Micro-Location Technology

However, managing the complex logistics of ground support vehicles, such as fuel trucks, catering trucks, and luggage loaders, remains a significant challenge. Volan’s micro-location technology offers a solution by providing real-time tracking and management of these vehicles, enabling faster, more efficient turn times.

What is an Average Turn Time?

The average turn time for an aircraft at U.S. airports typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes. However, this can vary depending on several factors, including the aircraft size, the airline’s operational procedures, the specific airport, and whether the flight is domestic or international. Low-cost carriers often aim for shorter turn times, around 25 to 30 minutes, to maximize aircraft utilization. In contrast, larger carriers or international flights might experience longer turn times due to more complex servicing requirements.

The Challenge of Turn Times

Turn times are critical for airlines because they affect both operational efficiency and passenger satisfaction. Delays in turn times can lead to fewer flights, higher costs, and disrupted schedules, negatively impacting the overall travel experience. Achieving quick turn times requires precise coordination of various ground support activities, ensuring that all necessary vehicles are in the right place at the right time.

How Volan’s Technology Helps

Volan’s micro-location technology provides real-time tracking of ground support vehicles, offering a more accurate and reliable solution than traditional GPS. This technology allows ground crews to monitor the exact location of each vehicle, ensuring they are ready to service the aircraft as soon as it arrives. The system also helps reduce idle time, as vehicles can be dynamically adjusted based on real-time data, leading to lower operational costs and a reduced carbon footprint.

For example, when a plane arrives at the gate, the system can ensure that the fuel truck is already on standby, the luggage loader is positioned, and the catering truck is ready to deliver meals. Any delays in one area can be quickly identified and addressed, preventing a domino effect of delays that could disrupt the entire turn process.

In addition to improving efficiency, Volan’s technology enhances safety by monitoring vehicle movements and alerting crews to potential hazards. It also aids in FAA regulatory compliance by maintaining accurate records of operations, reducing the risk of penalties.

Volan is currently working with a major airport to reduce average turn times by up to 15%.

Conclusion

Volan’s micro-location technology is revolutionizing airport operations by addressing one of the most challenging aspects of turn times: managing ground support vehicles. By providing precise, real-time tracking, Volan can help enable airlines to achieve faster turn times, reduce costs, and enhance passenger satisfaction. As the airline industry continues to seek greater efficiency, Volan’s technology is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of air travel.

To learn more about our Volan technology, please contact us.

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