A harmonious airport experience depends on the seamless coordination of airport operations. However, challenges such as Foreign Object Debris (FOD) continue to threaten smooth operations. Whether it’s a stray bolt or a discarded luggage tag, any FOD has the potential to threaten safety, disrupt operations and result in costly damages.

The Air France Concorde tragedy in 2000, caused by titanium debris on the runway, tragically illustrated the devastating potential of FOD and spurred a global effort to improve prevention.

For years, airports have relied on manual inspections, a time-consuming and imperfect process. Now, cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming this critical task. Companies like ADB SAFEGATE are developing innovative solutions that will revolutionize apron management, ushering in the age of the autonomous airport.

The FOD Problem: A Multi-Billion Dollar Headache

The numbers are staggering. Boeing estimates that FOD costs the aviation industry $4 billion annually, with damage including aircraft engine failures, punctured tires, and debris lodged in critical mechanisms.

Beyond the direct repair costs, the ripple effects of a single delayed flight can include disruptions across an airline’s network, leaving passengers stranded and impacting crew schedules.

Studies, including an FAA recent report, suggest true FOD costs could be as high as $22.7 billion annually, when considering indirect costs such as flight delays, cancellations, and lost revenue. These costs go beyond the financial – impacting passenger experience, operational efficiency, and the perception of air travel.

Hidden FOD Dangers on the Apron

While discussions about FOD typically focus on runways, the apron – where aircraft park, refuel, and undergo servicing – is equally vulnerable. 55% of all FOD is discovered in the stand and apron areas, underscoring the magnitude of the problem in these high-traffic zones. Debris, such as loose tools or fasteners, can jeopardize apron operations, causing extensive damage to the aircraft and ground support equipment, as well as risking injury to personnel.

The apron accounts for 10% of total FOD-related costs, with 4 FOD detections per 10,000 operations. In these high-tempo environments, small issues can escalate quickly. For example, in 2013, a Boeing 737-800 was severely damaged after a rag was ingested by an engine, highlighting how easily items left on the apron can escalate into significant disruptions. Preventing FOD requires increased vigilance, robust inspection, and efficient cleanup to ensure safety and protect valuable assets.

Enter AI-Powered Solutions

The future of airside operations lies in innovative, AI-driven technology. Autonomous systems offer better efficiency, accuracy, and safety.

ADB SAFEGATE is paving the way with their advanced AiPRON FOD solution. Utilizing a combination of high-resolution cameras and radar, this solution provides continuous, automated FOD detection on the apron. The system identifies even small objects in real-time, alerting ground crews to their precise location and enabling swift removal.

The Benefits: Safety, Efficiency, and Sustainability

The benefits of AI-powered FOD detection are multifaceted, including:

• Enhanced Safety: Quick debris identification and removal minimizes risk of damage to aircraft and injury to personnel.
• Improved Efficiency: Streamlined apron operations reduce turnaround times and optimize aircraft usage.
• Cost Savings: Preventing FOD-related damage and delays can save millions of dollars each year.
• Sustainability: Optimized operations can reduce fuel consumption and emissions, contributing to a greener aviation industry.

The Future of Airport Operations

With air traffic continuing to grow, innovative solutions will be essential to ensuring the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of air travel. With the persistent

challenge of FOD met by the intelligent eye of technology, ADB SAFEGATE is paving the way for a smarter, safer, and more connected future for aviation.

With 30 years’ experience in Sales and Business Development, Ilya Burkin joined ADB SAFEGATE in 2019 holding various aviation roles from consulting companies, solution providers and airports. Currently an ADB SAFEGATE’s Global Marketing Director, Ilya is a thought leader with deep knowledge of global airport markets, he shaped our company’s Intelligent Apron vision and drives digital transformation globally. Based in London, he’s a prominent speaker at industry events worldwide.

 

DISCLAIMER

This article was provided by a third party and, as such, the views expressed therein and/or presented are their own and may not represent or reflect the views of Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA), its management, Board, or members. Readers should not act on the basis of any information contained in the blog without referring to applicable laws and regulations and/or without appropriate professional advice.