Copenhagen Airport has been named the most efficient airport in Europe fourteen out of seventeen times by ATRS – most recently in 2019. Based on this position of strength, the airport has partnered up with Netcompany.

What will the airport of the future look like?

Using data, algorithms and artificial intelligence, the Airport Operational Data Base (AODB) will provide all new opportunities for mapping and integrating huge amounts of data on traffic handling, flight times, check-in and security. In other words, by means of data, the solution will add significant value by optimising all processes relating to airport operations for the benefit of passengers, airlines and all businesses operating in and around the airport.

Netcompany and CPH are already working at full speed to develop the new digital, data-driven core system, and are now transferring these activities to the new joint venture.

The beginning of a new adventure

Netcompany and CPH are prepared to invest up to a combined DKK 200 million into Smarter Airports A/S. The new company plans to finalise the development of a Minimum Viable Product of the digital, data-driven platform over the first 12 months – and will hereafter continue to work on more features.

“Notwithstanding the deep crisis currently facing the aviation industry, we need to replace the soon to be outdated IT system currently used to control traffic flows and support the passenger experience. This partnership enables us to combine our know-how and Netcompany’s competencies for the purpose of developing an innovative IT system able to meet the requirements of tomorrow for efficient and sustainable airport operations,” says Thomas Woldbye, CEO of Copenhagen Airports.

“Combining the best of the two Danish companies and sharing development costs, we have the chance to subsequently turn the system into a genuine export success by selling it to major airports worldwide. This is not only a good idea, it’s also good business. On top of that, the project is in line with one of the airport’s strategic focus areas: To identify new revenue streams based on our existing strengths so we can continue the sustainable transition of the airport,” Woldbye adds.

Confidence in the future

CEO Thomas Woldbye emphasises that it is a forward-looking partnership: “We believe in a sustainable post-pandemic future for aviation, and the new digital platform will play a crucial role in that future. The partnership with Netcompany enables us to make a technological quantum leap and take the digital lead with a system that can be rolled out across the world. This could give us a competitive edge when passengers return and we’re faced with fierce competition from other European regions and airports in restoring routes and networks.”

The new joint venture is subject to the approval of relevant competition authorities.