Recent disruptions remind us that resilience isn't just about planning – it's about empowering staff to drive recovery. During the unprecedented rains and flooding, we saw firsthand the impact of the right communication and collaboration tools.

Even the most rigorous airport preparations can be overwhelmed by extreme weather events. We carefully analysed how our Airport Community App supported staff during this historic disruption, identifying the key features that empowered teams to tirelessly address the crisis. By equipping staff with the tools to communicate effectively, collaborate seamlessly, and anticipate passenger needs, airports build resilience that extends far beyond the immediate crisis.

‍Relief in the Midst of the Storm

Disruptions are inevitable, but the impact can be mitigated. By prioritising strong communication and collaboration tools, airports can empower staff to navigate unforeseen events and prevent escalations. This enables confident crisis response, freeing up time and resources to provide compassionate support to distressed passengers.

Our app directly supports staff through disruptions by providing a centralised source of information, instant real-time alerts via notifications, and tools that empower collaboration for problem-solving, including both predefined workflows and flexible ad-hoc communication.

Let's take a closer look at the key features that were essential during the recent crisis: notifications, weather warnings, cancelled flights and queue status were among the most heavily relied-on features.

• Performance Monitoring KPIs (OTA/OTD): Monitoring on-time performance helps identify areas of stress in operations, enabling data-driven decisions to restore optimal flow.
• Weather: Current and forecasted weather information allows proactive planning and adjustments to minimise disruption for both staff and passengers.
• Notification Centre: Key updates and announcements are disseminated instantly ensuring staff are aligned and informed. Further customization of notifications based on individual needs ensures that information and alerts remain relevant even amidst the chaos of a crisis.
• Flight List & Details: Real-time access to flight information helps coordinate efforts, reducing miscommunication. This ensures that all stakeholders have the most up-to-date information on flight statuses, changes, or delays. By subscribing to flight notifications, users receive real-time updates, keeping everyone informed and minimising miscommunication within airport teams.‍
• Queue Status Monitoring: In Business as Usual context, visualising passenger flow helps staff anticipate bottlenecks and efficiently allocate resources, preventing frustration During disruptions, real-time visualisations of passenger movement, allow staff to anticipate areas where crowds might build. By efficiently allocating resources to these areas proactively, staff can prevent frustration and minimise stress for passengers already impacted by the disruption.

Benefits for Recovery

The goal of these features is to directly enhance the staff's ability to navigate the disruption and drive recovery:

• Empowerment: Providing the right information at the right time gives staff the power to make rapid, informed decisions.
• Confidence: A streamlined information flow builds confidence in action plans, reducing uncertainty during a crisis.
• Agility: Real-time data and communication tools allow staff to adapt swiftly to changing circumstances, minimising the impact of disruptions.

Care to know how a tool can help your staff to become a true power?

Extreme weather events are a wake-up call to prioritise the tools that empower staff. When the unexpected hits, communication tools like ours can be the key to minimising disruption and ensuring a rapid recovery. Are you curious about how our app could strengthen the operational resilience of your airport?

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