5G networks offer high bandwidth, ultra-low latency, and can serve 10x as many devices per square kilometer than 4G networks. Of course, this supports the ambitions plans of many airports that want to implement the most advanced technologies out there.
In this article, we’ll cover why 5G has superior performance and how it’s impacting different areas, including baggage handling, turnaround management, MRO operations and customer experience. We’ll also look at some real-world examples.
How 5G Capabilities Support Aviation Operations
Airports need robust networks that support extensive data exchange. 5G technology makes this possible thanks to its ultra-low latency and high throughput. It also provides huge capabilities for device connectivity, and network slicing for prioritizing critical services. Let’s look at these areas in detail.
Speed
5G is 10-100 times faster than 4G, reaching speeds of up to 20 Gbps. According to Cisco, average download speeds are (in theory) 10 Gbps, while upload speeds can be 30% faster than 4G.
The use of higher frequencies is one of the factors that makes such speeds possible. (Generally speaking, the shorter the wavelength, the larger the bandwidth.)
Low Latency
With 5G, latency can be as low as one millisecond and is typically in the range of 1-10 ms. As discussed by Ericsson, a study analyzing 15 million speed tests showed that it was rarely higher than 50 ms. Compare that to 4G, with average latencies of 20-50 ms, and that makes a big difference. In future, we may see 6G networks with sub-millisecond delays.
One Million Connected Devices Per Square Kilometer
This is the number of connections 5G networks can maintain. For 4G, it’s around 100,000, but service quality is often compromised at full capacity. Airports are starting to use more Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, which 4G networks may struggle to handle (depending on scale).
Network Slicing
5G networks were designed to be more flexible than 4G, which centered around mobile devices. With network slicing, a single network can be split into virtual segments which cater to specific operations depending on the requirements involved.
For example, low latency would be a big priority for surveillance monitoring but less important for functions like inventory management, where data exchange doesn’t need to be so immediate.
This capability prevents vital operations being slowed down due to other traffic. Compared to using separate networks, slicing is more flexible and can be more cost-effective.
How Can 5G Improve Ground Handling Operations?
In the words of Capgemini, “most departure delays are directly related to operational issues which can be tackled by 5G-enabled use cases”. Let’s look at some examples.
Baggage Handling and Tracking
5G can make baggage handling more efficient and reliable. In recent years, the aviation industry has invested in better baggage tracking (using RFID tags and barcode scans at multiple points in the journey) to reduce mishandled luggage.
Baggage handling systems already supports these processes. 5G will make things faster, supporting lag-free data transmission.
5G also opens the door to more advanced, automated baggage handling processes in future. For example, Singapore’s Changi Airport is using 5G to test the supervision of autonomous ground support equipment. Currently, it’s used for baggage handling vehicles but may be expanded in future. The control room receives video and sensor data from the vehicles and staff can take over tele-operation where necessary.
Aircraft Turnaround
Every minute on the ground is critical for airlines, and 5G is introducing new ways to save time and improve coordination. Instead of relying only on handheld radios that have limited connectivity, teams will be able to quickly share large amounts of data such as diagnostics reports or video from inspections. This will supplement their turnaround management software and provide unprecedented reliability in busy international airports.
Asset Management
Real-time asset tracking becomes more robust with 5G. Airports will be able to track every piece of ground service equipment via IoT trackers or telematic control units. This means knowing the exact location and status of fuel trucks, belt loaders, boarding stairs, etc., at all times. Operators could remotely monitor fuel levels (or charge levels for electric GSE) and optimize refueling/charging schedules, for example.
Data Exchange Between Aircraft and Ground Systems
Another significant benefit is speeding up data exchange between the aircraft and ground systems. In some cases, transferring this data (for analysis or regulatory records) happens via slower connections when the plane is parked at the gate. 5G can drastically shorten this step.
As discussed by Air Cargo Week, at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, a private 5G network is used to automatically download Quick Access Recorder (QAR) data from arriving aircraft, allowing it to be processed immediately. Aviation maintenance needs can then be assessed well before the aircraft reaches the gate.
How Can 5G Improve Airport Security and Surveillance?
Airports deploy thousands of cameras and sensors for surveillance, perimeter monitoring and access control. Of course, 5G enables the streaming of high-definition video from security cameras with minimal delay, and the fast transmission of sensor data, improving situational awareness.
AI-Based Threat Detection
AI-based threat detection becomes more feasible when video can be reliably processed in real-time. This includes video analytics and the remote monitoring of autonomous drones. Brussels Airport has tested the latter using its private 5G network.
How Can 5G Improve the Airport Experience for Passengers?
Faster Connectivity for Personal Devices
Air travelers today expect fast connectivity for their personal devices and a smooth, smart journey through the airport. With 5G’s capacity, passengers can enjoy ultra-fast mobile internet and streaming, easing boredom if delays occur. Likewise, travelers looking to get work done while on the move will no longer be thwarted by poor connection speeds.
Additional Digital Services
5G allows airports to deploy more interactive digital services. For example, mobile apps and kiosks can use 5G to deliver real-time information (like flight updates, wayfinding, or AR-based navigation aids) without lag.
Security and Boarding Processes
Many airports are introducing biometric ID systems to hasten passenger flow. These systems rely on real-time video feed analysis and database checks. 5G can transmit the video and data required for facial recognition almost instantly, meaning passengers won’t have to wait at counters. In the future, this could create a largely self-service journey from the moment passengers enter the terminal through to departure.
Other growing uses of biometric checks that 5G supports include check-in and bag drop. SITA states that more than half of airports are looking to implement these technologies by 2026.
Real-World Deployments of 5G in Airports
Changi Airport
As well as supervising autonomous GSE, Changi Airport has been testing 5G for:
- Remote aircraft inspections
- Video analytics combined with AI to better predict turnaround times
- Transferring flight data between aircraft and data centers.
Dallas Love Field Airport
In 2018, Dallas Love Field Airport was the first airport to launch a private 5G network using the CBRS spectrum. Ericsson stated that the initial proof of concepts completed pertained to ramp, cargo and terminal services. As discussed by Dallas Innovates, it’s also being used to improve ATC situational awareness via a new surveillance system.
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
In partnership with Ericsson, Schiphol Airport started testing a private 5G network after getting a spectrum access via Dutch regulators. Tests began in 2024 and the ultimate goal is to implement advanced solutions including IoT-based monitoring, real-time safety systems and predictive maintenance. They’re also looking to improve the customer experience.
Adoption Challenges
Upgrading an airport’s connectivity infrastructure is a huge undertaking that comes with several key challenges.
Cost
Installing a campus-wide 5G network (especially a private one) can require significant capital. According to IoT Analytics, 55% of corporate spending on private 5G went towards network infrastructure in 2023. 26% was invested in managed services and 19% on management/orchestration software.
Stakeholder Engagement
Getting spectrum access for private 5G networks can be complex (but not always). Some governments offer licenses while in other cases, it’s necessary to partner with telecoms operators. This coordination can take time.
Interoperability
Airport operations involve many different device types. Ensuring they can all connect to the 5G network requires thorough planning and sometimes hardware upgrades. Not all existing equipment is 5G-ready, so there might be a transition period for certain functions.
Regulations and Standards
Safety and regulatory approval present further hurdles. For example, there have been concerns about 5G signals interfering with aircraft radio altimeters in certain frequency bands. As such, the FAA introduced an Airworthiness Directive that required the U.S. fleet to be retrofitted with 5G C-Band-tolerant radio altimeters or to have suitable radio frequency filters installed.
Conclusion
5G helps airports capitalize on the latest innovations in the field such as IoT and automated systems. It provides superior performance to traditional networks and enables record-breaking speeds for data transmission. As a result, airports can improve operational efficiency and enhance the digital services offered to passengers.
Of course, there’s no point in thinking about 5G if your turnaround operations still rely on legacy systems. Thankfully, Zafire provides leading software for aviation companies, including baggage handling, load management, and aircraft turnaround software.
Take the first step towards Airport 4.0 by updating your software ecosystem; contact us today to book a demo or request more information.
