Indra and Synaptic Aviation Deploy AI at Major Spanish Airports

This article is based on an official press release from Indra Group.

In a significant step toward modernizing European ground operations, technology firm Indra has partnered with Synaptic Aviation to deploy an AI-driven monitoring system across Spain’s busiest aviation hubs. The initiative targets aircraft turnaround processes at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas, Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat, and Palma de Mallorca Airports.

According to an official press release from Indra Group, the new digital system utilizes advanced video analytics to oversee aircraft rotation before takeoff. By automating the tracking of apron activities, the technology aims to enhance operational predictability, reduce environmental impact, and improve the overall passenger experience.

The three airports, all managed by Spanish airport operator Aena, collectively handle over 150 million passengers annually and feature approximately 477 aircraft parking positions. We note that implementing AI at this scale represents a major commitment to digitalizing ground handling and maximizing existing infrastructure capacity.

AI-Driven Apron Operations

Real-Time Video Analytics

The core of the new deployment relies on real-time video streams captured by cameras positioned near boarding bridges and aircraft parking areas. Synaptic Aviation’s software processes these feeds to automatically log critical turnaround events.

As detailed in the company’s announcement, the AI system tracks specific ground service milestones, including ground power unit (GPU) connections, the placement of wheel chocks, refueling procedures, and catering service provisioning. By continuously monitoring these activities, airport operators and airlines gain precise data to optimize safety and efficiency.

“We’ve demonstrated that Synaptic’s AI model delivers class-leading accuracy with low latency, resulting in improved punctuality, greater visibility, and a higher degree of apron safety for our customers,”

said Sal Salman, president of Synaptic Aviation, in the press release. He added that integrating this technology with Indra’s resource management solutions will deliver high-impact results for Aena.

Strategic Impact on Spanish Aviation

Enhancing Aena’s Network

The integration of AI into Aena’s network aligns with broader industry trends prioritizing data-driven technologies to meet environmental and operational goals. Indra emphasized that the system can be deployed securely as a local enterprise application, adhering to strict cybersecurity policies without requiring extensive modifications to current airport infrastructure.

This seamless integration allows airport teams to make rapid, informed decisions based on reliable data. Consequently, the technology is expected to reduce turnaround times, lower emissions from idling ground equipment, and minimize flight delays.

“The video analytics solution developed by Synaptic Aviation and deployed by Indra will provide Aena with a powerful and innovative tool, enabling it to revolutionize airport management and transform the future of air transport,”

stated Lidia Muñoz Pérez, director of Ports and Airports at Indra, according to the official release.

AirPro News analysis

As we observe the aviation industry’s ongoing recovery and growth, optimizing aircraft turnaround times, often referred to as the “pit stop” of aviation, has become a critical focus. Turnaround delays have a cascading effect on flight schedules, leading to increased costs and passenger dissatisfaction.

By leveraging computer vision and artificial intelligence, airports can transition from manual timestamping to automated, precise tracking of ground operations. This shift not only holds ground handlers and Airlines accountable to their service level agreements but also allows airports like Madrid, Barcelona, and Palma de Mallorca to increase gate throughput without the capital expenditure of building new terminals. The Partnerships between Indra and Synaptic Aviation highlights a growing market for off-the-shelf AI enterprise solutions that integrate directly into existing airport management systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which airports are receiving the new AI system?

The artificial intelligence system is being deployed at three major Spanish airports managed by Aena: Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas, Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat, and Palma de Mallorca.

What does the AI technology monitor?

The system uses video analytics to monitor aircraft turnaround activities in real time. It tracks events such as ground power unit (GPU) connections, chock placement, refueling, and catering services.

Who is providing the technology?

The solution is a collaborative effort between technology and defense company Indra and AI video analytics specialist Synaptic Aviation.

Sources

• Indra Group