How can airport teams work together to reduce delays?

1 The causes of delays

Delays can be caused by various factors, such as weather, traffic, security, maintenance, crew, baggage, or equipment issues. Some of these factors are external and beyond the control of the airport, while others are internal and can be managed or prevented. To reduce delays, airport teams need to identify the root causes of each delay and analyze the impact on the airport system. They also need to monitor the real-time situation and anticipate any potential problems that may arise.

2 The benefits of teamwork

Teamwork is essential for reducing delays, as it allows airport teams to share information, resources, and solutions. By working together, airport teams can improve the quality and speed of decision-making, reduce errors and conflicts, and increase flexibility and adaptability. Teamwork also fosters a culture of collaboration and trust, which enhances the motivation and morale of the airport staff. Furthermore, teamwork can create a positive impression on the passengers and the airlines, as they can see that the airport is well-organized and responsive.

3 The tools for teamwork

Airport teams need to use various tools to work together effectively, such as Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM), Airport Operations Center (AOC), and Airport Operations Plan (AOP). A-CDM involves the airport, airlines, air traffic control, and other stakeholders in sharing data and plans to optimize operations, improving situational awareness, predictability, and efficiency while reducing delays and emissions. AOC is a central hub that monitors and controls activities and resources by collecting and analyzing data from different sources. AOP is a document that defines objectives, strategies, and actions for operations, aligning goals and expectations of different teams while providing a framework for decision-making that can be adjusted according to changing conditions.

4 The skills for teamwork

For successful collaboration, airport teams need to develop and demonstrate various skills that enhance their performance. Communication is essential for understanding each other's roles, responsibilities, and needs, as well as conveying ideas and opinions. Coordination helps to synchronize actions and resources to achieve a common goal, while problem-solving enables teams to identify, analyze, and resolve issues that may cause or result from delays. All of these skills can help airport teams to optimize the use of time, space, and equipment, adapt to changing situations and demands, prevent or minimize the recurrence of problems, and improve the quality and reliability of the airport operations.