Skip to main content

Intelligent airports could be tracking your every move


Think you’re being watched? Well, you are. But don’t look over your shoulder, look to the sky. Airlines and airports are investing in new technology that will track your movements and whereabouts.

Relax, it's a good thing (depending on how concerned you are about privacy).

According to a recent airline IT trend survey conducted by aviation technology firm, SITA, more airlines and airports are investing in beacon technology, which is a major component in the latest tech discussion, the "Internet of Things." The term refers to physical objects connected to the Internet enabling tracking, data collection, analysis and control. Essentially, it can serve as a way to use collected data to provide more tailored services and experiences.

The SITA study finds that only 9% of airlines are using beacon technology to track baggage at present, but that number could jump to 44% in 2018. Beacons are already in use by nearly 60% of airlines to offer flight-notification services through airline apps to passengers, and that number is expected to rise to 96% in 2018.

Beacon technology can lead to valuable data, including the ability to track bags from the check-in counter to the bag carousel (already being tested by a handful of airlines) and the estimated time it takes passengers to travel through an airport, which could help get flights out on time. It could also enable airlines to respond more quickly in a variety of situations by redirecting the appropriate resources and staff to where they need to be, according to the study.

SITA Chief Technology Officer Jim Peters said in a press release:

"This will be a game changing and real time revolution in the way we do things – not only the air industry, but across all aspects of our lives."

Another possible use of the technology is to transmit data to way-finding apps, providing passengers with the fastest route to their connecting flight or baggage claim, for example. It can also use a smart phone's location to provide discounts on shopping or dining in the airport. Miami was the first airport to install beacons across the entire airport.

SITA officials recognize that concerns over privacy are a hurdle that must be overcome before fully implementing this type of technology.

As surreal as it sounds, this could actually make the flying experience through "intelligent airports" better, which is certainly welcome news for road warriors.