Latest tech to power Hyderabad Intl Airport

The Hyderabad International Airport, which is likely to take off in 2008, will be investing substantially in technology initiatives that are likely to be introduced for the first time in Indian airports.

These include an automatic flight information display and baggage reconciliation system, Wi-fi connectivity across the airport, high-tech security features like biometric access control and probably even a mobile check-in system.

"The existing airports in India have a flight information display system where information is fed manually. However, at the international airport here, data will be captured automatically from the Air Traffic Controller and will then be transferred to the airport database for display thereon. The system will be capable of driving computer terminals and personal digital assistants, so that even the ground handling and catering staff are updated with the information automatically," T Sivaram, lead, IT systems of Hyderabad International Airport Limited, told Business Standard.

The baggage reconciliation system is also expected to be automated.

Automatic check-in system is another initiative that is being planned at the airport. The system would enable people who have only hand baggage to automatically check in by entering their details at a terminal.

"Time would, therefore, be saved for passengers and the airport staff," Sivaram said.

The airport is also considering allowing mobile check-ins. This means that when a person buys a flight ticket, he would get a barcode as an SMS which could be used by a passenger for checking-in.

To ensure security, the Hyderabad international airport is mulling introducing biometric access control system at critical areas like the airport operation control rooms or server rooms.

Besides, the airport is trying to implement an information kiosk system so that people do not get lost.

"Kiosks will be placed at strategic locations on which people will be able to see a graphical display of the airport infrastructure. A person will, therefore, be guided on the route that he needs to take to reach exit, hotel room counters or rest rooms based on his present location," he added.