Saturday, June 7, 2025
Brussels Airport’s Airport Operations Centre (APOC) is celebrating a decade of success, having firmly established itself as a pioneer in coordination and predictive technology within airport operations. Since its launch in 2015, APOC has become a key player in transforming the management of airport activities by fostering seamless collaboration among various operational partners. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence and predictive algorithms, APOC not only streamlines coordination but also forecasts passenger flow and peak times with precision, ensuring smooth, efficient operations and setting a global standard for modern airport management.
A decade ago, Brussels Airport made a transformative move by launching the Airport Operations Centre (APOC), marking a significant shift in how its operations were managed. This dedicated nerve centre has since become a vital hub for coordination, ensuring the smooth and efficient management of airport activities. It brings together a diverse team of operational partners, including airlines, baggage handlers, emergency services, and security providers, to collaborate seamlessly under one roof. What started as an innovative concept in 2015 has now grown into a global benchmark for coordinated airport operations, playing a key role in handling approximately 70,000 passengers every day.
The Birth of APOC: A Decade of Transformative Collaboration
In 2015, with support from the European Commission, Brussels Airport opened the doors to APOC in its historic Skyhall. The facility was designed as a space where airport partners could work closely together to ensure the efficient functioning of the airport’s day-to-day operations. This collaboration proved to be a game-changer, as it not only streamlined communication but also created an environment where real-time decisions could be made swiftly.
Initially, the concept was a collaboration between a few airport stakeholders. However, its success quickly caught the attention of the aviation world. By 2018, recognizing the need for closer integration with the airport’s daily operations, APOC was relocated to a central location within the terminal. This strategic move positioned the operations centre in the heart of the airport, making it even more agile and capable of responding to the dynamic nature of air travel.
A Central Hub for Coordination and Efficiency
Currently, APOC serves as the central hub for coordinating operations at Brussels Airport. Each day, it is staffed by around 50 dedicated employees who monitor and coordinate essential activities, including passenger movements, baggage handling, security checks, and emergency responses. These employees work alongside approximately 300 other team members from various airport partners, creating a collaborative ecosystem that drives airport operations forward.
The key to APOC’s success lies in its ability to bring together various airport partners, such as airlines, ground handlers, external security providers, and customer service teams, in a unified setting. This integration ensures that every aspect of the airport’s operations runs smoothly, from check-in to takeoff. The close-knit teamwork and round-the-clock surveillance provide passengers with an elevated travel experience marked by fewer delays and enhanced safety protocols.
Leveraging Cutting-Edge Technology for Predictive Operations
The world of aviation has evolved significantly over the past decade, and so has the role of APOC. As passenger numbers continue to grow and airports face the complexities of modern travel, Brussels Airport has continuously invested in innovative technologies to ensure that its operations remain efficient and future-proof.
A major milestone in the evolution of APOC came in 2021, when the Airport Operations Plan (AOP) was launched. This advanced system uses artificial intelligence and predictive algorithms to forecast peak times and passenger flows. The AOP enables APOC staff to anticipate high-traffic periods, such as the busy summer months or holiday seasons, and prepare accordingly. By analyzing vast amounts of real-time data, the system helps the airport anticipate potential bottlenecks and adjust operations proactively to mitigate delays and maintain the smooth flow of passengers and baggage.
Moreover, the AOP has proven invaluable during unexpected disruptions, such as severe weather conditions or security incidents. APOC staff can use the system’s data-driven insights to take immediate action, minimizing disruptions and ensuring that the airport remains safe and operational during crises.
A Global Benchmark for Airport Operations
In the past ten years, APOC at Brussels Airport has established itself as a frontrunner in airport operations worldwide. Its success and the lessons learned have been shared with airports worldwide. In 2024, Airport Intelligence, a subsidiary of Brussels Airport, partnered with Airports Council International (ACI) to create the “Airport Operations Centres: A Guidebook.” Drawing from the expertise of Brussels Airport’s APOC, this guide has become a benchmark for airport operations, offering valuable insights to airports around the globe striving to enhance their operational efficiency.
In addition to publishing the guidebook, Airport Intelligence has been instrumental in helping over ten airports across Europe and Asia establish and enhance their own APOCs. This consultancy work has spread the innovative model of collaboration and coordination pioneered by Brussels Airport, demonstrating its influence on the global aviation industry.
Looking to the Future: APOC 360
As the aviation landscape continues to evolve, so too do the needs of Brussels Airport. To maintain its position as a leader in operational excellence, the airport is continually investing in cutting-edge technologies and infrastructure. A prime example of this forward-thinking approach is the development of APOC 360, an enhanced version of the current operations centre.
Set to be operational by 2028, APOC 360 will be a state-of-the-art facility that takes collaboration, efficiency, and technology to new heights. The upgraded centre will not only improve the coordination between operational partners but will also integrate more advanced technologies to further enhance the efficiency of airport processes. Through APOC 360, Brussels Airport aims to meet the growing demands of air travel, ensuring that passengers continue to enjoy a seamless and safe experience while navigating one of Europe’s busiest airports.
Brussels Airport’s Airport Operations Centre marks a decade of success, pioneering seamless coordination and leveraging predictive technology to optimize airport operations. Its innovative approach has set new industry standards, ensuring efficient management and a superior passenger experience.
Conclusion
As Brussels Airport celebrates the 10th anniversary of its Airport Operations Centre, it is clear that this pioneering initiative has set a high standard for the future of airport operations. By fostering collaboration, leveraging advanced technologies, and continuously innovating, APOC has played an integral role in ensuring that Brussels Airport remains a world-class hub for air travel. Looking ahead, the launch of APOC 360 will further elevate the airport’s capabilities, ensuring that it continues to lead the way in airport operations for years to come.
