Why and How Flights are Planned at Major Airports: Stand and Gate Allocation

Managing flight schedules and stand/gate allocations at major airports can be a complex task, requiring coordinated planning across multiple phases and involving a variety of stakeholders. This article explores the planning process in detail, highlighting the strategic, operational, and tactical steps involved in selecting stands and gates for arriving and departing flights.

Three Phases of Stand and Gate Planning

1. Capacity Planning: 3-12 Months Prior to the Start of the Season

The first phase in the planning process, referred to as capacity planning, is conducted approximately 3 to 12 months before the start of the season. This stage is characterized by the submission of seasonal slot requests. Major airports, which are typically Level 3 fully slot coordinated airports as defined by IATA, ensure that stand and gate planning is not left to chance.

The strategic focus during this phase is on confirming the schedule and ensuring that sufficient stand capacity is available to meet the anticipated demand. In peak periods, the focus shifts to making day/week plans to ensure that supply meets scheduled demand. This phase is more concerned with the strategic allocation of stands rather than the precise positioning of individual aircraft.

2. Operational Planning: 1-7 Days in Advance

The operational planning phase typically occurs in the days or week leading up to the live operation. During this phase, stand planners upload the latest flight information provided by the slot coordinator. For large airports, the allocation process may be partially automated, using rule-based optimizers or replicating historical days. Small to medium airports often rely on manual allocation, but still utilize some form of visual software resembling a Gantt chart to manage stand assignments.

During this planning phase, additional ad hoc flights such as general aviation private jets may be accommodated where free slots are available, and flights can be canceled if necessary. Factors such as terminal, airline, aircraft size, and passenger and baggage loads play crucial roles in determining gate utilization. Additionally, considerations like handling equipment, bussing capability, and accessibility for special needs passengers are taken into account.

3. Live Tactical Planning: Real-Time Adjustments

Once the freeze window is activated, and no more flights can be added, the plan enters the live tactical planning phase. Real-time adjustments are made based on the actual arrival and departure times, operational factors, and any disruptions that may occur. Stand planners have access to real-time information that indicates the estimated time of arrival (ETA) and other key metrics, allowing them to adjust the plan accordingly.

The key factors that determine where aircraft are parked and which gates are utilized include:

The terminal in which the flight will arrive or depart. The airline operating the flight, particularly dominant home carriers vs. low-cost carriers. The aircraft size and type, including the number of passengers and baggage. The number of connecting passengers and baggage. The handling equipment required and the bussing capability for remote stands. Accessibility for passengers with special needs, including the use of wheelchair assistance. The apron's accessibility, including live runway crossing and jet-bridge requirements. The stand's utilities and suitability, such as refueling, cargo access, and GSE (Ground Support Equipment). Jet-bridge requirements and low visibility docking guidance systems. The ground handling times and towing requirements for different flight types. Other preferences and KPIs, including those of both the airline, the airport, and air traffic control (ATC).

Understanding the intricacies of stand and gate planning helps explain why some flights are allocated to specific stands while others are subject to change at the last minute. This process ensures efficiency, safety, and customer satisfaction in the dynamic environment of major airports.