Gatwick Airport Rolls Out Smart Integrated Control System to Boost Efficiency

London Gatwick Airport is launching a new Integrated Airport Control (IAC) System aimed at streamlining operations through real-time data integration and predictive analytics.

Developed in partnership with technology provider Veovo, the IAC system is being introduced in phases to improve airport-wide coordination and support a shift toward more connected, proactive decision-making.

“The future of airport operations lies in predictive decision-making,” said Neil Harvey, Head of Operations at Gatwick. “We’re creating a system that gives us a clear, real-time view of operations and helps guide the right actions to reduce disruption and boost efficiency. This is about building smooth passenger journeys, optimising our resources, and improving punctuality.”

At the centre of the IAC is a Virtual Control Room—a digital platform that unifies live operational data, performance metrics, and alerts. This shared operational view helps airport teams respond faster and more consistently to unfolding situations.

The IAC system integrates key data streams across the airport, including flights, passenger movements, baggage handling, security, border control, and ground transport. It enables real-time collaboration by offering a single, reliable source of information to all stakeholders.

Initial features include:

• Disruption forecasting, such as weather or transit delays

• Passenger flow analytics to reduce congestion

• AI-powered insights based on historical and real-time data

The system is being gradually scaled from a limited set of operational use cases to over 35 scenarios, forming the foundation of a dynamic Airport Operations Plan (AOP). This ensures airport processes remain continuously aligned and responsive to changing conditions.

Gatwick’s adoption of the IAC demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to airport operations, using data integration and automation to enable more efficient, predictive management—especially important in complex, high-traffic environments.

“This collaboration highlights Gatwick’s commitment to innovation and raises the bar for data-led airport management in Europe,” said James Williamson, CEO of Veovo. “Our technology transforms data into actionable predictions, allowing Gatwick to evolve from reactive to anticipatory operations. It’s about building an airport that stays one step ahead.”