Frankfurt Airport implements “seer,” an AI-powered computer vision solution, to improve aircraft turnaround punctuality and efficiency. Lufthansa, Fraport, and zeroG lead this innovation.
Seer: Artificial Intelligence to Transform Aircraft Turnaround
Image: aerotelegraph.com
Lufthansa and Fraport AG, operator of Frankfurt Airport, have signed an agreement to enhance ground handling operations with the support of zeroG, Lufthansa’s tech subsidiary. The key to this initiative is “seer”, an innovative AI-powered computer vision solution designed to optimize every step of the turnaround process—from aircraft landing to its readiness for the next takeoff.
How Does “seer” Work?
“seer” uses cameras to record all ground operations in real time:
- Passenger boarding bridge docking
- Baggage unloading and loading
- Aircraft refueling
- Activities at the aircraft’s assigned stand
The AI processes these images and automatically timestamps each event, creating a centralized and reliable database (a true single source of truth). This allows all stakeholders to access accurate, up-to-date information, improving coordination, efficiency, and decision-making.
Gradual Rollout at Frankfurt Airport
Image: airportindustry-news.com
After a pilot phase between February and May 2024, “seer” is now in use at five aircraft stands. It is expected to expand to 20 positions by the end of Q3 2025, with a full rollout to follow gradually across the airport.
“Transparent ground processes help us improve both punctuality and service quality. This directly benefits our passengers,” says Jens Ritter, CEO of Lufthansa Airlines.
A Collaborative and Scalable Project
Each stakeholder contributes unique expertise:
- Lufthansa: operational know-how in flight handling
- Fraport AG: airport management and operations expertise
- zeroG: end-to-end development of AI and computer vision technology
“With AI, we can reduce employee workload, optimize resources, and enhance the passenger experience,” notes Stefan Schulte, CEO of Fraport.
In addition, “seer” is designed for seamless integration with existing systems, making it accessible to other airlines and operators at the airport.
Real-Time Visibility: The Key to a More Efficient Airport
Image: fraport.com
Aircraft on the ground generate no revenue, yet this is where the most complex and time-sensitive operations take place. As Manuel van Esch, Managing Director of zeroG, explains:
“Aircraft don’t earn money while grounded, but that’s when the most critical processes occur. With AI and computer vision, we make these processes visible, analyzable, and controllable—in real time.”
A Step Toward the Future of Global Aviation
The partnership between Lufthansa, Fraport, and zeroG showcases how technological innovation and collaboration can set new standards in the aviation industry. Frankfurt Airport is not only reinforcing its position as a world-class hub but also emerging as a benchmark for airport digitization and automation.
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