Airport Operations Modernization; Aerobahn Surface Management System Deployment
Client: Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA)
Project: Saab Aerobahn Airport Surface Management System
Role: Program & Project Management
• Aerobahn Implementation
• API Development
• Mobile Application Development
• Training & Operational Support
Transforming Airport Surface Operations Through Real-Time Visibility & Intelligent Automation
E.K Associates partnered with Saab to implement the Aerobahn Airport Surface Management System at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)—one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs. Beginning in 2017, our team played a critical role in deploying and optimizing a comprehensive surface surveillance and airport operations platform designed to enhance situational awareness, improve ramp efficiency, and strengthen airfield safety.
Working alongside LAWA, airlines, and ground service providers, we delivered a fully integrated solution that combined real-time surveillance, predictive insights, and workflow automation to modernize airside operations across the airport ecosystem.
The E.K Advantage
End-to-End Implementation of Aerobahn for a Major U.S. Airport
E.K Associates led deployment planning, configuration, integration, and operational rollout of Saab’s Aerobahn system—including system tuning, stakeholder coordination, and readiness support.
Seamless Integration With MLAT Surveillance Infrastructure
We supported Saab’s installation of a 51-sensor multilateration (MLAT) system that provides positional data for every aircraft and authorized vehicle on taxiways, runways, gate areas, and terminal movement zones.
Custom API & Mobile Application Development
Our engineers developed API integrations and mobile capabilities that extended Aerobahn functionality to airline and ground operations teams needing real-time visibility while on the move.
Stakeholder Enablement Across Airlines & Service Providers
We designed and delivered training, system configurations, SOPs, and user support for LAWA staff, airlines, ramp controllers, and third-party service organizations.
Operational Intelligence for Airside Efficiency
The Airport Status Dashboard (ASD) and Global Flight Manager (GFM) empowered users to track arrival demand, departure queues, gate constraints, en-route statuses, and disruptions across the network.
What We Delivered
.01
Airport Surface Management Modernization
• Integrated real-time MLAT positional data into Aerobahn for complete visibility of aircraft and vehicle movements
• Delivered customized dashboards, workflows, alerts, and role-based user interfaces for operational stakeholders
.02
Technology Integration & API Development
• Worked with Saab to ensure MLAT sensor data flowed seamlessly into Aerobahn’s real-time engine
• Built mobile functionality enabling users to access Aerobahn on smartphones and tablets
.03
Operational Readiness, Training & Adoption
• Developed training materials, SOPs, and quick-reference job aids
• Supported onboarding of all authorized stakeholders, ensuring smooth adoption
.04
Project & Program Management
• Oversaw timelines, milestones, deployments, and risk mitigation activities
• Provided continuous support through stabilization and optimization phases
.05
Enhancing Airside Safety & Efficiency
• Enabled stakeholders to view departure queues, track aircraft demand, and manage gate congestion
• Improved coordination among airlines and service providers during disruptions
• Delivered capabilities for monitoring flight progress from gate pushback to runway to airborne segments
Impact Delivered
✔ A fully integrated airport surface management ecosystem
✔ Real-time operational insights for airlines, ground handlers & LAWA teams
✔ Improved gate utilization, taxiway throughput & ramp coordination
✔ Enhanced visibility across surface, terminal, and en-route segments
✔ Increased safety and situational awareness through MLAT-enabled tracking
✔ Streamlined operational decision-making through role-based dashboards
✔ Mobile access for faster, more responsive field operations
