Airports are a flurry of people, planes, and information. Even with the best-organized airports, it is difficult to comprehend how so much activity within a single location can be managed effectively. One essential tool in orchestrating this massive amount of activity is airport digital signage. Digital signage in airports displays relevant flight information to individuals so that they know where to go and how to get there. Read more below to learn about the components needed for an airport digital sign and to find some ideas for airport digital signage content.
What do I need for an airport digital sign?
To launch an airport digital sign, a digital signage software solution is required. This software allows an individual to change the displayed content on one or multiple digital signs from anywhere via a web interface. When it comes to airport digital signage, this software is vital. Depending on the airport’s size, the facility will have dozens or hundreds of digital signs that require management.
Without digital signage software, an employee would have to update each digital sign’s content manually with a USB drive. By the time the employee completes a manual content update to each of the airport’s digital signs, it would likely be time to start the entire process again for another round of updating. With digital signage software, an employee can easily manage content on multiple digital signs in just a few clicks from the comfort of an office desk. Additionally, teams can set up airport digital signs to update content automatically via integration with a digital signage API. This integration allows digital signs to communicate securely with the airport’s timetables and databases and display continuously changing information in real time.
Next, it is essential to purchase a digital signage player, which is a media player that renders digital signage content to the screen. Make sure that the chosen digital signage player does not have more computing power than needed. This extra computing power will translate to unnecessary initial purchasing costs and unnecessary ongoing electricity costs. While this additional electricity cost may only be a few dollars extra per month, the additional cost really adds up when multiplied by the large number of digital signs required for most airports.
Also, when selecting digital signage software and a digital signage player, be sure to pay attention to digital signage security features. Often, security is only an afterthought with digital signs and other IoT devices. This practice can leave digital signs vulnerable to hackers. Once hackers have access to the digital signs, they can direct the signs to display inappropriate content. In the worst-case scenario, hackers can use digital signage software and hardware as a backdoor to access an airport’s data centers and operating systems. Given the importance of airports for the public and the jam-packed schedule of runways, a hacker could exploit a digital sign’s vulnerabilities to impact transportation networks adversely.
What can I display on my airport digital signs?
Of course, the most common use case for airport digital signs is displaying flight information, such as arrivals and departure times. After all, getting people where they need to go is the primary function of an airport. For this use case, it is essential to note that airport timetables change constantly. Planes are delayed, gates are changed, and baggage pickup belts change too. An airport digital sign needs to operate within this dynamic environment and be able to display ever-changing information accurately. To operate effectively, airport digital signs must be able to display live data. When selecting hardware and software for the airport’s digital signs, make sure that the solution can display data from live web pages or connect to backend systems via a digital signage API. This capability ensures that digital signage displays real time information, keeping travelers informed about flight schedules and any changes.
Another use for airport digital signs is for boarding gate information. Boarding desk digital signs display dynamic information that includes flight numbers, destination cities, boarding times, and more. Boarding desk digital signs must also display relevant boarding information such as prohibited items and directions for family or special-needs boarding.
Airport digital signage can also include menu boards for restaurants and cafes within the terminal, providing travelers with dining options and specials. Additionally, wayfinding kiosks are essential digital signage solutions that help passengers navigate the airport efficiently, enhancing the overall traveler experience.
Furthermore, airports can use digital signs to display emergency messages when necessary, ensuring that all visitors and staff are informed promptly in case of any urgent situations.
Benefits of using airport digital signage
Implementing digital signage in airports offers numerous benefits for both airport operations and the airport experience. Digital signs provide real-time information, which is crucial in an environment where flight data can change rapidly. This immediacy helps keep passengers informed about flight schedules, gate changes, and potential delays, reducing confusion and stress.
Moreover, airports can generate additional revenue by utilizing digital signs for advertising. Retailers and service providers within the airport can display promotions on LED displays, reaching a captive audience of travelers.
Digital signage also plays a role in improving airport operations by streamlining communication and reducing the need for printed materials. With a robust content management system, airport staff can update information across all digital displays quickly and efficiently.
What’s next for getting started with digital signs?
If you are looking to overhaul your airport’s digital signs, reach out to us at Screenly Support. Deployments with hundreds of screens will likely need some customization, and our team is happy to help. If you are just looking to set up a few digital signs, you can get started on your own by signing up for a Screenly cloud account. You will also need to purchase a digital signage player for each of your digital signs. You can buy Screenly’s digital signage player via our digital signage players page.
