A few days ago in Vigo we implemented Push-To-Talk (PTT), the new mobile method that combines telephone, radio and flight control functions in a single device.

As we explained in previous issues, PTT is a communication system that uses a mobile application (app) to emulate a traditional two-way radio using the mobile data network instead of radio frequencies.

The benefits for users couldn’t be clearer:

• The two-way radio is complemented with a mobile phone containing a memorised list of the key phone numbers to cover the operation.
• The device itself is very light, weighing less than a traditional two-way radio and offering a higher battery capacity.
• Shadow areas beyond the reach of a traditional two-way radio are no longer an issue.
• Conversations are recorded and the user can retrieve the recording of the last call if necessary.
• The device comes with a camera.
• It’s compatible with other tools used in flight operations, such as Kepler (a real-time resource planning and management tool that is being installed at all airports).

The digitalisation initiatives within the GoUp! transformation project that the Airport Services Division (DSA) is currently carrying out are progressing as planned. New mobile technologies are being implemented and extended to all the airports we service to improve process efficiency and profitability, and we are firmly committed to simpler, more agile working methods to improve the daily tasks of our employees.

Vigo is the latest to join our list of airports that already use Push-To-Talk technology: San Sebastián, Pamplona, Alicante, Tenerife Sur, Gran Canaria, Bilbao and Málaga.