Tucson International Airport

Tucson International Airport, serving southern Arizona, embarked on an ambitious modernization project in 2022 to replace its aging passenger information infrastructure and integrate a new Public Address system.

Simpleway delivered Airport CX a unified Flight Information Display System and Public Address platform that replaced both legacy systems with a single integrated solution. This consolidation enables synergy between visual displays and audio communications, allowing airport staff to manage all passenger-related information from one interface. The implementation was conducted entirely remotely, with Simpleway's team managing the complex project through online meetings and digital collaboration, eliminating the need for on-site presence during deployment.

The system spans 91 screens throughout the terminal, providing consistent flight information, wayfinding guidance, and marketing content across all passenger touchpoints, with support for two languages to accommodate the airport's diverse passenger demographic. At the heart of operational efficiency is the integration with the Airport Operational Database, ensuring real-time flight data flows automatically to displays and announcement systems without manual intervention.

Gate agents benefit from custom GateUI clients that provide intuitive access to flight information and announcement controls directly at their workstations. Ground crew managing aircraft unloading use Tugman devices with specialized TugmanUI clients to assign baggage belts to arriving flights-these assignments instantly appear on passenger displays throughout the terminal, eliminating communication delays and confusion. BaggageUI supports baggage handling staff with relevant operational information tailored to their specific workflow needs. This orchestrated approach, with role-specific interfaces working in concert with centralized AODB integration and synchronized displays, represents a significant improvement in operational efficiency for airport personnel, replacing fragmented manual processes with coordinated automated workflows.

A key innovation is the integration of Micnode page stations featuring touchscreen interfaces that enable operators to trigger predefined text-to-speech announcements with simple touches. This allows rapid response to operational changes without requiring pre-recorded messages or manual PA operation.

The Display Controller provides intuitive system interaction across all functions. What distinguished Simpleway's approach was delivering a comprehensive out-of-the-box solution while accommodating TUS-specific customizations for unique operational requirements. The Visual Messaging capability allows the airport to utilize display infrastructure for marketing content and TSA communications beyond standard flight information, maximizing return on investment.

The airport has benefited from proactive ongoing support, with Simpleway's team remaining readily available and delivering minor upgrades that enhance system performance and introduce valuable new features. This partnership approach positions TUS to continuously improve passenger experience and airline services as operational needs evolve.