Swissport has opened a new Integrated Control Centre (ICC) at Birmingham Airport, creating a centralised operations hub to oversee ground handling activities across its UK and Ireland network.

Reported by Aviation Pros, the facility operates around the clock and brings together operational control, telematics, artificial intelligence-supported monitoring, live video systems and geofencing technology to provide a single view of ground operations.

The ICC provides real-time visibility into more than 2,000 pieces of ground support equipment (GSE), enabling operational teams to improve equipment availability, strengthen ramp safety and support more efficient aircraft turnaround performance.

By consolidating operational oversight into one location, the centre allows controllers to monitor daily ground handling activities across multiple airports, respond more quickly to disruptions and optimise the deployment of equipment during periods of high demand.

Swissport said integrated telematics and forward- and rear-facing camera systems support proactive safety management by providing live operational data and footage for incident analysis. The technologies have been incorporated into the company's existing Safety Management System following consultation with employee representatives and other stakeholders.

The company also expects the facility to improve operational resilience by enhancing visibility of equipment movements and resource allocation across its regional network, helping maintain service continuity during periods of disruption.

Looking ahead, Swissport plans to expand the ICC's capabilities before the 2026-27 winter season by introducing live monitoring of aircraft de-icing operations to strengthen coordination during adverse weather conditions.

The investment reflects a wider shift across the aviation sector towards centralised operational control, where connected equipment, digital monitoring and real-time data are increasingly used to improve asset management, operational efficiency and service reliability across multiple airport locations.

Swissport said the Integrated Control Centre forms part of its ongoing investment in digital technologies designed to support safer, more efficient and resilient ground handling operations for airline customers throughout the UK and Ireland.