Global technology leader Thales said it had played a major role in the launch of Bahrain's new hi-tech passenger terminal with the supply of an integrated solution covering security, airport operation, as well as communication and infrastructure as part of the $1.1-billion Airport Modernisation Programme.
Built in two phases, the Bahrain airport expansion covers 210,000 sq m, quadrupling the size of the existing terminal and increasing its capacity to 14 million passengers per annum.
The project is in an important step in achieving Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 and aims to cement Bahrain’s reputation as a leading aviation hub in the region. Thales had signed a consortium agreement with SITA to act as partners for mainly the provision of Airport Operation Systems and other communications system.
With more than 30-years presence in Bahrain, Thales has built strong partnerships with public sector organisations including the Ministry of Transportation & Communication.
A major provider of integrated security and telecommunications solutions for critical infrastructures, Thales is now one of the main local partners embedded in the ecosystem of the kingdom promoting localisation in order to develop sovereign capabilities in line with the Economic Vision 2030.
Alain Correia, Managing Director, Thales Bahrain said the company was subcontracted for the supply of an integrated solution covering security, safety, airport operation, as well as communication and infrastructure for the Bahrain International Airport terminal building, car parks and Central Utility Complex.
These technologies focus on smart security, including advanced modular solutions such as video analytics, abnormal behaviours or conditions detection, smart incident management and resource management tools, he stated.
"Thanks to its long-standing experience in the air mobility industry, airport security and identity management. Thales provides a full-integrated offer to secure and optimise every operation in the airport," he added.
Through centralizing the management of Airport operations, Bahrain International Airport is guaranteed a high level of business continuity and traffic flow within the airport.
This will also lead to reduced waiting times while ensuring the best possible safety conditions, improving passenger experience and increasing infrastructure performance. Thales solutions also enable the production of relevant performance indicators (KPIs) to inform decision-makers in real time and make the organization more efficient, he noted.
Correia said: "We have ensured that BIA has been equipped with the latest smart and innovative solutions. This guarantees optimum protection for passengers, staff and facilities, and meets the demand for enhanced security at the new airport by Ministry of Transport and Telecommunications and Bahrain Airport Company."
"Thales’ strength in innovation and digital technologies perfectly positions the group to become a preferred partner for aerospace, transportation and public security, the pillars of Bahrain’s smart city ambition," he added.