This complex project is led by a trio of French companies, all members of Proavia: Alpha-Cim, Schneider Electric, and Apave, each bringing its specific skills in an exemplary collaborative approach.

Alpha-Cim: overall project integrator

As the operational leader of the site, Alpha-Cim ensures, in close collaboration with ADP services, the complete integration of the system. "We carry out the revamping, that is, the modernization of the installations, including the replacement of the controllers, the rewiring, and the adaptation of the software," explains Françoise Boucarut (Chairwoman of Alpha-Cim). The objective: to ensure a smooth transition between old and new systems while respecting the airport's operational constraints. Each intervention requires meticulous coordination to limit the downtime of the boarding bridges.

Data from the 400 Hz controllers is now easily and securely accessible remotely. This data tracks the electricity consumption of the aircraft parked at the stand.

Working in an active airport requires great flexibility: "There are periods when access is impossible (red periods), and you have to constantly adapt to the operational schedule," recalls Françoise Boucarut. A boarding bridge usage schedule is kept by ADP's operations department. Alpha-Cim requests available slots at least 1 month in advance and receives work authorization 15 days before the operation. Modernization operations are therefore carefully scheduled, often at night or during off-peak hours, to minimize the impact on flights. This logistical challenge could only be met with strong cohesion between the Alpha-Cim and ADP teams.

Benefits for the airport and its users

The modernization of the boarding bridges brings multiple advantages:

• Enhanced safety thanks to reliable, compliant, and inspected systems
• Reduction of breakdowns and improvement of boarding fluidity
• Maintenance of the operational condition of the boarding bridges
• Archiving and remote availability of boarding bridge data for centralization and various uses
• An eco-responsible approach, with modernization rather than complete replacement. Circularity loops are also defined for the replaced components: either a return to the spare parts stock if the references are still used elsewhere on the platform, or the resale of unused components by an ADP broker.
• Potential reduction of passenger delays

A model of collaboration to be promoted

This project illustrates the capacity of three French companies, all members of PROAVIA, to unite their expertise to meet the demands of an international airport.

This success shows that it is possible to modernize intelligently while guaranteeing safety, performance, and durability. An inspiring model for other airports.