ORAT l Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer l New Terminal Readiness Challenges

Summary

The video explains the critical process of Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT), highlighting its importance in ensuring smooth airport operations post-construction. ORAT bridges the gap between construction readiness and operational readiness, preventing issues like those seen at Heathrow T5 and Denver Airport. The video outlines key steps in ORAT, including governance, training, integrated system trials, and transition to operations. By focusing on coordination, stakeholder involvement, and testing, ORAT ensures a seamless opening and continued operational success for new airport facilities.

Takeaways

• 😀 ORAT (Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer) is crucial for transitioning from construction readiness to operational readiness at airports.
• 😀 ORAT ensures that airport systems, processes, and staff are thoroughly tested and trained before the terminal or airport opens.
• 😀 A key lesson from Heathrow Terminal 5 and Denver Airport shows that construction readiness does not equate to operational readiness, leading to costly delays and issues.
• 😀 Governance is essential in ORAT, establishing clear authority, responsibilities, communication plans, and escalation procedures.
• 😀 Developing the Operational Concept (ConOps) ensures all stakeholders understand their roles and processes for airport operations.
• 😀 Training and familiarization (FAM) are vital, introducing staff to new systems and procedures well before the airport opens to ensure smooth operations.
• 😀 The training process involves induction training for users and operational and maintenance training to ensure proper system functionality and longevity.
• 😀 Integrated system trials are crucial for identifying and resolving issues before the airport opens, including basic, advanced, and end-to-end simulation trials.
• 😀 Transitioning to operations is the final phase of ORAT, which involves managing the smooth relocation of staff and systems for a successful opening day.
• 😀 Post-opening support is critical, as ORAT continues to resolve outstanding issues and maintain smooth operations even after the airport's official launch.
• 😀 Stakeholder collaboration is key in ORAT, ensuring that all parties, from construction teams to operational staff, work together to meet the airport’s operational goals.

Q & A

What does ORAT stand for and what is its main objective?

ORAT stands for Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer. Its main objective is to ensure the smooth transition from construction readiness to operational readiness for new or renovated airport facilities, ensuring no surprises on opening day.

Why is construction readiness not the same as operational readiness?

Construction readiness means the physical structure of the airport is complete, but operational readiness involves testing systems, training staff, and ensuring all processes function properly. It can take months or even years to transition from construction readiness to operational readiness.

Can you provide an example of an airport where operational readiness was a significant challenge?

An example is London Heathrow's Terminal 5 (T5), where despite many rehearsals, issues with baggage systems and staff unfamiliarity led to the cancellation of flights and significant operational failures.

What is the role of governance in the ORAT process?

Governance in ORAT involves establishing targets, KPIs, an organizational structure for decision-making, communication protocols, risk management, and progress tracking to ensure all stakeholders are aligned and issues are addressed efficiently.

What is the difference between induction training and operational and maintenance training?

Induction training ensures staff understand their roles and responsibilities in the new facility, while operational and maintenance training provides technical skills required to operate and maintain the equipment and systems over the life of the airport.

Why is it essential to conduct integrated system trials during ORAT?

Integrated system trials are critical to identify and resolve issues with various systems and processes before the airport opens. These trials simulate real operational scenarios to ensure all systems work seamlessly together.

How are the conops developed during ORAT, and why is it important?

The Concept of Operations (ConOps) is developed through stakeholder input, industry standards, and budget considerations. It defines how the airport will function, what procedures are required, and outlines necessary modifications or new procedures.

What challenges arise during the transition to operations phase of ORAT?

The transition to operations can be challenging due to the large number of stakeholders involved, the complexity of airport systems, and the need for effective coordination to ensure all operations run smoothly from day one.

What is the importance of familiarization (FAM) training in ORAT?

FAM training is essential for introducing stakeholders to the new airport facility and its functions. It ensures that staff and operators are familiar with the new environment and processes before the opening.

How does the ORAT process handle post-opening support?

Post-opening support involves addressing any outstanding issues that were either deferred or new problems that arise after the opening day. The ORAT team continues to monitor and manage any residual problems to ensure smooth operations in the long term.