Shenzhen Airport’s Innovia APM: A Case Study

Introduction

This article delves into the successful implementation and operation of Alstom’s Innovia Automatic People Mover (APM) system at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport in China. The deployment showcases a significant advancement in airport transportation infrastructure, highlighting the capabilities of modern, driverless, automated transit systems. We will examine the technological aspects of the system, its operational efficiency, the collaborative partnerships involved in its development and deployment, and the broader implications for future airport and urban transit planning. The project’s success underscores the growing trend towards automated transit solutions for enhancing passenger experience and improving overall operational efficiency within complex transportation environments. The analysis will consider the system’s design, integration, operational performance, and the ongoing maintenance strategies, providing a comprehensive overview of a cutting-edge transportation technology deployed at a major international airport.

Alstom’s Innovia APM System at Shenzhen Airport: A Case Study

The recently operational Innovia APM system at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport represents a significant achievement in automated people mover technology. The 2.6km system seamlessly connects Terminal 3 to a satellite airside hall, reducing travel time to approximately three minutes at a top speed of 80 km/hour. This fully automated system operates at GoA4 (Grade of Automation 4), signifying completely unattended operation, maximizing efficiency and minimizing human intervention. The system’s design incorporates modern aesthetics and advanced subsystems to optimize passenger comfort and the overall operational experience.

Collaboration and Partnerships in Project Delivery

The successful deployment of the Innovia APM system at Shenzhen Airport is a testament to effective collaboration between various entities. Alstom’s Chinese joint venture, CRRC Puzhen Bombardier Transportation Systems Limited (PBTS), played a pivotal role in the project’s design, construction, commissioning, and even securing the operation and maintenance (O&M) contract. This highlights the strategic advantage of local partnerships in navigating the complexities of international projects. Further illustrating this collaborative approach, the propulsion equipment was supplied by Bombardier NUG Propulsion System (BNP), another Alstom Chinese JV, and the Cityflo 650 signaling systems were provided by Bombardier NUG Signalling Solutions (BNS), yet another Alstom joint venture. This intricate network of collaborations facilitated efficient project execution and localized expertise.

Technological Advancements and Operational Efficiency

The Innovia APM system’s implementation leverages cutting-edge technologies to optimize passenger service. The GoA4 level of automation ensures driverless operation, enhancing safety and reducing operational costs. The system’s design incorporates features that improve passenger flow, reducing congestion and wait times. This high level of automation improves reliability, minimizes operational disruptions, and provides a consistent passenger experience. This system’s integration into the larger airport infrastructure demonstrates a high level of planning and execution, ensuring smooth transitions between different modes of transportation within the airport complex.

Broader Implications for Airport and Urban Transit

The Shenzhen Airport APM project serves as a compelling example for future airport and urban transit planning. The success of this driverless system demonstrates the viability and benefits of implementing similar technologies in other high-density transportation environments. The scalability and adaptability of the Innovia APM system, evident through its deployments in other airports and urban settings (Beijing Capital International Airport, Chengdu Airport, Shanghai Metro Line 8, Guangzhou Zhujiajxincheng, and Hong Kong Airport), highlights its potential to address diverse transportation challenges. Furthermore, the emphasis on sustainable and efficient transportation solutions underscores the growing trend toward integrating technology with sustainable infrastructure development.

Conclusions

The successful implementation of Alstom’s Innovia APM system at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport marks a significant milestone in automated people mover technology. The project showcases the capabilities of a fully automated, driverless system operating at GoA4, optimizing passenger flow and minimizing operational costs. The collaborative efforts of Alstom and its Chinese joint ventures, CRRC Puzhen Bombardier Transportation Systems Limited (PBTS), Bombardier NUG Propulsion System (BNP), and Bombardier NUG Signalling Solutions (BNS), were instrumental in the project’s success, highlighting the benefits of localized partnerships. The system’s integration into the larger airport infrastructure demonstrates a high level of planning and execution. The technology’s deployment underscores the increasing adoption of advanced automated transit systems for enhanced efficiency and passenger experience in both airport and urban environments. The scalability and adaptability of the Innovia APM system, as evidenced by its deployment in various locations, indicate a promising future for this technology in addressing the evolving transportation needs of major cities and airports worldwide. This case study provides valuable insights into the design, implementation, and operational aspects of modern automated transit solutions, setting a benchmark for future projects aiming to improve connectivity, efficiency, and passenger satisfaction within complex transportation networks. The ongoing maintenance contract secured by PBTS further emphasizes the long-term commitment to ensuring reliable and efficient operation, reinforcing the system’s sustainability and contribution to the airport’s overall operational success.