Firstco has been assisting Birmingham Airport (BHX) since August 2011 with a number of significant changes and upgrades to their systems.

BHX is undergoing a large capital investment programme, including upgrades to their runway. With a replacement air traffic control tower forming the major basis of this regeneration they have also begun replacing the following elements of the airport operational systems (AOS):

  • Airport operational database (AODB)
  • Common use system (CUS)
  • Baggage reconciliation system (BRS)

Firstco will be working with BHX along several key stages of this journey.

Paul Kehoe, CEO of Birmingham Airport explained: "Birmingham Airport continues to proactively invest in infrastructure and these latest elements illustrate the comprehensive programme of works being undertaken at present. We are delighted to be working closely with the team at Firstco on these projects."

The Firstco team has been reporting to the head of information services to capture user requirements, engaging with all relevant stakeholders, identifying commercial model options and developing open solutions for implementing these AOS elements.

Furthermore, they have jointly produced the technical tender documentation and will be supporting Birmingham Airport’s operations team throughout the procurement process. This will involve responding to technical queries from prospective suppliers and assisting in the technical evaluation of responses. A PQQ has already been completed to identify suitable shortlists for the various lots.

The final part of this collaboration will see Firstco heavily involved in the delivery, integration and implementation phases of all three systems on behalf of Birmingham Airport during 2012, ensuring a successful and smooth transition from the existing system to the new state of-the-art-system.