Connecting airport assets can be truly transformational, enabling real-time visibility, control, and optimisation of critical operations. From baggage handling and ground support equipment to HVAC systems and runway lighting, connected assets provide rich, continuous data that empowers airports to predict maintenance needs, streamline resource allocation, and respond to disruptions faster. This shift from reactive to proactive management improves uptime, reduces costs, and enhances safety across the airside and landside environments.
Beyond operational efficiency, connected airport infrastructure lays the foundation for smarter, more responsive passenger experiences. Real-time data from tugs, gates, and terminal systems allows for dynamic scheduling and coordination, reducing turnaround times and flight delays. Airports can integrate these insights with passenger flow and security data to create smoother journeys, improve sustainability through energy optimisation, and ultimately future-proof their infrastructure for increasing passenger volumes and environmental pressures.
At the heart of this transformation is Beam Connectivity’s collaboration with JLC Group, a leading provider of Ground Power Units (GPUs). Together, we are delivering high-performance, secure IoT solutions across most major airports in the UK, turning traditional ground operations into intelligent, connected systems.
We’ve developed and rolled out a powerful Ground Power Connectivity System – an IoT platform that connects GPUs in real time, enabling:
With this level of visibility, airports can now track GPU usage by kWh and enable granular billing, allowing them to recover energy costs or create new revenue streams by charging airlines based on actual usage.
“Our new GPCS system at JLC Group, in partnership with Beam Connectivity, is not just a tool – it’s a revolution. It empowers teams to optimise GPU performance, reduce delays, cut costs, and enhance airport productivity at the touch of a button.”
— Tony Hayes, CEO, JLC Group
Ground Power Units are critical in supporting aircraft on the ground, powering vital systems like lighting and avionics without needing to run jet engines. This reduces fuel consumption, lowers emissions, and supports a quieter, greener airport environment.
But managing GPUs effectively has historically been a challenge. Without real-time data, faults and inefficiencies can lead to cascading delays. Our system solves this by providing real-time visibility, allowing teams to take immediate action before issues escalate.
With multiple physical systems, sensitive data, and critical infrastructure operating simultaneously, cybersecurity in aviation is paramount. At Beam Connectivity, security is built in from the ground up. All our systems are designed to be:
The results are already clear: our connected ground power system has been deployed and is operational at several major UK airports. Early feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with airports seeing immediate improvements in operational awareness, energy accountability, and service reliability.
Work with a single highly-focused partner, instead of a complex and fragmented supply chain with multiple vendors.
Build on our CVaaS platform to avoid long development times and accelerate launch by up to 24 months.
Reduce the costs and headcounts associated with in-house development and ongoing maintenance expenses by relying on our specialist competencies.
Focus your time and resources on the value-add of data which is strategically important to you, while we take care of the complex underlying engineering.
Harness connected vehicle data to deliver a seamless driving experience, ultimately fostering brand loyalty and long-term customer relationships - while leveraging data for internal strategic decisions. Our commercial team understands connectivity ROI and how to monetise data from working with several OEMs.
Give your customers and business the market leading connected vehicle experience protecting your brand. Avoid the frustrating user experience which is often seen in today's solutions and which damages vehicle brands.
An agile platform which evolves to your unique requirements, NOT an off-the-shelf solution.
Reduce the risks associated with developing complex hardware and software on a market proven system.