Airports Still Run on 1980s Software: Why the Industry Is Moving Beyond AODB-Centric Operations
How airport operations still rely on decades-old systems — and why Heathrow's adoption of the AIRHART platform signals a shift from traditional Airport Operations Databases toward configurable platform architectures.
Show Notes
Martin Bowman brings more than 25 years working across aviation and technology, with leadership roles spanning software, airport systems, strategy, and advisory work. The discussion centres on Heathrow Airport's adoption of the AIRHART platform as its operational backbone, representing a shift from traditional Airport Operations Databases (AODB) toward configurable platform architectures. The episode examines why legacy systems struggle with modern operational demands and how airports can gain ownership over their technological development.
Click to expand the full episode transcript (8,801 words approx.)
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