104 ApronVision docking guidance systems to be deployed across the airport as part of a wider digitalisation programme
TK Elevator (TKE) has been selected by Athens International Airport (AIA) for a major digitalisation project aimed at upgrading aircraft docking and apron operations across the airport.
The project will see TKE deliver and install 104 ApronVision Advanced Visual Docking Guidance Systems (A-VDGS), integrated with the company’s MAX Monitor & Control platform for real-time monitoring, operational management and data analytics.
Under the programme, Athens International Airport will replace its existing earlier-generation docking guidance infrastructure at 24 contact stands with the latest ApronVision technology. The airport will also introduce A-VDGS technology for the first time across 80 remote stands, extending digital aircraft guidance across all its parking stands.
Creating a Connected Digital Apron
The ApronVision systems will be connected through TKE’s MAX platform, creating a centralised digital environment through which airport operators can monitor equipment, receive automatic alerts, analyse operational performance and access real-time information on airside activities.
The integrated system is designed to support more efficient aircraft turnaround processes while improving visibility for airport operators, ground handling teams and airline partners.
By connecting aircraft docking systems to a common digital platform, Athens International Airport will be able to access operational data and performance analytics from across its apron infrastructure.
LiDAR-Based Aircraft Docking Technology
TKE’s ApronVision technology uses LiDAR-based scanning to support aircraft positioning and docking operations.
According to TK Elevator, the system is capable of generating up to 2.6 million data points per second and includes features such as long-range and 360-degree scanning, all-weather capability and support for multiple aircraft docking configurations.
The technology is designed to improve aircraft guidance accuracy while reducing blind spots and providing airport operators with greater situational awareness around aircraft stands.
More than 2,500 ApronVision systems have been deployed at over 100 airports worldwide, according to the company.
Real-Time Monitoring Through MAX
MAX Monitor & Control will serve as the central management platform for the 104 ApronVision units at Athens International Airport.
The system provides real-time visualisation of airside assets along with automatic alarms, equipment monitoring and analytics covering usage, performance and operational KPIs.
The digital infrastructure is also expected to support predictive maintenance and remote management while allowing airport stakeholders to monitor apron operations through a unified data-driven interface.
Optimising docking and aircraft turnaround times may also contribute to reducing unnecessary equipment use and associated emissions during ground operations.
Long-Term Digitalisation Programme
The project forms part of a wider framework agreement between Athens International Airport and TK Elevator.
Deployment of the ApronVision systems is scheduled to take place in phases through 2029, while the associated maintenance and support programme is planned to continue until 2036.
Athens International Airport handled approximately 34 million passengers and more than 283,000 aircraft movements in 2025, making it Greece’s largest and busiest airport and an important aviation hub for Southeastern Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean.
The latest project expands TK Elevator’s role within airport infrastructure beyond traditional vertical and horizontal passenger transportation, including elevators, escalators, moving walks and passenger boarding bridges, into increasingly connected digital airside operations.
With all 104 aircraft stands planned to be connected through ApronVision and MAX, the Athens project represents a significant airport-wide implementation of TKE’s digital apron management technology.
Official announcement: TK Elevator press release (TK Elevator)