FRANKFURT — Lufthansa (LH) and Fraport AG have signed an agreement to optimize aircraft handling at Frankfurt Airport (FRA) further. In cooperation with Lufthansa’s subsidiary, zeroG, an innovative AI-based camera solution called “seer” is implemented to enhance transparency, efficiency, and punctuality of the aircraft’s turnaround process.

Each process, from connecting the passenger bridge to loading and unloading baggage and refueling, is recorded by a camera. Real-time data is sent to the AI, which automatically timestamps each step of the turnaround, and the information is collected in a central database. The use of “seer” increases both the quantity and quality of available information.

Gradual Implementation

The intensive development and pilot phase began in 2023. Between February and May 2024, the system was tested at selected aircraft positions at FRA. Currently, five stands at FRA are equipped with “seer;” by the end of the year, 15 more stands are expected to use “seer.” 

Lufthansa, with its extensive operational experience, and Fraport, with expertise in airport management, significantly contribute to the development of “seer.” ZeroG is bringing together the requirements of airlines and airports and, in combination with their technological expertise, delivers an innovative solution. 

The development and implementation of “seer” by Fraport, LH, and zeroG is an excellent example of successful partnership in the aviation industry. 

Lufthansa’s, Fraport’s, zeroG’s Opinions on AI in aviation

“Transparent ground processes enable us to improve our punctuality and service quality further. This benefits our guests in particular. That is why we are working intensively on modernizing our operational processes with innovative technologies such as the AI-based ‘seer’ solution. When all partners at Frankfurt Airport use their handling data and share it, we can become even more efficient and punctual together,” says Jens Ritter, CEO of Lufthansa Airlines.

CEO of Fraport AG, Stefan Schulte, says, “At Fraport, we are advancing a wide range of AI solutions to optimize processes at our airports, reduce the workload for employees, and increase satisfaction among our passengers and customers. The AI-supported turnaround is a perfect example of this approach. Enhanced data transparency provides our employees and partners with a more precise overview of each step involved in aircraft handling, enabling them to adapt subsequent work steps accordingly. This not only has a positive effect on each handling process but also benefits overall airport operations.”

Manuel van Esch, Managing Director of zeroG, explains, “Aircraft don't earn money while on the ground, yet this is where the most complex processes take place under intense time pressure. This is exactly where our solution helps: with the support of camera-based AI models, we make processes visible, analyzable, and controllable – in real time. This brings greater transparency for airlines and airport operators, while also improving punctuality and resource utilization.”