Airport APM Upgrade Enhances Capacity and Reliability

Alstom has been selected by George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston to replace and modernize its Skyway automated people mover (APM) system. The project includes new rolling stock, upgraded control and communication systems, and a 15-year operations and maintenance agreement.

 

Scope of System Modernization

The contract covers a comprehensive upgrade of the existing APM infrastructure. Key elements include the deployment of 16 new Innovia APM R vehicles, modernization of station doors across all terminals, and the construction of a new Operations Control Center.

 

The system will also be equipped with upgraded automatic train control and communication technologies to improve operational performance and system supervision.

 

Advanced Signaling and Control Systems

A central component of the upgrade is the implementation of the Urbalis automatic train control system. This signaling technology is designed to enhance capacity, safety, and automation in transit systems.

 

Improved digital communication and monitoring systems will support real-time system oversight, enabling faster response to operational events and reducing service disruptions.

 

Supporting Airport Capacity Growth

IAH is undergoing significant expansion to accommodate increasing passenger volumes, which exceeded 48 million annually. The upgraded Skyway system is intended to improve passenger flow between terminals, particularly during peak travel periods.

 

Enhanced system reliability and reduced downtime are expected to support more efficient airport operations and improve the overall passenger experience.

 

Operations and Maintenance Integration

The agreement includes 15 years of operations and maintenance services, supported by an on-site team. This long-term approach enables continuous performance optimization and lifecycle management of the system.

 

Maintaining high availability is critical for airport transit systems, where service interruptions can directly impact passenger movement and operational efficiency.

 

Performance and Reliability Context

The existing Skyway system has demonstrated high availability, with reported performance exceeding 99% in recent operations. The modernization aims to build on this foundation by introducing updated technologies and infrastructure.