Pulkovo Airport in St. Petersburg has launched an advanced video analytics system leveraging machine vision to forecast passenger queue build-up at check-in counters. The initiative marks a significant step in enhancing operational efficiency and passenger experience.

The system, part of the broader “Potok” (Flow) project, focuses on streamlining pre-flight passenger services. The first phase, now complete, covers the passenger check-in area and enables automated prediction of queue formation, allowing staff to proactively open additional counters.

Since the project’s inception, the airport reports a substantial reduction in pre-flight service time, decreasing it from 1.5 hours to just 30 minutes.

In 2024, Pulkovo established a dedicated passenger and transport flow management center that operates 24/7. The center monitors the airport’s infrastructure to optimize its load.

The new AI-driven system automates the measurement of waiting times in the check-in area, enabling preemptive responses to potential congestion before queues become problematic.

Future plans include expanding the system’s capabilities to other critical areas such as entry zones, pre-flight inspection points, the airport square, parking facilities, and the airfield apron.

Developed by Lyur IT LLC, a company specializing in automation and digitalization using AI, the system operates within a secure, closed circuit, adhering to strict information security protocols.

The implemented solution is based on the RTMIP product, which is registered as domestic software.