Generating Concession Revenue While Modernizing Flight Information Displays

Norwich Airport sought to upgrade its aging Flight Information Display System (FIDS) to provide clearer flight status updates for departing and arriving passengers. Working in partnership with display hardware provider AD Series, Navaho Technologies implemented its modular Display Information Solution (mDIS), combining real-time flight tracking with dynamic retail advertising and security messaging.

The challenge

Airports require clear, instant passenger communication to manage concourse foot traffic and communicate strict baggage/security regulations. However, replacing airport-wide display infrastructure represents a significant capital expenditure. Norwich Airport needed a flexible platform that could fulfill essential flight display needs while generating advertising revenue from airport concessionaires to offset deployment costs.

The approach

Navaho implemented its mDIS platform driving "The Angel Light" hardware network:

Zoned flight data management: displays flight schedules split dynamically by arrivals, departures, check-in desks, or departure gates.
Multi-zone advertising engine: supports still images, full-motion video, ticker tapes, and sound. Allows concession owners to display targeted retail, food, and beverage promotions based on time of day and passenger demographics.
Storyboard passenger journey advertising: coordinates messaging as passengers move sequentially through check-in, security, departure lounges, and retail zones.
External content feeds: displays real-time local news, destination weather forecasts, financial updates, and baggage policy video guides.

The result

Cost-offsetting revenue model: generated advertising sales from airport retailers to cover display deployment costs.
Enhanced passenger flow: delivered high-visibility flight status alerts that reduced passenger confusion at gates and check-in desks.
Dynamic compliance signage: simplified compliance with changing aviation safety guidelines through clear visual multimedia templates.

"The Airport Concourse has been transformed by the display Network. Our customers now have access to highly visible flight information and messages giving information relevant to their location."

— Tanya DuRose, Head of Commercial Development, Norwich International Airport