Airports are among the most complex environments for connectivity. Thousands of staff and passengers, mission-critical systems, and constant mobility create a challenging scenario where even minor connectivity issues can cascade into delays and safety risks.
In 2025, a major UK airport deployed a private 5G network to enhance operational efficiency. The goals: enable real-time baggage tracking, improve ground crew communications, and support automated vehicles on the apron.
However, within weeks of launch, issues emerged: coverage gaps in terminal concourses, inconsistent latency for baggage scanners, and patchy connectivity in aircraft parking zones. The airport commissioned Nexibium’s CoverageIQ™ testing service for an independent assessment.
Key Outcomes
-18 %
Call Drop Rate
+22%
Throughput
-30%
Complaints
Challenges
Terminal Coverage Gaps: Some concourse areas showed dead spots where devices lost connection.
Baggage Tracking Latency: Handheld scanners faced occasional delays, leading to bottlenecks at baggage belts.
Airside Mobility Issues: Autonomous tugs moving luggage carts experienced jitter when crossing cell boundaries.