FIDS — Flight Information Display System

FIDS — Flight Information Display System

FIDS is the passenger-facing information layer of the airport. It aggregates flight data from multiple sources and distributes it to display screens, departure boards, gate displays and increasingly to mobile and web APIs.

Data Sources

A FIDS typically integrates data from: the Airport Operational Database (AODB) — the master source for scheduled and actual times; airline DCS and PSS systems — for check-in counter assignments and status updates; ATC systems — for movement area and runway data; ground handling systems — for baggage belt assignments.

Display Types

FIDS drives: terminal departure and arrival overview boards, individual gate display screens, baggage claim belt indicators, check-in counter assignment displays, and increasingly digital signage with dynamic content.

FIDS and Passenger Experience

Accurate FIDS data is a primary driver of passenger satisfaction. Gate changes, delays and cancellations communicated quickly through FIDS reduce passenger anxiety and prevent gate crowding. Modern FIDS platforms also push data to airport apps and public APIs.

AODB Dependency

FIDS is typically a consumer of AODB data rather than a source. The AODB maintains the authoritative flight record; FIDS subscribes to changes and displays them. This dependency means AODB data quality directly affects what passengers see on the screens.