Automated Passenger Counting System Market Trends

Automated passenger counting systems are witnessing significant technological advancements in sensor technology. Newer sensor technologies, such as 3D LiDAR and Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensors, provide more accuracy in passenger counting than classic camera-based systems. These smart sensors differentiate between passengers, baggage, and other items, resulting in more accurate data collecting. Sensor downsizing and wireless communication advancements have made automated passenger counting systems installation easier and less expensive.

Smaller sensors necessitate fewer intrusive installation processes, lowering downtime and labor costs. Furthermore, wireless sensors eliminate the need for intricate wiring, making installation even simpler. Sensor developments allow for the creation of automated passenger counting systems with extra functionality beyond simple passenger counting. These features may include passenger classification for improved ridership analysis, item detection for security and door status monitoring.

For instance, in December 2023, SWISS International Airlines (SWISS) announced plans to adopt a new AI-based system for counting passengers during the boarding process, following successful trials conducted earlier in the year. The system, developed by Berlin-based startup Vion AI, uses cameras installed at the aircraft door to monitor people entering and exiting the plane. An AI model analyzes the video feed to reliably count passengers under various conditions such as different lighting and parents carrying infants.