Modeling Airport Check-In and Security Procedures Using SimFC

Simulator For Construction (SimFC) is a construction-related simulation platform which allows for modeling of various construction processes in a controllable and repeatable manner. These processes can vary in complexity and size involving various resource requirements and time constraints. However, SimFC is also a versatile general purpose simulator which allows users to easily model almost all entity-relationship based systems using the elements provided in the visual environment. On the other hand, planning for airport human resources is often a challenging task especially when factors such as airplane delays, passenger check-ins, luggage inspections and passenger wait time policies are considered. This paper discusses a simulation model of passenger check-ins and security checkpoints at the Calgary International Airport using SimFC. A simple case study of US bound passengers from Calgary is presented. Based on passenger throughput levels and traffic intensity, airport-level human resource allocation recommendations for the number of check-in agents and passenger facing security personnel are made. The findings are of particular interest to researchers and industry professionals involved in airport service planning and management.