Case Study: John F. Kennedy International Airport improves traveler wayfinding with Carousel Digital Signage

John F. Kennedy International Airport - Customer Case Study

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) faced significant challenges with its AirTrain service, where passengers were often confused by frequent airline terminal changes and unannounced track diversions for maintenance. The airport's use of static and LED signs was inadequate for communicating these complex, real-time changes to an international audience. JFK partnered with vendor Tightrope Media Systems to implement their Carousel digital signage system to address these communication issues.

Tightrope Media Systems implemented an icon-based digital signage solution integrated with the train's SCADA system, allowing information about diversions and airline moves to update automatically. The vendor's solution also included interactive kiosks providing information in eight languages. The results were immediate, with passenger confusion virtually eliminated and complaints about signage dropping to zero. The system proved its value by quickly communicating service disruptions from other transit agencies, earning the airport a commendation. The project was also awarded an Apex Gold award at the Digital Signage Expo.

John F. Kennedy International Airport

Hugh McCann

General Manager of Rail Operations