How Autonomous PBB Technology Is Redefining Gate Operations at the World’s Busiest Airport
In this article, we look at how CLX Engineering’s autonomous passenger boarding bridge is transforming airport gate operations, beginning with its live deployment at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
Fully Autonomous Passenger Boarding Bridge in Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson Airport powered by CLX Engineering.
Autonomous Docking in Under 45 Seconds
At the core of CLX’s innovation is a fully autonomous docking system that eliminates the need for manual driving. Using machine vision, and intelligent motion control, the bridge connects to aircraft doors in under 45 seconds with consistency and precision.
Faster docking times enable quicker ground power connection and reduced APU usage, helping cut fuel costs and carbon emissions.
Built-In Intelligence and IoT Monitoring
Each autonomous PBB includes real-time monitoring powered by CLX’s SCADA software platform, CORTEX. The system tracks every bridge movement, logs operational data, and flags issues before they become disruptions.
“Smart automation not only performs the task but also delivers insights that drive better decisions and performance.”
The ATL Deployment at Gate B16
CLX’s first autonomous PBB deployment in North America went live at Gate B16 at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, one of the busiest and most demanding environments in global aviation. Working closely with Delta Air Lines, CLX installed and tested the solution without interrupting operations.
Key outcomes:
Docking times consistently reduced by up to 70 percent
Integrated seamlessly with existing infrastructure
Zero disruption during installation and testing
“It’s fast, repeatable, and precise. The kind of consistency you need at an international hub.”
Why Airports and Airlines Are Taking Notice
Autonomous boarding bridges help:
Accelerate aircraft turnaround
Reduce fuel consumption
Improve apron safety
Eliminate operator error
Provide data visibility to operations teams
These benefits support airports looking to modernize their gates without replacing entire systems.
See It Live in Atlanta
📹 Want to view the autonomous PBB in action?
Watch the Video
📄 Want to learn more about CLX Engineering?
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✈️ CLX exhibited at Passenger Terminal EXPO 2025 in Madrid and will be at PTE 2026 in London this coming March. Reach out to our team to schedule a meeting or learn more about how autonomous solutions can work at your airport.
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