by Elsie Clark | Jan 8, 2026 | Airports, Features
This June, Canada, Mexico, and the US will jointly host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. One of the world’s biggest sporting events, airports from Seattle and Toronto to Guadalajara and Miami will welcome players, teams, media — and potentially millions of fans.
The impact on aviation infrastructure is not to be underestimated. For the 2022 tournament, host country Qatar experienced an arrivals surge of 30% and had to open a deactivated airport to scale operations by 200%. Operational complexity in 2026 is only exacerbated by the decision to split games across three countries.
America’s airports need to be ready. We take a look at three key investment areas that airports hope will manage passengers efficiently and effectively this summer.
Biometrics for faster passenger processing
The use of eGates has increased significantly across the US in recent years, and rollout has accelerated in anticipation of the World Cup. A special taskforce has been established to ensure smooth communication between border agencies and federal departments to make arrivals processes more streamlined.
Both Mexico City and Cancun will become significant travel hubs during the tournament. More eGates will be installed at the airports, with the hope of getting waiting times down to 30 minutes or less. Other automated systems, including self-check in and automated bag drop, will also be deployed across Mexico’s principal airports, as well as at major Canadian hubs like Toronto Pearson, for greater efficiency.
Improving infrastructure and terminal capacity
The advent of the World Cup has encouraged technological adoption, but also quickened the pace on other expansion projects to boost airport capacity. Monterrey International is undergoing a two-phase expansion that will see its processing power increase from 11 million passengers to 16.5 million. Similarly, the Mexican federal government is investing US$489 million in Mexico City International Airport to modernise systems and reduce passenger bottlenecks.
One significant aspect that will be monitored closely this summer is the efficacy of US air traffic control (ATC) A government shutdown in November 2025 led to cancellations and disruption as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) struggled to manage air traffic control staff, who were working unpaid for as long as the shutdown lasted. Compounded by a shortage of personnel and outdated technology, ATC will be under a lot of pressure to ensure flights stay on schedule during this hectic summer calendar.
Improving airport connectivity
Getting thousands of fans from the airport to the stadium is no easy feat. Several transport projects are due to complete in time for improved passenger management at the World Cup.
The perennially delayed Automated People Mover at Los Angeles LAX is hoped to be one of them, although reports vary as to whether the system will be ready by summer or later in 2026. Construction began in 2018 on this 24-hour shuttle that will ferry passengers from the Metro Transit Center through parking areas to the terminals. LAX says the electric shuttle will result in 117,000 fewer vehicle miles travelled per day.
Construction is also underway on Monterrey’s Metrorrey Line 6, which will connect the airport to the city centre. Meanwhile, the US is expanding its public shuttle services and pick-up zones to ensure football fans can reach the stadiums, many of which are only accessible by car.
Conclusion
Predictions suggest the FIFA World Cup could attract as many as 10 million tourists to the US alone. While this represents an exciting economy opportunity, such volumes place significant strain on airports that are already struggling with rising passenger numbers. And with some tickets costing upwards of US$8,000, visitors will not be pleased if their expensive trip of a lifetime is obstructed by aviation mismanagement.
The initiatives rolled out so far look promising. eGates, improved infrastructure, and better public transit could all do much to alleviate the World Cup strain — but only if they are implemented effectively and on schedule.
Join us at Aviation Festival Americas 2026 to discuss the future of airport technology.
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by Elsie Clark | Jan 8, 2026 | Airlines, Airports, Digital Transformation, News
Travel tech firm Amadeus have joined the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO’s) No Country Left Behind initiative.
As digitisation ramps up across the aviation world, ICAO’s project hopes to ensure all 193 of its Member States develop at an equal pace. While countries such as Singapore might lead the charge on future-first investments, ICAO wants the economic and social benefits of seamless air travel to be spread around the globe.
Amadeus will enhance the No Country Left Behind initiative by sharing expertise to support ICAO’s TRIP and Doc 9303 specifications. This includes supporting the installation of biometrics, providing technical assistance to Member States, and training programmes, notably on best regulatory practice.
Juan Carlos Salazar, secretary general at ICAO, said:
The digitalisation of identity documentation and management is essential to air transport’s expansion and transformation.
ICAO’s collaboration with Amadeus will contribute to our Member States’ effective adoption of these new technologies, in line with our leadership towards our vision of safe and sustainable air transport for all by 2050.
The announcement comes several months after Amadeus successfully trialled digital IDs in partnership with Lufthansa. The first fruits of the ICAO/Amadeus partnership are expected to come later in 2026.
Rudy Daniello, executive vice president, AirOps, Amadeus added:
As the industry applies powerful technologies that improve the experience of travel, we need global co-ordination and collaboration more than ever before. ICAO’s work to set standards, and to ensure every country has the knowledge and capabilities to effectively apply those standards, is fundamental to making travel better for everyone, everywhere.
We at Amadeus, are very proud to support ICAO’s mission.
Join us at Aviation Festival Asia 2026 to discuss the digital divide in aviation.
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by Elsie Clark | Jan 6, 2026 | Airports, Interviews
Salzburg Airport has to make the most of its small footprint to manage 1.7 million annual passengers effectively. Nestled in the Austrian hills, the airport experiences peaks in the winter and summer as travellers come to enjoy the region’s world-famous mountains and lakes.
However, its terminal infrastructure dates back to 1966, presenting problems for modernisation Bettina Ganghofer, Salzburg Airport CEO, joined us at World Aviation Festival to share more about this transformation and how she is leading the airport to be more tech-forward and sustainable.
In the present environment we cannot squeeze in the new security technology. The machines are too big for the small airports. So it’s either the machine or the passengers. We’ll stick to the old technology until we have the space.
Under the redevelopment project, Terminal 2 will be extended, while Arrivals at Terminal 1 will also be rebuilt.
What is the new way? It’s spacious. We have more floor to ceiling space, you can breathe. We’ll have a bigger business lounge. We’ll have more space for security lanes.
Aside from structural development, sustainability is also at the heart of Ganghofer’s vision for Salzburg’s future. Advanced air mobility (AAM) startups including the FlyNow eCopter have been tested on the airport’s grounds. Through partnerships with universities and innovation programmes, Ganghofer and her team are trying to see how AAM could fit with the airport’s infrastructure in the future.
As a small airport, we have the opportunity to try something out, see whether it works well and whether you have to adapt.
Aiming for net-zero emissions by 2040, Salzburg Airport has introduced a range of energy-saving initiatives to support the transition. From electric vehicles to biofuels, Ganghofer is committed to achieving real goals rather than greenwashing. Ultimately, she believes the biggest sustainability challenge in aviation lies with airlines.
The airports have a bigger chance to be ready for carbon-neutrality before the rest of aviation can fulfil its promises. Everyone has to work together. I think sustainable aviation fuel for the airlines is something we have to support, because it’s one big step in the future.
🎥 Watch the interview to hear the full conversation with Bettina Ganghofer, CEO Salzburg Airport.
Questions asked include:
- How do plan for growth while also keeping in mind the limited footprint that you have?
- How do you think traveller expectations have changed over the past few years? What do they want now that not all airports have?
- How do you see AAM tech being integrated at the airport in the future?
- From a more short-term perspective, are there any easy wins for airports in reducing their carbon footprint?
Join us at Aviation Festival Asia 2026 to discuss the future of airport technology.
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by Elsie Clark | Jan 6, 2026 | Airlines, Airports, News
Aviation analytics firm Cirium have published their 2025 On-Time Performance Review, ranking the world’s airlines and airports by operational efficiency. Their rankings are decided using data from more than 600 sources, including information from airlines, airports, and aviation authorities.
Aeromexico secured the top spot on the global airlines ranking for the second year running, the first time any airline has achieved consecutive wins since Cirium launched the yearly OTP performance review in 2009. With an on-time rate of 90.02%, the Mexican carrier pipped Saudia (86.53%) and Scandinavian Airlines (SAS – 86.09%) to take the crown.
Analysing results by region, Delta Air Lines topped the North American rankings for the fifth year in a row, followed by Alaska Airlines and Spirit Airlines. In Europe, Iberia Express had the most on time flights, while Copa Airlines led in Latin America and Philippine Airlines in APAC. South African carrier Safair was the most on-time airline in the Middle East and Africa, its 91.06% success rate trumping Royal Jordanian (90.73%) and Saudi low-cost carrier Flyadeal (86.54%).
New for the 2025 Review, Virgin Atlantic won the Most Improved Award for increasing its on-time performance by 9.44 percentage points from 2024 to 2025. The Airline Platinum Award went to Qatar Airways, recognising its operational excellence across six continents.
Meanwhile, Latin America dominated Cirium’s on time departures ranking for airports. In the large airports category, Santiago Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport performed best, with 87.04% of flights departing on time. Panama City Tocumen International Airport scored the highest of any medium airport, achieving an impressive 93.34% for on-time departures. And Quayaquil Jose Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport in Ecuador topped the small airports ranking, with 91.47% of flights departing on time.
Istanbul Airport won Cirium’s Platinum Award, recognising its growth and resilience in managing significant operational challenges.
The complete top 10 global most on-time airlines was as follows:
- Aeromexico: 90.02% of 188,859 flights on-time
- Saudia: 86.53% of 202,864 flights on-time
- SAS: 86.09% of 249,674 flights on-time
- Azul: 85.18% of 304,625 flights on-time
- Qatar Airways: 84.42% of 198,303 flights on-time
- Iberia: 83.52% of 188,447 flights on-time
- LATAM Airlines: 82.40% of 580,707 flights on-time
- Avianca: 81.73% of 266,921 flights on-time
- Turkish Airlines: 81.41% of 421,087 flights on-time
- Delta Air Lines: 80.90% of 1,800,086 flights on-time
Join us at World Aviation Festival 2026 to attend our IROPS summit, where airlines can plan to reduce unexpected delays and improve on-time performance.
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by Elsie Clark | Jan 2, 2026 | Airlines, Airports, News
It’s that time of the year again, where experts across the industry get out their crystal balls and try to predict the next game-changing developments in travel and aviation. To celebrate the imminent arrival of 2026, we’ve compiled a shortlist of the biggest trends, as forecasted by some of the world’s leading publications and brands.
Amadeus: Pet-friendly travel and innovation tourism
In partnership with Globetrender, Amadeus listed seven key trends that they think will have an impact in 2026. This includes an expansion in pet-friendly travel, as passengers become enthusiastic to bring their canine companions (and maybe even a grumpy cat) on their holidays.
Innovation tourism was highlighted as another potential theme: with the launch of autonomous taxis in the US and assistant robots in China, people are keener than ever to experience the future with their own eyes. Amadeus also noted the growing volume of narrow-body jets. The A321XLR could be transformative in long-haul, connecting destinations across continents that might otherwise only be served by short-haul flights.
Skift: Vibe coding and air taxis
In their Megatrends 2026 report, Skift foresee that the luxury bubble will only grow, but warns of the potential danger if this pops. Other trends they say to watch out for include the shift to AI search, which directly threaten online travel agents (OTAs), and unrealistic sustainability targets.
Skift name vibe coding as another huge shift that could unlock a new generation of travel startups. Meanwhile, they say that the potential debut of air taxis in 2026, as well as more partnerships with the rail industry, will revolutionise intermodal connectivity in travel.
Forbes: Luxury escapes in Asia
Forbes limited its predictions to the luxury travel sector, but also highlighted the growing popularity of train and boat travel. The expansion of cruise liners and the Orient Express brand underlines the demand for heritage travel, representing a significant opportunity for airline partnerships. The FIFA World Cup 2026 will also be a huge test for American airlines, airports, and air traffic control, with around 5 million extra visitors expected over the summer.
Asian destinations will remain at the top of the premium travel pile, Forbes says, especially as the Michelin Guide launches new editions for countries such as the Philippines.
BBC: AI admin and ultra-personalisation
BBC Travel’s trends roundup highlighted interesting developments such as culture tourism and the emergence of unplugged, digital-free ‘quietcations’,
But two points they note that will undoubtedly be transforming the aviation industry in 2026 are AI admin and ultra-personalisation. Travellers are increasingly using large-language models such as ChatGPT to plan their trips for them, which requires a real digital strategy rethink for airlines. Customers can even use AI to find niche trips and destinations that cater to all their interests, such as marriage retreats and sports holidays. As personalised experiences become the norm, the aviation industry will need to find ways to integrate personalisation into their offering to create a holistic travel experience.
Join us at World Aviation Festival 2026 to discuss the biggest industry trends.
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by Elsie Clark | Dec 17, 2025 | Airlines, Airports, Digital Transformation, News, Payments, Retailing, Travel Tech
The aviation industry in Asia is moving faster than ever, driven by cutting-edge technology, bold collaborations, and a deep commitment to sustainable growth. The Aviation Festival Asia Awards 2026 are here to celebrate the organisations and initiatives that are redefining what’s possible in the region.
We invite you to recognise the organisations that have truly excelled this year across operations, customer experience, and digital transformation.
Award Categories
- Sustainability Achievement Award: Recognizing outstanding commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices in aviation.
- Best Use of AI: Honouring exceptional application of artificial intelligence to improve operations, efficiency, or passenger experience.
- Collaboration of the Year (Airline/airport/ground handlers only): Celebrating a successful partnership between airlines or between an airline and an airport that delivered measurable innovation or impact.
- Industry Game-Changer: Awarded to an airline that has redefined norms, challenged conventions, and driven transformative change within the industry.
- Smart Airport Journey Award: Recognizing an airport that has significantly enhanced the passenger journey through innovative technology solutions.
- Digital Innovator of the Year: Awarded to a company, team, or initiative that demonstrated visionary use of digital tools or platforms to reshape airline or airport operations, customer experience, or service delivery.
Submit your nominations here!
Key Submission Details
Submissions are based on individual organisations and their groundbreaking achievements. While the award is for the company/organisation, we encourage you to mention individual people or teams in your submission if it helps illustrate the achievement; this will help us in reaching out to potential finalists.
The deadline for all submissions is Monday, Jan 19th.
Please note: To officially accept and receive an award at the ceremony during Aviation Festival Asia (March 25 – 26, 2026, Singapore), a representative from the winning organisation must be registered to attend the event
Submit your nominations here!
We can’t wait to recognise the achievements of the industry in Singapore!
Our Battle of the Airline Apps Asia competition is also open for submissions. This separate award honours the best in airline technology, customer service, and operational excellence. Be sure to vote for your favourite today!
by Elsie Clark | Dec 16, 2025 | Airports, Digital Transformation, News
Elon Musk and Space X’s VP for Starlink Engineering have disparaged American Airlines on X as the airline entered talks for a potential inflight connectivity deal with rivals Amazon Leo.
Bloomberg first reported that American were discussing a partnership with Amazon last week. Formerly known as Project Kuiper, Amazon Leo has launched 150 low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites, putting it directly in competition with the Starlink project.
Seemingly taking a swipe at the potential Amazon/American partnership, SpaceX VP for Starlink Engineering Michael Nicolls posted on X:
Only fly on airlines with good connectivity… and only one source of good connectivity at the moment…
Elon Musk, SpaceX founder and CEO, added fuel to the flames, replying to Nicholls’ post:
American Airlines will lose a lot of customers if their connectivity solution fails
Starlink’s LEO coverage far surpasses that of its competitors. With a constellation of 9,000 satellites, the company already provides internet access to more than 8 million users worldwide. So far, JetBlue are the only airline to have signed a deal with Amazon LEO for inflight WiFi, while Starlink boasts an impressive roster of aviation partners, including IAG, Qatar Airways, and United.
American Airlines currently partners with Viasat to offer inflight WiFi to passengers. Internet access comes at a fee of US$10 or more, but subscription plans are available for frequent flyers. Airlines such as Emirates, which have gained a reputation for industry-leading customer service, say Starlink WiFi will be available for free to all passengers once installation is complete. As American doubles down on its premiumisation strategy, improving inflight connectivity could be a key market differentiator.
Join us at Aviation Festival Americas 2026 to discuss the future of inflight of connectivity.
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by Elsie Clark | Dec 11, 2025 | Airports, Interviews, Travel Tech
Handling 87 million passengers every year, Dallas Fort Worth International (DFW) is the third-busiest airport in the world. At the same time, for three consecutive years, Airports Council International (ACI) has recognised DFW as one of the best large airports in North America. So how does the Texan airport achieve its high customer service scores while processing such huge traveller numbers?
Paul Puopolo, DFW’s Chief Technology and Innovation Officer, believes tech investment has been instrumental to improving airport processes and enhancing the traveller experience.
We began our innovation journey about six years ago, and one of the things that we did was we looked at customer needs. On the innovation side, our team really tries to take a human-centric approach.
Among the security measures Puopolo has overseen are streamlined security, a private 5G network, biometrics, and artificial intelligence (AI) systems. DFW’s new Terminal F, currently in construction, also represents an opportunity to rethink airport design. When complete, the US$1.6 billion project will boast self-service bag drops, e-gates, and sensors for managing passenger flow.
When we build new infrastructure, we want to make sure it’s a little bit more flexible. So as customer needs change, we can change. We don’t want to end up being like a mall that nobody goes to anymore.
Advanced air mobility (AAM) is one such consideration. A ‘when, not if’ evolution for the industry, Puopolo is watching sandbox initiatives in the Middle East to see how eVTOLs and air taxis could be incorporated at DFW once they receive FAA certification. He currently forecasts that AAM services could go live in 2028, but for this to be possible DFW needs to prepare now.
We believe air taxis are coming to the airport, and being a feeder route is important to us. But for that to happen, we have to make our infrastructure investments two to three years ahead.
🎥 Watch the interview to hear Paul Puopolo’s full thoughts on AAM integration, tech, and innovation.
Questions asked include:
- What role do you think innovation has played in boosting your customer service rating?
- What are your plans for Terminal F from a tech perspective?
- How can airports implement designs that are tech-forward but also sustainable and long-lasting?
- How do you see air taxis being integrated at DFW in the future?
Join us at Aviation Festival Americas 2026 to discuss the future of airport technology in the region.
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by Elsie Clark | Dec 4, 2025 | Airports, News, Travel Tech
As the New Terminal One at JFK Airport prepares to reopen in 2026, the airport announced this week that JLL will oversee the terminal’s operations. From maintaining its all-electric grounding fleet to sustainable air conditioning systems, JLL’s management will be critical to ensuring the high-tech solutions behind New York’s cutting-edge airport project run smoothly. But what will the final terminal look like when completed in 2030?
Modern technology for modern travellers
A US$19 billion investment funded entirely by financial sponsors, the redevelopment of JFK’s Terminal One is the largest public-private partnership in US history. The terminal will exclusively host international flights, and will process 23 million passengers a year when fully operational — greater numbers than most airports can expect to welcome across their entire footprint.
Technology is essential to New Terminal One: a biometric system is one of the biggest investments, meaning travellers can pass through the airport document-free. Self-service bag drop and automated gates are other features that will help tech-savvy passengers breeze through JFK.
At the same time, that the terminal is committed to providing in-person assistance to those who need it. The goal is to provide a personalised experience to each visitor where everyone can find the support and services they prefer to build an enjoyable airport experience. Accessibility has been prioritised in the redesign, with reserved lounge spaces and tech call systems making it easier than ever for travellers to find quiet spaces or seek extra assistance.
Lisa Reifer, Executive VP, Chief Commercial Officer, explained in an interview at World Aviation Festival 2025:
We recognise that there’s many different types of passengers, and they all have very unique needs. Our goal is to provide an environment that supports everyone, whether you’re a family travelling with children, someone with religious observations, or someone who needs special assistance.
To make sure all the tech elements are functioning to standard ahead of opening, New Terminal One have developed a rehearsal space in partnership with SITA. This terminal replica helps staff and partners simulate an airport experience and identify potential bottlenecks well ahead of time. Check-in, security, and baggage delivery are among the processes tested at the Long Island Facility to make reopening as smooth as possible.
A terminal to reflect New York’s cultural diversity
For many, New Terminal One will be travellers’ first or final experience of New York — and the US. With that in mind, the team behind the upgrade are integrating local culture into the terminal’s design. Seven renowned artists have been invited to create works under the theme, ‘We Travel Under One Sky’. Murals, sculptures, and mosaics will give New Terminal One a unique identity and showcase New York’s diversity.
Additionally, 300,000 square feet of retail and dining will provide travellers with a final taste of New York culture before departure. Designed to mirror the city’s famous streetscapes, the commercial programme will offer global brands alongside regional specialities.
Will New Terminal One succeed?
New Terminal One will reopen in phases, beginning in 2025. Upon winning Business Traveller’s 2024 North American Airport of the Year award, Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton said that he hopes to transform JFK into an airport that “rivals the best in the world”.
American airports have so far failed to match the luxurious feel travellers can find at rival hubs in the Middle East and Asia, such as Singapore Changi. Airports in the US have historically relied on limited public investment, leaving services feeling outdated and tired.
The latest technology and avant-garde art from the New Terminal One’s public-private investment fund certainly represent an upgrade. Hemmed in by the urban sprawl of New York and Long Island, there are limits on JFK’s expansion that other developing airports don’t have — for example, the new Dubai World Central, under construction in the middle of the Emirati desert.
As New Terminal One starts to welcome passengers again in the New Year, it will be interesting to see whether the tried-and-tested technology can build greater efficiency, especially given American airports’ reputation for long lines and tedious security protocols. Achieving a 5-Star Skytrax rating is one of the terminal’s key aims, and we’ll be watching closely to see if this is achieved.
Join us at Aviation Festival Americas 2026, where airport industry leaders will be discussing innovation in aviation.
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by Elsie Clark | Dec 3, 2025 | Airports, News, Retailing
Avinor, Norway’s state-owned airport operator, have partnered with Alphacomm to offer travellers eSIMs.
eSIMs will now be available for purchase on Avinor’s website, making connectivity abroad easier and more convenient for Norwegians and international visitors. Jørn Korbi, VP Digital Commercialisation at Avinor, said:
Our partnership with Alphacomm aligns perfectly with our digital strategy to deliver functional and relevant services that truly benefit our travellers. With this collaboration, we’re giving travellers a convenient opportunity to save on data usage when travelling intercontinentally.
Avinor owns and operates 43 airports across Norway, including the country’s main gateway in Oslo. Handling more than 51 million passengers, the partnership with Alphacomm opens up eSIM use to a significant global market.
eSIMs eliminate the need for travellers to purchase physical SIM cards when travelling abroad. Customers can simply enable the eSIM for the country of their choice on their phone, and connect as normal at their destination. Alphacomm’s eSIM network offers connectivity in over 200 countries through partnerships with more than 1,000 mobile networks. Alongside AI-powered fraud protection, users benefit from flexible data packages and multilingual support.
Sjoerd Groot, Chief Growth Officer, Alphacomm, commented:
This partnership with Avinor demonstrates how travel connectivity should work: instant, secure and hassle-free. By combining our expertise in digital goods with Avinor’s trusted platform, we’re empowering travellers to stay connected globally without the usual complexity or cost. It’s about removing barriers and refining the journey from start to finish.
Join us at World Aviation Festival 2026 to discuss the role of eSIMs as an ancillary product in aviation.
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by Elsie Clark | Nov 27, 2025 | Airports, Digital Transformation, News, Travel Tech
Abu Dhabi Airports and SITA have agreed to work on a new AI-powered airport management system.
Air traffic across the United Arab Emirates’ capital increased by 13.1% over the first six months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, processing 15.8 million passengers. Centralising real-time data and operational analytics, the Intelligent Total Airport Management (ITAM) could play a significant role in making Abu Dhabi airports more efficient.
Andrew Murphy, chief information officer at Abu Dhabi Airport, said:
By enabling Zayed International Airport to become one of the world’s first truly connected digital airports, and by powering this with ITAM at the core, we are creating a unified operational source of truth that accelerates growth and sets a new global benchmark for smart, seamless journey.
Zayed International processed 15.5 million travellers between 1 January and 30 June 2025. Abu Dhabi currently plans to attract 39 million visitors a year by 2030, while it plans for its government to become the world’s first AI-native bureaucracy in 2027. Improving airport operations through technology will be key to achieving targets and making Abu Dhabi a more streamlined hub for its home carrier, Etihad, which also harbours ambitious growth plans.
However, Zayed International operates on a limited footprint and has to find new ways to optimise its space for travellers. Selim Bouri, SITA’s president for the Middle East and Africa, told AIN:
We’re seeing the number of aircraft in the region about to double and passenger numbers growing more than planned. The reality is that airports are not going to grow as quickly in terms of size, and it will take five to 10 years to build new mega airports.
Join us at Aviation Festival Asia 2026, where Andrew Murphy, CIO, Abu Dhabi Airports will be joining us for a keynote presentation on airport technology.
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by Elsie Clark | Nov 26, 2025 | Airports, Digital Transformation, News, Travel Tech
Airports Council International (ACI) and Amadeus has announced the winners of the 2025 Technology Innovation Awards in Busan, South Korea.
The fifth annual ceremony celebrated technology, innovation, and sustainability across global airports in four different categories. With ACI forecasting that 17.2 billion passengers will travel by air in 2042, new solutions are urgently needed to make terminals smarter and more efficient.
ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci commented:
The 2025 Technology Innovation Awards winners are about successful innovation implementation—solutions that run every day, in real airports, under real pressure. This year’s winners spotlight measurable advances in digital transformation, data-driven operations, identity-enabled self-service, and sustainable, climate-smart terminals. These are the types of innovation airports need now—meeting today’s passenger expectations while keeping pace with rapid growth in air travel.
The 2025 winners
Best Innovation in Airport Passenger Related Processes: Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru, India
ACI and Amadeus honoured Kempegowda International for its cutting-edge biometric bag drop. Through implementing this system, the airport became the first in India to offer an end-to-end biometric experience. Its passengers no longer need to present any documents or ID to pass through the terminal: they look into a camera and the system automatically confirms their identity and completes bag check-in in under 60 seconds.
Best Innovation in Airport Operations and Installations Management: Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan
Queen Alia International’s Smart Cleaning System (SCS) deploys AI to make cleaning and maintaining the airport’s facilities far more effective. Centralising data into one dashboard, SCS has made it easier for the airport’s team to address challenges proactively and identify hotspots for staff deployment.
Best Airport Innovation Leader: Pablo Lopez Loeches, Aena (Spain)
Under his strategic direction, Lopez Loeches has overseen more than 100 innovation projects and managed Aena’s Open Innovation scheme. ACI and Amadeus recognised his commitment to delivering real impact across the airport value chain.
Best Innovation, Airport on the Rise: Roland Garros Airport in La Réunion, France
A small airport on an island in the Indian Ocean, Roland Garros has transformed into a bioclimactic terminal. To better manage increasingly extreme weather, the airport is equipped with new features to cool the building in an energy-efficient way, while also harnessing natural light. Effective rainwater management and other environmentally-conscious touches support the airport’s decarbonisation efforts.
Amadeus EVP AirOps Rudy Daniello congratulated the winners and said:
Our industry stands on the cusp of huge change as airports across the world digitally transform to offer a seamless travel experience. Now mature technologies like digital identity and biometrics are proven to drastically improve the experience of travel the door is open to even greater levels of innovation across the sector. The initiatives underlined how airports can work closely with their airline and government partners to ensure these transformative technologies are applied in a coordinated and integrated manner that delivers outstanding new passenger experiences while boosting overall capacity.
Join us at World Aviation Festival 2026 and hear from industry leaders at our airports summit.
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by Elsie Clark | Nov 21, 2025 | Airports, Digital Transformation, News, Travel Tech
Miami International Airport (MIA) has rolled out the largest single deployment of biometric passport screenings in the United States as it presses on with its US$9 billion investment programme.
Using SITA Smart Path technology, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP)’s Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) system will help manage passengers more securely and efficiently at one of the nations’ busiest airport hubs. Available to US, citizens, EPP uses biometric technology to match travellers’ identities against CBP data within three seconds.
Mobile and wireless-enabled, the biometric pods can be repositioned in line with passenger numbers to ensure optimal flow through the airport. Daniel Alonso, Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Director at Customs and Border Protection, commented:
CBP is actively expanding biometric processing at major U.S. ports of entry to enhance security and streamline the arrival process for travelers. Collaborations like the one at MIA are essential for ensuring secure and efficient borders while delivering a seamless experience for international travellers.
12 biometric face pods have been added across three of MIA’s passport control areas, the largest single deployment of the tech CBP has initiated so far.
Shawn Gregor, President Americas at SITA, added:
Miami is one of America’s busiest international gateways and the door to Latin America and beyond. This EPP launch is setting a new standard for efficiency at the border by using biometrics to make arrivals smoother, faster, and more secure for everyone, and can easily scale over time to additional terminals and to handle increased capacity.
SITA’s Air Transport IT Insights 2024 report found that nearly 60% of airports worldwide have already introduced touchless passenger processing to improve flows.
Join us at Aviation Festival Americas 2026 to hear Ralph Cutie, CEO of Miami International Airport, explain the airport’s investment strategy.
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by Elsie Clark | Nov 19, 2025 | Airports, Digital Transformation, News, Travel Tech
Airports Council International (ACI) have published their annual Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Global Traveller Survey, highlighting key trends in tech, personalisation, and sustainability.
The sixth edition of the report asked more than 4,000 passengers from 30 countries how they felt about their airport experiences. Ready-to-fly solutions are gaining popularity, with 72% of respondents saying they were willing to use biometric solutions. This represents a significant increase from 2021, where only 57% of passengers reported such willingness. ACI also found strong enthusiasm for self-check-in and bag drop as travellers lean towards seamless, tech-driven solutions.
However, despite these preferences, ACI’s research found human customer service could still be a key differentiator. Less than half (44%) of respondents said they thought airport staff demonstrated empathy, with 48% believing staff took proactive steps to support them. Cleanliness, calm, and comfort are additional factors that passengers said improved their in-person airport experience. Travellers reported the highest satisfaction at airports that connected tech-driven efficiency with low-stress design and cultural touches, such as retailing local food and products.
Customers prefer airports with ESG credentials
The survey found that passengers do not consider sustainability as an airport’s key purpose. However, travellers were more receptive to airports with clear environmental and social goals. 49% of respondents said supporting local and regional tourisms adds community value to an airport, while 42% highlighted airports’ importance as employers of local people.
ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci commented on these results:
Today’s traveller has evolved beyond wanting just a faster experience – to one that is more experiential and human. Travellers want technology that removes friction and people who serve with empathy. They expect personalised, ready-to-fly options available before they reach the airport, spaces that are calm and comfortable, relatable local flavour and recognisable social responsibility.
The airports that lead in 2026 will combine seamless journeys with genuine human connection, and a stronger sense of place, as highlighted in ACI World’s latest ASQ Global Traveller Survey.
Join us at World Aviation Festival 2026 to discuss the future of airport experiences and technology with global industry leaders.
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by Elsie Clark | Nov 18, 2025 | Airports, Interviews, News
Hong Kong International Airport is one of the world’s most dynamic airports, bringing millions of people from over 200 destinations to APAC’s leading business centre. Overseeing the cargo and commercial operations across Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) is Vivian Cheung, who has worked at the airport for over thirty years.
Even three decades on, Cheung’s commitment to making the airport the best it can be has not waned. She has overseen the inauguration of Hong Kong’s third runway, an initiative that has significantly boosted its capacity. Cheung sees this improved capacity as an exciting opportunity to connect new destinations with Hong Kong.
There are a lot of untapped markets. We want to improve connections with South America, Africa, and the Middle East. I need to do more to reach out to airlines to make them realise that there’s opportunity for them to grow their network through our airport.
One of AAHK’s flagship projects is SKYTOPIA, a building development that will put the airport on the map as a must-see destination in its own right. Boasting a dedicated space for art trading and storage, as well as a marine resort, restaurants, food market, and an indoor arena, SKYTOPIA hopes to transform Hong Kong International into a luxurious airport city.
The airport is situated right next to a beautiful water base, and we want to utilise that to build a marina club and bay for 500 yachts. So we want to be in the marine economy business, not just aviation.
On the cargo side, AAHK is building Dongguan Logistics Park, a development that will make cargo deliveries more efficient and cost-effective. The common thread connecting Cheung’s approach to all airport projects is technology.
We are one of the most advanced airports using technology, not just the network or digitisation. We adopted 5G, biometrics when none of the other airports were using it.
🎥 Watch the interview to learn more about Vivian Cheung’s innovative vision for the future of AAHK.
Questions asked include:
- Hong Kong International Airport has commissioned its Three-runway System last year, how is it doing so far?
- What is SKYTOPIA, why is HKIA adding these facilities to an airport?
- How about routes development and intermodal connectivity, how is HKIA doing in terms of air network development, and opening new routes?
- Can you tell us about HKIA’s Dongguan Logistics Park? Why is HKIA doing that, and how important is that for the airport’s future?
Join us at Aviation Festival Asia 2026 to hear from top airport innovators from the APAC region.
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by Elsie Clark | Nov 13, 2025 | Airports, News
Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) has set 18th November as the date for its revamped terminal to open.
With upgrades costing US$1.7 billion, the project will elevate PIT’s infrastructure now that its days as a connections giant have come to an end. The original terminal was designed when PIT served as a US Airways hub, but has been reconfigured to improve services for origin and destination (O&D) passengers.
Able to process 15 million travellers annually, the new terminal reduces the time it takes for international passengers to reach curbside by 67%, according to PIT. Intuitive design and signage is at the heart of the rebuild to create a smooth experience.
Tech investment has also been key to the new terminal. The latest security screening services will speed passengers through departures, while baggage claim has been completely reconfigured to get luggage delivered more efficiently. Eight miles of bag belt has been cut down to three, with new technology providing additional streamlining.
The airport noted in a statement:
The new terminal and systems went through rigorous testing over the past several months, capped off by two large public trials with more than 2,000 participants providing input and feedback on their experience
PIT’s project has driven significant economic activity in the Western Pennsylvanian area. The airport claims the redevelopment has created over 14,000 new jobs and generated US$2.5 billion in economy activity.
Join us at Aviation Festival Americas 2026 to learn how leading airports across the Americas are upgrading their services.
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by Elsie Clark | Nov 11, 2025 | Airports, Digital Transformation, News
Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL) will roll out multilingual, omnichannel customer service support through a new partnership with AIONOS.
AAHL operate eight airports across India, including those in Mumbai, Lucknow, and Mangaluru. This new investment will deploy AIONOS’s IntelliMate platform across its network, capable of providing customers with personalised, real-time support. Through voice, web, chat, and mobile, the IntelliMate platform can answer queries 24/7 in multiple languages, including English, Hindi, and regional dialects. Passengers can ask the agent questions concerning their flight status, baggage updates, gate information, and other airport services.
Arun Bansal, Chief Executive Officer of AAHL, said:
At AAHL, our vision is to redefine the airport experience through intelligent, digital-first innovations that place passengers at the heart of everything that we do, converting their travel anxiety into excitement. Our collaboration with AIONOS marks a significant step in delivering seamless and personalised journeys for travellers across our airports.
Digital transformation is key to AAHL’s strategy to driving growth and improving their passenger offering. In-house developments include aviio, Adani OneApp, and Airport-in-a-Box, all initiatives that drive efficiency and sustainability across its network.
The new ‘AI concierge’ through IntelliMate will provide passengers with consistent, round-the-clock customer support to reduce waiting times and improve customer service.
CP Gurnani, Co-founder and Vice Chairman of AIONOS, added:
We are excited to embark on this transformative journey with AAHL. Our collaboration is a testament to our shared vision of leveraging advanced technologies to offer exceptional customer experience. At AIONOS, we are committed to delivering innovative solutions that empower enterprises to navigate the complexities of the digital age and achieve their strategic objectives.
Join us at Aviation Festival Asia 2026 to discuss the future of digital, harmonised airports in APAC.
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by Elsie Clark | Nov 5, 2025 | Airlines, Airports, Digital Transformation, News, Travel Tech
Emirates has launched a new biometrics system at Dubai International Airport (DXB), allowing passengers to pass through check-in, security, lounges, and boarding without producing any documents.
The 200 cameras have been installed across Terminal 3 to the cost of AED85 million (US$23 million). Developed in partnership with Dubai’s General Directorate of Identity and Foreigner Affairs (GDRFAD), the cameras can identify passengers from a metre away.
To make their journeys frictionless, all travellers need to do is register on the Emirates app, or at self-service kiosks and check-in desks at the airport. They can then pass through the dedicated biometric lanes to their flight without showing a passport or any other documentation.
The cameras remember every profile, meaning passengers need only share their details once. Registration is open to Emirates Skywards members from any travel class. The only condition is that passengers have to be over 18 to use the system.
Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of GDRFAD, said:
Over the years, we have integrated artificial intelligence and biometric technologies to make travel through Dubai faster, safer, and more intuitive. Our partnership with Emirates continues this path of excellence.
Dubai International is investing significantly in tech to improve passenger processing. With 150 million travellers expected by 2032, the airport needs to think outside the box to manage visitors within its limited footrprint.
Emirates’ full biometric system adds to the airport’s existing ‘document-free’ departures corridor, which also uses biometrics to process passengers. In the future, Emirates’ hub will move to the new Dubai World Central Airport (DWC), scheduled to open in 2032 to ease congestion at DXB and eventually replace it entirely. Built across 36,000 acres, once complete DWC will be the largest airport in the world. Tech is at the heart of its proposition to process travellers efficiently, with many initiatives at DXB seen as tests for scaleup at DWC.
Emirates has made a reputation for itself as a leader in customer service. The biometrics system is yet another initiative to make its passengers’ journeys as seamless as possible, alongside deploying AI to avoid turbulence and its strategic partnerships with Uber.
Join us at Aviation Festival Asia to discuss the latest in airport technology in APAC and MENA.
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by Elsie Clark | Nov 4, 2025 | Airports, News
In 2025, global air passenger numbers will approach the 10 billion mark for the first time, with ACI predicting a total of 9.8 billion passengers. This figure is set to double by 2042: good news for industry revenue, but a huge problem for airports who will have to manage more travellers than ever before.
Some countries have decided the only way to manage traffic is to build an entirely new airport. Five such projects are some of the biggest infrastructure developments in the world, with plans to manage tens of millions of passengers each. World Aviation Festival takes a look at where they’re building, why, and what impact the new airports will have on travel in the region.
Long Thanh International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)
Vietnam’s newest airport will service traffic at its southern capital, Ho Chi Minh City. The existing Tân Sơn Nhất International Airport (SGN) has a capacity of 30 million passengers, which it exceeded many years ago. Tourism is a major factor in Vietnam’s aviation boom, with traveller numbers up by 21.5% in 2025 alone.
The new Long Thanh International will be able to process 100 million passengers a year when complete. The first phase of the project is due to be completed early in 2026, at a cost of US$7.8 billion. During this transition period, it is expected that national carrier Vietnam Airlines will move to Long Thanh, with Tân Sơn Nhất hosting low-cost carriers, including Vietjet.
The Long Thanh terminal building is being designed by renowned South Korean architect firm Heerim. Inspired by the lotus, Vietnam’s national flower, Heerim will leverage the latest technology and cutting-edge design to give passengers a seamless experience. High-speed and light rail lines will connect the airport to the centre of Ho Chi Minh City, as well as nearby Thu Thiem, making the airport a true gateway to Southern Vietnam.
New Manila International Airport (Manila, Philippines)
A growing middle-class market, the rise of budget carrier Cebu Pacific, and ongoing investment has produced increased demand for air travel in the Philippines.
Southeast Asia will gain another airport when the New Manila International opens at the end of 2028. Ninoy Aquino International, which currently serves the capital, is also undergoing a significant redevelopment as the country oversees an overhaul of its aviation capabilities.
When complete, the New Manila airport will be able to handle 100 million passengers a year. Built on reclaimed land 45 kilometres northwest of central Manila, the airport will be supported by a new highway, bus terminal, and possibly a metro extension.
Dubai World Central Al Maktoum International Airport (Dubai, UAE)
Covering a staggering 36,000 acres, Dubai World Central will be the largest airport in the world when completed. As traffic in the UAE’s biggest city continues to increase — it expects to welcome 150 million air travel passengers by 2032 — the new airport is needed to support and eventually supplant the existing Dubai International site.
Al Maktoum International currently handles cargo and some passenger flights, but in the future the airport will become Emirates’ and flydubai’s major hub. The first phase of the new airport will open in 2032, with the finished site having capacity for 260 million passengers. Plans call for an impressive five runways and 400 gates.
Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths has made clear that his priority lies in tech investment for a frictionless, stress-free airport experience. Initiatives such as the ‘document-free’ departures corridor introduced at Dubai International give an idea of the forward-thinking, tech-focussed features we can expect to see when Dubai World Central opens its doors.
King Salman International Airport (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)
An airport that could rival Dubai World Central in size and scale is the planned King Salman International Airport across the border in Saudi Arabia. Through its Vision 2030 initiative, Saudi Arabia hopes to challenge the UAE as an international hub for travel, tourism, and sport. The launch of new national carrier Riyadh Air is one of many projects that hope to put the Kingdom on the map as a future-forward, wish-list destination.
Built over the existing King Khalid International Airport, King Salman International is being developed in partnership with architects Foster + Partners and engineer consultants Jacobs. Little else is known about the new project, proposed in 2022 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salam, except that the 14,000 acre site will have six passenger terminals, six runways, and capacity for 195 million passengers a year by 2050.
Western Sydney International Airport (Sydney, Australia)
Western Sydney International will finally commence operations in the second half of 2026. The long-awaited opening will relieve traffic at the existing Sydney Kingsford Airport, which has been operating for over a hundred years.
The new airport will be operational 24/7, and is expected to process over 80 million passengers by the 2040s. Promising travellers a seamless and sustainable experience, rail and bus links will help ferry passengers to Australia’s biggest city, as the country prepares for tourists to spend A$223 million in the country by 2028.
Centralny Port Komunikacyjny Airport (Warsaw, Poland)
As APAC is expected to be the fastest-growing region for air travel, airports in that area have dominated this list. However, one big new airport is opening in Europe: Centralny Port Komunkacyjyn Airport in Warsaw, Poland.
The Eastern European’s economy has doubled in the past decade, and is soon set to outstrip major powers such as the UK and Japan. With increased wealth has also come increased demand for air travel, driven further by Poland’s rising volume of tourists.
Centralny Port Komunikacyjny is Europe’s first greenfield airport project in years. Expected to open in 2032, it will become Poland’s international aviation hub even after Warsaw’s existing Chopin Airport undergoes much-needed renovations. The master plan anticipates the site eventually handling 60 million passengers a year, with a new high-speed rail linking passenger to the Polish capital.
A state-of-the-art baggage system and sustainable design are other features that hope to put Centralny Port Komunikacyiny on the map as Europe’s best airport.
Join us at Aviation Festival Asia 2026 to hear from industry experts on future-proof airport development and the growth of air travel in the region.
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by Elsie Clark | Oct 30, 2025 | Airports, Digital Transformation, News
In this keynote panel from World Aviation Festival 2025, four airports leaders shared their transformation strategies for creating an experience that aligns with modern passenger expectations. From cutting-edge sustainability to a digital-first experience, together the panel delivered holistic insights on airport development in the modern age.
Moderated by Jane Witherspoon, Bureau Chief for Middle East, Euronews, the panel included:
- Mazen Johar, CEO, Jeddah Airports
- Bettina Ganghofer, CEO, Salzburg Airport
- Dan Mann, Executive Director, Louisville Regional Airport Authority
- Meiltje de Groot, CEO, Groningen Airport Eelde
De Groot kicked things off, discussing how collaboration has helped drive development at the Netherlands’ smallest airport. Its flagship Hydrogen Valley project would not be possible without the private companies, governments, and educational institutions who are truly committed to taking hydrogen power to the next level.
We are a small airport, and as you know regional airports often have difficulties in their finance, and getting money to pay for innovations. The only solution for us is to work together.
Dan Mann also shared how sustainability is shaping the SDF Next project at Louisville Muhammed Ali International. Among the significant developments of the US$1 billion trasnformation are geothermal wells, which have saved the airport US$400,000 annually in energy costs. Other tech innovations include upgraded baggage claim and a collaboration with GoodMaps, a company with origins in Louisville that is committed to making travel more accessible for the blind and visually impaired.
I think a lot of people are independent travellers, and that’s great and the tech is great, until something goes wrong. Then you still need what I call ‘hand-to-hand combat’, that person who can answer the question and help guide them when things don’t work as they should.
Balancing technology while still providing in-person interactions where needed was a dominant theme of the discussion. Johar noted:
At Jeddah Airport, one of the challenges we have is around 30% of our travellers are first-time travellers. So they come with expectations, they come stressed. So we need to make sure we take them hand-in-hand through the processes, and that’s what makes it challenging to design different processes from your passenger profile.
Salzburg and Groningen are two smaller airports, making their attitudes to tech more different. Ganghofer and de Groot both highlighted that their compact footprint makes some initiatives such as digital maps and biometrics less necessary for efficiency. Nevertheless, Ganghofer is open to AI, especially for optimising key bottlenecks such as baggage claim and delivery.
As a smaller airport, we can’t do it all, but we will implement this technology where it makes most sense for the customer.
The best initiatives combine efficiency with connectivity and sustainability to build high-impact, resilient infrastructure. Intermodal connectivity is increasingly a focus, as airports seek to strengthen partnerships with rail and other travel operators. Johar highlights the success of the high-speed Haramain train, which connects the airport to the popular pilgrimage sites of Medina and Mecca.
This train completes around 150 trips a day. Last year it served 9 million passengers, and saved about 80,000 tonnes of carbon emissions. So for us, that’s a way of improving the passenger experience, helping sustainability, and providing strong infrastructure for future growth.
🎥 Watch the interview to hear the panel’s full discussion on building tailored, green, efficient, and digital airports.
Join us at World Aviation Festival 2026 to discuss the future of global airport development.
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