Business Exchange

We provide a snapshot of the latest news stories from companies that support the growth and development of SMART airports.

DNATA TO INVEST IN WESTERN SYDNEY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

The catering and retail division of dnata is investing A$17 million on an advanced inflight catering centre at Western Sydney International Airport (WSI).

Initially covering 3,200sqm, the facility, which is expected to produce up to three million aircraft meals per annum, will be located within the airport’s Cargo Precinct and could eventually double in size.

According to dnata, it will incorporate the latest technologies in design and operation to minimise its environmental footprint. These will include energy-efficient equipment, a recycled water system and a waste treatment plant.

WSI CEO, Simon Hickey, called dnata’s investment “another decisive signal of the airport’s rapid progress and premier airline offering as the business prepares for take-off in late 2026”.

All electric GSE fleet for JFK’s new terminal one

TCR, a global leader in ground support equipment (GSE) solutions, has been seletced to provide an all electric GSE fleet for the New Terminal One at John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK), which is scheduled to open in 2026.

In a global first for the aviation industry and reaffirming the New Terminal One’s commitment to environmental sustainability, the fully electric GSE fleet will be shared by ground handlers.

It is the first time that any airport terminal in the world has procured a centralised all-electric GSE fleet. The pioneering shared model is expected to reduce the terminal’s environmental impact, improve costs and optimises the usage of equipment.

“We are thrilled to contribute to this groundbreaking initiative,” said Kristof Philips, CEO of TCR Airport Solutions. “This project highlights our dedication to sustainability and innovation, setting a worldwide model for the aviation industry.”

The New Terminal One is a key component of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s $19 billion transformation of JFK Airport into a world-class gateway.

Hybrid digital control tower for Manchester Airport

Manchester Airport will become the UK’s first major international airport to adopt a ‘hybrid’ digital control tower next year.

Working with air traffic service provider, NATS, and the technology company, Searidge Technologies, the airport is set to deploy operational grade, ultra-high definition panoramic cameras to help its air traffic controllers manage and optimise the airport ground operation, enhance capacity and improve on time performance.

The controllers will use the live footage from these cameras – augmented in real-time with radar data and overlays – to manage aircraft movements around the airport’s Terminal 2 extensions.

Gary Renault, head of airfield operations at Manchester Airport, said: “Improving airfield efficiency is a key driver in our £1.3 billion transformation programme which will help us unlock Manchester Airport’s full potential and deliver real benefits to people in the North.

“This system will decrease delays and help us operate more flights – meaning greater choice, value and flexibility for our passengers.”

Costa Rica contract for Alstef Group

Alstef Group has been selected to design and implement a phased, comprehensive baggage handling system upgrade for Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose, Costa Rica.

This project aligns with the airport’s expansion plan to accommodate growing passenger demand, enhance operational efficiency, and elevate the traveller experience.

Alstef Group’s solution will be deployed in multiple phases, with each phase introducing significant upgrades to the airport’s baggage processing capabilities.

The first two phases will occur over the next three years, during which Alstef Group will construct a new baggage handling system in the airport’s expanded terminal.

Phase one includes twelve new check-in stations with SBDs, conveyors to transfer checked baggage to the screening area, and a new make-up carousel.

SMART Airports & Regions – On Approach for 2025!

We are thrilled to invite you to an unforgettable celebration as we mark two incredible milestones:

– The 10th Anniversary of SMART Airports & Regions

– The 100th Anniversary of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

A special thank you to our wonderful hosts, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport & Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance, for making this event possible!

The SMART Airports & Regions Conference & Exhibition is the premier global event exploring how SMART airports and their surrounding regions leverage connectivity, innovation, and opportunity to shape the future of aviation and urban development.

With in-depth analysis of the SMART airport and city/regional landscape, the conference highlights the opportunities, challenges, and cutting-edge advancements driving this ecosystem forward. Our interactive agendawill inspire, inform, and connect key stakeholders from around the world.

Why Attend?

• Gain insights from over 100 industry experts
• Connect with 700+ senior-level attendees and decision-makers from airports worldwide
• Engage with 75+ sponsors & exhibitors showcasing the latest innovations
• Explore forward-thinking strategies in airport design, construction, commercial development, real estate, technology, passenger experience, and more
• Network and collaborate with industry leaders over three dynamic days

Join us in Atlanta this July for this unparalleled opportunity to learn, connect, and shape the future of SMART airports and regions!

Don’t miss out—see you in Atlanta!