London’s Heathrow Airport today unveiled a £10 billion Private Investment Plan it says is designed to ‘make every journey better’ by improving service levels and boosting its operational reliability. For the first time in a decade, Heathrow will also create new terminal space for new lounges, shops and restaurants within its existing facilities. A statement […]
Aerotropolis Atlanta provides an example of the very best in economic master planning through regional collaboration, writes MXD Development Strategists’ Chris LeTourneur. MULTIPLE DIMENSIONS OF AEROTROPOLIS PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT In addition to being multi-modal gateways for moving passengers and cargo, airports are powerful engines for catalysing regional economic growth. Realising such potential requires collaboration between […]
ACI World has expressed serious concerns regarding the decision by France, Kenya, Barbados, Spain, Somalia, Benin, Sierra Leone, and Antigua & Barbuda to launch a coalition ahead of COP30 focused on introducing a new tax on air transport. The tax, it warns, places a special focus on premium flyers as a means to fund development, […]
Fraport Nashville, the developer and manager of the concessions programme at Nashville International Airport (BNA), has unveiled eight new dining and shopping venues in the gateway’s expanded Concourse D. The new outlets are said to celebrate the vibrant spirit of Music City and enhance the already impressive selection of dining, shopping, and entertainment at one […]
Time to take a break? Richard Plenty and Terri Morrissey look at the importance of human factors and managing fatigue. When do we know it’s time to take a break? Do we notice when we start to feel tired, begin to find it difficult to concentrate, and realise we are running out of energy and […]
The 100ml liquids rule for airport security has been lifted at Edinburgh Airport for the first time since it was introduced in 2006 following the installation of top-of-the-range security x-ray technology. It means passengers will be able to keep liquids in their bags when going through security, and those liquid containers can now be up […]
DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE HERE Airport Profile: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Special Report: Aerotropolis Atlanta Plus: Airport Lounges; Experience Enhancing Retail/F&B; Multimedia Innovation & Sustainability Pride and prejudice Editor, Joe Bates, reflects on the timing of the ‘turbulent times’ feature in our last issue and the ‘planning & design’ theme of this edition of Airport World. I take […]
A total of 3.1 million passengers passed through Copenhagen Airport in June – a 9% year-on-year increase. Perhaps not surprising for the first month of the summer season, Spain has proved to be the most popular holiday destination overall, while Greece is the favourite charter destination. “The summer season is off to a great start […]
Munich Airport handled 19.8 million passengers in the first half of 2025, a rise of 3.6% on the same period a year ago. The German attributes the upturn to “the high and continuing demand for air travel”, particular on intercontinental routes, with passenger numbers climbing by 9% and US traffic alone accounting for 1.5 million […]
We provide a snapshot of the latest news stories from some of the companies that support the growth and development of the world’s airports. TRANSFORMING OPERATIONS AT COPENHAGEN AIRPORT An innovative approach to Total Airport Management (TAM) is transforming operations at Copenhagen Airport. Working in collaboration with Assaia and Smarter Airports, the Danish gateway (CPH) […]
Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) reports that the newly opened Terminal 3 Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport has been warmly welcomed by passengers and helped reduce congestion in Terminal 1. ACV has revealed that in its first month of operations, Terminal 3 handled 1,464 flights and served 355,306 passengers, “ensuring operational […]
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has been named as one of the World’s Most Beautiful Airports by Prix Versailles, a series of international awards to recognise outstanding achievements in architectural and interior design. The awards are presented annually with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) in Paris. “We designed Harvey Milk Terminal […]
Perth Airport has appointed Australian firm Woods Bagot to lead a global consortium of architecture and design companies to shape the face of its new international and domestic terminals. The New Terminal project – including terminal facilities, aprons and taxiways – will be one of the most complex construction projects undertaken in Perth. Woods Bagot […]
As airports around the world launch terminal expansions, air mobility projects, and new conveniences for passengers, US airports face mounting pressure to meet increasingly elevated expectations. US airports are responding by investing in a wave of modernisation and innovation efforts designed to improve the passenger experience, enhance safety, produce more operational efficiency and provide long […]
Enhancing existing lounges to provide today’s passengers with the airport experience they want is helping take airport hospitality to another level, writes Shaun Weston. With so many different lounge options available at airports today, a key challenge for operators is how to maintain their premium appeal while catering to a broader audience. And this new […]
Airport World shines the spotlight on a handful of very different sustainability initiatives across Europe and North America. Engaging with the local community London’s Heathrow Airport has unveiled an Air Traffic Control tower shaped bird hide in a local nature reserve in the heart of one of its 13 local nature conservation sites. The one-of-a-kind […]
Swedavia, one of the world’s most environmentally aware airport operators, has announced that Visby, Åre Östersund and Kiruna airports in Sweden have achieved the top Level 5 status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. Their achievements positions Swedavia as a world leader in the aviation sector, as seven out of its ten Swedish airports are […]
Toronto Pearson has held its second annual Airport Workers Day – a day dedicated to recognising people across the airport community whose work is essential to delivering an exceptional travel experience, keeping Canada connected and powering the economy. Co-ordinated nationally by the Canadian Airports Council, Airport Workers Day is also an important opportunity to recognise […]
Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) welcomed 736,709 passengers during May 2025, marking a 12.7% increase compared to the same period last year. The Jordanian gateway also recorded 6,532 aircraft movements throughout the month, a 10.8% year-on-year rise, while cargo traffic amounted to 6,217 tons, indicating an 8.9% decline against May 2024. During the January to […]
Miami International Airport (MIA) today held the groundbreaking ceremony for its new Concourse K. The new concourse will be a 300,000-square-foot expansion that will add six new passenger gates and boarding areas for domestic and international flights, post-security concessions offering more dining and shopping options for travellers, and a new passenger lounge. The future three-level […]
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has declared that it is “staffed and ready” to screen over 18.5 million travellers at US airport security checkpoints during the upcoming Fourth of July holiday. This year’s projection includes Tuesday, July 1, through Monday, July 7, with the highest passenger volume – approximately 2.9 million – expected on Sunday, July 6. […]
A-SAFE’s James Smith explains why he believes being proactive on airport safety is key to efficient operations. The image of airport operations is one of constant, co-ordinated motion. But that smooth choreography masks a fragile balance. One damaged piece of equipment, one mistimed delay, or a minor safety incident (airside or landside) can trigger a […]
Utilising intelligent video technology can help enhance safety, security and operational efficiency at airports, especially during busy peak periods, writes Milestone Systems’ Martin McGrath. With the busy summer rush rapidly approaching in the Northern Hemisphere, and following numerous high profile operational challenges in airports around Europe since the pandemic, airport managers will be developing watertight […]
Leeds Bradford Airport is to open a series of new and refreshed F&B outlets as part of the UK gateway’s transformative £100 million terminal extension and refurbishment. The airport is adding a three-storey extension to its main terminal, scheduled for completion before the busy summer getaway, to meet growing demand and improve passenger experiences. And […]
Page’s Lee Glenn and Jeff Mechlem tell us more about innovations in security and the passenger experience at Houston George Bush and Austin-Bergstrom airports in Texas. A well-designed airport isn’t just about moving people from kerb to gate – it’s about creating an intuitive, seamless journey. Often security can pose a major challenge to the […]
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) has completed its International Arrivals Improvement Project marking the first significant project under the airport’s ambitious Journey With AUS expansion programme to open to the travelling public. This milestone project delivers significant enhancements to the Barbara Jordan Terminal’s International Arrivals area and Baggage Claim area, supporting AUS’s mission to modernise, streamline, […]
Anticipation is building as we prepare to celebrate the 10th anniversary of SMART Airports & Regions events at the SMART Airports & Regions Conference and Exhibition 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia, next month. Hosted by Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, SMART Airports & Regions Conference and Exhibition 2025 will be held at the […]
Almost 6.1 million passengers passed through Amsterdam Schiphol Airport in May 2025 – a rise of 2% on the corresponding month a year ago. The Dutch hub also recorded a 2% increase in air traffic movements during the month, during which time Spain, the UK and Italy proved to be the most popular destinations. Of […]
Despite increasing by +7% in 2025 over the preceding year, air connectivity (direct + indirect air connectivity) in Europe still remains -9% below pre‑pandemic (2019) levels, according to ACI EUROPE. The situation inevitably means fewer and more costly flight options for consumers and communities. ACI EUROPE says it is plain to see how unsupportive policies, […]
We shine the spotlight on three initiatives that show how airports are enhancing safety and efficiency across the airfield. Enhancing the performance of existing infrastructure is often key to the growth of the world’s airports, and the airfield, where safety and operational efficiency are paramount, is no exception. Like all key infrastructure, aprons, taxiways and […]
Joe Bates discovers more about the current growth trajectory of Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is India’s busiest and best-connected gateway, handling close to 80 million passengers annually and non-stop services to 144 destinations across the globe. Operated by GMR Airports Limited-led Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), last year’s […]
New screening technology, biometrics and the recruitment of extra security staff feature in our security news round-up. Upgrading security is a never ending story for airports as new legislation is implemented, new technology becomes available and new threats evolve. The adoption or planned installation of new screening technology accounts for the bulk of the news […]
According to new data, Asia-Pacific’s aviation sector stood out globally in 2024, achieving the world’s lowest mishandling rate at 3.1 bags per 1,000 passengers, a level it has consistently maintained over recent years. Released today, SITA Baggage IT Insights 2025, states that steady performance highlights the strength of regional investment in automation, tracking, and baggage […]
Terminal 3 at Frankfurt Airport will have 12,000 square metres of retail space spread across 64 outlets when it opens in the first half of 2026. According to the German gateway, “true to the vision of the art of retail in the heart of Europe,” the retail mix will reflect the airport’s importance as a […]
Heathrow welcomed over 7.2 million passengers last month, with a strong late bank holiday making May 2025 another record breaker as the airport’s busiest ever May. More people than ever before continue to travel through the UK’s hub airport, which in the 12 months to the end of May, handled 84 million passengers. In record […]
iGA Istanbul Airport has achieved the highest level of recognition in ACI World’s Airport Customer Experience Accreditation programme. It notes that it is the first airport in Europe to reach Level 5 and only the the fourth in the world to achieve the goal following Incheon, Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Quito airports in South […]
In a major step before opening, Newcastle Airport’s new international terminal came to life yesterday as over 120 local volunteers helped test the facility during a full-scale Mass Passenger Exercise. With surfboards in tow, guitars slung over shoulders and bags packed to the brim, participants from across the Hunter took on the role of international […]
Dr Inderjit Singh, a global aviation consultant and former CEO of Indira Gandhi International Airport, considers the impact global conflicts have on the aviation industry. In this article I plan to leverage my expertise and doctoral research in international relations to explore how rising geopolitical tensions are reshaping air travel in 2025. THE GEOPOLITICAL STORM […]
Munich Airport today confirmed that the expansion of its Terminal 1 pier is progressing smoothly and on target for completion next year. Described as “Bavaria’s new business card for passengers”, the €665 million expansion to the pier will effectively create a state-of-the-art terminal for non-Schengen traffic. Its capacity of up to six million passengers per […]
Lithuanian Airports CEO, Simonas Bartkus, tells Joe Bates more about the growth and development of the country’s three main airports – Vilnius, Kaunas and Palanga. These are busy and exciting times for Lithuania’s airports, particularly for jewel in the crown Vilnius (VNO), which earlier this year opened its new Departures Terminal and officially unveiled its […]
GoSleep, the Finnish company behind airport sleep pods, has expanded its partnership with global wellness brand XWELL to create a new rest experience at Amsterdam Schiphol. Now located in XWELL’s Xpres Spa location at D-Pier — a key transit hub for international departures — the newly installed GoSleep Recovery Pods offer travellers a secure, private […]
Fredmans is the latest company to establish itself at Stockholm Arlanda Airport’s new Marketplace in Terminal 5, recently named ‘Commercial Space of the Year 2025’ by the industry organisation Nordic Commercial Spaces & Communities (NCSC). According to Arlanda operator, Swedavia, the store offers “an unparalleled shopping experience for watch connoisseurs and jewellery and fashion-minded travellers […]
iGA Istanbul Airport has unveiled its new solo art exhibition series with the official opening of Encounter with Fahrelnissa Zeid in the International Departures Hall. The exhibition in the iGA ART Gallery is centred around a striking 1960 oil painting by the pioneering Turkish artist, and offers an intimate look into Zeid’s life and legacy through […]
The first phase of Vietnam’s new $4.6 billion gateway, Long Thanh International Airport, is on target to open in late 2026, according to local news reports. Vietnam’s Minister of Construction, Tran Hong Minh, recently visited the airport site when Le Quyet Tien, Director of the Department of Economics-Construction Investment Management at the Ministry of Construction, […]
SSP has revealed more details about its seven-year deal to operate a number of restaurants and cafes at Indonesia’s Kualanamu International Airport. The new outlets – located airside in the airport’s domestic terminal and operated by joint venture PT SSP Taurus Gemilang Indonesia – will feature popular international names such as Burger King and Dairy […]
VIEW THE ISSUE HERE DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE HERE Airport profile: Lithuania’s Airport System & Delhi Indira Gandhi Special report: Global Conflicts Plus: Sustainability; Enhancing Airport Lounges & Transformative Airport Design The heat is on! Editor, Joe Bates, reflects on rising global passenger numbers, geopolitics and the ‘safety and security’ theme of this issue. As normal […]
London Gatwick will have a new chief executive for the next phase of its journey after announcing that VINCI Airport’s Pierre-Hugues Schmit will succeed Stewart Wingate in September. Wingate, who has held the top job at LGW for 15 years, will take up the new role of managing director of UK Airports for VINCI Airports […]
Fraport subsidiary, Lima Airport Partners (LAP) is celebrating the official opening of the new terminal at Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in the Peruvian capital. Overnight from May 31 to June 1, airlines, government agencies, and partners will relocate from Lima’s old terminal to the new one, which is three times its size. The […]
Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) – Hong Kong International Airport’s largest independent handler – has begun Phase 2 of the implementation of its intelligent cargo thermal detection system at SuperTerminal 1. It is viewed as another important step forward in aviation security as the company continues to leverage technology to create a safer, […]
The company behind Poland’s planned new CPK mega hub has launched the construction tender to select the general contractor for the main passenger terminal. The largest tender launched to date by Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) is estimated to be worth PL5 billion (approx €1.25 billion). If all goes to plan, the contract is expected to […]
Dublin Airport expects to welcoming almost half a million passengers over the coming bank holiday weekend. The airport is expecting more than 115,000 passengers every day between Friday and Monday, with a total of 480,000 set to pass through Dublin Airport’s terminals. The four day period between Friday and Monday will see close to 250,000 […]
A new satellite service is helping airports and airlines stay connected, even during blackouts, natural disasters, or in the most remote or infrastructure-limited locations. With the launch of SITA Managed Satellites, the technology leader claims that airports around the world can now maintain vital communication at all times. The fully managed service is now available […]
Ankara Esenboğa Airport in Turkey has reached Level 4+ certification status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme, placing it among the world’s top 70 airports in environmental performance. Operator, TAV Airports. aims to achieve carbon neutrality across all airports it operates by 2030, and to reach net zero emissions by 2050 at the latest. “Ankara […]
El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá has become the first airport in Latin America to implement an Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM) system for aircraft turnarounds. This initiative, undertaken by airport operator OPAIN in partnership SITA, marks a significant step in collaborative airport management within the region. By improving real-time data sharing among airlines, ground […]
Five Guys and Heathrow have announced that the iconic burger brand will be opening a new restaurant in Terminal 5 later this year. Located on the upper level of Heathrow T5, the 2,500 square feet unit be the restaurant’s first airport outlet at an airport in Europe. The site will also create between 80-100 new […]
London’s Gatwick Airport is part of the newly formed Gatwick Region Airport Economic Zone (AEZ), set up to help showcase the region and its strengths to investors and developers from around the globe. Centred in the region surrounding London Gatwick, it represents 7% of the UK economy (£155 billion GVA), greater than the combined economies […]
Food and beverage (F&B) in any travel hub, but especially within airports, is more important than simply offering travellers a sandwich and coffee. In fact, a 2024 Future Places Lab study noted that over 60% of Millennial and Gen Z travellers now associate airport quality with its F&B offering. Why? Airports are unique spaces. People […]
Miami International Airport is expecting more than 900,000 passengers this Memorial Day weekend from Thursday, May 22, to Tuesday, May 27, averaging 156,000 travellers per day – a volume similar to last year’s record-breaking holiday weekend. The gateway notes that South Florida’s rainy season, from May to October, “brings refreshing afternoon showers and dramatic skies […]
Shannon Airport has been boosted by this week’s return of Delta’s increased direct flights to New York-JFK and United Airlines’ non-stop services to Chicago. The increase by Delta means that it will offer 52,000 seats to JFK until September 20, 5,600 more than during last year’s summer schedules. While United will offer 44,000 seats to […]
Dublin Airport operator, daa, has announced that it is gifting an eight-hectare wildlife habitat at Kilsallaghan in North County Dublin to Fingal County Council. The open area compensatory habitat at Kilsallaghan is a meticulously developed area designed to support a variety of native flora and fauna, providing a sanctuary for wildlife. While the compensatory landscape […]
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) marked a new post-pandemic high on April 20 during the Easter holidays when it welcomed approximately 197,000 passengers. During the month, HKG handled 5.19 million passengers, experiencing a year-on-year growth of 23.2%. Operator, Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), attributes the robust growth to the extended Easter holidays which began in […]
Bechtel has signed an agreement with the King Salman International Airport Development Company to serve as the delivery partner for three new terminals at King Salman International Airport (KSIA) in Riyadh. Signed during US President Donald Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia, the agreement highlights growing US-Saudi infrastructure ties and builds on Bechtel’s experience delivering more […]
The Prime Minister of Singapore today officiated at the groundbreaking ceremony for Changi Airport’s new “mega terminal”, Terminal 5, which operator CAG states “will strengthen the gateway’s position as a leading air hub”. According to Changi Airport Group (CAG), T5 will be powered by state-of-the-art airport systems and extensive automation that will allow the airport […]
In partnership with travel search engine KAYAK, Sydney Airport (SYD) has launched an Australian airport first marketing campaign titled ‘Life Takes Off When You Do’. The initiative is aimed at promoting international travel and showing travellers how easy it is to plan their next escape. Launched this week, the campaign highlights how KAYAK’S intuitive tools […]
Global airport operator, Fraport, believes that it has made “a cautious start” to its 2025 fiscal year. After adjustments for revenues from construction and expansion measures, revenue across the Group rose by 6.3% year-on-year to €811.3 million. Its EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) reached €177.5 million, however, this represented a decline of […]
Close to £4 million is to be spent on new catering and retail offerings at Glasgow Airport that the Scottish gateway believes will help enhance the overall passenger experience. The investment by several retailers at the airport includes the introduction of two new restaurants, upgrades to existing retail units both airside and landside and enhancements […]
Restaurants, cafes, bars, fast food outlets and more are being invited to help create a diverse, world-class dining experience at Western Sydney International (Airport (WSI). Food and beverage operators that completed an extensive registration of interest process may now tender to join Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) as part of its growing retail and […]
Amadeus’ Holger Mattig considers how new transformational technology could change the operational landscape of airports and airlines and redefine the way we travel. The aviation industry is undergoing some of the most transformational changes it has seen in many years. The opportunity at stake is enormous, from a major overhaul in airline technology standards that […]
Today at its annual public meeting, Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA) celebrated its “incredible growth in 2024” and recognised its positive economic impact on Atlantic Canada and beyond. “In 2024, our team wholeheartedly embraced our vision – people and partners creating Canada’s best gateway airport – by driving initiatives that strengthen our commitment to excellence, […]
Belfast International Airport, part of the VINCI Airports network, has inaugurated its new terminal extension as part of phase one of its £100 million five-year investment programme. The upgrade includes a state of the art security hall using next generation security equipment and an immersive new duty free offering as well as enhancements to the […]
Munich Airport has a popular new attraction, an impressively stocked LEGO Store in Terminal 2, behind security control in the Schengen Area. Spanning approximately 140 square metres of retail space, the colourful LEGO world invites travellers of all ages to explore, marvel and shop, whether on the way to a family vacation or between business […]
AI – Artificial or Augmented Intelligence? Richard Plenty and Terri Morrissey share their thoughts on some of the human challenges associated with the rapidly developing field of AI. We are just back from facilitating a Global Psychology Summit in Kingston, Jamaica, at which a key topic was the rapidly developing field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), […]
Miami International Airport has been named as the Best Airport for Layovers by Global Traveler during its annual Leisure Lifestyle Awards. The global award follows MIA’s ranking last month in Food & Wine magazine’s annual list of Top 10 US Airports for Food and Drink. “Congratulations to the entire MIA team for once again earning […]
Around 2.6 million passengers passed through Swedavia’s ten airports in April, slightly up on the corresponding month a year ago but still 18% down on pre-COVID levels. It notes that international travel continued to grow, and is expected to remain on an upward trajectory throughout the summer due the launch of 20 new routes across […]
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 […]
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and American Airlines have announced an agreement to accelerate and expand the scope of the airport’s new Terminal F by doubling the number of gates. The Texas gateway says that the move will allow for the addition of new facilities to grow international operations, expand the terminal’s customer amenities […]
The world’s airports continue to deliver on sustainability, achieving new milestones and pioneering new green initiatives, writes Joe Bates. NEW AIRPORT CARBON ACCREDITATION HIGH FOR NARITA In another step towards net zero, Tokyo’s Narita International Airport has successfully upgraded to Level 4 ‘Transformation’ status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. Narita operator, NAA, has set comprehensive decarbonisation […]
A pioneering demonstration showcasing how hydrogen can support the decarbonisation of airport ground operations has taken place at Exeter Airport in the UK – marking an important step towards achieving the first ‘zero-carbon turn’ of a commercial aircraft. In a first of its kind for the UK, the trial, delivered by a partnership of Exeter […]
Dubai International Airport (DXB) handled 23.4 million passengers in the first quarter of 2025, maintaining its strong momentum and, according to operator Dubai Airports, “reinforcing its position as the world’s leading international airport”. The performance reflects both Dubai’s growing appeal as a global destination and DXB’s continued role as the gateway of choice for millions […]
London’s Heathrow Airport today unveiled an Air Traffic Control tower with a difference, a birdwatching hideaway right in the heart of one of its 13 local nature conservation sites. The one-of-a-kind bird hide, designed to resemble the airport’s iconic control tower, is free to visit as part of a bookable tour of the area. It […]
Warsaw Chopin Airport is embarking on an intergalactic journey ahead of this year’s Star Wars Day on May 4. It notes that since Friday, and up until Star Wars Day itself, passengers and all visitors to its facilities will experience spectacular attractions that will transport them straight to a distant galaxy! Poland’s capital city gateway […]
It is hard to keep Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) out of the news these days, the Texas gateway today revealing that it has completed a major milestone in the ongoing $3 billion expansion and development of Terminal C. The milestone involved successfully moving six megastructure modules – the largest measuring 204 feet long […]
Travellers at Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) can now enjoy a wider variety of full-service dining options and convenient take-out choices following the opening of two highly anticipated local restaurants. Rappahannock Oyster Bar, located in Concourse B, presents an array of celebrated regional dishes, including fresh oysters from their Chesapeake Bay farm. While Gatsby, a […]
ACI World has released its latest airport industry economic and financial performance data, revealing a significant gap between the recovery of passenger traffic and total airport revenues. It says that while passenger traffic nearly returned to pre-pandemic levels in 2023 – just 5.4% below 2019 – airport revenues lagged further behind, falling short by 11.4%. […]
We report on the award winning success of Dallas Love Field Airport’s new 3D LED holographic signage fan displays. Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL) is on cloud nine after its new passenger pick-up signage, a cutting-edge 3D holographic LED fan display, won a ‘Best Innovation in Airport Passenger Related Processes’ award. The signs, a game […]
Edinburgh Airport today announced that United Airlines is to extend its seasonal service between Edinburgh and Washington DC to virtually year-round. Already flying daily during the summer season until October 25, the airline’s non-stop capital-to-capital service will continue into the winter season on a five-times weekly basis, operating from October 26, 2025, until January 5, […]
SITA Europe president, Sergio Colella, unwraps some of the biggest tech trends in the aviation industry. Air travel is changing fast. Passenger numbers are soaring, with 8.2 billion travellers expected by 2037, and new tech is making the journey smoother, safer, and more sustainable. Artificial intelligence (AI), biometrics, and automation aren’t just buzzwords. They’re revolutionising […]
We discover more about how the Royal Schiphol Group is building design resilience into all new facilities at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. The resilience of an airport is tested daily – whether operational, climate, social or economic. There are numerous tools and technologies available to help create future-ready airports. In this article, we explore how one […]
AviAlliance has announced plans to invest £350 million in the future growth and decarbonisation of Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports over the course of the next five years. The global airport operator completed the acquisition of AGS Airports, operator of the three UK gateways, in January for an enterprise value of £1.53 billion and today […]
London’s Heathrow Airport today insisted that it has enjoyed a “strong start to 2025” despite its Q1 passenger numbers falling by 300,000 on the corresponding period a year ago. The dip, of course, was effectively down to the power outage on March 21 that led to more than 1,400 flights being cancelled, ultimately affecting around […]
BEUMER Group’s Per Engelbrechtsen explains how 3D visualisation can improve baggage handling operations at the world’s airports. It’s not hard to see why digital twins are becoming an imperative for businesses and why many airports and other industries are adopting this technology. Having digital copies of systems gives airports the ability to make decisions within […]
Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board Members formally welcomed Lance Lyttle as the aviation authority’s new CEO during Wednesday’s board meeting. Lyttle, who moves from the top job at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, will oversee Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL). MCO is one of the US’s Top 10 airports for passenger traffic, […]
Joe Bates takes a closer look at Perth Airport’s ambitious A$5 billion investment programme and how the new facilities will help it meet rising demand. Perth Airport has delivered another bumper year for aviation with a record 16.9 million passengers passing through its terminals in 2024. A surge in international travellers and continued growth in […]
Aberdeen International Airport has unveiled ‘Hello Aberdeen’, an innovative digital assistant designed to provide instant support and improve every stage of the passenger journey. Developed in partnership with Hello Lamp Post, the tool is said to deliver real-time, personalised assistance, helping passengers access vital information and navigate the terminal with ease. Available via QR codes […]
Airports in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions are poised to undergo extensive development, with combined investments of $240 billion dedicated to both upgrading existing facilities (brownfield projects) and building new airports (greenfield projects) between 2025 and 2035. This capital expenditure, revealed today by Airports Council International Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID), […]
Kansai International Airport’s fully refurbished Terminal 1 has opened to accommodate the millions of passengers expected to pass through the iconic building to attend World Expo in Osaka. The new Terminal 1 includes a 60% increase in the size of the international departure lounge and retail offerings, the introduction of innovative retail layouts based on […]
The airport construction boom in the US will provide plenty of opportunities for airport contractors this year, writes Mary Scott Nabers. Airport officials across the US will be busy during 2025, not only with airlines and the passengers they serve, but also because hundreds of large construction projects are currently in the planning phases, with […]
Dnata has reached a significant milestone, handling over one million tonnes of cargo in Dubai between April 2024 and March 2025 – the highest volume ever processed by the company in a 12-month period. The record reflects a 30% year-on-year increase, driven by rising freight volumes at both both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al […]
David Keene, CEO of Aurrigo International plc, explores what it will take for aviation to fully embrace autonomous technology and revolutionise the airport experience. Airports and airlines can easily predict how the aviation sector will look in the next 12 months. However, fast forward a decade, and the picture becomes far less certain. Why? Because […]
The first phase of the expansion of Antalya Airport (AYT) in Turkey has been completed. The project has added another 132,000sqm to AYT’s international Terminal 2 and 38,000 square metres to the domestic terminal. Last year a record 38 million passengers (+6.5%) used the airport, which is operated by Fraport TAV Antalya Airport, a joint venture […]
ACI World today confirmed that close to 9.5 billion passengers passed through the world’s airports in 2024, with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL) once again leading the way be welcoming 108 million travellers (+3.3%). According to ACI’s figures, the Top 10 busiest airports – representing 9% of global traffic (855 million passengers) – witnessed a gain of […]
The opening of new sensory rooms, wellness spaces, museums and ambient scenting are just some of the ways airports continue to raise the bar on customer service. BENGALURU-KEMPEGOWDA OPENS INDIA’S FIRST SENSORY ROOM In a step towards promoting inclusive air travel, Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) has introduced a first of its kind sensory room […]
Airports across the globe have been recognised for their customer service excellence in ACI’s ASQ Airport Experience Awards, writes Joe Bates. ACI World’s 2024 ASQ Airport Experience Awards have revealed last year’s top performing airports for the delivery of outstanding customer service. The roll of honour includes airports handling less than two million passengers per […]
Brisbane (BNE), Hamad (DOH), Helsinki (HEL), LaGuardia (LGA), Munich (MUC) and Quito (UIO) are just a few of the airports to be honoured in this year’s Skytrax World Airport Awards. BNE won the top award for the Best Airport Staff in Australia & Pacific at the 2025 World Airport Awards. It previously won the accolade […]
What are the world’s airports asking from architects when it comes to building new facilities or enhancing existing ones? Corgan’s Jonathan Massey provides his thoughts. While change is inevitable, it seems that the aviation industry has seen more than its fair share over the past 30 years, perhaps driven by the fact that the industry […]
MATARAT Holding has signed a memorandum of understanding with SITA to accelerate the digital transformation of airports across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The agreement will focus on deploying smart, scalable technologies that enhance passenger experience, streamline operations and increase airport efficiency as Saudi Arabia pushes forward with its aviation modernisation plans. “This Memorandum of […]
With a new showpiece terminal opening later this year, passenger numbers at an 18 year high, and innovation at the front and centre of its business, these are good times for Pittsburgh International Airport, writes Joe Bates. There is no doubting that Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) has gone from strength to strength over the last […]
Sydney Airport is preparing for a bustling Easter and school holiday peak, with 2.5 million passengers set to travel through its terminals between April 9th and 29th. During the peak, one million passengers will pass through the T1 international terminal, making it the busiest Easter school holiday period since 2019, and a 9% increase on […]
Aurrigo International plc today announced that its Auto-Dolly Tug and Auto-Sim solutions have been formally approved for recommendation to Aviation Solutions BV’s network of 60+ airports. Aviation Solutions focuses on commercialising innovative technologies that have successfully passed rigorous testing at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The partnership between the two companies was initially announced last year with […]
Coffee connoisseurs passing through Manchester Airport in the UK will be a little happier this morning following the reopening of Costa Coffee’s newly upgraded store in Terminal 2. The revamped store is set to provide an enhanced coffee experience, ensuring customers enjoy a faster and more seamless service. The introduction of touchscreen ordering, for example, […]
Dublin Airport has committed to a significant expansion of its onsite solar farm, resulting in more than 20% of the airport’s annual electricity needs coming from renewable solar energy by 2030. Operator, daa, made the announcement today at the official opening of Phase 1 of Dublin Airport’s solar farm by Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien […]
Vivian Kar-fay Cheung has been appointed the new permanent CEO of Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK). Unanimously endorsed by the AAHK Board and approved by the Chief Executive of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the appointment will be effective from April 7, 2025, for a term of three years. She was […]
A total of 2.28 million passengers passed through Copenhagen Airport in March, exactly the same number as last year, when Easter fell in March. The Danish gateway believes it marks the start of a good year for passenger numbers ahead of what is expected to be a busy Easter and summer 2025 during which its […]
Smartseller Nürnberg today opened a new shopping and culinary world at Nuremberg Airport. Described as an innovative concept that offers passengers a unique shopping experience and culinary highlights, it was developed in a joint operation of Nuremberg airport and smartseller. After several months of renovation, the airport’s duty-free shopping area has been expanded from 650 […]
Birmingham Airport (BHX) today announced that it is investing further in its infrastructure to “ensure ease of travel through the airport for its customers”. According to the UK gateway, the next two projects, as part of its previously announced £100 million capital spend up to 2033, will benefit those customers arriving through the airport. The […]
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) has recognised the customer service efforts of airport at its annual Customer Service Excellence Programme (CSEP) awards ceremony. This year’s awards received an overwhelming response, with over 60 organisations submitting nearly 430 nominations, recognising over 870 dedicated colleagues and teams. Vivian Cheung, acting CEO of Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), […]
VIEW THE ISSUE HERE DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE HERE Airport profile: Pittsburgh Special report: Autonomous Vehicles Tech Talk: IT Trends & Digital Twins Plus: Planning & Design; Customer Service & Sustainability Making headlines Editor, Joe Bates, reflects on a milestone anniversary for Airport World and the new technology theme of this issue. This year is a […]
London Stansted is gearing up for one of its busiest periods of the year with an anticipated 1.5 million passengers set to travel through the terminal over the Easter holiday. Between April 5 and 21, around 780,000 passengers are expected to depart from Stansted, while the airport will also welcome 720,000 inbound travellers. The Easter […]
Shannon Airport has today unveiled its summer 2025 schedule, featuring two new services and a substantial increase of 190,000 seats, 11% ahead of 2024 services. This summer the airport will operate 36 services to 11 countries, including a brand-new twice weekly service to the Portuguese island of Madeira which celebrated its inaugural flight yesterday, and […]
Interactive destination maps have helped Oakland International Airport (OAK) enhance the passenger experience and potentially drive traffic, writes Seth Miller. San Francisco Bay’s OAK is among the growing collection of gateways that have turned to interactive destination maps as a means to boost the airport experience of passengers and potentially drive traffic. The East Bay […]
Passengers travelling through London Gatwick no longer need to remove electrical items or place liquids in plastic bags, as part of a multi-million-pound project to transform its security screening process. The cutting edge technology enhances the security accuracy for airport security staff with 3D technology. The installation of new computed tomography (CT) scanners, part of […]
Munich Airport and its subsidiaries enjoyed a successful 2024, recording a net profit of €64 million – more than double the previous year. Boosted by the strong growth in passenger numbers and flight movements, group revenue rose to a new record of more than €1.6 billion. At €195 million, operating earnings before interest and taxes […]
Dublin Airport believes that passengers passing through its facilities this spring are in for a treat following the unveiling of four new and improved food and drink outlets. Over recent days, the airport has welcomed the re-opening of the fully revamped Butlers Chocolate Cafe in Terminal 2 airside, the addition of the new The Arthur […]
Hamad International Airport has officially unveiled its new Concourses D and E as part of its latest expansion programme. According to the gateway, both new additions are designed to “further elevate the passenger journey”. They have also raised the Doha airport’s capacity to handle up to 65 million passengers per annum. The Qatar hub notes […]
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) has selected HOK to design an expansion that will add more than 2.8 million square feet to Dulles International Airport. The expansion will begin with the Tier 2 development, extending beyond the Tier 2 Concourse East currently under construction. The design will include a federal inspection services facility for international […]
Birmingham Airport (BHX) in the UK is celebrating its most waste efficient year ever with its recycling rate for terminal operations exceeding 75%. Year-on-year, the airport’s recycling rate for main terminal waste was 76%, the highest annual figure to date. Last year, BHX became the first airport worldwide to implement a Mobile Segregation Unit (MSU) […]
February 2, at the end of the Chinese New Year celebrations, proved to be the busiest day at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) last month when 195,000 passengers passed through the gateway. The daily total helped push the airport’s traffic for month up to 4.5 million passengers, representing a year-on-year growth of 7%. Aircraft movements […]
San José City Council has approved the selection of two partners, Hudson and Paradies Lagardère, to manage a new retail concession programme at San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) that will support 50+ local retailers. The collective minimum capital investment of $16.9 million will support a high-quality build-out featuring fresh new looks and integrate new […]
The half-term school holidays helped London Stansted report its busiest ever February as families and holidaymakers took to the skies in record numbers. More than 2.01 million passengers passed through the terminal during February, an increase of 4.8% on last year, and 91,000 passengers more than the previous monthly record set in 2024. The number […]
ACI World today recognised outstanding customer service at the world’s airports by announcing the winners of its annual ASQ Airport Experience Awards. Among 2024’s winners are Casablanca Mohammed V Airport and Marrakech Menara Airport in Africa; Guangzhou Baiyun, Incheon and Delhi-Indira Gandhi in Asia-Pacific; iGA Istanbul and Rome Fiumicino in Europe; Guadalajara and Quito in […]
London Luton Airport (LTN) has become one of the first organisations – and the first UK airport – to achieve certification to the new BSI Kitemark for Service Excellence. The certification demonstrates the airport commitment to delivering outstanding passenger experience and covers far-reaching aspects including customer satisfaction, innovation, employee engagement, commitment to service excellence, inclusivity […]
February was a tale of differing fortunes for Ireland’s two largest airports, for while Cork Airport continued to grow strongly, the passenger cap continued to restrict Dublin Airport. Cork Airport welcomed a total of 203,466 passengers in February, marking an increase of 6% compared to the same month last year. In contrast, passenger numbers at […]
ACI EUROPE today responded to the European Commission consultation on the revision of Aviation State aid Guidelines on behalf of the European airport community, reiterating that operating aid to Europe’s regional airports must be extended to safeguard vital air connectivity. The European Commission has previously acknowledged the importance of State aid in ensuring fair competition […]
San Antonio International Airport (SAT) has its first-ever non-stop service to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) following the launch of American Airlines flights. According to the airport, the new air service is a significant step in its commitment to meeting the increasing demands of air travel, and the culmination of more than a decade […]
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) has celebrated the groundbreaking of its newest parking facility, the Yellow Garage. This multi-level facility will provide approximately 7,000 parking spaces to travellers after its estimated full completion in 2027. According to the Texas gateway, the Yellow Garage will incorporate intelligent parking systems, fast automatic toll gates and roadway realignment to […]
Marhaba continues its expansion in the Philippines with the launch of a new, spacious lounge at Clark International Airport (CRK). The addition complements marhaba’s Meet & Greet services, which have been available at the airport’s Terminal 2 since 2023. Located at Gate 9 in the departure terminal, the new marhaba lounge offers a stylish retreat […]
The widely expected news that the UK government is set to approve Gatwick’s plan to bring its second runway into regular use has been welcomed by the airport. Earlier today, Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, said that she was “minded to approve” the airport’s expansion plan, which would effectively change the status if its northern runway […]
ACI World today unveiled its Airport Traffic Forecasts 2024–2053, projecting significant long-term growth in global passenger traffic. According to its projections, over the next three decades, global passenger numbers are expected to reach 17.7 billion by 2043 and 22.3 billion by 2053, the later nearly 2.4 times the projected volume for 2024. The projections indicate […]
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 […]
SITA’s 2024 Air Transport IT Insights report, published today, reveals how airlines and airports are increasing investment in cybersecurity, biometrics, and sustainable IT solutions. Around 74% of airlines and 72% of airports forecast an increase in overall IT spend over the next two years. These investments, it notes, show how the aviation industry is working […]
Miami International Airport enjoyed record-breaking passenger and cargo growth in 2024 and made “significant progress” with its $9 billion Future-Ready Modernization in Action Plan. The Florida gateway also notes that the continued success of the I AM MIA customer service programme helped underscore a shared commitment to operational efficiency and elevating the customer experience. At […]
Airport International Group, operator of Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport, has signed a joint declaration with the Jordanian government reaffirming its commitment to the continued development and modernisation of the country’s gateway to the world. The declaration was signed by the Minister of Transport, Her Excellency, Wesam Tahtamouni, and AIG chairman, Fernando Echegaray, in the […]
Traffic figures at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) reached a new high in January when it handled 5.28 million passengers (+27.8%) and 33,660 aircraft movements (+17%). The increase in aircraft movements represented a post-pandemic high, as did the over 193,000 passengers that used the gateway on January 25. Operator, Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), notes that […]
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and JFKIAT, the operator of John F Kennedy International Airport’s Terminal 4 have announced a new line up of food and beverage concessions that they believe will create a unique New York sense of place at the recently expanded terminal. Notable local brands that will enliven […]
Lion dancers, ribbon cuttings, and Jett the SEA Otter ushered in the final group of tenants who call N Concourse their home at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). Eight recent dining and retail openings filled the last gaps in a dramatic transformation of a 1970s facility into a modern-day customer service juggernaut that is a model […]
Bechtel has been chosen to support and advise Perth Airport in the delivery of its multi-billion-dollar expansion and upgrade programme that will strengthen its role as Australia’s western gateway. The programme of major projects will increase the size of the terminal facilities, introduce a new parallel runway, and add the airport’s first hotel, along with […]
TAV Airports increased its revenue by 27% to €1.7 billion in 2024 against the backdrop of strong growth in passenger traffic across its airport portfolio. Forecasting 110 to 120 million passengers in 2025, the company is set to complete its three-year historic investment programme with upcoming openings in Antalya and Ankara. TAV Airports CEO, Serkan […]
Hahn Airport in Germany handled around 1.9 million passengers in 2024 – 12% up on the previous year. Formerly known as Frankfurt-Hahn under the ownership of Fraport AG, the airport is now officially branded as TRIWO Hahn Airport. “In terms of passenger numbers, we are continuing our pleasing double-digit growth,” says Ruediger Franke, managing director of […]
Christchurch Airport has taken another significant step in its commitment to operational excellence and sustainability, taking possession of New Zealand’s first electric fire truck today. The Rosenbauer RT (Revolutionary Technology) is also the first electric fire truck at any airport in the Southern Hemisphere, reinforcing the airport’s leadership in sustainable airport practices. The arrival of […]
London Gatwick today reminded the UK government about the importance of green lighting its North Runway plans to help it achieve Labour’s bold target of welcoming 50 million international visitors per year to the UK. The airport is awaiting a decision from the government on its proposal to bring its existing Northern Runway into routine […]
Airport cargo terminals and airline holds have been awash with colour in the last few weeks as over 100,000 tonnes of freshly cut flowers have winged their way across the globe in time for Valentine’s Day. Miami International Airport reports that business has been blooming in the weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day, with the […]
Fraport USA has won the bidding to manage the retail concessions at Baltimore/Washington International Airport (BWI). The new contract between Fraport Baltimore Partnership LLC, a majority-owned subsidiary of Fraport USA, and the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT), which operates the airport, will run for 23 years. Dr Stefan Schulte, chairman of the executive board of […]
Hot on the heels of the UK government announcing its support for a third runway, which it wants to see built and operational by 2035, Heathrow today unveiled the largest investment programme in its history. It claims that the plan, which involves expanding existing terminals 2 and 5 and adding a third runway, will upgrade […]
Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) will see more than $1 billion of investment as part of the SDF Next Program, its on-going capital improvement efforts for both the terminal and airfield. To date, the Kentucky gateway – which handled a record 4.8 million passengers in 2024 – has invested close to $350 million on […]
San Antonio International Airport has launched its new SAT Pass programme allowing a limited number of non-ticketed visitors an opportunity to meet and greet passengers post-security at the airport. The gateway has introduced the innovative new scheme by asking passengers, “Have you ever wanted to surprise your loved one at the gate with flowers, welcome […]
London’s Heathrow Airport enjoyed the busiest January in its history when 6.3 million passengers passed through its facilities last month. The total, represents a 5% rise on pre-COVID January 2019. The upturn in traffic marked the eleventh month in a row that Heathrow has averaged over 200,00 passengers a day, with transatlantic travel a key […]
Just six weeks into the new year and Budapest Airport today confirmed the addition of a second new carrier to its list of airlines. SCAT Airlines will launch a new direct route between Budapest and Shymkent, Kazakhstan, on May 27. The new service marks the addition of a new airline, a new destination, and a […]
Diptyque, Sandqvist and Teenage engineering are just a few of the brands that will be on offer at the Marketplace in Stockholm Arlanda Airport’s Terminal 5 when retail-tech company Co-X launches the unique retail concept Depart.A.Mental in the first half of 2025. Depart.A.Mental is an innovative concept store that makes it easier for brands to […]
Munich Airport International (MAI), the wholly owned consulting subsidiary of Munich Airport, has issued a short statement revealing that it has been engaged to work on the planned reopening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport in the UK. MAI will provide operational and management services to FlyDoncaster Ltd, the company that wants to reopen the Doncaster Council […]
A total of 1.9 million passengers passed through Copenhagen Airport in January 2025 – a healthy 14% rise on the same month a year ago. The Danish gateway notes that the upturn shows that the appetite for travel is still strong, and a growing number of Danes are going on or contemplating taking city breaks. […]
Frankfurt Airport (FRA) in Germany has become the first gateway in the world to regularly use walkthrough scanners for passenger security checks. Following a roughly one-year test phase at Concourse A in Terminal 1, the German Federal Police have authorised the full-scale use of the Rohde & Schwarz QPS Walk2000 air travel security system. It […]
Hamad International Airport (DOH) has officially unveiled its new Concourse E as part of its latest terminal expansion programme. According to the gateway, the new addition is “designed to further elevate the passenger journey”. Concourse E, it says, “prioritises boarding efficiency, reduces reliance on remote gates and buses and incorporates accessibility and sustainability focused design”. […]
All Nippon Airways (ANA) has launched non-stop services between Stockholm Arlanda and Tokyo Haneda. A mixture of airport, airline and government officials gathered at Stockholm Arlanda today for the inauguration ceremony for the new intercontinental route. “I am very happy to welcome ANA to Stockholm Arlanda Airport,” enthused Swedavia president and CEO, Jonas Abrahamsson. “ANA’s […]
The arrival of thousands of tourists and England rugby fans are set to swell numbers travelling through Dublin Airport over the coming St Brigid’s bank holiday weekend. The first bank holiday weekend of the year will see around 340,000 passengers travelling through Dublin Airport over the four days between Friday and Monday. Over the four-day […]
The growth of the Seattle region continues to be reflected at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) as passenger volumes reached record levels in 2024, breaking pre-pandemic marks, and forecasts predict that 2025 volumes will be even higher. “SEA Airport is one of the economic engines of the region, and the numbers show we’re back to where […]
Global airport operator, AviAlliance, has officially completed the acquisition of AGS Airports, the operator of Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports in the UK. The sale, agreed with Ferrovial and Macquarie late last year, values the UK airport assets at £1.53 billion. AviAlliance is a wholly-owned subsidiary of PSP Investments, one of Canada’s largest pension investors, […]
Doha’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) has unveiled new uniforms for its army of customer service staff. The Qatari hub, which recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, believes that the uniforms reflect “a new approach towards its growth plans”, which are said to include empowering its people and enhancing the DOH customer service experience. Over 350 customer […]
Stockholm Arlanda has been named Europe’s most punctual airport by Eurocontrol, a pan-European civil-military organisation dedicated to supporting European aviation. According to Eurocontrol, Arlanda had the best punctuality in 2024 for departing flights among the top 30 largest airports in Europe. “It is very gratifying that Arlanda was able to deliver the best punctuality for […]
SITA has reached a significant agreement to partner with Palo Alto Networks, a global cybersecurity leader, to deliver comprehensive cybersecurity protection for mission-critical airports applications. This partnership marks a key milestone with the addition of Palo Alto Networks’ AI-powered cybersecurity platforms into SITA’s CyberSecurity portfolio. SITA will provide the management and operation from its CyberSOC. […]
The Shannon Airport Group has revealed that the fundraising efforts of its staff collected €100,000 for charity in 2024, the total meaning that they have raised an impressive €500,000 for good causes over the last decade. This year’s staff charity fund recipients are The Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland and Milford Care Centre, the Group’s chosen […]
Singapore Changi Airport handled 67.7 million passengers in 2024, up 14.8% on 2023 and less than 1% down on pre-COVID 2019 traffic levels. Aircraft movements, totalled 366,000 in 2024, up 11.5% compared to 2023. A total of 1.99 million tonnes airfreight throughput was recorded in the year, surpassing 2023’s level by 14.6%. In a busy […]
We round-up some of the latest ACI World Business Partner stories from across the globe. Xovis technology aiding customer satisfaction at ATL Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) has bolstered its passenger-centric profile with the terminal-wide installation of dynamic passenger information totems powered by accurate, real-time data from Xovis. A total of 18 totems have been […]
Traffic at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) saw robust growth in 2024 as the airport entered a new era of three-runway operation, with flight movements in December rose year-on-year by 12.5% to 33,550. It was close to pre-pandemic levels, with individual daily flight movements exceeding pre-pandemic level, setting new record high. In December 2024, year-on-year […]
Aeroporti di Roma (ADR) today inaugurated its new solar farm, which instantly becomes one of the largest photovoltaic systems in the world within an airport perimeter. The solar farm is located along the eastern side of Runway 3 at Rome Fiumicino Airport. The new infrastructure was designed by ADR and built by Enel in collaboration […]
A special celebration event was held in Dublin yesterday to mark 85 years since the first flight took off from what we now know as Dublin Airport. A mix of current and former airport staff, airline workers, aviation enthusiasts and guests from the world of Irish aviation gathered in Dublin Airport’s original Old Central Terminal […]
Stephan Hirmer, Amadeus’ head of end-to-end passenger servicing for airport and airlines operations, considers how AI is transforming aviation. The air transport industry is under increasing pressure to handle growing passenger volumes while maintaining high security standards and meeting the expectations of today’s travellers for a seamless experience. With Airports Council International predicting passenger volumes […]
Boosted by a strong final quarter, Salvador Bahia Airport (SSA) in Brazil welcomed 7.6 million passengers in 2024 – a rise of 3.6% on the previous year. In terms of operations, the airport recorded 55,272 aircraft movements, which included 13,704 commercial flights in the final quarter alone. SSA, part of VINCI Airports’ global network, notes […]
London Gatwick today repeated its call for its North Runway to lose it back-up status and be used on a regular basis, claiming the move would allow it to accommodate more flights and generate an extra £1 billion a year for the UK economy. Citing China as a potential area of growth, the airport notes […]
Richard Davies tells us more about the digital platform helping enhance operational efficiency at Copenhagen Airport. Airports are complex ecosystems with different environments, services, and vehicles, requiring both energy and resources. They are also facing more and more complex challenges, from fragmented legacy IT systems and fluctuating fuel prices to the pressure to reduce their […]
Changi Airport has unveiled what it believes is the boldest ever refresh of its signature retail campaign to give shoppers the winning chance for the ultimate luxury travel experience of a lifetime to their dream holiday destinations. The year-long ‘Changi Millionaire Experiences’ campaign will see winners of the quarterly draws pick from what it calls […]
Swedavia has issued SEK2 billion in green bonds and repurchased bonds of SEK822 million under its existing medium-term note (MTN) programme. Green bonds are part of Swedavia’s strategy to promote sustainable investments within its operations. The issue is divided into three tranches, one with a nominal amount of SEK1 billion with a fixed coupon rate […]
OAG today unveiled its annual ranking of the world’s busiest airports for 2024 based on airline seat capacity. Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) continues to lead as the world’s busiest global (international + domestic capacity) airport with 62.7 million seats. Capacity at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta has increased by 2% compared to 2023 but is still just […]
Sustainable recruitment Richard Plenty and Terri Morrissey reflect on the recruitment difficulties facing airports today. Demand for travel continues to grow. ACI World’s 2024 Annual World Traffic Report (September 19, 2024) points out that recovery of passenger journeys from pre-pandemic levels is now complete, with 2024 traffic at 104% of the 2019 level. There will […]
A few weeks into the new year, a number of European airports are reporting record traffic levels for 2024. They include London’s Heathrow Airport which handled an all-time high of 83.9 million, boosted by a record breaking December, during which it handled over seven million passengers, The annual total was an impressive three million more […]
Smiths Detection’s Hans Joachim Schöpe considers what might come next for security checkpoints at airports. The evolution of airport security checkpoints reflects the growing complexities of global travel and the continuous effort to balance passenger safety with operational efficiency. Indeed, ever evolving threats in an increasingly interconnected world has necessitated the development of more sophisticated […]
OAG’s chief analyst, John Grant, explains why Megahubs are nothing without their regional connectivity. Everyone wants to be “mega”. It’s a sign of importance, position, value, and sometimes wealth, and airports are just the same, they love to be Megahubs; or at least some of them do. The term Megahubs may have been around a […]
Its achievements, ambitions and commitment to protecting the environment quite simply make Christchurch Airport one of the greenest and sustainably run gateways on the planet, writes Joe Bates. An ever growing list of accolades for its sustainability initiatives ensure that New Zealand’s Christchurch International Airport is a world leader when it comes to its efforts […]
An exceptional passenger experience and commitment to sustainability were key goals for Portland International Airport’s new terminal. The new one million square foot main terminal at Portland International Airport doubles the capacity of PDX and will enable the airport to welcome 35 million passengers annually by 2045. Featuring a 9-acre mass timber roof, the new […]
Sustainable master planning can ensure that airports balance expansion plans whilst accelerating their sustainability objectives, writes Alton Aviation Consultancy’s Mabel Kwan. Airports are vital gateways to nations, linking cities, driving trade and serving as cultural hubs for millions of travellers. However, whilst aviation has brought about economic and social benefits, it has also increased the […]
Being resistant to earthquakes and built from locally sourced materials are two of the key sustainability drivers behind the design of Portland International Airport’s new terminal, writes Vince Granato, chief projects officer at the Port of Portland. It was more than a decade ago, back in 2011, when the conversation about building a new main […]
Senior director for environmental protection and sustainability, Jennifer Desharnais, explains how ACI World is guiding airports in their decarbonisation and noise management journeys. Airports around the world continuously aim to balance environmental responsibility and quality of life for those living near airports, while delivering socio-economic benefits to the communities they serve. As they progress towards […]
Airports across the globe continue to deliver on sustainability, achieving new milestones and pioneering new green initiatives, writes Joe Bates. Dublin at the double – solar panels and thermal energy Dublin Airport has revealed that it is exploring the potential of geothermal energy as a renewable, low-carbon energy source to heat and cool its facilities. […]
We report on the latest ACI news, views and developments from across the globe. New ACI World ASQ Global Traveller Survey ACI World has launched the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) 2024 Global Traveller Survey (GTS) report, revealing shifts in passenger expectations amidst a stabilising travel landscape and an increasing demand for traveller wellbeing and premium […]
Rome’s airport operator is on a journey towards environmental excellence through innovative financial strategies, writes Aeroporti di Roma CEO, Marco Troncone. Decarbonisation remains at the forefront of the air transport sector. Indeed, it is pivotal for both its development and survival. Sustainable finance plays a key role in aligning the industry’s strategies with environmental and […]
Joe Bates reports on some of the highlights of the recent Airports Innovate conference and exhibition in Rome. All roads led to Rome for this year’s Airports Innovate conference and exhibition which once again showed that airports are becoming increasingly innovative in the ways that they operate and plan for the future. New technology was, […]
Ireland’s Cork Airport is an ambitious gateway with a clear sustainable development plan and growing route network, writes Joe Bates. With growing passenger numbers and an impressive sustainable development strategy, it feels like Cork Airport (ORK) is finally beginning to emerge from the shadow of its bigger and better known cousin in Dublin having overtaken […]
VIEW THE ISSUE HERE DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE HERE Airport profile: Cork Events: Airports Innovate Plus: IT innovation, Security & WBP news Green thinking! Editor, Joe Bates, considers how aviation’s attitude towards protecting the environment and the sustainable development of airports has evolved over the years. A lot of water has flowed under the bridge since […]
Munich Airport this week welcomed its 40 millionth passenger of the year, the first time it has exceeded the figure since the COVID-19 pandemic. This 40 millionth passenger is Christine Valair, who arrived yesterday, Monday, with her family from Vancouver on Lufthansa flight LH477, an Airbus A350 named ‘Munich’. Airport CEO, Jost Lammers, enthuses: “I […]
London Stansted today announced it is to introduce a new barrierless system for vehicles dropping off passengers at its Express Set Down (ESD) area as part of the airport’s £1.1 billion transformation programme. The new technology will be managed through Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems like that already in use at the Dartford Crossing […]
Glasgow Airport has officially launched a state-of-the-art digital assistant, powered by Hello Lamp Post, to improve the travel experience for passengers this festive period. This new AI-driven technology, now live across the airport, is designed to provide real-time information and enhance navigation throughout the terminal 24 hours a day, optimising the experience for travellers. The […]
Amsterdam Schiphol has announced that it will strengthen its successful partnership with Lagardère Travel Retail for the operation of more than 20 duty-free stores behind security control from May 2025. According to the Dutch hub, the strengthened partnership will take the form of a joint venture in which Lagardère Travel Retail has 70% of the […]
Frankfurt Airport (FRA) welcomed some 4.6 million passengers in November, a slight 1% increase on the same month a year ago. Compared to pre-crisis levels, passenger traffic at FRA was still about 8.4% below the figure seen in November 2019. Cargo throughput in Frankfurt grew by 2.4% year-on-year to 178,355 tonnes in the month under […]
San Antonio International Airport (SAT), one of the fastest-growing medium-sized airports in the United States, today celebrated the groundbreaking of a new terminal, which will accommodate SAT and the San Antonio region’s continued rapid growth and expansion. The groundbreaking represents a significant step in SAT’s commitment to meeting the increasing demands of global air travel. […]
SITA has announced a strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea International Airport (RSI), becoming one of the Specialised Airport Systems (SAS) providers for the airport’s new main terminal building. This marks a milestone in the growing collaboration between RSI and SITA, following SITA’s work on the successful deployment of the airport’s Air Taxi Terminal. […]
Finavia is piloting a new digital service that will show passengers the predicted queue time at security control over the next 12 hours at Helsinki Airport. Finavia is developing the piloted service together with its customers. “The services and customer experience at Helsinki Airport are developed in a data-driven way,” explains Finavia’s head of passenger […]
The latest edition of the Air Transport Action Group’s Aviation: Benefits Beyond Borders report provides an in-depth look at the economic and social contributions of the global aviation sector and how it connects a globalised world. The report was presented at yesterday’s ICAO event in Chicago to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the signing of […]
Fraport AG expects to complete the sale of its stake in Pulkovo Airport (LED) in St Petersburg in the coming days. The completion of the share transfer only requires the registration of the change in ownership in the Russian register of companies. The global airport operator suspended its activities at the airport soon after Russia’s […]
We round-up some of the latest ACI World Business Partner stories from across the globe. ‘Dynamic and hyperlocal’ donut concept opens at YVR WHSmith North America (WHSNA) has partnered with local-favourite, Lee’s Donuts, to open a new location at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). The brand is known across the Metro Vancouver region for providing a […]
Global airport operator, Fraport AG, has won the concession to operate Kalamata Airport (KLX) in Greece for the next 40 years. Fraport and its Greek partners – Delta Airport Investments SA (Copelouzos Group) and Pileas SA (Constantakopoulos Group) – have secured the deal with a bid totaling €45.2 million. The concession covers operation of the […]
This Christmas, Heathrow is turning up the holiday cheer with a live choir in arrivals, to welcome passengers home for the holidays. Throughout December, the choir of over 20 singers will deck the arrivals halls of the four terminals with joyful carols, personalised greetings and multilingual merry messages. As well as classic carols and contemporary […]
The human connection Richard Plenty and Terri Morrissey reflect on the importance of the human connection as the ‘airport group’ model grows in importance. How do airport acquisitions and mergers affect people who work in airports? Until well into the 1990s, the airport sector was characterised by a multiplicity of state-owned, independently run, relatively small […]
Denmark’s Finance Ministry has reached a conditional agreement with Danish pension fund ATP to buy a further 59.4% of the shares in Copenhagen Airports for around $4.52 billion. If the deal goes through, the Danish state will own 98.6% of the company, which owns and operates Copenhagen Airport, although it could eventually reduce this to […]
Halifax Stanfield International Airport’s pivotal role in Nova Scotia’s economy is underscored in a new report revealing that the airport generated over C$4.2 billion in economic impact in 2023, a 24% increase from 2022. The latest figures cement its status as a key driver of local and regional employment, tourism, trade, and prosperity. “These impressive […]
Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) and Western Sydney University have combined forces “to drive education, training and job opportunities” ahead of the airport’s late 2026 opening. The pair today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will see the organisations partner in a range of ways to “drive positive outcomes for communities” in […]
VINCI Airports has completed the modernisation projects at seven airports in the Northern Region of Brazil, consolidating improvements to the airport infrastructure of the Amazon. The global airport operator says that the “massive works plan” was part of VINCI Airports’ commitment when it acquired the Amazon based airports in 2021. With a total investment of […]
Sam Folley and Shirin Pishbin of Trowers & Hamlins explore how airports can maximise revenue from non-aeronautical sources. Non-aeronautical revenues provide an invaluable source of income for the world’s airports and, in many cases, are essential to their bottom line, ensuring that they can survive and remain competitive. In addition, it could be argued that […]
Stantec’s Dave Dargie tells us more about the planning and design involved in drafting the long-term development options for the Cayman Islands’ airports. Stantec and its project partners Chalmers Gibbs, BCQS, DKMA, KPMG, and Munich International have developed a 20 year growth plan for the Cayman Islands’ airports. Their recommendations aim to guide the Cayman […]
Finavia believes it will enhance the kerbside arrivials experience at Helsinki Airport by making changes to the traffic arrangements in front of the airport terminal from January 1, 2025. “Getting to and leaving the airport is part of the journey and the passenger experience,” notes Jukka Isomäki, Finavia’s project manager responsible for Helsinki Airport’s traffic […]
London Gatwick is trialling new Smart Stand technology, which could revolutionise the way aircraft turns are managed at the airport. The ambitious, first-of-its-kind trial which is being run with London Gatwick’s largest airline easyJet, enables a Turn Coordinator (TCO) to manage an aircraft turn from a control room, record turn events automatically and apply AI […]
Massimiliano Martinenghi, project director at Scott Brownrigg, brings us up to speed on the planned expansion of Madinah Airport in Saudi Arabia. Madinah Airport (MED), officially known as Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport, is a hugely important gateway for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as it serves the second holiest city in Islam. Madinah […]
Swedavia has announced that Strawberry, one of the leading hotel chains in the Nordics, will manage its new airport hotel at Stockholm Arlanda Airport. The hotel will be the largest airport hotel in the Nordics with 656 hotel rooms and will be located in direct connection to the SkyCity terminal. Construction start is planned for […]
Dublin Airport has announced plans to add up to 100 new security officers over the coming months as it gets ready to improve standards for passengers even further in 2025. As a record year at Dublin Airport comes to an end, airport operator daa is already gearing up for the coming 12 months and is […]
We shine the spotlight on the latest airports to reach Level 5 in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme and a host of pioneering sustainability initiatives across the globe. Airport Carbon Accreditation excellence Stockholm Arlanda and Ronneby airports in Sweden and Bengaluru-Kempegowda and Delhi-Indira Gandhi in India have become the latest gateways to achieve the highest […]
Employees and guests at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) can now catch a glimpse of the Automated People Mover (APM), as a new phase of testing will bring train cars through the Central Terminal Area (CTA). This is a key milestone for the APM testing team, with the first train vehicles crossing over Sepulveda and […]
Hong Kong International Airport handled 4.55 million passengers and 31,625 flight movements in October, increases of 21.3% and 20.3% respectively on the corresponding month a year ago. According to operator, Airport Authority Hong Kong, “traffic growth remains steady in all passenger segments”. Hong Kong residents, visitors, as well as transfer and transit passengers, experienced double-digit […]
Touch downs at Auckland Airport are driving up New Zealand’s economic fortunes with new aviation infrastructure set to bring tens of billions of dollars more benefit, according to an economic analysis by consultants EY. The airport’s chief customer officer, Scott Tasker, said the investment underway at Auckland Airport will be a key enabler of future […]
Learning about the delivery of top quality customer service from some of the best in the business was high on the agenda at the recent ACI World Customer Experience Summit and Exhibition in Atlanta. Atlanta was the setting for this year’s ACI World Customer Experience Summit and Exhibition, and host Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) […]
HOK, Hensel Phelps and the Port of Seattle are wrapping up a portion of updates on Seattle-Tacoma International Airport’s North Main Terminal for Alaska Airlines. As part of the SEA Gateway Project, the work includes a new bridge-level check-in space for travellers with automated baggage tagging and drop off stations. Alaska Airlines is rolling out […]
We report on the latest news, views and developments from ACI World and across the organisation’s five regions. ACI World projects healthy global passenger traffic in 2024 ACI World’s highly anticipated 2024 Annual World Airport Traffic Report is projecting a 10% growth in global passenger traffic in 2024, reaching 9.5 billion by year-end. Drawing data […]
Joe Bates discovers more about the ambitions, development strategies and networks of six of the world’s biggest global airport operators – Aena, Corporación América Airports, Fraport AG, Groupe ADP, TAV Airports and VINCI Airports. Aena/Aena Internacional World Headquarters: Madrid, Spain Airports 100% owned and operated: Aena operates 46 airports and two heliports in Spain including […]
Global airport operator, AviAlliance, has announced the acquisition of AGS Airports from Ferrovial and Macquarie for an enterprise value of £1.53 billion. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to complete in Q1 2025. AGS Airports, established in 2014, operates Aberdeen, Glasgow, and Southampton airports in the UK. These airports serve large […]
Dublin Airport is exploring the potential of geothermal energy as a renewable, low-carbon energy source to heat and cool its facilities. The news was announced ahead of the 3rd National Geothermal Energy Summit taking place at Dublin Castle today. Geothermal energy comes from heat in the Earth’s core. While temperatures fluctuate above ground, a few […]
San Diego International Airport today announced that KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KLM) will become its seventh international airline. Beginning May 8, 2025, the airline will offer three weekly flights between San Diego and Amsterdam, Netherlands. “We are very pleased to have KLM join as the 19th carrier at SAN,” enthused Kimberly Becker, CEO and president […]
Airport Economics Consulting Inc’s principal and founder, Patrick Lucas, considers whether there is a business case for small scale airport Public-Private Partnership projects. The multiplier effect and positive externalities that airports generate in terms of employment and contribution to local economies is significant. Commerce, tourism, and an intricate supply chain of businesses thrive and depend […]
London Heathrow enjoyed its busiest ever October and London Stansted the busiest day in its history last month as traffic continues to rise in the UK. A total of 7.2 million passengers flew through Heathrow, helped by the half term peak, ensuring that the UK hub experienced its busiest ever October and sixth consecutive month […]
Edinburgh Airport is seeking feedback from communities on how it plans to manage and mitigate noise caused by aviation operations. The airport, now part of the VINCI Airports network, has launched its draft Noise Action Plan (NAP) for 2024 to 2028 and in the weeks and months ahead will discuss the plan with those living […]
Amsterdam Schiphol has opened a new section of Lounge 1, offering an 5,000 additional square metres of space for passengers flying within Europe. The Dutch gateway notes that “the extra space is an important milestone in the improvements being made to the airport”, adding that “it sets the standard for the new Schiphol that is […]
Glasgow Airport has been invited by the UK Government to join a new expert group that aims to “break down barriers” to air travel for disabled passengers. Chaired by Paralympian Tanni, Baroness Grey-Thompson, the new Aviation Accessibility Task and Finish Group was launched today (November 7) by UK Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh. It will bring […]
Changi Airport Group (CAG) is to invest S$3 billion over the next six years on enhancing Terminals 1 to 4 at Singapore Changi Airport. The investment programme will improve services such as baggage handling, check-in, immigration and Skytrain connections between terminals, as well as to replace end-of-life systems to facilitate smoother passenger and airline experience. […]
In the 2024 edition of our annual investment feature, Modalis Infrastructure Partners’ president and CEO, Curtis Grad, discovers that the airport private sector deal flow remains strong despite geopolitical headwinds. Dealmaking and public-private contract awards in the airport business have ebbed a little in the past 12 months, but remain relatively buoyant. Modalis Infrastructure Partners […]
London Luton Airport (LLA) notes that it has taken another key step in its journey to achieving net zero emissions by 2040 following its investment in a fleet of sustainable car park transfer buses and operational vehicles used across the airport. The new buses are powered by ISCC (International Sustainability Carbon Certification) certified hydrotreated vegetable […]
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has unveiled its latest art installation, ‘Everyday Transcendence’, a hand-painted mural by renowned local artist Allison Kunath. Situated on the Departures Level in Terminal 4’s concourse, this site-specific mural is a vibrant addition to the airport’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the passenger experience through art. “LAX’s murals have been curated […]
Hong Kong International Airport’s new Three Runway System (3RS) is set be commissioned on November 28th. After the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) has acquired the aerodrome licence and the 3RS has been commissioned, all three runways will be operating under the 3RS. AAHK targets to obtain the aerodrome licence in November 2024, covering the […]
Cork and Dublin airports continued their record-breaking streak in October, welcoming a total of 3.1 million passengers through their terminals. Announcing its monthly passenger numbers, daa confirmed that October 2024 was the busiest ever October for both airports, with passenger numbers up 2% compared with 2023. Inward tourism helped boost numbers. The annual Cork Jazz […]
With soaring traffic figures, an ambitious new investor and plans to become the first transfer hub in the Philippines, these are exciting times for Mactan Cebu International Airport, writes Joe Bates. Air traffic is on a huge growth trajectory in the Philippines and Mactan Cebu International Airport (CEB) is no exception to the rule, with […]
The topic of rising airfares was one of the focal points of discussions among airport leaders during the Board Meeting of the ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. An airfare study, undertaken by ACI APAC & MID, in partnership with Flare Aviation Consulting, examined airfare trends across approximately 60,000 routes in 19 […]
Changi Airport is turning up the magic with the fifth edition of the Changi Festive Village, celebrating Hello Kitty’s golden jubilee in the most kawaii way. From today until February 16, 2025, travellers and fans of the Sanrio characters can immerse themselves in a festive wonderland bursting with cuteness, as Hello Kitty and Friends take […]
Fraport AG is exploring new, innovative approaches for the use of construction materials. Together with the startup B2Square – Bitumen Beyond Oil – the airport operator is using sustainable asphalt concrete to build and test a 200-metre-long section of road located on the airport apron. This is the first time that organic cashew-based bitumen has […]
VIEW THE ISSUE HERE DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE HERE Airport profile: Mactan Cebu Special report: Sustainability Plus: Customer Experience Summit & Master planning and design In demand Editor, Joe Bates, considers the attraction of airports to private investors in this ‘global airport operator’ themed issue of Airport World While there are plenty of examples to show […]
Montréal-Trudeau International Airport (YUL) has become one of the first airport’s in Canada to boast new state-of-the-art CT X-ray technology installed by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA). Passengers travelling through YUL now have access to an elevated security screening experience on one screening line at the domestic/international security checkpoint, meaning that they no […]
Saudi aviation is on track for a record breaking year with more passengers than ever before passing through the Kingdom’s airports. Indeed, Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) believes the country has enjoyed an outstanding year based on the upturn in traffic, with record growth in passenger numbers, connectivity, and aviation cargo. It […]
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Board of Commissioners yesterday approved additional funding to begin the planning process for the redevelopment of Terminal B at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). The action marks the first major step in executing the newly unveiled EWR Vision Plan, which serves as a wide-ranging blueprint setting […]
The UK’s Aviation Minister, Mike Kane, has visited Birmingham Airport’s new 6.8-megawatt solar farm, made up of 12,000 panels, responsible for providing at least 20% of the airport’s electrical power requirement. Birmingham Airport has committed to beat the government’s deadline and become net zero by 2033. An ambitious target that the multi-million-pound sustainable investment will […]
Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has signed an agreement to open an Aerotel in Shanghai Pudong International Airport’s Terminal 2. The Aerotel Shanghai Pudong Airport Hotel will be an integrated hospitality facility combining accommodation, dining, and wellness, with 82 hotel rooms in total. Set to open in the second quarter of 2025, this new development marks […]
Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport has unveiled four state-of-the-art cleaning robots that it believes will significantly enhance its cleaning processes, resource allocation and overall efficiency. The new additions, introduced by AMM operator Airport International Group (AIG) in collaboration with MENA Facilities Management, are also said to highlight AIG’s commitment to adopting the latest technology and […]
Miami-Dade County Mayor, Daniella Levine Cava, and Miami International Airport (MIA) officials have hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the first phase of MIA’s new Central Terminal check-in area. The first of three ticket counter pods in the new airline check-in area, which includes the latest in self-service bag drop technology, is part of a $38-million […]
Changi Airport Group (CAG) continues to invest in enhancing Singapore Changi Airport’s fleet of emergency rescue vehicles and equipment, both on land and sea. The latest investments have included the addition of three new vessels to its sea rescue fleet, replacing older craft that have reached their end of life. All three – a Command […]
Corpus Christi International Airport (CRP) in Texas has completed construction on a new full-service bar and connected elevated outdoor patio and observation deck, which is the first passenger-accessible outdoor space to be constructed in the airport’s 64-year history. Both are now open-to-the-public and located inside security within the concourse between gates 1 and 3 and […]
American Airlines has received tentative approval to begin a round-trip daily flight between San Antonio International Airport (SAT) and Washington Reagan National Airport (DCA) by the US Department of Transportation (DOT). The non-stop service between SAT and DCA will provide unparalleled benefits for both cities and their respective regions. “American would like to thank the […]
Hamad International Airport’s Central Concourse, which includes the indoor tropical garden, ORCHARD, has received Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold Certification. The certification showcases the airports commitment to sustainability and environmentally responsible construction practices. LEED certification is a globally recognised symbol of sustainability achievement and one of the most widely used green building […]
Indochine – an Asian restaurant concept – has opened at Stockholm Arlanda Airport. With a menu that features sushi, Pad Thai, dumplings and more in a stylish, modern atmosphere, Indochine will add to the diverse range of dining options at the Marketplace in Terminal 5. According to the airport, with flavours from the four corners […]
The company behind the plans for Poland’s new CPK mega hub, which will contain an airport, railway station and public transport interchange, has announced that the project has entered “the design acceptance process”. It has received the construction design for the project from the master architect and notes that the design acceptance process has begun […]
Global airport operator, Aena, welcomed 34.7 million passengers across its network in September, 7% more than in the corresponding month a year ago. Aena – which operates 46 airports and two heliports in Spain, London Luton in the UK and 17 airports in Brazil – handled 292,139 aircraft movements (+5.8%) and 120,781 tonnes of cargo (+14.3%) […]
More than 5,000 jobs will be created as a result of a five-year, £1.1 billion investment in London Stansted Airport, welcomed today by UK Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, and Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh. The plans were unveiled by the Prime Minister at the International Investment Summit in London and will see Stansted unlock the potential of […]
Newcastle Airport in Australia has joined forces with CommBank to fund a raft of pioneering sustainability programmes via an innovative A$235 million Green Sustainability-Linked Loan (GSLL). The GSLL converts existing loan funding to one linked to specific sustainability actions and outcomes. Airport CEO, Dr Peter Cock said with the support of the GSLL, Newcastle Airport […]
Errol McGlothan explans why strategic partnerships are cornerstone to the success of lounge operator, Airport Dimensions. In today’s fast-paced aviation sector, partnerships are becoming increasingly important in creating new opportunities and delivering progress. For Airport Dimensions, these alliances are not just simple business deals, they are at the heart of our approach to innovation and […]
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) has announced that CEO, Sean Donohue, is to retire after 11 years in the hot seat at the Texas gateway and a 40-year career in aviation. Since joining DFW in 2013, he has overseen significant growth and development, strengthening DFW’s position as a key transportation hub that connects the […]
ACI EUROPE has called on the European Commission to extend the EU State aid Guidelines to regional airports, so that they can continue contributing to the connectivity, competitiveness and cohesion of Europe’s regions but also decarbonise and facilitate the deployment of zero-emission aircraft. Responding to the recent initial public consultation on the review of the […]
The 2024 Brisbane Airport Lost Property Auction is officially underway, featuring some 500 items left behind by the 22.6 million passengers who travelled through the terminal in the past year. Despite efforts to reunite owners with their belongings, many items remain unclaimed well beyond the standard holding period. Brisbane Airport (BNE) holds an auction once […]
Shannon Airport has claimed the top spot in the travel category and ranked fourth overall in Ireland’s Customer Experience Insights (CXi) Report 2024. The national report, widely regarded as a benchmark for customer satisfaction, evaluated 175 organisations, of which 150 were ranked across 11 categories. Shannon Airport’s rise in the rankings is a major achievement, […]
A popular Indian street food café is opening an outlet at Birmingham Airport (BHX) and targeting becoming a presence at all major UK airports by 2025. The new store will be located in the departures area at Birmingham Airport. “We truly believe Chaiiwala at Birmingham Airport is long overdue and cannot wait to serve passengers […]
Queenstown Airport has achieved Level 4+ ‘Transition’ status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. The New Zealand gateway says that the achievement acknowledges its commitment to sustainability and progress towards decarbonisation. The highest tier in the programme, which was launched in 2009 to independently assess the efforts of airports to reduce carbon emissions, is Level […]
New Zealand’s Inia William Tuuta Memorial Airport has completed a 480 metre extension to its runway meaning that it is now possible for a B737 size aircraft to operate between the Chatham Islands and Auckland. A converted TEXEL Air Boeing 737 freighter became the first aircraft to use the newly extended runway, operating a return […]
In a historic occasion for the twin-islands of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbuda International Airport has officially opened, signalling the start of a new chapter for Barbuda’s connectivity, tourism, and economic growth. Barbuda’s new airport now allows for direct connections to global destinations and offers an enhanced travel experience for visitors and residents into the island. […]
Customer facilitation Richard Plenty and Terri Morrissey reflect on the importance of designing for a diverse range of travellers. A few years ago, one of the authors (Terri) badly sprained both of her ankles, luckily not at the same time, but within the same year. The experience of having to wear a specially designed boot […]
Cork and Dublin airports saw record-breaking numbers of passengers passing through their terminals again in September, daa confirmed today while releasing monthly passenger numbers. The two airports welcomed a total of 3.38 million passengers in September, a 5% increase on the same month last year. Demand for travel was buoyed by late summer breaks, the […]
Copenhagen Airport enjoyed its busiest ever September, welcoming 2.8 million passengers during the month, despite handling fewer flights than in the corresponding period five years ago. The monthly total was 11% higher than a year ago and slightly higher than in September 2019. Both Danes and other Europeans still have a great appetite for travel, […]
Edinburgh Airport, part of the VINCI Airports network, has launched a £5.8 million project to redesign its check-in hall. This project will deliver more space for passengers and introduce new self-service technology and digital wayfinding. The investment will see zones A and D redesigned to create an improved, more seamless experience for passengers, with works […]
Honeywell Building Automation’s Alex Cowen considers how strategically utilising modern technological solutions can streamline airport operations. With global passenger traffic on the rise and demand for air travel reaching new heights in some countries, it is imperative that the aviation industry continues to innovate to keep up with demand and sustainably streamline airport operations where […]
The transformation of Brisbane Airport’s Domestic Terminal hits overdrive in October with new temporary security screening points, check-in, and bag drop locations opening for thousands of domestic passengers. These changes are to make way for the future era self-check-in, automated bag drop and next generation passenger and baggage screening equipment upgrades. Passengers will experience the […]
London Gatwick has become the first UK airport to receive Level 1 Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation from ACI World. The accreditation recognises London Gatwick’s commitment to accessibility services through its strategy, policies, and initiatives. Level 1 is designed to help airports measure, evaluate and improve their accessibility management and culture and it is the only international […]
Chicago Midway Airport has opened the first shared use lounge in its 96-year history. A multi-functional space by Airport Dimensions, The Club MDW is designed to be a celebration of Chicago’s architectural and cultural legacy, reflecting the spirit of the city and offering travellers an elevated experience with local cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere. Providing […]
Pittsburgh International Airport’s Presley’s Place, one of the first comprehensive sensory spaces to launch at a US gateway, is about to celebrate its 5-year-anniversary. The 1,500 square-foot sensory space came to fruition after PIT employee, Jason Rudge, left a note in the company suggestion box. Inspired by his four-year-old son Presley, who was diagnosed with […]
We round-up some of the latest ACI World Business Partner stories from across the globe. Stantec to play key role in Newark AirTrain replacement project Stantec has been selected by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to lead preliminary and final design work for key elements of the planned $2 billion Newark […]
We shine the spotlight on the latest sustainability efforts of Munich, LaGuardia and Washington DC’s airports and a handful of the award winning projects in ACI Asia-Pacific and Middle East’s Green Recognition 2024 programme. Munich Airport trialling new sustainable energy system An innovative system for sustainable energy generation from both wind and solar power is […]
Construction work has begun on a new 13,000 solar panel array that will sit on the roof New York-JFK’s new Terminal One. According to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and the New Terminal One consortium that was selected to design, build and operate the new terminal, the solar array will be […]
According to the parties involved, Norway’s state-owned airports are set for a major digital transformation programme under the terms of a new long-term partnership between Amadeus and Avinor. The deal announced today will effectively see the country’s airport operator extend and expand its use of Amadeus technology. Central to the partnership is said to be […]
Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) handled 4.92 million passengers in August, a healthy 23% rise on the corresponding month a year ago. The gateway also registered year-on-year growth in August for both cargo volumes (+10.6%) and aircraft movements (+26.1%), handling 406,000 tonnes of cargo and 31,605 flights respectively during the month. Airport Authority Hong Kong […]
Elena Sorlini, managing director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, tells Joe Bates more about the transformational benefits of Zayed International Airport’s new Terminal A and the company’s customer service strategy. Can you tell us a little more about Abu Dhabi Airports’ customer service philosophy and why you take good customer service so seriously? Passengers […]
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), in partnership with Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) Airports and Delta Air Lines, is celebrating the local and minority businesses powering the latest dining and retail offerings at the new Terminal 3. They include local brands Alfred, Fat Sal’s, Homeboy, Native by Nyesha and Yakumi. According to LAX operator, Los Angeles World Airports […]
As temperatures hit the mid-20oC this week, it may seem odd to hear London Stansted has been preparing for the winter by kicking-off its snow training programme to ensure the airport is ready for any adverse weather in the months ahead. The snow team, which is responsible for clearing runways, taxiways and aircraft stands during […]
Global passenger traffic is projected to rise by 10% in 2024 to reach 9.5 billion by the end of the year, according to ACI World’s new Annual World Airport Traffic Report. Drawing data from over 2,700 airports across more than 180 countries and territories, the report offers the most comprehensive overview of the global airport […]
Enhancing the passenger experience through new technology, facilities and services continues to be a key priority for the world’s airports. Joe Bates takes a closer look at some of the latest initiatives and awards. Robotic pods to enhance accessibility at YVR Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is to trial the industry’s first, autonomous, electric robotic ‘pods’ […]
Etihad Airways has announced a significant boost to its connectivity to Sydney, with an increase from daily services to 10 services per week set to commence from July 2025. The Australian gateway notes that the decision will cement Sydney Airport’s status as the country’s most connected gateway to the Middle East. Greg Botham, Sydney Airport’s […]
We report on the latest news and developments from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport (AMS) has long been one of the world’s most innovative hubs and a major economic generator for the Netherlands. It is arguably the pioneer of the airport city in terms of the co-ordinated development of non-aeronautical related facilities around the […]
The latest news stories from ACI World, ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, and ACI Latin America and Caribbean show that the focus is clearly on the sustainable growth and development of the world’s airports. Working to support aviation’s decarbonisation efforts ACI World and Airbus have signed a co-operation agreement to support the industry’s efforts to […]
Brisbane Airport (BNE) believes that the revamp of its Terminal 5 will revolutionise the passenger experience at the gateway. The upgrade is part of the Australia airport’s A$5 billion Future BNE transformation and will include the most significant changes to the terminal since it opened 29 years ago. Driven by the need to upgrade security […]
Marnix (Max) Groot provides a snapshot of the major ongoing and planned airport development projects in South East and East Asia. Asia is a hotspot for infrastucture development projects with China, in particular, in the midst of a programme to upgrade its existing airports and build dozens more to give it the capacity to meet […]
Munich Airport’s wholly owned ground handling subsidiary has taken delivery of the first 10 electric passenger buses, with another 27 on the way before the end of the year. AeroGround Flughafen München GmbH has the option to purchase a further 25 buses from MAN Truck & Bus Germany in the future. The German gateway claims […]
Joe Bates looks back at some of the key moments from July’s SMART Airports & Regions Conference and Exhibition in Denver. Soaring outside temperatures and record visitor numbers that included 720 delegates and 62 exhibitors from across the globe really made July’s SMART Airports & Regions Conference and Exhibition in Denver, Colorado, one of the […]
Global airport operator Fraport AG with interests in airport across Europe, Asia and South America is selling its 10% stake in Delhi’s Indira’s Gandhi International Airport (DEL). Under the agreement signed today (September 9), Fraport is selling its entire stake in DEL operator, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), to its majority owner, GMR Airports Infrastructure […]
The new Terminal 1-A at Santiago’s Arturo Benítez International Airport has been inaugurated by the President of Chile, Gabriel Boric. Other VIPs at the airport to celebrate the milestone occasion included Chile’s Minister of Defence, Maya Fernández; Minister of Public Works, Jessica López; and Minister of Agriculture, Esteban Valenzuela. The expansion of T1 has added […]
WH Smith North America (WHSNA) has partnered with local-favourite brand, Lee’s Donuts, to open a new location at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Lee’s Donuts is a mom-and-pop shop developed by founders Alan and Betty-Ann Lee in 1979. The original shop opened in Granville Island Public Market and has since expanded to several other locations around […]
Joe Bates takes a closer look at the different ways airports are introducing artwork into terminals and across the airport campus to create a destination in their own right and a unique experience for travellers. Embracing art in terminal buildings might not be the newest fad in the world, but it appears to be one […]
The Shannon Airport Group, which owns and operates Shannon Airport and a significant property portfolio at its Shannon Campus, is today celebrating the 10th anniversary. A decade on, Shannon Airport is on track to handle over two million passengers for the first time since 2009, while over €178 million has been invested across the airport […]
ACI World director general and CEO, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, addresses the global challenge of passenger facilitation and ACI World’s commitment to building a more accessible and inclusive air transport system. This is my last View from the Top as my tenure as ACI World director general and CEO comes to the end after an […]
Singapore Changi has unveiled the world’s largest ever display of sunflowers at an airport, with some larger than life sculptures being eight metres tall. ‘A Sunflower Sojourn’ features over 5,000 sunflowers of more than 10 exquisite varieties, beautifully arranged at over 20 locations across all four terminals. The showcase extends outdoors to Hub & Spoke […]
ACI World Business Partner, Copenhagen Optimization, has entered the South American market with the implementation of its virtual queuing technology at Montevideo’s Carrasco International Airport (MVD) in Uruguay. The service, which allows passengers to reserve a specified time for security checks to help them pass through security more quickly and efficiently, also marks the first […]
Pragma Consulting’s Mohamed Hisham considers how focusing on families can significantly boost the non-aeronautical revenue of airports. Airports are constantly looking for ways to improve their non-aeronautical revenue, and an important segment to focus on is passengers travelling with children. Families travelling with children represent a significant opportunity for airports to boost revenue across both […]
London Gatwick has partnered with AccessAble to launch a series of bespoke Detailed Access Guides helping passengers navigate more easily, safely and confidently through the airport. The free guides cover 30 different areas of London Gatwick – including departures and arrivals, car parks and the train station – and provide passengers with information such as […]
Budapest Airport (BUD) has celebrated the return of easyJet’s twice-weekly service connecting the Hungarian capital with Lyon. BUD and Lyon Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) are part of global airport operator VINCI Airports’ network of European airports. Last operated pre-pandemic, the resumption of the link between these two captivating cities will serve the airport’s rising tourism […]
VIEW THE ISSUE HERE DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE HERE Airport profile: Amsterdam Schiphol Special report: Asia’s big build Plus: ACI News, Sustainability & SMART Airports review Everything counts Editor, Joe Bates, reflects on the importance of good customer service in this ‘passenger facilitation’ themed issue of Airport World. Some 16 years ago, I pondered what constituted good customer service […]
Long-haul non-stop flights between Munich Airport and the USA have undergone an enormous development and are continuing to grow, according to the German gateway. When the airport opened in 1992, there were 39 departures to five destinations each week. Today, there are 140 departures to 14 different airports. Yesterday, on Monday, the airport recorded the […]
Award-winning metal experts, Móz Designs, believes that it has created a unique and engaging lounge environment for airport visitors at the Melbourne Orlando International Airport. In collaboration with RS&H Architects, Móz designed four custom backlit round column covers and storefront soffit facades, all featuring their signature Laser-Cut Stream pattern. The design is said to reflect […]
Edinburgh Airport has been recognised for the work done to reduce absolute emissions after becoming the first in Scotland to achieve a global carbon accreditation. The airport has reached Level 4 ‘Transformation’ in the Airport Carbon Accreditation scheme. This is one of the highest levels in the global carbon management certification programme for airports. This […]
New long-haul routes and strong demand for travel saw 19.9 million passengers travelling through London Gatwick in the first half of this year. The continued collaboration with partners and the hard work of front-line colleagues has supported London Gatwick’s continued recovery and delivered a successful start to the year, the airport said today when publishing […]
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has launched the Terminal 3 West Modernization project, a $2.6 billion construction project which will renovate the existing 650,000 square foot western half of Terminal 3, including a seismic retrofit, an expanded security checkpoint and new passenger amenities. The project will also create 200,000 square feet of additional space, allowing […]
Mace has been appointed as delivery partner by King Salman International Airport Development Company (KSIADC) to oversee the planning and construction for its airport development programme in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The global consultants and construction experts, working alongside KSIADC that is owned by Saudi’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), will lead the full range of delivery […]
Nearly 14 million passengers passed through Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport in the first half of 2024. The gateway welcomed 13.7 million passengers between January and the end of June – a significant 33.8% rise on the same period last year. This growth was complemented by a 24.3% rise in flight movements, recording 84,286 movements […]
The UK government has approved London City Airport’s (LCY) plans to increase its annual passenger cap to 9 million passengers per annum – up from the existing 6.5mppa. It has also given the green light for three extra flights in the first half hour of operations during the week. However, London City Airport’s proposals to extend […]
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is the first airport in the United States to operate a US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Centralized Examination Station (CES) located on the secure side of an airport. This innovative set-up, which previously has taken place outside of a secure airfield environment, expedites the direct transfer of cargo from […]
Maryland governor, Wes Moore, today announced that Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport logged record-breaking passenger traffic in June 2024. According to Maryland Department of Transportation records, 2,603,847 commercial passengers flew through the airport, which represents a new all-time monthly passenger record and is an increase of 11% increase over June 2023. Fiscal Year 2024 also […]
London’s Heathrow Airport is set for its busiest ever summer after handling close to eight million passengers in July. The total, which saw it hold on to its status as Europe’s busiest airport in 2024, included three weeks when it handled in excess of 1.8 million passengers despite never previously welcoming that many people in […]
Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) in the UK has unveiled its Vision 2030 strategy, signalling plans for significant private sector investment to improve passenger experience and drive sustainable growth over the coming decade. It is hoped that the strategy will create economic growth opportunities and enhance international connectivity for Yorkshire. LBA’s Vision 2030 strategy will be […]
Liege Airport in Belgium recorded its seventh consecutive month of cargo growth in July in terms of aircraft movements and freight volumes. It handled a total of 2,259 cargo flights and 81,474 tons of cargo in July, healthy upturns of 18% and 17% on the same month a year ago. Based on ACI figures for […]
The terminal expansion project at Newcastle Airport in Australia is progressing rapidly with the crown of the building, a vaulted roof and structural steel installations the current work focus. Airport CEO, Dr Peter Cock, said it was exciting to see the superstructure taking shape on this iconic building and was looking forward to seeing it […]
Airport operator, Fraport, enjoyed an impressive first six months of the year, enjoying a 13% rise in revenues and a 7.2% upturn in passenger numbers across it global network. Its half-year figures, released today, show that it handled 74.1 million travellers across its actively-managed aviation gateways during the first half of 2024 (ending June 30). […]
Work has resumed on the expansion of Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Ecuador. Airport operator, Corporación Quiport, notes that it is funding the upgrade, which is designed to improve the passenger experience and increase the gateway’s operational capacity. The expansion of the passenger terminal started in November 2019, but was interrupted in March 2020 […]
Western Sydney Airport is one step closer to reality following the completion of its roof, paving the way for the acceleration of its internal fit out. According to a new statement, more than 80% of the new Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport is now complete, with domestic, international and air cargo services expected to […]
More than three million passengers passed through Copenhagen Airport in July making it its busiest ever month. A total of 3.18 million passengers used the Danish gateway in July, the highest number in CPH’s 99 year history and 13% more than in the same month a year ago. The previous passenger record for a single […]
Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has opened its new Plaza Express lounge at London Gatwick Airport’s north terminal departure. According to PPG. the new opening is ideal for larger groups and families alike looking to kick-start their holiday in a fun and casual way, offering leisure travellers the ‘Plaza Premium Lounge’ hospitality but with more affordable […]
An impressive two million passengers passed through Cagliari Airport between April and July this year cementing its status as Sardinia’s busiest gateway. The airport is currently served by 20 airlines that between them operate 81 routes to 68 destinations across Italy and the surrounding region. It notes that it set a new record in July […]
Stantec, a global leader in sustainable design and engineering, has been selected by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to lead preliminary and final design work for key elements of the planned $2 billion Newark AirTrain replacement. When complete, the new AirTrain will promote increased adoption of public transportation to Newark Liberty […]
Qatar’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) today released its traffic figures for the first half of 2024, describing the year-on-year upturn in passengers, cargo and aircraft movements as “exceptional growth”. In facts and figures, during in the first half of 2024, passengers numbers increased by 25% over the same period last year, while aircraft movement soared […]
Shanghai Pudong International Airport has opted to install SITA’s passenger verification and check-in solutions to enhance the experience of travellers passing through its facilities. Through the partnership, SITA will deploy common-use self-service bag drops (SBD) and kiosks for Pudong Airport’s foreign airlines and their passengers, making the journey through the terminal much easier and efficient. […]
We round-up some of the latest ACI World Business Partner stories from across the globe. TAV Technologies expands in South America TAV Airports subsidiary, TAV Technologies, has expanded its operations in South America by adding new projects in Chile and Panama to its portfolio. The projects will support the digitalisation efforts of Sanitago’s Arturo Merino […]
Passengers travelling through London Luton Airport (LLA) no longer need to remove liquids and electronic items from their bags as they pass through security, following the successful roll-out of next generation security scanners. The completion of the £20 million project positions LLA as one of the first major airports to complete the roll-out in time […]
Singapore Changi Airport handled 16.5 million passengers from April to June 2024, an increase of 13.4% compared to a year ago. The upturn means that the airport is now operating close to pre-pandemic traffic levels – in fact, the Q2 number is just 1.8% down on the corresponding period in 2019. Aircraft movements, including landings […]
The second phase of the trial of electric self-driving buses has started at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. During this phase, the airport, together with KLM Cityhopper and KLM Ground services, is testing a fixed, pre-programmed route to and from the apron. Crew from KLM Cityhopper arriving at Schiphol can use the shuttle service. Earlier this year, […]
Bureaucracy and innovation Richard Plenty and Terri Morrissey reflect on the importance of encouraging innovation in the workplace. Could excessive bureaucracy and red tape be slowing down your organisation’s innovation process? It’s an important question for airports to ask themselves at a time when the need for innovation has never been greater. And it is […]
Andrew Caughey, head of sustainable aviation at AtkinsRéalis, offers advice to airports seeking to become future fuels ready. Airports will be a critical enabler for the transition to zero emission flights. While future flight aircraft are progressing swiftly through their development cycle, they won’t be able to deliver on their promise of cleaner aviation and […]
Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) is certainly making news at the Farnborough Air Show in the UK, with Milan airport operator, SEA, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today that lays the groundwork for the development of a passenger electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) network across Italy’s Lombardy region. SEA’s MoU partners are Lilium NV, […]
Avolta has announced the renewal and extension of its duty-free contract with Australia’s Perth Airport to 2031. Using sustainable design principles, the contract includes nearly 3,000sqm of commercial space across four stores, and centres on the transformation of Avolta’s Terminal 1 Departures store into a state-of-the-art walkthrough space. Rather boldy, perhaps, Avolta and Perth Airport […]
Urban-Air Port (UAP) and LG have unveiled their industry-leading next generation Vertiport, which combines LG’s AI-powered technology with UAP’s vertical airfield robotics system. They claim that the Vertiport is the world’s most advanced solution – the first to incorporate AI-enabled systems – and merges cutting-edge technology with customer-centric designs to define the future of air […]
Autonomous technology born in the UK has been given a high-profile German seal of approval after a demonstration at Stuttgart Airport. Aurrigo International plc’s Auto-DollyTug was successfully deployed as part of the Digital Testbed Air Cargo (DTAC) Demonstration. The demonstration was led by the Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences in collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute for […]
ACI World and Airbus have signed a cooperation agreement to support the industry’s efforts to reduce the environmental impact of aviation. This partnership leverages the strengths of the world’s leading aircraft manufacturer and the largest and most important international association of airports to make significant progress in both decarbonising aviation and mitigating aircraft noise impact. […]
Technology will help the world’s airports and their staff cope with rising temperatures and extreme weather events, writes AEM’s Anuj Agrawal. As our planet warms, industries worldwide grapple with the escalating challenges posed by rising temperatures. Arguably, few feel the heat more acutely than the aviation sector, where the delicate balance of safety, efficiency, and […]
Travellers in the world’s fastest-growing aviation market, India, are some of the world’s most enthusiastic lounge users with an ever-growing appetite for an elevated airport experience, according to new research. ‘AX24: The Age of the Airport Experience’, the latest round of research from global airport lounge and experience specialists Airport Dimensions, is a comprehensive study […]
Rudy Daniello, Amadeus’ executive vice president of airport and airline operations, highlights some key technology investment trends. Our latest research, Travel Technology Investment Trends 2024 Airports, demonstrates that self-service is now mature, with more than half of the airports we surveyed providing self-service at check-in, bag-drop, and boarding. But what does the future hold? And […]
Frankfurt Airport claims to have marked an important milestone in the ongoing upgrade of its security checkpoints with the opening of nine additional security checkpoints equipped with modern CT technology. It is confident that the new equipment, as well as an innovative lane concept now available in Departures B-West of Terminal 1, will enable passengers […]
ACI World today officially confirmed the top 20 busiest airports in the world in 2023 with the publication of its latest ACI World Airport Traffic Dataset. The dataset’s key findings confirm total global passenger traffic for 2023 was close to 8.7 billion, driven by a continued resurgence in international traffic. This segment was propelled by […]
SITA has signed a five-year extension with Heathrow Airport to support Heathrow’s vast and growing network infrastructure. Through this agreement, SITA will provide a wide range of network, telecommunications, and connectivity services, while introducing innovative new solutions to businesses operating within Heathrow. As part of the new agreement, SITA will continue to strengthen Heathrow’s digital […]
Key new appointments at ACI World, WAGA resolutions and a new training MoU plus ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s new connectivity study and ACI Africa looks forward to its annual regional conference in Johannesburg. All change at the top for ACI World It will soon be all change at the top for ACI World with […]
Editor, Joe Bates, goes on a whistle stop tour of the world to report on the host of airports celebrating key anniversaries and milestone events this year. Half century for Paris Charles de Gaulle Europe’s third busiest airport for passenger traffic, Paris-Charles de Gaulle (Paris CDG) is celebrating its 50th anniversary, and while rejoicing in […]
Aeroporti di Roma’s head of innovation and digital, Giulio Ranucci, tells us more about how the airport operator is fostering innovation at its airports and across the aviation ecosystem. Around 44.4 million passengers passed through Rome’s Aeroporti di Roma (ADR) operated Fiumicino ‘Leonardo Da Vinci’ (FCO) and Ciampino (CIA) airports in 2023. Fiumicino is the […]
Milan’s Malpensa Airport handled its first electric drone shipment last night when a package was successfully transported four kilometres from the gateway’s cargo area to a nearby warehouse. According to the Italian airport, a Nimbus drone from Techno Sky carried “a light load” from Milan Malpensa Cargo City to Barbarini & Foglia’s logistics warehouse, covering […]
With passenger numbers hitting an all-time high, new facilities being added and more on the way, these are good times for Denver International Airport, writes Joe Bates. In just under 30 years, Denver International Airport (DEN) has grown from being a mid-sized US airport to one of the busiest, most ambitious and envied airports in […]
Cork Airport contributed just over €1 billion to the Irish economy and supported more than 12,650 job in 2023, new analysis of the airport’s economic impact has revealed. Launched today by Minister of State for Transport, James Lawless TD, Ireland’s EU commissioner designate, Michael McGrath TD, and Tourism Ireland’s chief executive, Alice Mansergh, the analysis […]
Airports across the world continue to innovate with the trial and adoption of new smart technologies to enhance the passenger experience and operational efficiency, writes Joe Bates. With costly new terminals and runways usually taking more than a decade to become reality when you factor in the design, planning and environmental approval processes, in many […]
Director general and CEO, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, reflects on the first ever ACI World Committee Forum and the transformative power of technology. Today, as I pen this editorial, top airport experts from around the globe converge in Montréal, the Civil Aviation Capital of the World, for the first-ever ACI World Committee Forum, a gathering […]
Albania’s Tirana International Airport (TIA) handled more than a million passengers in a month for the first time in June when a record 1,067,405 travellers passed through its facilities. The airport notes that “this outstanding figure” marks a 61.6% increase on last year’s June total of 667,521 passengers. The bumper month means that the airport […]
Dr John Kasarda and Michael Chen discuss how accelerating advances in applications of artificial intelligence are transforming airports, airport cities, and the greater aerotropolis. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is ushering in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0) where digitisation, creativity, and innovation are transforming business processes worldwide. The aviation sector is no exception. From machine learning […]
Copenhagen Airport claims that it is expecting a “summer of intense travel activity” following a busy June, which saw 2.8 million passengers pass through its facilities. The Danish gateway’s optimism is based on the fact that the total was was 12% up on the same month a year ago, with June the first month of […]
A new lounge that its creators believe will ‘redefine airport hospitality” opened today at Hong Kong International Airport. The new Kyra Lounge in Terminal 1 is the result of a groundbreaking venture between Airport Dimensions, SSP and Travel Food Services (TFS). Strategically located off Terminal 1’s central concourse by Gate 23, it spans 744 square […]
Editor, Joe Bates, looks back at some of the many highlights of the recent ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East/ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in Riyadh. With the worst days of the global pandemic fast becoming a distant memory for airports and global passenger numbers either already above or set to exceed 2019 […]
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is expected to handle 1.5 million passengers during this year’s US Independence Day holiday celebrations. If it proves accurate, the total – for the travel period between July 3-8 – will be 5.5% up on last year ahead of what the Texas hub is confident will be its busiest summer on […]
Perimeter security at US airports, and of course gateways across the globe, is of utmost importance for several reasons, not the least of which is the need to protect the safety and security of passengers and staff. Preventing unauthorised access to airport facilities and aircraft helps safeguard against sabotage and other malicious activities, while also […]
DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE HERE Airport profile: Denver Special report: WAGA review Plus: Airport anniversaries, Sustainability & ACI news Showtime! Editor, Joe Bates, reflects on the recent ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition (WAGA) in Riyadh and the ‘IT innovation’ theme of this issue of Airport World. It was nice to be ‘on the […]
The New Terminal One at New York John F Kennedy International Airport has announced a partnership with SAS, enabling the Scandinavian airline to operate from the new world-class international terminal scheduled to open in 2026. SAS is the eighth airline to commit to operating at The New Terminal One, an all-international terminal that its backers […]
Aberdeen International Airport has held its biggest ever Runway Run raising thousands of pounds for charities. Nearly 400 runners were able to take on the four kilometre Runway Run lit up runway on Saturday night. It is the fifth time the Runway Run – organised in partnership with CHC Helicopters – has been held, and […]
Traffic numbers continue to rise at Hong Kong International Airport as it recovery from the global pandemic gathers pace. Figures released by Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) today show that 4.07 million passengers and 29,855 aircraft movements were handled at the airport in May, upturns of 30.8% and 34.5% respectively on the corresponding month a […]
Heathrow is giving up-and-coming British musical acts a platform like no other this summer, on the new Heathrow Introducing stage in Terminal 5. In what is set to be Heathrow’s busiest summer on record with the airport preparing to welcome over 30 million passengers between June and September, the initiative will give some of Britain’s […]
San Diego International Airport (SAN) is expecting to see more passengers this summer than any time since 2019. With the upcoming Independence Day holiday and construction on the new Terminal 1 (New T1) in full swing, the airport is encouraging travellers and those picking up and dropping off to plan ahead. “We are about one […]
An innovative system for sustainable energy generation from both wind and solar power is currently in use at Munich Airport. The system utilises a container with photovoltaic panels and wind rotors from FlowGen, a company that specialises in green energy system solutions. In cooperation with Munich Airport, the mobile energy container is being used to […]
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) has implemented Xovis’ fully managed passenger flow management service AERO to help reduce wait times and enhance the passenger experience at its terminal. According to Xovis, the Florida gateway needed a robust system capable of addressing today’s passenger flow challenges and those of tomorrow. “With accurate, real-time data from Xovis, we […]
Miami International Airport (MIA) has started 2024 with its fastest pace ever for passenger growth, serving 1.5 million more travellers in the first quarter than its previous record set in the same period last year. In the first three months of 2024, MIA welcomed 14.9 million passengers, which was a significant 11.6% increase from 13.3 […]
ACI North America (ACI-NA) has honoured San Francisco International Airport (SFO) with the overall award for human resource programmes. In their 2024 Excellence in Human Resources Recognition Awards, ACI-NA named SFO as the winner of its ‘Overall Human Resources Program Award’. “Human resources play an integral role in establishing and implementing a positive workforce culture […]
ACI World will this week welcome top airport experts from around the world for the inaugural ACI World Committee Forum focused on strengthening global aviation collaboration. The forum, which is being held at the Doubletree by Hilton in Montréal brings together over 300 committee members from all six ACI World Standing Committees and their sub-groups. […]
The aviation industry is getting better at baggage handling, reducing the amount of luggage mishandled or ‘lost’ on its journey in 2023, according to a new report out today. Based on the findings of the new SITA Baggage IT Insights 2024 report, the number of bags mishandled by the industry falling from 7.6% to 6.9% […]
Brussels South Charleroi Airport has successfully achieved level 4 ‘Transformation’ status in ACI EUROPE’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. This recognition confirms and recognises the airport’s environmental commitments. Operator BSCA notes that Level 4 of the ACA programme means that its strategy for managing carbon emissions is in line with international climate goals. Among other things, […]
London’s Heathrow and Stansted airports have set new traffic records – the former for handling 81.5 million passengers in a 12 month period, and Stansted for experiencing its busiest ever May. Heathrow’s milestone was reached as the UK hub welcomed 7.2 million passengers last month, the first time May traffic has ever exceeded seven million. […]
iGA Istanbul Airport has launched a new ‘Istanbulites’ exhibition featuring human landscapes through the eyes of Venezuelan artist Jesús Briceño Reyes. Organised in collaboration with contemporary art platform Zarastro Art and İGA ART, the exhibition shows just how seriously iGA is taking its mission to become a leading centre for culture. Open for visitors between […]
More than 10% of Dublin Airport’s current annual electricity needs will soon be provided by a new 9MWp solar farm under construction on the airport campus. Airport operator, daa made the announcement while welcoming Jack Chambers, Minister of State for Transport, on a visit today to the 28-acre site located close to the south runway […]
In this two-part article, Marnix (Max) Groot, managing editor of the Momberger Airport Information newsletter, reports on a selection of infrastructure development projects that are either underway or planned across Asia. While Asia has been slower to recover from COVID-19 than other regions, the future looks bright, with hundreds of airports either being built, upgraded […]
Construction work on the new pier at Munich Airport’s Terminal is progressing rapidly and on target for completion at the end of 2025, the German gateway revealed today. The exterior façade was completed last year and the interior fit-out is said to be making great strides, The new €665 million pier will bundle the non-Schengen […]
Parma International Airport has a major new shareholder after Canadian aviation company, Centerline Airport Partners, announced the acquisition of a 51% stake in the Italian gateway. Centerline believes that the strategic investment underscores its commitment to enhancing connectivity, air service development, customer experience, and safety at the airport in line with its approved master plan […]
Shannon Airport is well and truly ‘up for the match’ as friendly rivalries kick up a notch ahead of this weekend’s Munster Hurling Final clash between Clare and Limerick. The competition is soaring to new heights at the airport as passengers and staff gear up for the hotly anticipated provincial decider. While staff are busy […]
AviAlliance and the co-shareholders of Budapest Airport have agreed to sell the airport to a consortium consisting of the Hungarian state-owned Corvinus Zrt and Vinci Airports. As all terms of the agreement have already been met, the transaction was completed. Gerhard Schroeder, managing sirector of AviAlliance, until today biggest shareholder in Budapest Airport, says: “Since […]
Global IT aviation provider SITA is partnering the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) to create new offsite passenger processing solutions. It claims that new remote solutions would provide airline passengers with a fresh experience of checking themselves and their luggage in from almost any location – even before they arrive at the airport. In […]
London Heathrow’s Terminal 2, and the first airline to use it, United Airlines, are today celebrating the 10th anniversary of the facility named after the late Queen Elizabeth II. More than 148 million passengers have passed through Terminal 2’s doors, and over one million planes have landed and departed, since it opened on 4th June […]
The design of work Richard Plenty and Terri Morrissey reflect on the importance of paying attention to designing a people-centric working environment. As we write this article, we have just completed running the April 2024 ACI Human Resources programme, a five-day course which educates airport leaders and future leaders on key concepts and frameworks in […]
Brisbane Airport has welcomed the launch of the latest campaign by Tourism and Events Queensland. The campaign – Queensland is Bluey’s world for real life – was launched on Sunday, June 2, by Premier, Stephen Miles, Tourism Minister Michael Healy, and Tourism and Events Queensland CEO, Patricia Callaghan. Airport CEO, Gert-Jan de Graaff, attended the […]
Swedavia is celebrating Pride season by raising the Pride flag at its airports and participating in Stockholm Pride in August. In addition, it is temporarily changing the logo on its social media accounts in June to show Swedavia’s support for Pride. Sweden’s airport operator notes that it has a long-term commitment to issues of diversity […]
The new international terminal at Almaty Airport in Kazakhstan welcomed its first passengers today. The gateway is targeting Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE) certification for the new $200 million terminal, which raises the airport’s capacity to more than 14 million passengers per annum. The first passengers arrived at the new TAV Airports funded terminal this […]
Qantas and Perth Airport have today reached an historic commercial agreement which will unlock a multi-billion-dollar wave of investment and deliver new international and domestic flights, giving a major boost to Australia’s tourism industry. As part of the 12-year agreement, Perth Airport will invest around A$3 billion in new terminal facilities and a new parallel […]
We round-up some of the latest ACI World Business Partner stories from across the globe. New terminals to transform travel to Mobile and Monterey Global design, architecture, engineering and planning firm, HOK, has unveiled new five-gate terminal designs for Mobile and Monterey airports, which are expected to transform travel and provide an intuitive and elevated […]
The world’s busiest airports in 2023, Airport Service Quality (ASQ) customer experience excellence, and a call for greater funding to help Europe’s airports decarbonise. ACI World news: The top 10 busiest airports on the planet in 2023 Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL) maintained its status as the world’s busiest airport in 2023, the 104.6 million passengers that […]
These are exciting days for Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, which is to get its own United States Customs and Border Protection (US CBP) Preclearance facility in late 2025. Yesterday it announced the selection of Pomerleau as the construction management firm and Alstef Canada as the baggage handling system provider for facilities work associated with the […]
Dublin Airport is looking forward to welcoming around 450,000 passengers over the coming June bank holiday weekend. The four day period between Friday and Monday will see 240,000 passengers departing from Dublin Airport, with 210,000 passengers arriving. The busiest day this weekend will be Sunday (June 2) when around 117,000 passengers are expected to travel […]
It seems hard to believe, but Doha’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) is celebrating its 10th anniversary of connecting passengers to the world. In facts and figures, in its first decade, Hamad has welcomed a total of 325.1 million passengers, accommodated 2.1 million aircraft movements, handled 20.5 million tonnes of cargo and processed 258 million bags. Qatar […]
Airports are digitally transforming with the sector expected to increase investment in technology by an average of 17% in 2024, according to Travel Technology Investment Trends, a major new study commissioned by Amadeus. Data from the study points to shared airport and airline objectives, with both seeking to improve the passenger experience. In fact, senior […]
Samarkand International Airport (SKD) in Uzbekistan is one of the fastest growing airports in ACI EUROPE’s membership region based on its passenger numbers soaring by 158.9% on pre-COVID levels. The gateway notes that the upturn is the third largest of any airport measured by ACI EUROPE, which represents over 500 airports in 55 countries. SKD […]
With traffic levels hitting new highs, an ever increasing number of US airports are investing in new infrastructure and technology to avoid a potential capacity crunch in the near future, writes Mary Scott Nabers. Following a near-total collapse of air travel during the COVID-19 pandemic, early 2024 marks a significant milestone as North American air […]
New research by PortsToronto shows that Torontonians’ have an overwhelmingly positive opinion of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. According to the 2024 survey, conducted among more than 2,000 Toronto residents aged 18 years and older with an oversample of those living along Toronto’s Waterfront, 78% of respondents characterise their opinion of Billy Bishop Toronto City […]
Founded-in-Philly coffee phenomenon, La Colombe, has opened its fifth location at Philadelphia International Airport in the Pennsylvanian gateway’s Terminal F. La Colombe’s rise to success began in 1994, when the coffee empire was started by Todd Carmichael and Jean Philippe Iberti in Philly’s Rittenhouse Square neighbourhood. The once-local roastery has since expanded its brand and […]
Shannon Airport has welcomed Delta Air Lines decision to increase seat capacity on its new daily Shannon to New York-JFK service. Delta Air Lines will deploy the larger Boeing 767-300 aircraft for the Shannon – New York JFK service, in place of the Boeing 757-200 aircraft that was originally planned. The airport notes that the […]
Improving communication and operations through democratised data can have huge benefits for airports, writes Uri Guterman, vice president of product at AeroCloud. Airports are busy places, with the world’s busiest hubs regularly handling over 100,000 passengers per day and daily operations supported by many different stakeholders. And the intricate workings of terminals can present significant […]
Justin Wortman and Jon Phillips update us on the role HOK and Arup are playing in the ongoing upgrade of Los Angeles International Airport. Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) is in the midst of a $30 billion transformation centred around elevating guests’ experiences through efficiency, thoughtful design and unexpected delights. This comprehensive modernisation is underway […]
Joe Bates considers the infrastructure development challenges facing airports and reviews 12 different projects that are either planned, underway or have been recently completed across the globe. With global passenger traffic on the rise and set to exceed pre-COVID levels by the end of the year, the need for new infrastructure to ensure that airports […]
Three foundational Resolutions aimed at ensuring a safe and sustainable aviation system as demand for air travel continues to rise were unanimously adopted by airport members today at ACI World’s Annual General Assembly in Riyadh. ACI World director general and CEO, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, noted: “Global passenger traffic is poised to soar, with projections […]
Michael Murphy-Pyle, head of media at Manchester Airport, tells us more about the sense of place strategy behind the ongoing transformation of the gateway’s retail offerings. Manchester in the UK has always had a very clear sense of its own identity. Its culture, history, architecture, and attitude are all unique and things that its people […]
A staggering 7,500 jobs are up for grabs at Hong Kong International Airport this weekend as the gateway hosts Career Expo 2024 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. More than 45 airport companies are recruiting for over 7,500 vacancies during the three-day event, which has been organised by Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) […]
London Gatwick generated £5.5 billion for the UK economy and supported over 76,000 jobs in 2023 – levels close to those pre-pandemic, according to new research by leading economists Oxera. The majority of this vital economic activity took place in six local authority areas across the South East – West Sussex, East Sussex, Surrey, Kent, […]
Phoenix mayor, Kate Gallego, and members of the Phoenix City Council have heard about plans to build a new terminal at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). With more than 48 million passengers in 2023 and passenger numbers continuing to grow, a new terminal is necessary to meet passenger demand and maintain a high level […]
The Fraport Group has enjoyed a successful start to the year, with all key financial indicators achieving at least double-digit growth rates in the first quarter of 2024. The main driver of this positive trend was the continued rise in passenger numbers at most of the airports across Fraport’s global network, which helped boost the […]
The long-awaited $1.4 billion expansion of Concourse D at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has begun, and US Transportation Secretary, Pete Buttigieg, was among the dignitaries on site to mark the occasion. WSP, one of the world’s leading engineering, environment and professional services firms, is serving as programme manager for the project, providing support for an […]
A revised masterplan has been developed for the creation of the “UK’s best-connected science, innovation and manufacturing campus” at Manchester Airport. If it becomes reality, MIX MANCHESTER will be one of the largest science and innovation campuses in the UK, delivering two million square feet of high-quality advanced manufacturing and science space. It will also […]
India’s new Noida International Airport (DXN), which is expected to open at the end of the year, has awarded the concession for retail and duty-free to a consortium of Heinemann Asia Pacific and BWC Forwarders Private Limited. Airport CEO, Christoph Schnellmann, said: “As we continue to develop Noida International Airport into a world-class facility, this […]
Mexican airport operator, Grupo Aeroportuario del Centro Norte (OMA), has inaugurated the first phase of a €400 million investment programme at Monterrey International airport. The delivery of the new East Concourse of Terminal A is a major milestone of a five-year expansion programme that will bring a significant step in the ongoing expansion of Mexico. […]
Airport World reports on a handful of new sustainability initiatives taking place at airports across Europe. New green storage battery milestone for Copenhagen Airport Denmark’s air gateway to the world, Copenhagen Airport (CPH), has installed a battery for storing green power. The airport is a key partner in the EU-back ALRIGHT project that is designed […]
It will soon be all change at the top for ACI World with the news that former Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) CEO, Justin Erbacci, will replace the outgoing Luis Felipe de Oliveira, as director general and CEO in September. Erbacci, who briefly served as CEO of NEOM Airports after leaving LAWA, brings a wealth of […]
Airports big and small across the world have been recognised for their customer experience excellence throughout 2023 in ACI World’s annual Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards. There are plenty of familiar names and a number of new ones honoured in the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards for 2023, with the winning airports ranging from small […]
Traffic continues to grow at Sweden’s airports with a total of 2.6 million passengers (+1.5%) passing through Swedavia’s ten gateways last month. According to the airport operator, the upwards trend is being driven by increased demand for international travel, primarily from Stockholm Arlanda Airport, where the airlines continue to expand their route networks. Indeed, this […]
Isavia CEO, Sveinbjörn Indridason, tells Joe Bates more about the growth and development plans of Iceland’s Keflavík Airport. Keflavík Airport (KEF), Iceland’s gateway to the world, states that it is constantly evolving to keep up with demand and meet the growing needs of passengers and the aviation industry. And like the rugged and ever changing […]
With 24 weekly flights from China to Munich, travel between the two metropolises of Shanghai and Beijing and the Bavarian capital is back in full swing. As a result, Munich Airport has reintroduced its personal shopping assistant service for Chinese passengers in Terminal 2. Chinese-speaking shopping assistants aim to break down language barriers and make […]
Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority (RTAA) today announced the official approval and financial close for the highly anticipated Ground Transportation Center (GTC) project designed to improve ground transportation services at Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO). In a strategic partnership, Conrac Solutions, owned by leading sustainable infrastructure asset manager Meridiam, have been named the Public-Private Partnership (P3) for the $299 […]
Ivalo, Kittilä, Kuusamo and Rovaniemi airports in Finland have achieved net zero carbon emissions for operations under their direct control. According to Finavia, carbon emissions have been cut by reducing energy consumption in terminals and refuelling airport vehicles with renewable diesel and work machines and emergency power generators with renewable motor fuel oil. In addition, […]
Sydney Airport’s popular annual Lost Property Auction for charity has commenced, with more than 2,500 unclaimed items up for grabs. All the money raised in the auction will be donated to the Harding Miller Education Foundation, which awards four-year scholarships to high school girls with high academic potential who are experiencing disadvantage. The airport’s general […]
Over 3.1 million passengers travelled to and from Ireland’s two busiest airports in April, according to daa, the operator of Dublin and Cork airports. The number of passengers travelling through Dublin Airport in April was up marginally versus the same month last year, at just 1%. At Cork Airport, passenger traffic was marginally down by […]
The Shannon Airport Group has completed the final phase of its multi-million euro airbridge enhancement programme, which saw the replacement of six airbridges at Shannon Airport. The new airbridges will allow passengers to board aircraft directly from the airport terminal building without exposing them and airline crews to the elements. One airbridge was replaced between […]
VIEW THE ISSUE HERE DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE HERE Airport profile: Keflavík Special report: ASQ Winners Plus: Democratising Data, People Matters & Sustainability Worth the wait Editor, Joe Bates, reflects on the development of key aviation infrastructure in this ‘master planning & design’ themed issue of Airport World. With so much at stake for local communities, […]
Changi Airport Group subsidiary, Changi Airports International (CAI), has established a joint venture to manage the non-aeronautical business at China’s Wuxi Shuofang International Airport (WUX). The new JV is with Wuxi Sunan International Airport Group Co Ltd (Wuxi Airport Group), a company wholly-owned by Wuxi Municipal People’s Government of China. Under the terms if the […]
Abu Dhabi Airports, the operator of five airports across the UAE Emirate, has released what it is calling “exceptional” passenger traffic results for the first quarter of 2024. The high praise for its Q1 performance is based on a 35.6% upturn in passenger numbers across its airport network between January and March 2024 compared to […]
Singapore Changi is to get a new hotel next to Terminal 2, which is expected to be completed and fully operational by 2028. Changi Airport Group (CAG) and SGX Mainboard-listed OUE Limited (OUE) announced the news today, with OUE awarded the tender by CAG for the lease and development of the facility, which will be […]
Following a year of strong growth, Shannon Airport is gearing up to reach the two million passenger mark by the end of 2024, the first time since 2009. According to Mary Considine, CEO of The Shannon Airport Group, growth across all key air services in 2023 surpassed expectations. “Last year saw us welcome 1.959 million […]
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) and the New York Power Authority have begun construction of New York State’s largest onsite solar plus storage project. Once operational, the solar carport project will generate electricity to help power the AirTrain and to reduce electricity costs for residents of low-income neighbourhoods in Queens. […]
Budapest has become the first airport in Central Europe to achieve level 4+ ‘Transition’ status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. The achievement means that the Hungarian gateway is on target to achieve net zero emissions by 2035. The airport says that it has been working closely with its partners to reduce the environmental impacts […]
Tulsa International Airport celebrated Earth Day by unveiling additional state-of-the-art Electric Vehicle (EV) chargers located in the airport’s parking garage, which will accommodate an additional 32 vehicles. It believes that the project, which was realised through a collaboration with the Indian Nations Council of Governments (INCOG), Tulsa International Airport and Public Service Company of Oklahoma […]
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) has installed Xovis’ passenger flow management system (PFMS) at a busy security checkpoint. Said to have been selected because of its high degree of accuracy and intuitive user interface, the Canadian airport reports that the new system was installed with limited disruptions to “the terminal space”. “Our Digital Twin has transformed […]
Hong Kong International Airport handled 4.36 million passengers and 29,840 flight movements in March, increases of 56.7% and 48.2% respectively on the same month a year ago. Partly driven by the long Easter holidays starting at the end of March, all passenger segments saw growth, with Airport Authority Hong Kong reporting that traffic to and […]
LaGuardia Gateway Partners (LGP) has announced that Terminal B at LaGuardia Airport has been awarded its second LEED Gold certification, this time for its operations and maintenance (O&M) practices. It believes that the prestigious accolade underscores LGP’s “unwavering commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship in aviation infrastructure”. LEED certification by the US Green Building Council […]
Global travellers, particularly those from younger generations, are looking for much more than just utility and a bit of shopping when they visit the airport, according to new research. Findings from the latest round of the Airport Experience research, a comprehensive study of more than 9,000 travellers conducted by global airport lounge and experience specialists […]
Global airport investor, VINCI Airports, has acquired a 50.01% stake in Edinburgh Airport in Scotland. It will now work in partnership with Global Infrastructure Partners on developing the gateway, which supports 28,000 jobs in Scotland and contributes £1.4 billion a year to the Scottish economy. Sir John Elvidge, chairman of Edinburgh Airport, said: “We are […]
Making new connections Richard Plenty and Terri Morrissey reflect on how the global pandemic has changed the way we connect and communicate with each other. To what extent did the COVID pandemic fundamentally change the way in which we connect: physically, geographically, socially, and psychologically? Prior to 2020, if we wished to see distant relatives […]
Quito’s Mariscal Sucre International Airport has become the first airport in Latin America and the Caribbean to receive Level 4+ ‘Transition’ certification in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. Driven on by operator Corporación Quiport’s commitment to being a good neighbour, the Ecuadorian gateway has been part of the programe since 2015. All airports achieving Level […]
A ground breaking ceremony has officially marked the start of construction work of a terminal regeneration project at Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) in the UK. The privately funded £100 million development, known as LBA:REGEN, is expected to transform LBA’s existing terminal building into a modern, efficient and sustainable facility, enhancing passenger experience and supporting the […]
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL) maintained its status as the world’s busiest airport in 2023, the 104.6 million passengers that passed through its facilities leaving all others in its wake. Dubai International (DXB), was the second busiest gateway, welcoming 86.9 million passengers during the year to finish ahead of third placed Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), despite […]
The rollout of new and improved security scanning technology at Dublin Airport will continue to pick up pace over the coming months, according to airport operator daa. Around one third of the airport’s 30+ existing X-ray scanners have already been replaced by new cutting edge C3 scanners, with the airport on track to have replaced […]
Some 4.6 million passengers passed through Frankfurt Airport in March 2024 – 7.8% more than during the same month a year ago. Operator, Fraport, notes that the upturn in traffic is even more impressive as strikes caused the cancellation of about 2,200 flights from FRA during the month, disrupting the travel plans of almost 300,000 […]
Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) has announced the launch of a renewable diesel pilot project at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) as part of its ambition to make it the world’s greenest airport. Hong Kong claims to be the first airport in Asia to use renewable diesel, which can reduce greenhouse gas emission by 87% […]
Amadeus’ Holger Mattig explains how airports can potentially benefit from new technology that will allow the airlines to sell retail products and other non-aeronautical related goods and services direct to passengers. Are airports ready for the airlines moving to offer and order retailing, and what will it mean for airports? It’s all change in the […]
A ground-breaking airside hydrogen refuelling trial has been successfully completed at Bristol Airport. The trial, led by easyJet and supported by several cross-industry partners, is the first of its kind at a regional UK airport. Hydrogen was used to refuel and power ground support equipment (GSE) – specifically, baggage tractors – servicing easyJet passenger aircraft. […]
A record-breaking March rounded off a very strong winter season at London Stansted that resulted in the airport registering its busiest ever 12-month period. The early Easter helped boost monthly numbers to record levels as more than 2.18 million passengers passed through the terminal, beating the previous high set in 2019 by almost 80,000. The […]
London Gatwick has created a new geospatial platform using Esri’s GIS (Geographic Information System) technology to support multiple operational areas at the airport, including engineering and environmental services. The system is already making engineering and construction works safer by reducing accidental strikes on buried utilities and enabling better management of the airports biodiversity. The geospatial […]
London Luton Airport (LLA) is continuing to progress on improvements to benefit passengers travelling to and from the airport. Six months after the fire that destroyed one of LLA’s main car parks, the airport is forging ahead with a major reconstruction project that will begin once the final stage of the structure’s dismantling is complete […]
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) has launched its own rewards programme in a bid to further incentivise travellers to use the Michigan gateway. Called DTW Rewards, it is described as a free loyalty programme that provides members with perks such as gift cards, airline miles and cash back for nearly every dollar spent at […]
London Gatwick will be offering passengers more than 90 weekly flights to Asia and the Middle East this summer, following the launch of new routes to Baku, Ashgabat and Tashkent. The airport has welcomed new carriers Azerbaijan Airlines, Turkmenistan Airlines and Uzbekistan Airways in recent weeks, with three services per week to Baku starting in […]
We focus on some of latest security, concessions, hospitality and IT focused news stories from ACI World Business Partners across the globe. Fukuoka International Airport to deploy Smiths Detection technology Smiths Detection is to supply Fukuoka International Airport (FUK) with 12 HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX X-ray scanners and 12 automatic tray return systems (iLane A20) for […]
With the increasing visitor growth Louisville’s tourism economy is experiencing, greeting guests where many begin their journey to Bourbon City is Louisville Tourism’s newest mission. Louisville’s first Airport Welcome Center, a new resource available to help travellers navigate the city’s hotels, attractions, culinary and Bourbon options, is now open at the Louisville Muhammad Ali International […]
A total of 2.9 million passengers travelled to and from Ireland’s two busiest airports during the month of March, according to figures released today by airport operator, daa. Across the month, the number of passengers travelling through Dublin Airport was 9% higher than the same month last year. At Cork Airport, passenger traffic increased by […]
The Wyoming gateway is arguably a thing of beauty after the completion of its multi-phased terminal renovation and expansion programme. Its status as being the only commercial airport in the United States to be located inside a national park (Grand Teton) means that Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) takes its sustainable development responsibilities very seriously, so […]
Global air and travel services provider, dnata, has been awarded a multi-year contract by Etihad Airways in the USA. The new partnership will see dnata provide inflight catering services to the Abu Dhabi-based airline from its facility at Boston Logan Airport (BOS). Under the terms of the deal, dnata will produce and uplift more than […]
The Port of Oakland is considering changing the name of Metropolitan Oakland International Airport (OAK) to San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport. It believes that changing the airport’s name – it is most commonly known as Oakland International Airport – could boost its market presence by making global travellers more aware of its location. The […]
The new Terminal 2 at Bengaluru’s Kempegpowda International Airport puts nature and biodiversity at the heart of the passenger experience, writes Andrew Haines, senior associate at Grant Associates. The lush landascapes within its walls make Terminal 2 at Bengaluru Kempegowda International Airport one of the most unique and greenest airport buildings on the planet. Indeed, […]
San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) completed its triennial emergency exercise yesterday, simulating a safety incident to test emergency procedures for communication, incident command and coordination between Airports staff and multiple agencies. Every three years, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates that passenger service airports conduct a full-scale emergency exercise to simulate a response to […]
Global design, architecture, engineering and planning firm, HOK, has unveiled two new terminal designs that it believes showcase how midsize airports are transforming travel across the United States. In Mobile, Alabama, the new five-gate terminal will make the downtown airport a domestic and international travel destination. The project – being carried out in collaboration FSB […]
Engaging with communities and taking steps to show the economic benefits of projects can help secure the long-term future of US airports and the regions they serve, writes Ryan Pearce. It was an adage that drove development in the western United States: When the railroad came to town, you thrived. When it left, you died. […]
Like many airports across the globe, London Gatwick says that it is gearing up to welcome passengers travelling over the Easter holidays, which will be its busiest two weeks of the year to date. The highest number of departures at London Gatwick are expected to be on Easter Sunday (March 31), while Sunday, April 7, […]
The Board of Commissioners of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has approved $160 million for design and construction of the EWR Station Access project, which will add a new entry point to the Newark Liberty International Airport Rail Station. The project is expected to greatly improve transit accessibility for underserved Newark […]
SSP America, a division of SSP Group has been awarded a 10-year contract to lease, develop, and manage the Spokane International Airports restaurant and retail programme. As a result, it will oversee the operation of nearly six retail locations and be responsible for developing and operating 11 restaurant locations in the airport’s terminals and soon-to-open […]
Amsterdam Schiphol’s Klaas Boersma and multimodal researcher, Aniek Toet, reflect on the importance of a shared vision when it comes to embracing multimodality at the world’s airports. I am obviously biased, but the journey airports have made over the last 50 years to become key social and economic generators, synonymous with global trade and connectivity, […]
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the US is awarding $20 million to 20 airport-owned airport traffic control towers across the country, spanning 17 states. The funding will be used to upgrade existing or build new control towers, delivering on President Biden’s Investing in America agenda that is rebuilding our infrastructure in every corner of […]
TAV Airports is to invest $275 million on expanding the existing terminal and building a new domestic terminal at Madinah Airport (Medina) in Saudi Arabia. It says that the investment is needed to ensure that the airport is equipped to handle 18 million passengers per annum, allowing it to meet “surging passenger traffic”, which last […]
ACI World director general, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, considers some of the key connectivity-related challenges facing airports today. With the recent release of our latest air traffic forecasts covered in this edition, ACI World predicts that global passenger numbers are expected to approximately double from 2024 (9.7 billion) to 2042 and to be 2.5 times […]
Amsterdam Schiphol today announced that it handled 4.6 million passengers in February – a healthy 22% rise on the same month a year ago. Around 3.2 million passengers arrived from or flew to a destination in Europe, meaning that 1.4 million passengers travelled between Amsterdam and a intercontinental destination outside Europe. The United Kingdom was […]
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ), The New Terminal One (NTO) and Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) Airports have announced the launch of the commercial programme for the privately funded $9.5 billion all-international terminal scheduled to open in 2026 as part of the $19 billion transformation of New York-JFK. According to the trio, the […]
Global airport operator, Fraport, today announced record highs for revenue and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) for fiscal year 2023. The key driver, it states, was a continued recovery in passenger numbers – particularly at the Fraport Group’s airports outside of Germany. Buoyed by this trend, the Group result (or net profit) […]
Passenger growth at Miami International Airport (MIA) is off to its fastest start ever this year and is expected to continue to the end of the month. Up until March 16 this year, MIA had served 12.3 million passengers, which is one million travellers or 9.6% more than at the same time last year. Since […]
Airline services and route networks ultimately decide the fate of any airport. As global environmental concerns grow, navigating air service development towards sustainable aviation will be a key challenge going forward, writes George Karamanos. Air travel is vital in facilitating global mobility, trade, and tourism. However, the rapid growth of the aviation industry is gradually […]
Airport World takes a closer look at some of the sustainability stories making headlines across globe in the first quarter of the year. Ambitious daa unveils environmental sustainability initiatives Irish airport operator, daa, has unveiled a 20-point plan to “accelerate its environmental sustainability ambitions” at Dublin (DUB) and Cork (ORK) airports and ensure that it […]
Tulsa International Airport has opened a state-of-the-art exhibit area within the airport terminal, specifically designed to entertain, engage, and educate young travellers. Designed to enhance the airport experience for families, the Oklahoma gateway notes that the new initiative is in partnership with the local favourite children’s museum, Discovery Lab. Its addition is just in time […]
Swedish airport operator, Swedavia, today announced that its investment in sustainable aviation will continue through its SAF (sustainable aviation fuel) incentive programme. The initiative offers discounts and reimburses airlines up to 50% of the premium cost for refuelling with environmentally friendly renewable aviation fuel. This year is the fifth in a row that Swedavia has […]
New global research from Amadeus, Travel Technology Investment Trends, has revealed a strong appetite for investment across the travel sector in 2024. According to its findings, nearly all (91%) travel companies surveyed said that they expect ‘moderate to aggressive’ increases in investment in their organisations in 2024. Launching today, the research – which examines eight […]
Some 3.9 million passengers passed through Frankfurt Airport (FRA) in February 2024, almost 13% up on the corresponding month a year ago, despite strikes on several days. The strikes resulted in the cancellation of about 1,770 flights, preventing roughly 225,000 passengers from traveling via Frankfurt as planned. This shortfall was only partially offset by the […]
Global connectivity is undergoing subtle changes as the airlines adjust their schedules to the post pandemic market, writes OAG’s chief analyst, John Grant. The great pandemic recovery is complete, well unless you are still waiting for the elusive Chinese international traveller to reappear, then most markets in the world are back to 2019 capacity levels […]
Ireland’s airports are expecting a busy St Patrick’s Day, with over 50,000 passengers expected at Cork Airport over the Bank Holiday weekend and more than 33,400 anticipated at Shannon Airport, while some 650,000 are scheduled to pass through Dublin Airport over the next eight days. Horse racing fans attending the Cheltenham Festival and rugby supporters […]
Hong Kong International Airport’s two biggest cargo operators have become the first cargo handling companies in Asia to achieve IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) certification. Cathay Cargo Terminal and Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) between them handle over two million tonnes of cargo per annum at the airport. IEnvA is a comprehensive certification programme developed […]
The UK’s Sustainable Aviation (SA) coalition has launched a new manifesto outlining the aviation industry’s commitment to achieving net zero and minimising the impact of noise, while maximising the economic benefits that aviation delivers across the nations and regions of the UK. SA is a coalition of UK airlines, airports, aerospace manufacturers and fuel producers […]
ACI World today revealed the best airports on the planet for customer experience chosen by passengers in its Airport Service Quality (ASQ) programme. The ASQ award winners include Casablanca and Marrakech in Africa; Incheon International Airport, Singapore Changi and Shenzhen Bao’an in Asia-Pacific; Rome Fiumicino and Barcelona in Europe; Quito and Los Cabos in Latin […]
London’s Heathrow Airport served a record number of passengers in February as 5.8 million people passed through the UK hub last month. The busiest ever February half-term saw more than two million passengers at Heathrow. Winter sun won over the ski slopes with nearly two thirds of travellers landing somewhere warmer than London. Even before […]
Munich Airport welcomed a giant Antonov An-124 last week to pick up a 2.3 ton climate-monitoring satellite on behalf of the European Space Agency (ESA). The EarthCARE (Earth Clouds, Aerosols and Radiation Explorer) satellite, constructed by Airbus, is a joint project between ESA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and will investigate the role played […]
We report on milestone appointments for ACI World and ACI Latin America & Caribbean, the end of year departure of Luis Felipe de Oliveira, the strengthening of ties with China’s airports and a round-table discussion in India. Candace McGraw becomes first female chair of ACI World Governing Board Candace McGraw, CEO of Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International […]
Spanish airport operator, Aena, today revealed that it expects its annual passenger numbers to exceed 300 million in 2025, one year earlier than previously projected. The admission, has led it to revise its traffic forecasts and update its financial targets, with around 294 million passengers now expected to pass through its airports this year before […]
ACI World’s economics data scientist, Hyuntae Jung, and senior director for economics data and analytics, Diederik Meijerink, highlight some of the key findings of ACI World’s new long-term traffic forecast. ACI World’s newly released World Airport Traffic Forecasts (WATF) 2023–2052 sheds light on the trajectory of air traffic over the next three decades. This year’s […]
Around 2.3 million passengers used Dublin and Cork airports in February, according to the latest figures released by operator, daa. A total of 2.1 million passengers passed through Dublin Airport’s two terminals an increase of 5% versus February 2023, while 193,000 went through Cork Airport, a 23% increase versus the same month last year. The […]
Munich Airport is no stranger to using robotic technology having trialled a number of devices over the years, the latest of which is a new snackbot from which passengers can buy food and drinks. Snackbot ‘JEEVES’ – the name is based on a loyal and competent servant from an English novel – offers a selection […]
Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport has announced that Menzies Aviation will assume responsibility for all ground handling operations at the Serbian gateway. From today, Menzies will provide ramp handling and baggage, de-icing, cargo and passenger services, including looking after passengers with reduced mobility. The contract at the VINCI Airports gateway will see the airport transfer all […]
CEO, François-Régis Le Mière, tells Joe Bates more about recent developments at Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport and his hopes and expections for the year ahead. With an ongoing upgrade to the domestic terminal and one of the most modern international terminals in Latin America, Santiago’s Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) is looking […]
Hag Jae Lee, CEO of Incheon International Airport Corporation, and Jost Lammers, CEO of Munich Airport, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Munich Airport’s Airport Academy. The airport’s state that the partnership “will focus on joint initiatives to develop and implement innovative training programmes that address the changing needs and requirements of the […]
Glasgow Airport in Scotland is to host a series of accessibility technology trials this month. The trials are being carried out in collaboration with Connected Places Catapult as part of the Connected Airport Living Lab programme. Connected Places Catapult is descibed as “the UK’s innovation accelerator for cities, transport, and place leadership”. Glasgow Airport has […]
Hamad International Airport (DOH) has introduced dedicated screening lanes for families with younger children transferring through the airport. It believes that the new lanes will boost customer satisfaction levels, reduce wait times at security checkpoints, and provide staff assistance to aide families with their personal belongings. According to the airport, the initiative reflects its commitment […]
Finavia will further diversify Helsinki Airport’s restaurant offering with the opening of eight new F&B oulets in the spring. The new additions, which are part of the revamp of the airport, means that passengers will soon be served by nearly 50 restaurants and cafés. Nora Immonen, Finavia’s director of commercial services, business, at Helsinki Airport, […]
Christchurch Airport today released its half-year financial results which deliver a higher interim dividend to the New Zealand city than forecast, from a total operating revenue of NZ$115.5 million for the six months to December 31, 2023. Chair of Christchurch International Airport Limited (CIAL), Sarah Ottrey, says strong visitor numbers, coupled with the strength of […]
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) and JFK Millennium Partners (JMP) – the company selected to build and operate John F Kennedy International Airport’s Terminal 6 – today marked one year since breaking ground on the $4.2 billion terminal with a sneak peek of the facility through a new animated rendering […]
London Gatwick says that it has cut carbon emissions from its diesel vehicles by 90% by swapping the fuel for Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). The switch means London Gatwick will save more than 950 tonnes of carbon emissions per annum. HVO is a low-carbon biofuel made from plant waste, oils and fats making it a […]
VIEW THE ISSUE HERE DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE HERE Airport profile: Santiago de Chile Design & Build: Bengaluru-Kempegowda & Jackson Hole Plus: Sustainability; IT Innovation; People Matters; and ACI news Growth trajectory Editor, Joe Bates, reflects on the continued upturn in global traffic and the ‘connectivity’ theme of this issue of Airport World. While it is, […]
In another big win for Queensland, Delta Air Lines is set to spread its wings by commencing services to Brisbane from December this year. The announcement heralds another leap forward in connectivity and, according to Brisbane Airport (BNE), is poised to further invigorate Queensland’s tourism and export sector. Delta Air Lines will launch with three […]
Passengers and former colleagues are being asked to share their stories of Aberdeen International Airport as it prepares for its 90th anniversary. The largest transport hub in northern Scotland has been at the heart of the community since it began operations in July 1934, when Lord Arbuthnott officially opened it. Several celebrations are planned for […]
Construction is set to commence on an expanded car park at Brisbane Airport’s Domestic Terminal as part of the ongoing $5 billion Future BNE transformation. Future BNE encompasses more than 150 projects including upgrades to the Domestic and International Terminals, the construction of Terminal 3’s first stage, and additional commercial, industrial, and retail developments. The […]
Swedish airport operator, Swedavia, today revealed that Ryanair will launch four new routes at Stockholm Arlanda Airport and Göteborg Landvetter Airport respectively this summer. Ryanair is to expand at both Stockholm Arlanda Airport and Göteborg Landvetter Airport ahead of the summer programme 2024 and will launch four new routes. From Stockholm Arlanda, the Irish airline […]
Airport International Group (AIG) and Jordan Water Company (Miyahuna) have formed a strategic partnership to enhance the water infrastructure of Queen Alia International Airport. The agreement paves the way for a new water pipeline spanning over 11 kilometres from Miyahuna’s Al Qastal substation to the airport, of which 4.6km are outside airport premises and 6.7km […]
The Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority hosted 50.6 million total passengers in 2023, setting a new travel record at Reagan National and Dulles International airports. This achievement was driven by strong demand at both airports, resulting in a new passenger record at Reagan National and an international passenger record at Dulles International. “Setting a new record […]
London’s Heathrow Airport enjoyed the third busiest year in its history, and made a profit for the first time since 2019 last year as it continued its recovery from the global pandemic. A total of 79.2 million passengers passed through its facilities in 2023, nearly 30% more than the previous year. It claims that it […]
Belfast City Airport has further reinforced its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by becoming the first airport in Northern Ireland to achieve a Level 3 ‘Optimisation’ status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. Judith Davis, airport operations manager at Belfast City Airport, enthused: “At Belfast City Airport, we consistently and proactively review the environmental […]
A total of 4.1 million passengers passed through Hong Kong International Airport last month – twice as many as it handled in January a year ago. The airport also experienced healthy increases in flights and cargo volumes during the month, the 28,755 air traffic movements and 377,000 tonnes of freight handled across its facilities representing […]
Menzies Aviation has successfully installed hundreds of solar panels at its cargo facility at Prague Airport (PRG) which are expected to save around 140 tonnes of CO2 yearly. Almost 900 panels have been installed at the 14,000sqm cargo warehouse, a neighbouring administrative building and on the building’s façade. The panels are set to produce more […]
Hot on the heels of a record-breaking January, London Stansted is set for its busiest week of the year so far as thousands jet away for half-term. More than 360,000 passengers are expected to fly from the airport over the next 10 days, with families from across the East of England heading away for some […]
The development of new Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) alternatives and supersonic flight are two of the issues that I predict will influence commercial aviation this year. Prediction 1: Demand for hydrogen fuel will grow – starting the trajectory towards 70 million tons a year by 2050 Aviation is responsible for around 2.5% of global CO2 […]
The latest Airport Industry Outlook, released by ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID), presents a positive trend in the recovery of passenger traffic and airport finances. However, macroeconomic factors continue to pose challenges to the overall recovery of the sector. The Airport Industry Outlook, developed in partnership with Mott MacDonald, reveals the […]
TAV Airports’ full-year financial and operational results for 2023 show that it handled 96 million passengers (+22%) across its gateways last year and saw its revenues soar by 25% to €1.3 billion. Forecasting 100 to 110 million passengers in 2024, the company revised its 2022-2025 compound growth expectations upwards. TAV Airports CEO, Serkan Kaptan, stated: […]
ACI World’s newly released annual World Airport Traffic Forecasts (WATF) 2023–2052 dataset shows that global passenger traffic is set to double over next 20 years, by which time China will have replaced the US as the world’s biggest aviation market. The latest WATF extends its horizon by an impressive 10 years, offering a comprehensive 30-year […]
A new solar photovoltaic (PV) system is to be installed on the rooftop areas of Singapore Changi’s terminal buildings, terminal auxiliary structures, airfield and cargo buildings. The new sustainability friendly addition will be designed, built, owned and operated by Keppel Ltd (Keppel) for 25 years when it is completed in early 2025. When up and […]
A host of European airports today released their traffic data for the first month of 2024, with Barcelona, Copenhagen, London Stansted, Madrid and Manchester among those reporting impressive upturns in traffic. Aena reports that 18.6 million passengers (+10.3%) passed through its Spanish airport network in January 2024, Madrid (+8%) and Barcelona (+13.9%) leading the way. […]
Attendees at the Glasgow Airport Hydrogen Innovation Hub summit heard that the infrastructure needed to support zero-emission flight could be in place as early as 2027. The first-of-its-kind aviation hydrogen summit, held at the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), brought sector leaders in aviation, finance, aerospace, renewables and engineering from across the world together with […]
Irish airport operator, daa, today unveiled details of 20 environmental sustainability initiatives being rolled out at Dublin and Cork Airports. It is confident that each which will help accelerate both airports’ climate and sustainability related ambitions, including achieving net zero emissions by 2050 at the latest. The projects are also matched by a planned investment […]
IGA Istanbul Airport has outlined its plans for 2024, with CEO, Selahattin Bilgen, promising that it will be a “year of investments”. Speaking during the Turkish gateway’s annual press conference, Bilgen stated that the airport invested €160 million in 2023 and would increase that to €656.5 million this year. He also revealed the airport’s key […]
SITA’s 2023 Air Transport IT Insights report, published today, finds that both airports and airlines saw IT spend increase year on year into 2023, reaching an estimated $10.8 billion and $34.5 billion respectively, with over two-thirds of airport and airline CIOs expecting continued growth into 2024. Airports also boosted IT spend as a percentage of […]
Passing through security at Denver International Airport (DEN) should get faster and more efficient from this week following the opening of the gateway’s new West Security Checkpoint. The checkpoint, which officially opens today, is the first of two new state-of-the-art security checkpoints on Level 6 (passenger check-in) to open as part of DEN’s Great Hall […]
Abu Dhabi Airports, the operator of Abu Dhabi International Airport and four other commercial gateways in the emirate, has announced the appointment of Elena Sorlini as its managing director and CEO. Sorlini transitions into the role permanently after serving in an interim capacity since June 2023. Since joining Abu Dhabi Airports, Sorlini has overseen the […]
Passengers at Dublin Airport will have more bus options available to them than ever before after new permits were issued to allow bus operators to pick up and drop off outside the airport’s two terminals. Following a successful tender process for the allocation of bus stops at Dublin Airport, daa has secured commitments from operators […]
Shannon Airport has introduced a new innovative Mobile Passport Control app (MPC) that it believes will enhance the travel experience for passengers travelling to the United States. MPC is a free mobile app, designed to streamline the traveller’s entry process into the United States by reducing inspection time at the US pre-clearance facility in Shannon […]
Sustainability: The social pillar Richard Plenty and Terri Morrissey reflect on the human factor in sustainability. We are very proud to say that this article marks the completion of 10 years of ‘People Matters’ columns that we have written for Airport World. We didn’t expect the column to be in demand for so long, but […]
Announcements, news stories and opinions from ACI World Business Partners across the globe. Rebuilding Kyiv’s Boryspil International Airport AECOM has signed a memorandum of understanding to act as the reconstruction delivery partner for the rebuilding of Boryspil International Airport (KBP) and support the reconstruction of the broader aviation sector in Ukraine. Boryspil is Ukraine’s largest […]
A survey of 200 global airport leaders signals an incoming overhaul of, and investment in, technology in the aviation industry, following years of relatively low innovation, according to a new report. According to AeroCloud’s Getting on the Runway to Growth report, 92% of airport leaders rank moving on from legacy technology as a top commercial […]
Warsaw Chopin Airport admits its traffic volumes ‘surpassed expectations’ last year, when nearly 18.5 million passengers and a record 103.6 thousand tonnes of cargo passed through its facilities. It says that the performance in 2023 “significantly exceeded forecasts” that projected it would handle slightly over 15 million passengers. In reality, Chopin Airport served precisely 18,499,527 […]
Cannes-Mandelieu and Golfe de Saint-Tropez airports in France today announced that they plan abandoning diesel vehicles to reduce their joint emissions by more than 50 tonnes of CO2 per year. The Côte d’Azur airports state that any internal combustion vehicle that cannot be converted to fully electric engines will now be fuelled with biodiesel, which will result […]
Rising traffic demand at Munich Airport has led to a significant increase in the number of services to Asia from the German gateway this year, with record passengers numbers expected on the routes from the start of the summer schedules. It notes that a total of nine airlines are currently planning 107 weekly flights to […]
Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) in Cambodia has provided further evidence of its green credentials by achieving Level 3 ‘Optimisation’ certification in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. The programme requires the monitoring of the airport carbon footprint and the implementation of actions to reduce the footprint over the years. To achieve its targets, PNH has […]
SNC-Lavalin and Engineering Net Zero director, Isabelle Smith, shares insight on the challenges ahead and explains why data-driven decisions will be fundamental in achieving the industry’s green ambitions. The long, steady journey to reduce carbon emissions is becoming urgent. Against the unrelenting pressure of a changing, unpredictable climate, the task is enormous. Aviation accounts for […]
Tulsa International Airport yesterday held a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the commencement of construction on a new international customs facility, which will allow commercial air carriers to offer non-stop international flights out of TUL for the first time. The new 45,000 square foot addition to the existing terminal is expected to be completed in late […]
RS&H’s Ben Moore and Nathan Stinnette discuss the importance of sustainability management plans and getting sustainability programmes to take-off at US airports. Sustainability is increasingly seen as a critical facet of airport planning, but getting sustainability programmes to take off at airports is no easy feat, requiring substantial effort in data collection and management, planning, […]
While yet to hit pre-COVID traffic levels, passenger numbers at Singapore Changi continue to travel in an upwards direction, reaching 58.9 million in 2023, representing 86% of the traffic recorded in 2019. Aircraft movements, which include landings and take-offs, totalled 328,000, as compared to 382,000 in 2019. Against a volatile global economic environment, airfreight throughput […]
The Valentine’s Day cargo season for fresh flowers begins at Quito Airport today and will last until just before the big day. The airport is one of the world’s biggest handlers of fresh flowers, regularly processing in excess of 20,000 tonnes of flowers in the 23 days leading up to Valentine’s Day. With its extensive […]
Focusing on three key issues will help the aviation industry reduce carbon emissions, writes Landrum & Brown’s sustainable airports specialist, Sara Christen. For anyone involved in the aviation industry or running an airport today, a major talking point is the sector’s contribution to global warming, and how we can cut carbon emissions and improve our […]
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) in the US is set to become the latest gateway to trial Aurrigo’s autonomous Auto-Dolly baggage tug. The trial at CVG is being conducted in collaboration with International Airlines Group (IAG) – the parent company of British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, Vueling and LEVEL – and the US airport. “As one […]
Turin Airport (TRN) is celebrating the opening of a new train link that makes it possible to travel between it and downtown Turin in just 31 minutes. The importance of the new Turin-Airport-Ciriè-Germagnano railway line saw Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Matteo Salvini; Minister of Public Administration, Paolo Zangrillo, and […]
Sydney Airport closed out 2023 with its strongest monthly passenger traffic since 2019, with a total of 3.58 million passengers passing through the terminals in December 2023. The total represented a 15.8% increase on passenger traffic in December last year and a 90.6% recovery compared to December 2019. Sydney Airport’s T1 international terminal saw 1.5 […]
London Luton Airport has been recognised by ACI World for its commitment to continuously improving the customer experience across its facilities, achieving Level 2 of the association’s globally recognised accreditation programme. It follows a comprehensive review of all aspects of the airport’s passenger experience including training and engagement with airport staff and business partners. London […]
Jennifer Desharnais, ACI World’s director of sustainability and environmental protection, explains more about the Airports of Tomorrow initative and new Green Transition Toolkit. Airports have been at the centre of aviation decarbonisation, and they continue to be on the front line to provide and facilitate sustainable solutions and practices for the entire ecosystem. The ACI […]
A total 15.3 million passengers passed through Helsinki Airport last year – nearly 20% up on 2022. The total accounted for 84% of all passengers handled at Finland’s airports in 2022, with 88% of travellers at the gateway boarding an international flight. Transfer passengers catching connecting flights made up 27% of all international passengers, around […]
Aena today announced that an all-time high of 283,195,399 passengers (+16.2%) passed through Spain’s airports in 2023 – nearly 3% more than the previous record, set prior to the pandemic in 2019. Reflecting on the performance, Aena’s chairman and CEO, Maurici Lucena, stated that “the record figures in air transport are fundamental for the economic […]
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) celebrated its 50th anniversary at the weekend. “North Texas would not be the national success story it is today without DFW Airport. The City of Dallas has grown tremendously over the years in large part due to DFW,” enthused Mayor of Dallas, Eric Johnson. “While DFW has benefitted our region […]
ICF’s Eliot Lees and Chris Watson consider some of the key issues airports should take into account when planning for the electrification of their fleet of ground support vehicles and equipment. As airports seek to reduce their carbon footprint and align with environmental goals, transitioning to electric vehicles is not just an ethical choice, it […]
Airport World takes a closer look at some of the sustainability stories making headlines across globe in the final quarter of the year. Taking Airport Carbon Accreditation to the next level Amsterdam Schiphol, Christchurch, Göteborg Landvetter, Madeira, Malmö and Rotterdam The Hague airports are among the first 10 airports on the planet to achieve Level […]
Candace McGraw, CEO of Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), has become the first female chair of ACI World. McGraw will head the ACI World Governing Board (WGB) that consists of 28 leading airport CEOs nominated by the regional ACI Boards, plus the Immediate past chair. The ACI WGB directs the organisation through strategic discussions on […]
Dublin Airport is to overhaul the food and drink offerings in both its terminals, adding more than 20 new and improved bars, cafes and restaurants for passengers. The latest changes are the final piece in the jigsaw of a five-year journey to transform the food and beverage options available to passengers at Dublin Airport and […]
The growth and development of ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme was one of the sustainable aviation highlights of 2023, writes WSP’s Dr Catherine Wilson. There is no time to waste when it comes to protecting the environment, especially as at the close of 2023 there will be just seven years left to meet the International […]
Airport Handling, a majority-owned subsidiary of global air and travel services provider dnata, has been awarded a seven-year ground handling license by Aeroporti di Roma and will establish operations at Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO). The company is targeting to launch operations in the Italian capital in the second quarter of 2024. Airport Handling states that […]
The foundations for the aviation sector’s transition to renewable energy are set to be developed in the Baltic Sea region within the next three years, according to partners in the EU backed project. The bold claim coincides with the official launch of the ‘BSR HyAirport’ project, which involves the participation of 16 airports, airlines, research […]
A record 45.9 million passengers passed through Hamad International Airport (DOH) last year – 31% more than in 2022 when Qatar hosted the FIFA World Cup finals. The airport also enjoyed a 22% rise in flights and a modest upturn in cargo volumes as it welcomed 252,059 aircraft movements and 2.34 million tons of freight […]
London Gatwick claims to have become the first international airport to open an Electric Forecourt, a dedicated electric vehicle (EV) charging station for all to use from today. The brand-new site has 30 high-power and low-power electric vehicle chargers available via contactless payment alongside high-speed Wi-Fi, a lounge area, Costa Coffee, Little Fresh convenience store […]
We report on the release of the newest edition of ACI World’s ASQ 2023 Global Traveller Survey, ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s commitment to the sustainable growth of aviation, and ACI EUROPE’s defence of airport charges. ACI World news: Global Traveller Survey Unveiled at the Airports Innovate Conference conference in Oman, the latest edition of […]
Hamburg Airport handled 13.6 million passengers in 2023 as it continued its recovery from the global pandemic. Indeed, aircraft load factors hit record levels during the year and passenger numbers hit an all-time high for October, although the annual passenger total remains 22% down on 2019. Strong demand for holiday travel Compared to 2022, 22% […]
The inaugural Airports Innovate conference in Oman proved to be an event to remember for the 500 delegates in attendance, writes Joe Bates. As you would expect from an event dedicated to ‘innovation’, the inaugural Airports Innovate conference in Muscat, Oman, addressed a number of innovative ways airports, and the aviation industry, are tackling the […]
Ottawa International Airport (YOW) has opened a collection of new food and beverage outlets as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the passenger experience. The new additions include Bridgehead Coffee, La Bottega – Ottawa’s favourite Italian grocer and supplier of Italian foods – and Bento, the popular sushi outlet that began life as a […]
The opening of Abu Dhabi International Airport’s eagerly awaited Terminal A is expected to signal the dawn of an exciting new era for the UAE gateway, writes Joe Bates. Without doubt the opening of the new state-of-the-art Terminal A at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) is a game changer for the UAE gateway, as it […]
ACI World director general, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, considers the sustainability challenges facing airports. This edition of Airport World focuses on the sustainability of airports and the wider aviation system – a topic that perhaps has never been as timely as today. As global demand for air travel rises, the industry has the ambitious task […]
Sacramento International Airport’s $1.3 billion expansion programme will take the Californian gateway to new heights, writes Arthur Shurr. The 19th century California Gold Rush transformed Sacramento into a major commercial centre, a vital distribution locus, and the capital of California. Today, the $1.3 billion SMForward expansion programme for Sacramento International Airport (SMF) looks to drive […]
Airport Authority Hong Kong reports that Hong Kong International Airport will close 2023 with passenger numbers back to 80% of pre-pandemic levels. The airport’s recovery is in line with Airport Authority Hong Kong’s forecast. During Christmas holiday travel peak, the airport handled more than 160,000 passengers daily on both the 22nd and 23rd of December. […]
Cutting edge technologies will help airports lead the industry to net zero, writes Olivier Vidal. The aviation industry is a contributor to greenhouse gases, responsible for 2% of global carbon emissions. While attention has been on reducing the impact of airplanes and increasing fuel efficiency, airports add to that carbon footprint. This offers opportunities for […]
Today will be the first day since the pandemic that Brisbane Airport’s International Terminal will see 20,000 passengers in a single day. Hip Hop Santa performers will greet passengers as they arrive at the airport, just in time for Christmas. The milestone signifies a resilient stride forward for the airport and Queensland’s tourism industry, showcasing […]
VIEW THE ISSUE HERE DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE HERE Airport profile: Abu Dhabi & Sacramento Special report: Airports Innovate Review Plus: ACI news; People Matters; and World Business Partners Extra The heat is on! Editor, Joe Bates, reflects on aviation’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint in this ‘sustainability’ themed issue of Airport World. The global […]
Gurjit Wood, sustainable aviation at Arup, considers what makes a sustainable airport and how the aviation industry can achieve sustainability. Although complex in its delivery, sustainable aviation can be addressed through the realisation of two major priorities: a transition to sustainable fuels, and the development of sustainable airports. It could be argued that the former […]
A total of 3.41 million passengers passed through Sydney Airport in November 2023, a rise of 15% on the corresponding month a year ago, and just 8.6% below pre-pandemic levels. Sydney Airport’s T1 international terminal saw 1.26 million passengers pass through in November, a 29.8% increase on the same month last year and a 93% […]
Birmingham Airport (BHX) in the UK is halfway through more than £10 million of aircraft stand upgrades to make its operation more efficient and reliable for customers. The project is making all the stands on BHX’s South Terminal capable of accommodating Airbus 321 and Boeing 737 aircraft, which many airlines use. Andrew Holl, BHX’s airfield […]
The project design-build team behind New York JFK’s new Terminal 1 have opened a pre-production centre to test technology before it is deployed in the the new $9.5 billion terminal. The team includes the New Terminal One (NTO) consortium appointed to design, build and operate the new complex and partners AECOM Tishman Construction, Schneider Electric, […]
Göteborg Landvetter Airport and Malmö Airport are two of the first ten airports in the world, and the only airports in Northern Europe, to receive the highest level of certification according to the Airport Carbon Accreditation – the international industry standard for climate transition work at the world’s airports. The increased ambition means that the […]
Global sustainable design and engineering firm, Stantec, has been selected by the United States Virgin Islands Port Authority (VIPA) as the first sole consultant for both the Cyril E King Airport in St. Thomas and the Henry E Rohlsen Airport in St. Croix. The firm will provide comprehensive airport consulting services for ongoing development and […]
Los Angeles International Airport’s Consolidated Rent-A-Car (ConRAC) facility has been recognised with an Energy and Operational Carbon Design Merit award from the US Green Building Council. The award, from the US Green Building Council’s Los Angeles chapter, follows recent news of the project receiving Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold v4 certification from […]
Sydney Airport expects 2.6 million passengers to pass through its facilities during the upcoming Christmas break. The anticipated total is up 500,000 passengers on last year’s Christmas holiday season, and represents a 95% recovery compared to the same period in 2019. The international recovery is especially strong, with 1.1 million passengers expected to use T1 […]
A total of 6.1 million passengers travelled through Heathrow during November, traffic to North America peaking ahead of Thanksgiving while flights to India were full in the lead up to Diwali. The UK hub reports that over 50,000 passengers flew across the Atlantic from Heathrow on the Friday before the Thankgiving holiday in the US. Similarly, […]
The human factor in innovation Richard Plenty and Terri Morrissey reflect on how investing in people and culture is essential for innovation. What was impossible yesterday is an accomplishment today, while tomorrow heralds the unbelievable’. These were the words of entrepreneur, Percival Elliott Fansler shortly before the world’s first commercial airline flight took off from […]
Endorsed by ACI, ICAO and IATA, Incheon Airport Aviation Academy strives to lead the way in global aviation training. Incheon Airport Aviation Academy (IAAA) is a prominent aviation training centre based at Incheon International Airport in Northeast Asia. Since its establishment in 2008, IAAA has consistently provided high-quality aviation training programmes to over 10,000 aviation […]
Vantage Airport Group has reached agreement to acquire an additional ownership interest in LaGuardia Gateway Partners (LGP) from Skanska, which is divesting its 32% ownership in the consortium. Vantage will acquire approximately 16% of Skanska’s interest for $57 million. The transaction is conditional on regulatory approvals and customary terms and conditions. LGP is the private […]
Kansai International Airport (KIX) has officially re-opened the newly renovated international departure area of Terminal 1. Operator, Kansai Airports, says the major renovation is designed to enhance the passenger experience by providing them with bigger and better facilities. According to KIX, the project serves multiple purposes, one of which is that it will raise the […]
ACI World today reiterates its support for cleaner energy sources at the Global Sustainable Aviation Forum, a critical side-event of COP28, organised by the Air Transport Action Group (ATAG) that reunites key speakers across the aviation sector. Director general, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, said: “Airports are identifying new opportunities and roles they can play in […]
Airports Council International today officially launched Level 5 certification of its global Airport Carbon Accreditation programme at the 28th United Nations Climate Change conference (COP28). Amsterdam Schiphol, Christchurch, Göteborg Landvetter, Madeira, Malmö and Rotterdam The Hague airports are among the first 10 airports on the planet to reach the new highest certification level in the […]
Announcements, news stories and opinions from ACI World Business Partners across the globe. Transoft Solutions Introduces AeroCENTRAL Transoft Solutions, developers of productivity-enhancing software and services for aviation, civil infrastructure, transportation and traffic safety industries, has announced a new addition to their aviation product portfolio that bridges the gap between airside planning and operations. AeroCENTRAL, the […]
Visitors arriving in Western Australia will now be met with new Noongar language welcome signs that light up to reflect the six seasons of the Noongar calendar. The six-metre-high signs are adorned with Indigenous symbols that reflect the landscape and meaning of Wadjak Boodja. Perth Airport’s chief commercial and aviation officer, Kate Holsgrove, said the […]
Christmas has officially started at Heathrow, when this morning’s inbound passengers were met with a specially commissioned ballet performance from six professional dancers hailing from some of the UK’s most prestigious companies. The dance was created especially for the airport to give passengers a magical start to their Christmas break, and to celebrate the emotional […]
Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport generates nearly 20,000 jobs and contributes $4 billion in annual economic output to the Upstate South Carolina region, according to the facility’s latest economic impact study. The study found that GSP’s $4 billion total economic impact is 40% greater than the $2.9 billion impact in 2018 and eleven times greater than the […]
Cork Airport is forecast to have its busiest year in its history in terms of international passengers this year with 2.75 million set to fly in and out of the Munster’s most popular airport in 2023. Last month, 191,000 passengers flew to and from Cork Airport, a 14% increase on November 2022. While almost 2.2 […]
United Parcel Service (UPS) has reached an agreement with Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) to develop a new hub facility at Hong Kong International Airport. The airport is confident that the complex which will further enhance HKG’s cargo capacity and reinforce its status as the world’s leading air cargo hub. Expected to complete in 2028, […]
OAG’s chief analyst, John Grant, considers the potential opportunities and challenges of eVTOL aircraft and how the aviation sector might adapt to meet the new trend. The aviation industry is about to embark on a transformative period of technological change as it strives to meet its net zero targets within the next two decades. While […]
Darwin Airport will get its own airport resort next week when two former ‘reimagined’ and now integrated airport hotels open as the Novotel & Mercure Darwin Airport Resort. The milestone opening follows a A$30 million investment by the Airport Development Group (ADG), which also owns the adjacent Darwin Airport. Darwin Airport is the northern gateway […]
SSP America has opened a collection of restaurants and bars at Chicago’s Midway International Airport (MDW), with the majority located in a food court area called the Central Market. The collection is comprised primarily of local brands consistent with SSP America’s focus on bringing a ‘taste of place’ to the airports its serves. It has […]
LaGuardia’s Terminal B shows just what can be achieved when it comes to designing an airport terminal that is accessible by all, writes Stanis Smith. Many in the airport industry are aware that LaGuardia’s Terminal B has won a host of host of design and sustainability awards despite its full construction only being completed in […]
ACI World director general, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, has announced his decision to step down from his role at the end of 2024. His departure is driven by family reasons, as de Oliveira expresses his desire to return to Europe with his family after four impactful years at the helm of ACI World. Taking on […]
History will be made at London’s Heathrow Airport today when a Virgin Atlantic test flight to New York becomes the first transatlantic flight powered by 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The B787 flight, which has been made possible by up to £1 million in funding from the UK government, is seen as a significant step […]
Security upgrades are now underway at Leeds Bradford Airport in the UK with the installation of what it calls “game changing” security infrastructure. According to the gateway, the installation of next-generation industry leading Leidos equipment will offer a smoother customer experience and enable passengers to travel through security without the need to remove items from […]
Work to create Scotland’s largest airport-based solar farm is now underway at Glasgow Airport following the successful completion of the development phase of the project. Glasgow Airport, in partnership with energy transition adviser and developer Ikigai Group, has completed the development phase and the subsequent successful financial close for a 19.9MW solar plant with Zestec […]
Brisbane Airport’s Lost Property Auction is back with a record number of items, allowing the public to grab a bargain just before Christmas. A total of 673 lots are on offer this year, with online bidding closing progressively on Sunday, December 17, from 10am. Around 60,000 people per day pass through the Domestic and International […]
Airports Council International today reiterated its support for the “visionary International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) goal for sustainable aviation fuel” to come from the Third ICAO Conference on Aviation and Alternative Fuels (CAAF/3) in Dubai. As reported on Friday, governments from over 100 States, meeting with industry and civil society, have set a goal that […]
ACI’s Technology Innovation Awards, held in partnership with Amadeus, highlight cutting edge initiatives and leadership by airports that improve operations or increase efficiency. In what has now become an annual event, ACI World and Amadeus invite airports to submit innovative technology projects and examples of leadership that enhance the passenger journey, drive operational efficiency or […]
The aviation sector has adopted a collective goal to start the shift away from fossil fuels at the third Conference on Aviation and Alternative Fuels (CAAF/3), convened at ICAO. Governments from over 100 States, meeting with industry and civil society, have set a goal that aviation fuel in 2030 should be 5% less carbon intensive […]
Airport World rounds-up a handful of the latest sustainability news stories making headlines across the globe. New sustainability milestone for Hyderabad and London Luton Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD) and London Luton (have become the latest gateways to achieve Level 4 in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. Achieving Level ‘Transition’ status, HYD – operated […]
Charlotte Ljunggren, director for marketing and commercial business development, tells us more about the opening of Stockholm Arlanda Airport’s new Marketplace development. Are you excited about the first phase opening of Stockholm Arlanda’s new Marketplace development? Absolutely, as it will transform the commercial space in Terminal 5 and is the second big development at the […]
George Richardson, co-founder and CEO of AeroCloud, explains how computer vision can transform airport operations and the passenger experience. The removal of COVID-19 restrictions has allowed a steady return to air travel. According to the UN Aviation Agency, the number of air passengers carried in 2022 was an estimated 47% up on the previous year […]
INFORM’s Alexander Wendorff explains how advanced technologies can help airports better manage and optimise their resources. Today’s challenging market conditions continue to heap pressure on airports to make the optimum use of their resources. Indeed, growing traffic demands, labour shortages, increased pressure to meet sustainability goals and heightened regulations are just some of the reasons […]
ACI’s newest event centred around innovation, Airports Innovate, officially begins today with the Welcome Reception at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre in Muscat. ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, ACI EUROPE, and ACI World note that the theme of the event is ‘Dynamic Think Tank – Reveal the Future’, and that it will highlight some […]
Sheikh Aimen Al Hosni, CEO of Oman Airports, provides Joe Bates with an update on the progress of Muscat International Airport and the development of his country’s airport system. Can you tell us a little more about Muscat International Airport (MCT)? Muscat International Airport is arguably the jewel in the crown of our airports as […]
ACI World director general, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, considers how innovation continues to make passenger journeys easier and enhance the sustainability of airports. Airports have come a long way since their inception, with innovation leading many of the changes that have transformed them from transport hubs into destinations in their own right. Innovation has been […]
Tulsa International Airport has announced a significant milestone, it handled more outbound passengers in October 2023 than it has in a single month since July 2008. The Oklahoma gateway accommodated a total of 149,876 enplanements in October – 4.5% more than in the corresponding month a year ago, 11% up on October 2019 and the […]
We provide a picture review of some of highlights of the recent ACI World Customer Experience Global Summit in Incheon. Over 600 participants from across the world attended the ACI World Customer Experience Global Summit – the premier global event dedicated to the airport customer experience – in Incheon, South Korea, in early September. The […]
ACI World and Amadeus today open submissions for the prestigious 2024 Technology Innovation Awards that showcase the top airport technology initiatives and leadership that are shaping the future of air transport. ACI airport members are encouraged to submit their candidacy to the fourth and growing edition of ACI World-Amadeus Technology Innovation Awards, which will see […]
Munich Airport is intensifying its existing climate targets and now intends to achieve Net Zero by 2035 instead of 2050 as previously intended. Achieving Net Zero means reducing the emissions that the airport itself can influence – known as Scope 1 and 2 emissions – by a minimum of 90%. The remaining around 10% of […]
In a first for an Australian airport, Google has launched Indoor Live View at Sydney Airport, just in time for the Christmas travel rush. The new augmented reality (AR) feature on Google Maps provides arrows, directions, and distance markers superimposed on the camera view, to point people in the right direction across the terminals. According […]
Amsterdam Schiphol continues to innovate by using smart solutions to enhance its operational efficiency and help secure its long-term future, write the Royal Schiphol Group’s Zahra Merchant and Jan Zekveld. The very nature of the aviation industry ensures that it is constantly evolving and creating new logistical and transformational challenges for airports, which need to […]
London Stansted Airport recorded its busiest ever October as nearly 2.6 million passengers passed through its terminal, surpassing the previous record set in 2018. The UK gateway states that the popularity of its extensive European route network, plus the half-term getaway, ensured that it welcomed more than 28,000 more passengers than in 2018. The total […]
The Golden Arches of McDonald’s Australia are ready to rise for the first time at Brisbane Airport’s Domestic Terminal this summer. It’s one of 10 new food and beverage destinations opening in the coming months as part of the airport’s terminal redevelopment. Last year, 16 million passengers passed through the transport hub, which is the […]
We report on the latest traffic statistics for ACI World, the release of ACI Asia-Pacific’s new Airport Connectivity Report, and ACI EUROPE’s green skies commitment. ACI WORLD news: Global traffic figures close to full recovery ACI World has published its latest quarterly air travel outlook revealing global passenger traffic expected to recover in early 2024 […]
The Shannon Airport Group contributes almost €4 billion (€3.96bn) to Ireland’s GDP and supports over 20,300 jobs, according to a new report. Published today, the report independently produced by economic advisory firm Oxford Economics, highlights the significant positive impact of The Shannon Airport Group to the Irish and Mid-West economy in 2022. It also considers […]
A total of 2.5 million passengers passed through Copenhagen Airport in October, 12% more than in the same month a year ago. The increase was helped by the launch of 13 new services to Asia, Africa and the Middle East this winter, meaning that 228 direct routes across the globe are currently served from Copenhagen. […]
Travellers to Salt Lake City International Airport are now welcomed by a new entry feature titled ‘The Peaks’, a monumental sculpture imagined by Artist Gordon Huether then fabricated and installed by his team. “Salt Lake City International Airport is still growing and transforming just like our City,” said Salt Lake City Mayor, Erin Mendenhall. “For […]
Asia-Pacific’s airports continue to appeal to investors interested in privatisation deals and upgrading infrastructure, writes Modalis Infrastructure Partners’ partner, president and CEO, Curtis Grad. Despite being very slow to remove COVID restrictions, Asia-Pacific remains a key region for airport investment and development as traffic flows are predicted to see some of the biggest rises in […]
Nakhon Si Thammarat International Airport in southern Thailand is set to open its new $40 million international terminal next month. The new eight-gate facility covers 30,000sqm and is said to boast state-of-the-art facilities that will boost the airport’s capacity to four million passengers per annum. Three airlines – Nok Air, Thai AirAsia and Thai Lion […]
Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) in the UK has achieved its highest score to date from The Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB), achieving a score of 95% and being awarded a 5-star rating. An independent organisation, GRESB provides validated Environmental, Social and Governance data for real estate and infrastructure businesses globally. To achieve a rating, […]
Pragma Consulting’s Katie Hastings looks at some examples of retail/F&B innovation at airports across the globe. Airports have enjoyed a sudden influx of high passenger numbers since the end of the pandemic. While this is great news, it has had an impact on airport operations and commercial space capacity has become a major challenge for […]
Budapest Airport handled close to 11 million passengers during the first three quarters of 2023 to ensure that its traffic levels are just 10% below pre-COVID levels. It is confident that the upward trajectory will continue this winter, which will see 36 airlines flying to 107 destinations. Sunday, October 29, saw Ryanair start new services […]
Sydney Airport (SYD) has named the new flyover into the domestic airport after aviation trailblazer, Deborah Lawrie AM. Lawrie was the first woman in Australia to become a pilot for a commercial airline, something she only achieved after winning the country’s first successful High Court sex discrimination case for employment. The decision paved the way […]
Passengers passing through Singapore Changi will be able to enjoy a candy-themed wonderland as part of its festive festivities! From tomorrow and lasting until the end of March 2024, the airport’s candy-themed wonderland will offer whimsical carnival games and rides, as well as a snow house that will transport visitors “into to a world of wintry […]
Dublin and Cork airports welcomed over three million passengers between them in October as traffic levels continue to rise at Ireland’s two busiest gateways. A total of 2.8 million passed through the doors of Dublin Airport in October, which was 4% higher than in the same month last year, according to airport operator daa. While […]
Uptown Phoenix and InMotion are the latest retail outlets to open inside the brand-new S1 Concourse in Terminal 4 at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). The WH Smith North America (WHSNA) operated stores were celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony, followed by a cheque presentation to the company’s long-time charity partner, Miracle Flights, which […]
Passenger numbers in most of Asia-Pacific should return to pre-pandemic levels over the next 12-18 months, according to S&P Global Ratings, during which time it believes that industrywide capacity constraints, due to supply-chain issues, should support load factors and ticket fares. “Demand-supply dynamics are favouring aviation-related sectors in Asia-Pacific,” said S&P Global Ratings credit analyst […]
Tulsa International Airport (TUL) passengers who are blind or have low vision (BLV) now have free access to the Aira app, which is a visual interpreting service that acts as an assistant to help users navigate their environments and answer their questions. Aira customers are able to use this service anywhere for a fee, but […]
More than 500 business and regional leaders gathered on Wednesday, November 1, for Ontario International Airport’s annual State of the Airport event, and to celebrate seven years of local control of the Californian gateway. Serving one of the most dynamic population and economic centres in the United States, ONT will serve more than six million […]
London Stansted Airport has received planning permission to extend its terminal building. The decision was made by the Planning Inspectorate following a hearing held on 17 October and, according to the UK, the extension “will transform the airport experience and provide capacity to accommodate growth towards the airport’s approved limit”. The scheme will add a […]
VIEW THE ISSUE HERE Airport profile: Muscat In Focus: Sustainability Plus: ACI World Customer Experience Global Summit; Investing in Asia-Pacific; eVTOLs and Retail/F&B The next big thing! Editor, Joe Bates, reflects on the ‘innovation’ theme of the penultimate 2023 issue of Airport World. I have no idea who first coined the expression, ‘the next big […]
ACI World is to work with global aviation consultancies Netherlands Airport Consultants (NACO) and To70 on the creation of a global standardised framework for improved airport environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) reporting. The association notes that airports “face the ongoing challenge of investing in infrastructure to meet future air travel demand, while also ensuring […]
Sydney Airport’s popular volunteer ambassadors are now sporting a new uniform, which has been 100% Australian designed and made. Since 1999, ambassadors have been offering customer support in the terminals, with teams across T1 international as well as T2 and T3 domestic. The ambassador programme was introduced to help with the influx of visitors for […]
Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) operator, Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), has signed an agreement with the Dongguan Port Group to establish a joint venture to develop HKIA Dongguan Logistics Park in Mainland China. The new facility will handle sea-air cargo transhipments being transported between Hong Kong and Dongguan. When completed, cargo security screening, palletisation […]
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport has opened its own concrete recycling plant to reduce the CO2 emissions associated with transporting waste rubble to a facility off-site. The new facility will crush old, used concrete from renovation and maintenance projects to make new concrete or foundation material, in collaboration with Heijmans and VolkerWessels Infra Schiphol. The material will […]
ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East today announced the findings of its market research on airport concession business models and non-aeronautical revenues on the opening day of the The Trinity Forum 2023 in Hong Kong. Based on survey feedback from airport operators across the region, the research reveals that airports are giving “noteworthy consideration” to new […]
The air transportation industry is immersed in discussions and events revolving around innovation. However, these conversations often overlook the strategic framework required for effective implementation. In this article, we explore the recent executive-level Forum on Innovation organised by the International Airport Professional Community of Practice (IAP CoP). The objective was to highlight the vital role […]
Idaho Falls Regional Airport in the US will soon get a new look as it embarks on a 18,000-square-foot expansion. The $45 million project, financed through federal airport funding, is expected to begin in early 2024 and finish by 2026. According to the airport, the project will significantly expand and replace the outbound baggage system […]
London Gatwick has achieved Level 4+ ‘Transition’ status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation scheme – the only institutionally-endorsed, global carbon management certification programme for airports. The global scheme independently assesses and recognises the efforts of airports to manage and reduce their carbon emissions through six levels of certification: ‘Mapping’, ‘Reduction’, ‘Optimisation’, ‘Neutrality’, ‘Transformation’ and ‘Transition’. Level […]
Dublin Airport is targeting an increase in the number of passengers travelling to and from the airport by bus over the coming years. The airport is seeking expressions of interest from bus operators who would like to operate scheduled bus services from the various bus stops outside the two terminals from Spring 2024 onwards. The […]
It’s not just witches on broom sticks taking to the skies over the Halloween bank holiday, Shannon Airport is expecting record breaking passenger numbers with over 44,000 people forecast to take off from the airport throughout the October holiday period. This will be the highest number of passengers to travel through the airport during the […]
The creation of its first ‘Experience Space’ ensures that a new and truly unique experience is awaiting the travellers at Copenhagen Airport, according Gebr Heinemann. The travel retailer reveals that the new innovation centres around the overarching topic of ‘fluid perspectives’ and invites the visitors to enjoy cutting edge innovation with lift and learn technology, […]
Global airport operator, Fraport, is gradually converting its fleet of vehicles at Frankfurt Airport to electric drives. Parallel to this, the charging infrastructure at Germany’s largest air traffic hub is also expanding and evolving. For now, it still works conventionally, with current flowing from a charging point into vehicles’ storage batteries. However, Fraport boldly states […]
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) has awarded Fraport Washington Partnership LLC (Fraport USA) a ten-year contract to lease, develop and manage the concessions programme at Washington DC’s Dulles and Reagan National airports. Under the new contract with the MWAA, effective in January 2024, Fraport USA will be responsible for day-to-day management of the concessions programme […]
Thomas Woldbye has today officially taken over as CEO of London’s Heathrow Airport. His arrival marks a new chapter for Heathrow, which the UK hub states will see it push innovation in passenger service, sustainability and growth at the airport over the next decade. He is spending his first day meeting colleagues across the airport […]
Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) in the UK has announced over a £100m investment into a vital regeneration of its terminal facilities which will dramatically improve the passenger experience and help unlock economic growth for the region. Approved by Leeds City Council, the work is set to commence in autumn 2023 and is expected to complete […]
Abu Dhabi International Airport’s new Terminal A, which will double the UAE gateway’s current capacity to 45 million passengers per annum, will officially open on November 1, it was announced today. Etihad’s ceremonial flight will take place on October 31, ahead of the terminal’s eagerly awaited opening to the public the following day. Airlines will […]
Announcements, news stories and opinions from ACI World Business Partners across the globe. Jacobs and HOK to work on modernisation of SEA’s S Concourse Jacobs and Hellmuth, Obata + Kassabaum (HOK) will both play key roles in the modernisation of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport’s S Concourse. Jacobs has beem selected by the Port of Seattle to […]
The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority has completed a major bond financing totalling $1.062 billion. The combination of the bond sales in 2021 and 2023 have provided $2.35 billion towards the projected $3.4 billion cost of San Diego International Airport’s Terminal 1 project, whose first phase is set to open in late summer 2025. […]
Frankfurt Airport (FRA) welcomed some 5.8 million passengers in September 2023 – an increase of 18.2% compared to the same month last year. Operator, Fraport AG, however, is quick to point out that the monthly total was 13.9% down on September 2019. The latest figures mean that Frankfurt Airport handled a total of 44.5 million […]
Terri Morrissey and Dr Richard Plenty consider the importance of creating a work culture where employees feel safe and confident that their opinions will be valued and respected. How many of us have felt we had something important to say at work but failed to do so? Speaking up can be hard to do. It […]
Sam Folley and Nicola Ihnatowicz explore the wider social and stakeholder push for better diversity and inclusion for employers in the airports sector. The pandemic has resulted in a complete shift in working practices. The advent of flexible working is an obvious change, but there has been a fundamental shift in the dynamic between employers […]
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) contributes an estimated $38 billion in direct and indirect payroll support, $24 billion in visitor spending and about $5 billion in state and local tax revenue each year, according to the results of an updated economic impact study. The study also reveals that the Texas gateway also supports more than […]
Self-service check-in and baggage drop will soon be possible for passengers travelling to Kuala Lumpur International Airport from the city’s central rail station as a result of a new deal between aviation technology provider, SITA, and Express Rail Link Sin Bhd (ERL). The agreement will see SITA equip ERL with new self-service check-in kiosks and […]
Associations representing the European aviation sector today adopted a Joint Industry Declaration announcing their intention to make Europe the most efficient and environmentally friendly sky to fly in the world. In line with the EU’s Green Deal objective of reaching climate neutrality by 2050, and to optimise capacity in the skies, associations representing airlines, airports, […]
It has been announced that Porter Airlines and Nieuport have “amicably resolved their outstanding disputes and litigation” relating to terminal fees at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. In autumn 2022, the owner of the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (BBTCA) passenger terminal, Nieuport Aviation Infrastructure Partners GP, obtained judgment against Porter Airlines Inc relating to […]
Trideep Barau, ABB’s global segment manager for infrastructure, considers the challenge of building and operating greener airports. Over the next decade, hundreds of new airports are planned for the global south, while airports in the global north continue to expand capacity, which poses the question, how are we going to do this and reduce carbon […]
Changi Airport Group (CAG) is to extend the concession contract of Shilla Travel Retail (Shilla) for the Perfumes and Cosmetics Concession at Singapore Changi for another four years. The extension covers 22 outlets and spans over 7,700sqm of retail space across Changi Airport’s four terminals, and means that Shilla will be present at the airport […]
One of the new challenges facing US airports today is how to respond to and meet current and future demand for parking facilities for electric vehicles (EVs), writes Vitaly Vinogradov. In 2022, more than 10 million electric vehicles (EVs) found their way into the garages and driveways of consumers across the globe. By the end […]
Erin Rodriguez tells us more about how customer service initiatives such as the chance to meet a sloth and celebrating Christmas in July bring joy to passengers at San Antonio International Airport. Imagine you’ve just landed, or you’re headed to your gate – and suddenly, you see a sloth. Or it could be a snake, […]
Airports, and it seems airport baggage trollies, are getting smarter, as today’s news from Munich Airport confirms. Starting from today, passengers at the German gateway can enjoy a more digital experience in the time before departure. Using a tablet on a carry-on baggage trolley, they can enter their flight data manually or scan their boarding […]
A total of 2.9 million passengers passed through the doors of Dublin Airport in September, 11% higher than in the same month in 2022, according to airport operator daa. Cork Airport, also operated by daa, performed equally well with some 260,000 passengers using its facilities in September – up 12% on the same month a year […]
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) believes that it has elevated the guest experience with the opening of a host of new retail and F&B outlets at the West Gates in the Tom Bradley International Terminal. According to Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) and concessions partner, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW), the new dining options offer a mix of […]
Construction work has begun on Poland’s new multi-modal megahub 40 kilometres southwest of capital, Warsaw. According to its developers, Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) is a key transport development project for Poland that is crucial for the economic growth of both the country and the wider European region. At its heart will be the largest airport in […]
Heathrow has launched a trial allowing passengers to pre-book security slots ahead of their journeys, one of the first airports in the UK to offer this system. Heathrow Timeslot is a free service which will give passengers a designated time and entry point to the security search area. According to the UK hub, this will […]
Air traffic figures for the first nine months of 2023 show the UK aviation industry is busier than it has been since the pandemic, although still slightly below the record 2019 flight numbers. In the year so far, air traffic control services provider, NATS, has safely managed more than 1.8 million flights in UK airspace, […]
iGA Istanbul Airport has a new acting CEO today in the shape of Selahattin Bilgen, after the sudden departure of Kadri Samsunlu on Friday. According to the airport operator, Samsunlu, who served the airport for six years, left by mutual consent with immediate effect. It notes that he had been at the helm of the […]
Philadelphia International Airport continues to embrace biometric technology to enhance security and ensure the quick and easy facilitation of its passengers, writes SITA Americas director, Kristin Lindsey. With the return of international travel gathering pace, an ever-increasing number of US airports are adopting international outbound biometric boarding solutions to support the efforts of US Customs […]
Driven by an interest in how technology, architecture and artificial intelligence (AI) will transform the face of air travel, Icelandair has utilised an AI image generation tool to envisage the architectural landscape of some of the US’s largest airports by 2050. The AI image generation tool predicts how these airports will look and function in […]
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey today announced that its airports saw more passengers during August 2023 than during any previous month in history. A record high number of air travellers also passed through the airports during the Labor Day holiday travel period. In facts and figures, a record-breaking 13.3 million passengers […]
ACI World today published its latest quarterly air travel outlook revealing global passenger traffic expected to recover in early 2024 as it reaches 9.4 billion passengers. Highlights from ACI World’s 14th Advisory Bulletin on the impact of COVID-19 on the airport business— and the path to recovery, include: • Global passenger volume in 2023 is expected […]
We take a closer look at the growth and development of the Plaza Premium Group, which has evolved from being a lounge operator to one of the biggest airport hospitality providers over the last 25 years. The enthusiasm and desire to grow his business still burns brightly in Plaza Premium Group (PPG) founder and CEO, […]
London Heathrow (LHR) has retained its status as the world’s most internationally connected airport, according to OAG’s Megahubs 2023 data. LHR was the fourth biggest airport in the world in terms of total scheduled capacity in the year to August 2023. British Airways remains the dominant airline at London Heathrow, operating 50% of all flights. […]
London Luton Airport (LLA) has achieved Level 4 of ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) scheme, becoming only the third major UK airport to achieve this level. The ACA scheme is a globally recognised carbon management programme that independently assesses and recognises efforts to manage and reduce airport carbon emissions. As a Level 4 accredited airport, […]
ACI World director general, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, considers some of the security challenges facing airports and the aviation industry today. Safety and security have always been the aviation industry’s foremost priorities. Airlines focus on preventing accidents and ensuring the safety and security of passengers and crew during flights, while airports deal with a complex […]
After major data breaches hit American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and the Scandinavian airline SAS this year, it’s become evident that the cyber security threat to aviation is very real, writes Vance Hilderman. As a result, in the US in March of this year, the Transport Security Association (TSA) issued an emergency amendment to the security […]
Airports can redefine perimeter security by embracing unified solutions and deploying emerging technologies, writes Genetec’s Jon Hill. For good reason, airside physical security strategies have traditionally focused on securing and monitoring the perimeter. It’s a proven and effective means of identifying dangerous elements or intruders at a distance before they reach more high-risk zones. Protecting […]
Local business representatives and senior politicians joined UK Aviation Minister, Baroness Vere, and Southampton Airport’s leadership team on the airfield today to officially mark the opening of the runway extension. The event marks the end of a project that got underway on April 3 this year to deliver the 164-metre extension to the northern end […]
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is celebrating the first anniversary of its game changing Terminal C. More than two decades in the planning and development, the new complex has arguably taken the airport to another level in terms of its passenger friendly facilities and operational efficiency. “The anticipation of Terminal C has only been surpassed by […]
Helsinki’s Airport Development Programme has won the World’s Best Data Modelling award for its use of data modelling in various phases of the extension of both the terminals and the apron. It has received the award from BuildingSMART International (bSI), an international organisation that aims to develop open data transfer and management in the design, […]
Traffic growth is well and truly back on track at Munich Airport, with the German gateway today revealing that after a successful summer it expects to set new records for long-haul traffic next summer. Its confidence is based on the 2024 summer schedules, when Lufthansa will have 36 long-haul aircraft stationed in Munich, and will […]
With regional passenger numbers continuing to surge, Perth Airport has started work on three key projects in the Airport Central precinct that will help cater for Western Australia’s growing regional aviation sector. These works come off the back of almost 550,000 intrastate travellers passing through Perth Airport last month – the highest single month regional […]
We report on the latest news from ACI World, including key resolutions announced at WAGA, and ACI EUROPE. Riyadh to host WAGA 2024 Riyadh Airports Company will host the ACI Asia-Pacific/ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition (WAGA) in Riyadh, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, from May 21-23, 2024. ACI World director general, […]
Sydney Airport has announced that Scott Charlton will succeed Geoff Culbert as its chief executive officer on December 1, 2023. According to the Australian gateway, Charlton brings a wealth of experience in the infrastructure, transportation and property sectors, having served as the CEO of Transurban, a leading ASX-listed toll road operator since 2012, and prior to […]
ACI Asia-Pacific, a trade association representing 623 airports from 47 countries/territories, has been rebranded as ACI Asia-Pacific and Middle East (ACI APAC & MID) following the launch of its new office in Riyadh in Saudi Arabia. This shift aims to reflect the regions the association serves and cater to the growing Middle Eastern and Asian […]
Nearly 400 delegates and 37 exhibitors made the smart choice by attending the recent SMART Airports & Regions Conference and Exhibition in Edmonton, writes Joe Bates. With its innovative take on everything from embracing renewable energy, working in tandem with its neighbours and the commercial development of its Airport City Sustainability Campus, in many ways […]
Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) has officially achieved Level 1 status in ACI’s Airport Customer Experience Accreditation programme. The achievement comes two years after the introduction of the Seychelles Electronic Border System as well as upgrades to the airport infrastructure and facilities, which are ongoing. The ACI Airport Customer Experience Accreditation is the first and only […]
Work has started on the construction of what will become the largest car rental location in the Netherlands at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. The new facility will be capable of accommodating up to 2,500 vehicles and offer customers the opportunity to rent electric vehicles. The five largest car rental companies at Schiphol are coming together under […]
Airport operator, Fraport, has extended the contract of CEO, Dr Stefan Schulte for a further three years. The move means that Schulte will remain in the hot-seat at Fraport until at least August 31, 2027. “Stefan Schulte has forged a sustainable strategy, transforming Fraport into one of the world’s leading international airport operators,” noted Michael […]
Seven new specialty retail shops are now open for business at Nashville International Airport (BNA). According to operator Fraport Tennessee, the new arrivals reflect the airport’s record growth in domestic and international travel and boost the shopping appeal of the gateway. Tennessee originals such as the Goo Goo Shop, Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum, […]
Airport World provides a round-up of the some of latest airport and aviation industry security news stories from across the globe. Dawn of new era for airport security? A walk-through security scanner that it is claimed can cut airport passenger queues is seeking to raise investment. A series of demonstrations for investors in August is […]
Nashville’s popular all-natural juice bar and eatery, The Urban Juicer, has touched down at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). The company’s second store outside Music City opened September 8, 2023, and is located in the Terminal F Food Court. The store’s top seller, ‘The Well-Being’ smoothie, is a blend of cucumber, lemon, ginger, apple, spinach, kale, […]
Airport operator, Fraport, today announced that 5.9 million passengers passed through Frankfurt Airport (FRA) in August 2023 – 13% more than in the corresponding month in 2022. While welcoming the news, Fraport notes that the monthly total is still 15.3% down on pre-pandemic August 2019. The latest total means that during the school holidays in […]
ACI World’s senior director for security, technology and innovation, Billy Shallow, addresses some of the key issues facing airport security in a continuously evolving landscape. Travel is officially back, with passengers in the Northern Hemisphere taking to airports to jet off on their summer holidays and business travel beginning to bounce back. As a result, […]
A new solar array which could eventually deliver enough green electricity to power the equivalent of more than 17,000 homes has been announced as part of a new joint venture between SSE Energy Solutions and Teesside International Airport in the UK. The first phase of the project is due to enter construction in early 2024 […]
London’s Heathrow Airport is celebrating the end of a successful summer after 7.5 million passengers passed through its facilities in August. The UK hub says that during the month, passengers checked in more bags than ever before, and claims that its baggage support team “went the extra mile” to help airline handlers get bags away […]
China’s Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG) has opened a new commercial street of international brands in T3A Terminal. The airport’s new ‘STARRY GALLERIA’ initiative is a result of the work of the Sino-Singapore Chongqing Airport Commercial Management Co Ltd – the joint venture set up by Singapore Changi subsidiary, Changi Airports International (CAI), and the […]
Joe Bates looks back at some of the highlights from June’s eventful ACI EUROPE/ACI WORLD Annual Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in Barcelona. A record 850 delegates, a number of key announcements, the chance to reunite with colleagues and, of course, two days of lively debate in the beautiful city of Barcelona ensured that this year’s […]
While cost and connectivity are still key, the airport experience has become an increasingly important consideration for passengers when booking flights, according to a new report. SITA’s 2023 Passenger IT Insights report, published today, finds customers looking to technology to optimise every aspect of the post-pandemic travel landscape, from addressing pain points in the airport […]
The ACI Customer Experience Global Summit has successfully concluded in Incheon, Republic of Korea. Key highlights of the event dedicated to customer and employee experience included: • Over 500 delegates in attendance including government officials, airport and aviation executives, and customer experience experts. • ASQ Training, Workshop, and Forum, including an executive workshop series by […]
The ACI Customer Experience Global Summit, the airport industry’s annual event dedicated to enhancing the customer and employee experience, got underway in Incheon, South Korea, today. As usual for an event in South Korea, the numbers are good, with more than 500 international delegates, including government officials, airport and aviation executives, and customer experience experts, […]
CEO, Jonny Andersen, tells Joe Bates more about the growth and development of Curaçao International Airport, which boasts one of the newest terminals in the Caribbean and a growing route network. Located just 40 miles north of Venezuela off of the tip of South America, Curaçao International Airport (CUR) is the gateway to the tropical […]
DHL Express has commenced full operations from its Incheon Gateway facility following the completion of a €131 million (KRW 175 billion) expansion project. The investment is DHL Express’s largest in South Korea to date, making Incheon Gateway the largest gateway in the Asia-Pacific. According to DHL, the expansion aims to address the increasing air cargo […]
Birmingham Airport’s Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions fell 25% in 2022/23 compared to the most recent pre-pandemic year of 2019/20, a report published today revealed. While the airport’s Greenhouse Gas Emissions Report for 2022/2023 showed an increase compared to 2021/22, where COVID-19 forced a 90% drop-off in activity at Birmingham Airport (BHX), the […]
Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) has released its Sustainability Report 2022/23, outlining the sustainability performance of Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) in the fiscal year ending 31 March 2023. The report also highlights the future sustainability plans of AAHK. According to the airport, the key highlights of this year’s edition include: AAHK received an advanced […]
ACI EUROPE today condemned the decision by the caretaker Dutch Government to pursue a capacity reduction at Amsterdam Schiphol to 452,500 aircraft movement as of Winter 2024. It also expressed concerns regarding the conditions under which a ‘temporary’ capacity reduction to 460,000 aircraft movement will be implemented as of Summer 2024. Olivier Jankovec, director general […]
VIEW THE ISSUE HERE Airport profile: Curaçao Event review: WAGA Plus: Customer service; Diversity & Inclusion; Sustainability; and SMART Airports Screen test Editor, Joe Bates, reflects on the important role good security plays in the airport journey and passenger experience in this ‘security’ themed issue of Airport World. I definitely should have known better, but on […]
Abu Dhabi International Airport’s long awaited new state-of-the-art terminal will officially open for business in early November. Known as the Midfield Terminal Building during the construction phase but now known as Terminal A, its opening will mark a significant milestone for the emirate as it has the potential to transform the local aviation ecosystem. Operator, […]
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) today celebrated the groundbreaking ceremony for its West Gate Expansion project. The event was attended by dozens of Central Texas and Austin leaders that included Congressman Doggett, Congressman Casar, Austin Mayor, Kirk Watson, and Austin City Council members Vanessa Fuentes and Ryan Alter. The project is one of the near-term Journey […]
Hong Kong International Airport’s new SkyPier Terminal today welcomed the first group of transfer passengers who travelled by bonded bus from Macau to the airport’s restricted area directly via the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge. The “seamless transfer service” is also available for air-to-bridge transfer passengers from oversea destinations, who travel by bonded bus from the airport […]
London Gatwick’s interim financial results for the first half of 2023 show that it enjoyed a “strong” six months, despite what it called a “challenging operational environment”. The airport’s revenue increased in the first half of 2023, compared to 2022, and it achieved an improved EBITDA and increased net profit in the half year ending […]
A host of new shops and restaurants will open at Stockholm Arlanda this autumn as the first stage of the Market Place is completed. One of the new additions is Gateau, a craft bakery with a French twist that will offer passengers a premium-quality classic Swedish fika, or coffee and pastry. Immediately adjacent to the […]
The second instalment of a permanent exhibition containing the world’s largest private collection of diecast model aircraft officially opens today at Shannon Airport. The new Aviation Gallery, situated in the airport terminal building opposite JJ Ruddle’s restaurant, is open to the general public, and according to the gateway “offers a captivating journey through the evolution of aviation”. Going further, the airport […]
Christchurch Airport’s new approach to minimising waste, and its work mentoring other airports to become more sustainable, has netted two international awards from ACI Asia-Pacific. The airport has won ‘Green Airports Recognition 2023’ and the ‘Airport Carbon Accreditation – Mentor’ awards from the association. The airport’s created a new waste sortation room where a team […]
Vanderlande and Norwegian airport operator, Avinor, have formed an ‘innovation partnership’ to explore ways of fully automating the last mile of the baggage handling process. Vanderlande will supply two innovative solutions – BAGLOAD for integrated robot loading and FLEET Batch for the transportation of ULDs – which will be trialled at Oslo Airport. The ultimate […]
Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) is to open a fifth cargo terminal at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport to provide additional growth capacity and secure its position as the largest independent cargo handler at the gateway. Construction of the new 6,500sqm terminal has now commenced and WFS aims to begin operations from the facility by the end […]
Nieuport Aviation, the owner and operator of the passenger terminal at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, has been officially certified a Living Wage employer by the Ontario Living Wage Network (OLWN). OLWN notes that it is the first aviation entity in the Canadian province of Ontario to become certified. Nieuport Aviation has committed to paying […]
Just a month after Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, turned the first sod on Newcastle Airport’s A$110 million terminal expansion, the airport has marked another major milestone with the planning approval for development applications (DA) of the first two building projects on Astra Aerolab. Two multi-tenanted buildings, a hybrid office/industrial office and a central hub […]
Officials from Dominion Energy and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) were joined by federal, state and local leaders on Tuesday to break ground on the Dulles Solar and Storage project at Dulles International Airport. Once completed, it will be the largest renewable energy project ever developed at a US airport, capable of generating up […]
The Salt Lake City Department of Airports (SLCDA) has published its annual Environmental, Social and Governance Report for Salt Lake City International Airport. It highlights the airport’s efforts to minimise the negative environmental impact of aviation and adhere to the highest standards in creating a more sustainability airport. Highlights from the report include: Energy Efficiency: […]
Passenger numbers continue to grow at Hong Kong International Airport, rising by 14.9% in July on the same month a year ago as a total of 3.8 million travellers passed through the gateway. According to operator, Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), the daily passenger average in July exceeded 120,000, recovering to 60% of the pre-pandemic […]
London Gatwick has donated more than two tonnes of toiletries and hygiene products to local communities through a partnership with charity The Crawley and Horley Hygiene Bank. Since the partnership began earlier this year, 2.1 tonnes of toiletries have been donated. The items include unused and unopened hygiene products such as shower gels, deodorants and […]
Changi Airports International (CAI) has signed two agreements with Cairo Airport Company to jointly develop Cairo International Airport, one of the busiest airports in Africa and the largest airport in Egypt by passenger and cargo traffic. The first consultancy agreement is passenger focused and seeks to implement impactful solutions to improve passenger experience at Cairo […]
Amsterdam Schiphol has announced that it is replacing its fuel generators with 30 new electric Ground Power Units (e-GPUs) and introducing the use of more electric systems that provide fresh air on board aircraft. It notes that these are are important steps towards emission-free ground handling at the airport. According to the airport, aircraft parked […]
San Antonio International Airport (SAT) made history in July with more than one million passengers flying in and out of the airport, according to the airport’s passenger data. This comes on the heels of SAT’s busiest ever May and June – as well as the busiest single day on July 31, with 41,560 passengers. The […]
Passengers traveling through Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) in the US will begin to see a transition in food and beverage offerings this month as part of the airport’s new concessions programme. SSP America was recently awarded a contract to operate a collection of post-security restaurants at Fresno Yosemite International Airport including Peet’s Coffee, Ike’s […]
Aena’s Spanish airports handled a new July high of 29.7 million passengers – 10% more than in the same month a year ago and 1.2% above pre-pandemic levels. Aena’s airports also handled 242,222 aircraft movements (+5.1%) and 86,779 tonnes of cargo (+8.6%) in July as traffic across its airport system continued its strong recovery from […]
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) has announced that LaGuardia Airport’s new Terminal B has won the National Academy of Construction’s inaugural Recognition of Special Achievement Award. The award celebrates the creativity, innovation, and vision behind the construction of a world-class airport terminal. “The National Academy of Construction’s Recognition of Special […]
SSP Group has been awarded a seven year contract extension at London City Airport, which will see the opening of brand-new concepts. The deal comes as part of a £12 million upgrade of the Departure Lounge which includes a revamp to the F&B offer with the aim of providing the modern traveller with unique, local […]
Copenhagen Airport recorded a profit before tax of DKK167 million in a busy second quarter to reverse its loss before tax from the winter months. As a result, the Danish airport posted an overall profit before tax for the first half year of DKK108 million, during which time it handled 12.4 million passengers – 31% […]
Arrive at any major international airport, and a multitude of languages greet visitors. A wonderful recognition of the international nature of the crowds who visit, the gesture also has a strategic purpose: to make those visiting feel more comfortable in what could be a chaotic environment. These could include an uncertainty about car parking. Disorientating check-in […]
The Shannon Airport Group has launched a Biodiversity Action Plan and, as a resut, 30 bat, bird and bee boxes are being erected in the surrounding lands of the Shannon Airport campus to lend a hand to nature. The nest boxes are part of The Shannon Airport Group’s new Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP), which was […]
An innovative partnership between Australia’s Newcastle Airport and the University of Newcastle has seen students working in a ‘living laboratory’ at the gateway on ways to solve problems with the baggage handling system and better service the growing number of passengers. The establishment of the living laboratory at Newcastle Airport is part of the University’s […]
Hamad International Airport (DOH) continues to enjoy impressive traffic growth, experiencing a 35% rise in passenger numbers during the first half of 2023. The Qatari gateway also witnessed an 18.1% increase in aircraft movements compared to the same period a year ago. The airport saw a total of 20,775,087 passengers during the first half of […]
TAV Airports, a member of Groupe ADP, served 24.3 million international and 15 million domestic passengers in the first quarter of the year. The international traffic of the group increased by 42% compared to the same period last year. TAV Airports Holding CEO, Serkan Kaptan, commented: “Turkish tourism has remained very strong and highly demanded […]
New Incheon International Airport CEO, Hak-jae Lee, has outlined the gateway’s new focus on creating smart logistics clusters and further enhancing its global route network. Indeed, the airport states that his leadership “promises to infuse fresh vitality into the airport’s logistics operations” that will fulfil the vision of establishing Incheon as a global logistics hub. […]
Seven additional gates opened at Newark Liberty International Airport’s Terminal A today marking another significant milestone the new $2.7 billion facility. The new gates will be used by United Airlines and JetBlue and opened as part of the second phase development of the new terminal, following the unveiling of more concession and retail offerings over […]
Record-breaking passenger figures have been recorded at Shannon Airport during the first six months of 2023, for the first time in over a decade. The airport, which has been experiencing increased demand for overseas travel since last year, recorded 902,603 passengers from January to June of this year. When compared to the same period in […]
A new programme that enables airport personnel to discreetly identify and assist passengers with invisible disabilities has launched at Reagan National and Dulles airports in Washington DC. Anyone travelling through either airport who needs assistance can pick up a free sunflower lanyard at all pre-security information desks, including baggage claim, and the USO lounges at […]
VINCI Airports today finalised the financial arrangements for the acquisition of seven airports in Cabo Verde, completing the concession agreement signed with the government a year ago. VINCI Airports secured €60 million in financing, maturing over 20 years, from three development banks: World Bank-IFC, Proparco (France) and DEG (Germany). This financing is certified under the […]
Nearly 400 delegates and 37 exhibitors from across the world landed in Edmonton today for the start of the 8th SMART Airports & Regions Conference and Exhibition in the Canadian city. The annual event will explore the catalytic effect and critical success factors driving the economic development of SMART airports and the regions they serve, […]
Plans for a brand-new contingency control tower at Heathrow have been agreed, with NATS contracted to deliver the installation and transition of the new operations room. Work on the new Virtual Contingency Facility (VCF), which is due to be operational in 2025, has already commenced. It will replace the existing backup ‘tower’ and represents a […]
Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) president and CEO, Deborah Flint, has provided an update on Toronto Pearson International Airport’s mid-summer performance. Since last summer, Toronto Pearson has tangibly improved passenger experience across its operations, implemented digital innovations and bolstered staffing. These advancements, she says, have expedited check-in and boarding processes, reduced wait times and upgraded […]
Dubai International Airport (DXB) has received an accreditation from ACI World under its Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation Programme, a first-of-its-kind initiative that recognises global airports’ commitment to accessible travel operations. The certification acknowledges DXB’s ongoing prioritisation of a safe and inclusive airport experience for passengers with both physical and hidden disabilities. This aligns with the 2019 […]
Atkins, working with IATA, has created a suite of innovative digital tools for airports that it claims will, for the first time, allow operators to estimate the embodied carbon associated with the construction of terminal buildings and aviation assets. According to the creators, the digital toolkit will enable airports to better understand and mitigate the […]
Ensuring that Milan Bergamo Airport is able to meet future demand is why it continues to invest in upgrading its facilities, according to operator, SACBO. The Italian gateway reports that it recently handled 54,571 passengers in just one day, a record for the Italian airport, and SACBO insists that its ongoing development programme is an […]
Dr Richard Plenty and Terri Morrissey consider the pros and cons of adopting a systematic data-based approach to decision-making in the workplace. The Nobel prize winning psychologist Daniel Kahneman in his book ‘Thinking Fast and Slow’ describes two human systems for decision making: fast, intuitive thinking and slow, rational thinking. Both types of thinking are […]
San Diego International Airport’s new Terminal 1 will feature restaurants and shops that look, feel, and taste like San Diego, according to the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority Board. The Board has approved the final group of New T1 concessions leases for restaurants and retail shops that offer a mix of local, regional, and […]
We report on the latest news, views and developments from ACI World, ACI Asia-Pacific and ACI EUROPE. ACI World news: New Sustainability Expansion Plan for Montréal ACI World has partnered with the Canadian Government, Government of Québec and City of Montréal on a new Sustainability Expansion Plan for Montréal, which will be funded by Montréal […]
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) today announced a $125 million commercial redevelopment programme for Terminal 8 at John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The project, carried out in partnership with American Airlines and Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (URW) Airports, will feature a new Great Hall and is expected to bring more than 60 […]
Munich Airport’s new innovation centre, LabCampus, was officially opened today by airport CEO, Jost Lammers, and State Minister, Albert Füracker. A wholly-owned subsidiary of Munich Airport, LabCampus is described as a new, top location for innovation at the centre of Europe that will bring together research institutions, high-tech industries, young companies and up-and-coming talents from […]
Brisbane Airport is this week trialling therapy dogs in the Domestic Terminal as a way of reducing preflight stress for the travelling public. The trial initiative brings canine ambassadors into the terminal to provide a furry support to manage any anxiety. Sarah Whyte, head of communications and brand marketing at Brisbane Airport Corporation, enthused: ”Therapy […]
Shannon Airport has been ranked the country’s best airport brand according to the RED C Brand Reaction Index (BRI) Ireland 2023. The index, which has just been released, shows Shannon Airport placed in the top 100 emotionally connected brands at number 54 and is the highest-ranking airport brand in Ireland. RED C conducted the BRI Test among the 170 brands across 22 sectors, to see which brands have the highest connection […]
SITA has been awarded a landmark deal by the Airports Authority of India to provide technology to 43 of India’s biggest airports. India’s Civil Aviation is among the fastest-growing aviation markets globally and will be a major growth engine to make India a $5 trillion economy by 2024. The deal will see improvements over 2,700 […]
ICF’s Lewis Burroughs and Rob Rushmer look to the future and consider how the transition to electric and autonomous vehicles could impact on existing drop off and car parking infrastructure at airports. Ever since an airport was first invented in the early 20th century, most people – passengers and employees – have accessed it by […]
London Gatwick today submitted an application known as a Development Consent Order (DCO) to the UK’s Planning Inspectorate (PINS), outlining its ambition to bring the airport’s existing Northern Runway into routine use alongside its Main Runway. By investing in its long-term future, London Gatwick says that it will also enhance the crucial economic role it […]
Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), Hong Kong’s gateway to the world, celebrated its 25th anniversary today. The Chek Lap Kok gateway, which replaced the former downtown airport of Kai Tak Airport on July 6, 1998, marked the occasion with a series of music and dance performances in the terminal and the give away of commemorative […]
Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, made a flying visit to Newcastle Airport today for the official ground-breaking ceremony for the Terminal Expansion Project. The event marks the beginning of construction for the project, which is designed to enhance the airport’s capacity, efficiency, and overall user experience. Newcastle Airport CEO, Dr Peter Cock, says the transformative […]
San Francisco International Airport sets the industry standard for climate action and health, writes Kirsten Ritchie, Gensler’s global director for climate action and sustainability. The aviation industry is known as a significant contributor of carbon emissions around the world, and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) wanted to change this narrative. When SFO began to consider […]
Traffic levels in Sweden continue to rise, with nearly 3.2 million passengers passing through Swedavia’s airports in June – the most in a single since the start of the pandemic. Swedavia notes that “strong demand” for international travel, particularly from Stockholm Arlanda, is driving the recovery. During the month, an increase in domestic travel was […]
Manchester Airports Group (MAG) believes that it is well-placed to enter a period of investment and growth, after reporting a positive set of full-year results. In the period 1 April 2022 – 31 March 2023, the UK’s largest airport group recorded a revenue of £1 billion for the first time in its history, as demand […]
Hong Kong International Airport today became the latest gateway to hold a jobs fair, with its one specifically aimed at the younger generation. The event, Airport Youth Career Day 2023, attracted more than 40 recruitment booths and 1,400 people participants, many of which were interested in some of the 3,000 jobs up for offer. The jobs […]
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport has secured $30 million in federal funding to build a US Customs and Border Protection Preclearance facility for passengers travelling to the United States. Neil Pakey, president and CEO of terminal owner and operator, Nieuport Aviation, believes that the decision is a game changer for the Canadian airport and marks […]
Aena has awarded its electricity supply contract to Endesa Energía SAU and Iberdrola Clientes SAU as it steps up its bid to develop solar power installations across its entire airport network. It states that the purpose of the new deals is to carry out the procedures related to the purchase of energy with 100% renewable […]
Spanish airport operator, Aena, has signed a sustainable syndicated credit line (sustainability-linked RCF) for €2 billion, which it says proves its commitment to the environment, social responsibility and good corporate governance. The financing has been granted by 14 national and international financial institutions and has been led by Banco Santander as Arranger and Sustainable Agent. […]
Copenhagen Airport boss, Thomas Woldbye, has agreed to become the new CEO of London Heathrow, succeeding John Holland-Kaye, who is stepping down later this year after nearly 10 years in post. The UK hub states that Woldbye emerged as the standout candidate among a pool of exceptional contenders during an extensive, global, recruitment process. Woldbye […]
News stories and developments from ACI World Business Partners across the globe. Rosenbauer’s electric fire truck bound for Christchurch Christchurch Airport has signed up to buy the world’s first Rosenbauer Electric Fire Truck to operate at an airport. The New Zealand gateway’s head of aviation operations, Tim Morris, says that the new addition will provide […]
Aerotropolis concept creator, Dr John Kasarda, explains why certain hubs prosper and describes what it takes to become a world-class air logistics hub. A frequent question asked by executives of larger commercial airports and their surrounding jurisdictions is, what can we do to become a major air logistics hub? They ask this question because air […]
Munich Airport (MUC) and Lufthansa are celebrating the 20th anniversary of Terminal 2. The terminal building was jointly planned and financed by Munich Airport and Lufthansa and has been jointly operated since the end of June 2003. This partnership between an airport and an airline remains unique worldwide and has been gradually further developed. In […]
Joe Bates talks to a handful of airport operators across the globe about the impact the pandemic has had on staffing levels at their gateways. The global pandemic may be officially over with the World Health Organization officially declaring that COVID-19 is no longer a “global health emergency”, but its impact on the aviation industry […]
ACI World and the World Economic Forum today launched the Airports of Tomorrow initiative aimed at accelerating the decarbonisation of the aviation industry. The announcement was made to over 800 aviation delegates at the ACI EUROPE/ACI WORLD Annual General Assembly, Conference, and Exhibition in Barcelona, Spain. Airports of Tomorrow will bring public and private stakeholders […]
Thomas Romig, ACI World’s vice president for safety, security and operations reflects on the evolution of the airport workforce and the recruitment challenge ahead for airports. The aviation industry is facing a significant new capacity challenge, and it’s not due to infrastructure or system restrictions as previously, but due to the availability of workforce. According […]
Sonia Corrochano, director of Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport, talks to Joe Bates about the growth, development and future expansion plans of Europe’s seventh busiest passenger gateway. Barcelona’s Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) is Spain’s second biggest gateway after Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas and the seventh busiest airport in Europe based on the 41.6 million […]
Digital technology can help airports access new talent to fill major labour shortages, writes Jess O’Dwyer. As a result of various factors including the impact of the global pandemic, Brexit and the war in Ukraine, aviation is one of many industries struggling to find and recruit the staff that they need to meet their requirements. […]
The Board of Commissioners of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) has approved $30 million in funding to plan and design improved bus service to LaGuardia Airport. It believes that the decision marks an important step toward implementing the recommendations of an expert panel after an exhaustive analysis of 14 mass […]
London Gatwick Airport has estimated around 630 new jobs will be created for local construction workers, if its plans to bring its Northern Runway into routine use are given the go-ahead. These jobs would be generated across the county council areas of West Sussex, East Sussex, Surrey and Kent, the unitary authority of Brighton and […]
MXD’s Chris LeTourneur highlights the many dimensions of Edmonton International Airport’s innovative economic and sustainable development initiatives. As hosts of this year’s SMART Airports and Regions, Conference and Exhibition, Edmonton International Airport will be showing the world how it’s more than just an airport, it’s an innovative economically diversified Airport City Sustainability Campus. Edmonton International […]
ACI World director general, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, considers some of the human resources issues facing airports today and the industry’s response to the challenge. A huge increase in air traffic demand is hitting the headlines, alongside the suggestion that aviation’s recovery from the pandemic is almost complete. What’s more, ACI World’s latest forecasts reveal […]
America’s airports are abuzz as big changes take place. Upgrades, expansions, diverse transportation options, and all kinds of new amenity projects are either underway or being prepared for launch. Planning is rampant as air travel is modernised, made safer and more convenient. However, the current activity and the projects underway at airports today will likely […]
Cork Airport has taken delivery of five new fully-electric, zero-emission vehicles as part of the airport’s commitment to its sustainability strategy. The new additions, which will form part of the maintenance, electrical and airport police fleets, are part of Cork Airport’s ongoing commitment to reducing emissions by 51% by 2030, in line with targets set […]
ACI World has today published its latest quarterly airport traffic outlook showing strong air travel demand will continue to improve into the northern hemisphere summer season. Highlights from ACI World’s 13th Advisory Bulletin on the impact of COVID-19 on the airport business—and the path to recovery include: • The easing of inflation and rising consumer […]
The planned new megahub 40 kilometres southwest of Warsaw will help drive the economic development of Poland and Central and Eastern Europe, writes NACO’s Lucas-Jan Ebels and Piet Ringersma. Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) is a transport development project in Poland that is crucial for the economic growth of both the country and the wider European […]
Hong Kong International Airport’s Sky Bridge has its own cocktail bar after today’s opening of ‘Intervals’ by the Plaza Premium Group. PPG boldly promises that the first-of-its-kind concept will offer “an unparalleled world-class cocktail and dining experience”. Indeed, it describes as Intervals as being a destination in its own right, offering “a creative concept that […]
May was a good month for the Fraport Group, with Frankfurt Airport welcoming more than 5.1 million passengers and most of its airports worldwide experiencing double-digit growth rates. The monthly passenger total in Frankfurt (FRA) represented a 12.2% increase over the same month a year ago. However, compared to pre-crisis May 2019, FRA’s passenger traffic […]
VIEW THE ISSUE HERE Airport profile: Barcelona In Focus: Edmonton’s airport city Special report: Logistics hubs Plus: The evolution of the airport workforce Building momentum Airport World editor, Joe Bates, reflects on the continued recovery of the aviation industry and the ‘planning and design’ theme of this issue. I am not sure if it is […]
SITA and UrbanV, the Italian vertiport operator, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to develop a digital-first passenger experience for UrbanV’s vertiports in Rome, one of which is set to be at the city’s Fiumicino Airport. From UrbanV’s test vertiport at Rome’s Fiumicino Airport, both parties will design, test, and refine a new passenger processing […]
Amadeus has acquired a minority stake in Caphenia — a future producer of synthesis gas, the feedstock of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) — forming part of the technology firm’s commitment to supporting the industry on its journey toward sustainable travel. In just 12 months, this represents Amadeus’ second investment in a company focused on making the […]
According to London Heathrow, it currently has more daily flights than ever before between the UK and USA as airlines switch capacity to North Atlantic routes and away from European and East Asian markets, which have been slower to recover. In May alone, it says that 1.6 million passengers used the UK hub to fly […]
A new study has ranked San Antonio International Airport (SAT) second in the United States for having a short security wait time. According to luggage storage service, Bounce, SAT’s average time is six minutes and six seconds. “San Antonio has moved from eighth to second since last year, seeing its average wait time shrink by […]
A new era has begun for Maastricht Aachen Airport with the Royal Schiphol Group taking a 40% stake in it and the start of a new period of strategic cooperation between the gateways. The agreement, signed today between the Royal Schiphol Group and the province of Limburg, will see the province maintain keep a 60% […]
Key players in the Australian aviation and green hydrogen industries have today officially launched the Hydrogen Flight Alliance (HFA) at Brisbane Airport. The aim of the alliance is to ensure Australia plays a leading role in the aviation industry’s transition towards net-zero by 2050. The initial focus will be on enabling Australia’s first commercial emission […]
Ahead of the summer season, S&P Global Ratings has raised its European air passenger traffic forecasts, anticipating that travel demand will continue to resist economic pressures. In a new report, the ratings agency anticipates that European air passenger traffic should return to pre-pandemic levels in 2024, up from 85%-95% of 2019 levels in 2023. Airlines’ […]
Dr Richard Plenty and Terri Morrissey reflect on the implications of ChatGPT for the world of work. Can you tell if this article is written by a human or by a computer? A year ago, this was a question that very few people thought worthy of consideration. But since ChatGPT was released in November 2022, […]
ACI World has welcomed the launch of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Net Zero Roadmaps and calls for continued collaboration of aviation stakeholders in building a sustainable aviation industry. ACI and airports have been leaders in the decarbonisation transformation, being the first to commit to a long-term environmental goal of net zero carbon emissions […]
Pittsburgh International Airport is actively working to cut back aviation-related emissions, through a new partnership with Pittsburgh-based Ecotone Renewables. Joining the airport’s xBridge innovation program, one of the company’s digesters has been stationed outside the landside terminal and nicknamed ZEUS translating as Zero Emissions Upcycling System. Launched in 2020, ZEUS aligns well with the programme […]
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) and LaGuardia Gateway Partners, the developer and manager of LaGuardia Terminal B, have revealed that LaGuardia Airport’s new Terminal B has retained both its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) v4 Gold Certification and the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure’s Platinum Envision Award. The Port […]
Hamad International Airport (DOH) is celebrating the UN’s World Environment Day by backing its goal to Beat Plastic Pollution. Today’s event focuses on encouraging people and businesses around the world to review their plastic consumption and introduce a shift towards a circular economy. The Qatari gateway notes that part of Hamad International Airport’s environment sustainability […]
We focus on some of latest the IT news stories from ACI World Business Partners across the globe. Enhancing the passenger experience in Budapest Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD) is set to enhance the passenger experience and optimise its operations by implementing Veovo’s Passenger Predictability solution. The passenger flow analytics platform will initially focus on […]
A major landbank between the runways at Dublin Airport is this week being placed on the market by JLL. The lands are privately held by the long-term owners. The infrastructural land which is available for sale by private treaty in its entirety or in three separate lots, totals approximately 260 acres. Of strategic international importance […]
ABM says that it is evolving its innovative data-enabled smart parking solution, ABM Vantage, “through the introduction and expansion of services tailored to the aviation industry”. “America’s relationship with air travel is notoriously stressful, and parking at airports has historically been no different,” said Sean Bromfield, president of aviation at ABM. “We are changing airport […]
Blueprint Power’s chief technology officer, Nick Schmidt, considers some of the energy monitoring and emissions reducing options open to airports at the beginning of their decarbionisation journeys. Governments and organisations around the world are grappling with energy and sustainability challenges as they try to lessen their environmental impact and support global climate goals and airports, […]
Cork Airport is set to welcome it’s one millionth passenger of 2023 today as the airport prepares for a busy June Bank Holiday weekend, with over 56,500 passengers expected. As the peak summer season begins, the busiest day of the bank holiday weekend will be Friday, June 2. This weekend’s passenger figures indicate an increase […]
A total of 500 airports across the globe are now certified under ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme having fulfilled the stringent requirements set by its accreditation levels. Launched back in 2009 by ACI EUROPE, with then just 17 trailblazing airports achieving accreditation, the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme has since become the global standard for carbon […]
Radio frequency cyber technology can help combat the dangers posed by the growing number of rogue drones flying close to airports and, in some cases, breaching the perimeter fence, writes Jeffrey Star, CMO of D-Fend Solutions. Drone sightings and incidents around airports have increased significantly in recent years. Since the beginning of 2023 alone, there […]
It’s take-off for Shannon Airport’s new Chicago service with United Airlines today as the first flight takes to the skies towards the windy city. At 8.50am this morning, excited passengers boarded the Boeing 757-200 aircraft departing at 9.30am, for the first daily seasonal Chicago service from Shannon bound for O’Hare International Airport. Speaking at a gate celebration to mark […]
Global airport operator, Fraport, continues to invest in green wind energy, signing a new Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the European energy services and solutions provider Centrica Energy Trading A/S. The deal will provide Frankfurt Airport with annual wind energy volumes of around 63 gigawatt hours, starting this July. The energy will come from a […]
New computed tomography (CT) security scanners in Terminals 1 and 2 will make passenger and baggage checks at Munich Airport safer, faster and more convenient. “We have subjected the technology to extensive tests, and the results are unequivocal: Passengers like the scanners because they no longer have to unpack their laptops and liquids, which makes […]
Uzbekistan Airports Joint Stock Company (JSC) and Changi Airports International (CAI) have signed an agreement to jointly develop Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport in Uzbekistan. The gateway is the largest international airport in the Republic of Uzbekistan and the third busiest airport in Central Asia based on pre-pandemic passenger levels. The agreement – CAI is […]
Regular visitors to Birmingham Airport (BHX) in the UK will notice big changes to the terminal as construction of its new security hall progresses. With upstairs queuing space reducing due to the £40m project, BHX has moved its car hire counters to one of its car parks to create alternative queueing areas downstairs. Its ‘assisted […]
Esri’s global transportation industry director, Terry Bills, explains how the digital transformation of airfield inspections has enhanced safety and operational efficiency at two very different US gateways. Maintaining the continuous safety of an airport’s runways, taxiways and ramps requires dedicated teams focused on a large number of details. Each light, pavement marking, navigational aid and […]
Swedavia is planning to build a new hotel at both Stockholm Arlanda and Kiruna airports as its looks to future proof its Swedish airport network. At Stockholm Arlanda Airport, a full-service hotel is being planned which will be located close to the terminals and include 540 double rooms, conference facilities and a wide range of […]
Sydney Airport will shortly begin the search for a new CEO after revealing that Geoff Culbert will step down at the end of the year. Culbert, who has held the position for almost six years, joined the publicly listed Sydney Airport as CEO in January 2018 from GE and will continue in his role until the […]
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) believes that it could handle up to 218,000 passengers a day during peak travel days around the Memorial Day holiday weekend. If the projections prove to be true, it will make the days between Thursday, May 25, through Monday, May, 29 the highest for passenger volumes at the airport since […]
A consortium led by Glasgow Airport and net zero consulting co-developer, Ikigai, has successfully secured funding from the Scottish Government to test the feasibility of a hydrogen production, storage and distribution hub that would support zero emission flight at the airport. The funding was confirmed by the First Minister of Scotland, Humza Yousaf, and forms […]
Hamburg Airport has launched an international public tendering process for four food & beverage locations in two lots. Three of the locations are within the security-controlled area and one in the publicly accessible area. The airport stresses that it places “great value on a diverse food & beverage offering” and is seeking “a wide range […]
Hong Kong International Airport handled 3.1 million passengers in April, a massive upturn on the 126,000 that passed through its facilities in the travel restricted same month a year ago. Compared to the same month last year, flight movements more than doubled to 21,545, while cargo throughput declined by 7.7% to 347,000 tonnes. All passenger […]
Clare Williams Fannin of Templemere PR explores how innovative tech is transforming the airport passenger experience. By definition, airports are tech-forward spaces. But technology shouldn’t only be reserved for the complex processes of managing flights. It also has a role to play in helping to deliver the best possible experience to passengers. Mark Smith, chief […]
Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) has celebrated the opening of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)’s new Security Badge Office. The occasion marked another milestone in the transformation that is underway at the airport. The multi-billion-dollar capital improvement programme is already being recognised with awards and receiving positive reviews for improving the experiences of airport guests, […]
Irish airport operator, daa, has announced proposals for new sustainability measures to incentivise airlines to operate lower CO2 emission aircraft at Dublin Airport. Under the new proposed incentive scheme, a low emissions discount will apply to Dublin Airport’s ultra-low cost aeronautical charges, the lowest of any capital city airport in Europe and the airport operator, […]
Low-cost carrier, easyJet, today announced it will open a base for three of its aircraft at Birmingham Airport (BHX) from March 2024. This major investment by easyJet will create around 100 direct jobs, including pilots and crew, and will support 1,200 indirect jobs in the West Midlands region. Basing three of its 186-seat A320 aircraft […]
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport has signed an agreement with Burrell Aviation to invest upwards of $20 million on a new air cargo warehouse at the the US gateway. The new complex will be located on a 4.5 acre site at the airport and replace former outdated cargo facilities demolished last year. Burrell Aviation develops, operates, […]
Elena Avila, head of the airport and airline operations business unit at Amadeus, talks to Airport World about some of the IT challenges, and potential solutions, facing airports today. What would you say to those that argue that such is the rapid advancement of IT systems that any new technology is almost out of date […]
Airlines and airports are facing a surge in baggage mishandling rates amidst the growing number of passengers, with the number of mishandled bags almost doubling from 2021 to 2022 to 7.6 bags per thousand passengers, according to SITA’s 2023 Baggage IT Insights report released today. SITA claims that the shortage of skilled staff, resumption of […]
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) reached a post-pandemic milestone last Thursday and Friday, exceeding 70,000 departing passengers per day through its checkpoints for the first time in over three years. Having cleared this threshold, SFO is looking forward to a busy summer travel season, forecasting the highest levels of passenger traffic since the pandemic began. […]
Shannon Airport has reached new heights in its sustainability goals after achieving Level 2 ‘Reduction’ status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme. The accreditation acknowledges the commitment set out in The Shannon Airport Group’s Sustainability Strategy to green its operations and reduce the airport’s carbon footprint. Steps taken by Shannon Airport to achieve Level 2 ‘Reduction’ […]
Kevin Cox, CEO of Ferrovial Vertiports, considers the key role airports can play in unlocking the benefits of urban air mobility. The revolution in Urban Air Mobility is gathering momentum globally with a new model of sustainable transport set to become reality within a few years. Electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOLs) will transform […]
A bumper Easter getaway boosted London Stansted’s traffic figures for April as the airport welcomed more than 2.4 million passengers during the month. The monthly total was up 16% on April 2022, with the airport also experiencing its busiest day of the year so far with 87,000 passing through the terminal on Easter Monday. The […]
SITA Americas’ head of technology, Sherry Stein, explains how the travel trends of tomorrow are shaping airport IT agendas today. SITA recently released two pieces of research giving a glimpse into the transformational change taking place or expected in the air transport industry. While the topics and timelines of these reports differed, clear lines connect […]
ACI EUROPE has today released a comprehensive and empirical analysis of competition between European airports. It depicts a new aviation market paradigm where the increasing buyer power of the airlines in Europe squeezes Europe’s airports ever further as they strive for financial stability and resilience. The synopsis, Fierce Competitors, Fragile Foes builds upon the Frontier […]
ACI World’s senior director for security, technology and innovation, Billy Shallow, considers how technology and the smart use of data will continue to transform the airport industry. If we look at the glass being half full instead of half empty, recent flight delays and disruption could actually be seen in a positive light as it […]
ACI World has partnered with the Canadian Government, Government of Québec and City of Montréal on a new Sustainability Expansion Plan for Montréal, which will be funded by Montréal International. The plan sees continued investment in Montréal, the world capital of civil aviation, and in the sustainability of airports as essential enablers of economic growth […]
Heinemann Duty Free Malaysia has officially launched its redeveloped stores at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Terminal 2 (KLIA Terminal 2). As a result, it claims that passengers travelling through KLIA Terminal 2 departures can now look forward to a “refreshed and inviting store across all categories, further enhancing the overall airport experience”. The new store […]
Global airport operator, Fraport, today revealed that it has “successfully started the new 2023 business year, achieving a noticeable improvement in the Group’s key financial figures during the first quarter of 2022. The positive performance, it says, was driven by ongoing traffic recovery across Fraport’s global network of airports. As a result, Group revenue increased […]
April was another record month for passenger numbers at Dublin Airport, with a total of 2.83 million passengers travelling through during the month, according to airport operator, daa. The numbers passing through Dublin Airport were marginally higher (+0.7%) than the 2.81 million passengers who passed through in the previous busiest April in 2019 and up […]
We report on the top 10 busiest airports in the world in 2022, the infrastructure development challenge in North America, and Airport Carbon Accreditation success in Africa and Europe. ACI World news: The top 10 busiest airports on the planet in 2022 ACI World has revealed the top 10 busiest airports on the planet for […]
Hong Kong International Airport has a new ‘Cool Zone’ for the rising volumes of perishable and temperature-sensitive e-commerce traffic passing through the world’s biggest cargo hub. The facility is operated by Hong Kong Air Cargo Industry Services Limited (Hacis), the value-added logistics arm of Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl), which operates the airport’s […]
Airport World reports on the planning, design and opening of Kansas City International Airport’s new $1.5 billion terminal. After five years of development, design and construction, the new 40-gate terminal at Kansas City International Airport (KCI) has opened for business, ushering in a new era of air travel for the region. At 1.1 million-square-foot and […]
Heinemann’s eye catching confectionery shop at Hong Kong International Airport has re-opened for business following an upturn in passenger numbers at the gateway. According to Heinemann Asia Pacific, its Sweet Dreams outlet, which debuted at the airport in July 2018, aims to “delight and inspire travellers both young and old, with interactive displays and playful, […]
ACI World director general, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, reflects on the key role technology, IT innovation and data will play in the future development and success of the world’s airports. Collaboration across the entire aviation ecosystem is essential to ensuring that it can function efficiently and grow sustainably. After all, all aviation stakeholders share the […]
We pay tribute to ACI World’s 2022 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award winners whose customer service excellence continues to enhance the airport experience for passengers. Airports big and small across the world have been recognised for their customer service excellence throughout 2022 in ACI’s annual Airport Service Quality (ASQ) awards. Winners ranged from the big […]
Mayor, Matt Mahan, made a flying visit to San José Mineta International Airport this week for the official opening of Jim Stump’s Taproom + Kitchen in Terminal B. The new restaurant, located near Gates 23 & 24, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and is open daily from from 6am to 9pm. It’s the latest project […]
Western Sydney International Airport (WSI), which is on track to open in late 2026, has chosen Amadeus as its strategic airport systems technology partner. In the long-term, the airport is expected to become one of the biggest gateways to Australia. As a result of the technology partnership, Amadeus is confident that passengers can look forward […]
Shannon Airport is in store for a bustling May Bank Holiday as over 45,000 people are expected to travel through the airport over the holiday period. If it happens, it will represent a 42% increase on passenger traffic when compared to the same period of last year (2022) and beats pre-pandemic traffic levels for the May Bank Holiday in 2019 by close to 30%. Director […]
The A$110 million expansion of the terminal at Newcastle Airport in Australia will include significant upgrades to the airport’s existing terminal building as the gateway strives to provide a world-class passenger experience for the region. The airport today appointed Construction Control as the managing contractor for the project. “The biggest beneficiaries of the airport’s upgrade […]
The latest industry analysis from ACI EUROPE has described a market segment which is simultaneously outperforming with a positive summer ahead, whilst also warning of disparities in the pace and strength of recovery and continued financial challenges. Unveiled at the 14th Annual ACI EUROPE Regional Airports Conference and Exhibition in Chania, Crete, the new analysis […]
CEO, Geoff Culbert, talks to Joe Bates about Sydney Airport’s recovery from the global pandemic and ongoing efforts to enhance the Australian hub’s facilities and services. At October’s ACI Africa/World Annual General Assembly, Conference & Exhibition in Marrakech, you described what a difference a year had made in terms of SYD’s recovery from COVID. Six […]
VIEW THE ISSUE HERE Focus on: IT innovation Airport profile: Sydney Special report: Kansas City’s new terminal Plus: ASQ Winners, Vertiports & Sustainability Tech time The ‘IT innovation’ theme of this issue provides Airport World editor, Joe Bates, with the chance to reflect on the constant growth and development of new technology. The laughter of […]
The UK’s busiest airport is preparing to welcome 12,000 flights in the 10 days around the coronation – with passengers including dignitaries, heads of state and international tourists. Heathrow has a long-standing association with the British royal family. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II took her first steps on British soil as a monarch at Heathrow, […]
ACI World and ICAO today announce SITA’s renewed and long-standing support of the leading training and leadership programme for airport executives, the Airport Management Professional Accreditation Program (AMPAP). Since its launch in 2007, AMPAP has become the globally recognised and respected curriculum for career development and excellence for airport executives, benefitting over 1,200 participants to […]
Getting to San Francisco International Airport’s Harvey Milk Terminal 1 will get a lot easier for travellers from tomorrow with the re-opening of the facility’s AirTrain people mover station. The station has been closed since July 2021 to facilitate construction of a connection to the new terminal. According to SFO, AirTrain vehicles will begin stopping […]
The daa Group, operator of Dublin and Cork Airports, duty free firm Aer Rianta International (ARI), and international investment partner, daa International (daaI), recorded a profit before exceptional items of €98 million in 2022. The total compared to a loss of €101 million in the previous year and follows cumulative daa group losses during COVID-19 […]
ACI Asia-Pacific and ACI EUROPE have jointly called on India and the European Union (EU) to establish a comprehensive aviation agreement to liberalise traffic rights and boost regulatory alignment, including the acceleration of decarbonisation policies between the two regions. The call was made during this week’s EU-India Aviation Summit organised jointly by the European Commission […]
More than 100,000lbs of soon-to-expire food donations from concession operators at Philadelphia International Airport’s (PHL) have been donated to a local charity that helps “neighbours in need”. In total, the joint effort between Philabundance and PHL merchants has resulted in 108,825 pounds of food and approximately 141,500 meals donated. An event was held to commemorate […]
Finavia today announced that it will start the €8 million renovation of Runway 2 at Helsinki Airport on May 2. As as result of the work, until mid-September, aircraft landing directions will differ from the normal, although the gateway insists that the work will not affect passenger traffic. “The runway comes under enormous stress, and […]
VINCI Airports has unveiled plans for a 14-hectare solar power plant at Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport in France. It will cover 5,800 parking spaces at the airport and become one of the largest shaded power plants in the country. According to VINCI, the new addition will have a capacity of 20MWp and produce 24GWh of green […]
In recognition of National Autism Awareness Month, Miami International Airport has hosted its first MIA Airport Instruction and Readiness (MIAair) tour since 2019 for more than 40 children with special needs. The tour allowed participants to walk through the airport travel experience from start to finish in a safe and controlled environment. Attendees included children […]
Pocket Bar & Bistro has become the latest new F&B offering to open its doors at Stockholm Arlanda Airport. Airport operator, Swedavia, notes that the new addition offers “fantastic views of the runway” and aircraft taking off and landing from its location, one level up in SkyCity. It promises to be a busy year for […]
Aéroports de Montréal (ADM) has unveiled its first ever Sustainability Plan 1.0, which it believes demonstrates that it has listened to its neighbours and placed sustainable development at the heart of its mission. And the Canadian airport operator even goes as far as to suggest that it plans go beyond basic considerations to ensure that […]
Plaza Premium Group has unveiled its second lounge at Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport (FCO) in Rome, Italy. Located in Schengen Area of Terminal 1, the lounge is said to provide a “serene and restful space complemented with a world-class in-lounge experience thoughtfully curated by a team of passionate hospitality experts for all types of travellers”. […]
In a major milestone for Sydney Airport, the Australian hub today welcomed its 50th airline with Vietjet’s inaugural service from Ho Chi Minh City arriving this morning. This is the highest number of airlines flying regular scheduled passenger services the airport has ever seen in its 103-year history. Flight VJ85 touched down in Sydney this […]
San Diego International Airport (SAN) has taken delivery of its first shipment of renewable diesel for the fleet of airside vehicles operating at the Californian gateway. San Diego County Regional Airport Authority notes that renewable diesel can reduce emissions by up to 75% or more compared to petroleum diesel. The sustainable fuel is now being […]
Finavia and the Finnish family firm Relove believe they are bringing a unique second-hand concept store to Helsinki Airport as it will combine recycling culture with a popular café. According to the Finnish airport operator, it will be the world’s first second-hand shop at an airport and will feature high-quality second-hand clothes and accessories and […]
The latest 2022 Airport IT Insights Survey reveals that airports are ramping up their investment in technology to digitalise their operations and streamline the passenger journey through more self-service options. The report – produced annually by ACI World and SITA – notes that with the quicker than expected recovery of air travel demand, chief information […]
Brisbane Airport is set to undertake the largest industrial project in its history for global logistics and delivery company Aramex Australia. Operator, Brisbane Airport Company (BAC), will kickstart the development of Airport Industrial Park with the construction of international courier business Aramex’s new 26,120sqm office and warehouse – equivalent in area to more than three-and-a-half […]
Designers and authors Adam Scott and Dave Waddell extol the virtues of Munich Airport, pioneers in the design and management of the experience-led ‘always-meanwhile’ airport. In the often extremely long-term world of capital works programmes, so-called ‘meanwhile-state’ planning is the temporary use of land earmarked for development. At it’s very best, it’s where key stakeholders […]
Newcastle Airport in Australia is embarking on a significant expansion plan, in partnership with Commonwealth Bank (CBA), which is acting as sole financier. The A$240 million deal includes the expansion of Newcastle Airport to enhance domestic capacity and develop a new international terminal and finance to accelerate the activation of Astra Aerolab including the construction […]
March was another record month at both Cork and Dublin airports with 181,000 and 2.48 million passengers respectively travelling through the gateways, according to operator, daa. At Cork Airport, March has followed the trend set in January and February, with another impressive performance. Last weekend, Cork Airport surpassed 500,000 passengers in the year to date. […]
Digitising airport CCTV systems can offer big gains in efficiency and cost savings, writes Andrew Dallmann. Airports in the US continue to squeeze in more flights, more people and more processes under their roofs while, in many cases, operating within spaces that were built decades ago to accommodate much lower traveller capacity. With recent studies […]
ACI World today reveals the the Top 10 busiest airports on the planet for passenger traffic, cargo and aircraft movements in 2022. It notes that each Top 10 welcomed back some of the world’s largest hubs, particularly in terms of passenger throughput, following the global re-opening of borders to international traffic. Passenger traffic The top […]
Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM) in Peru has officially opened its new runway and air traffic control tower. The departure of the first commercial flight marked the event. Fraport’s Peruvian Group airport is the country’s first aviation gateway to have two runways. Fraport CEO Stefan Schulte said: “We’ve once again proven that we can […]
Passenger numbers across Europe’s airports soared by 48% in February compared to the same month a year ago, providing further evidence of aviation’s growing recovery from the global pandemic. ACI EUROPE, which notes that air travel in February 2022 remained constrained by Omicron-related restrictions, says that last month’s upturn in traffic was predominantly driven by […]
Outside knowledge Dr Richard Plenty and Terri Morrissey reflect on the recruitment challenges facing airports and the potential benefits of bringing back older, more experienced staff. As we embark on another year, many of us engage in the ever-optimistic pursuit of making New Year resolutions. We resolve to get fitter, lose weight, eat less, join […]
In this article, Artemis Aerospace’s Jim Scott investigates how airport three-letter codes came about and the history behind some of the more unexpected ones. Your suitcase has set off down the conveyor belt sporting a label marked LAX or SYD or JNB, and that’s where you hope both you and it will end up. These […]
Swedavia’s “green transition” continued in 2022 with a number of key achievements, according to the company’s newly published Annual and Sustainability Report for 2022. “The aviation industry’s climate transition is necessary so that people can continue to meet in the future, despite long distances, in the most efficient way possible,” writes Swedavia’s president and CEO, […]
OTG has expanded its operations at Minneapolis-St Paul International Airport (MSP) with the opening of four innovative new F&B concepts. Following its initial makeover of Concourse G – which introduced over 43,000 square feet of elevated dining and retail programmes and secured MSP’s 2013 distinction of ‘Best Food & Beverage Program in North America’ from […]
The Shannon Airport Group has welcomed the allocation of €4.623,486 million in government funding to Shannon Airport announced today by Jack Chambers TD, Minister of State at the Department of Transport. Almost €17 million in exchequer funding for regional airports was announced by Minister Chambers at a media event held at Shannon Airport this morning. […]
John F Kennedy International Airport’s Terminal 4 is expanding its arts and culture programme to present a curated, ongoing series of installations, exhibits and performances throughout the year that it says will represent the full New York City experience, from local art to food, culture and beyond. Operator, JFKIAT, formed a new committee to facilitate […]
Aiding the development of Zanzibar’s gateway to the world Global air and travel services provider, dnata, has launched operations at Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) with its partners Emirates Leisure Retail and SEGAP – a joint venture between airport infrastructure and operations specialist Egis – and private equity fund manager African Infrastructure Investment […]
Incheon International Airport (ICN) today celebrates its 22nd anniversary, just a few weeks after handling its 100 millionth transfer passenger. The number of transfer passengers at Incheon Airport has steadily increased since recording 1.63 million passengers at the time of its opening in 2001, reaching 7.23 million passengers in 2019. In 2021, which was hit […]
VINCI Airports has achieved another sustainability first, with its Portuguese airports all being awarded ACA 4+ ‘Transition’ status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. The certification recognises that the airports have fully accounted and reported direct and indirect CO2 emissions related to their activities and operations, have significantly reduced their direct emissions, offset their residual […]
Passengers may get a glimpse of the future at Amsterdam Schiphol this spring as the airport begins trials of self driving buses. The trials are a result of the Royal Schiphol Group teaming up with nlmtd and TNW (The Next Web) to further accelerate innovation at the airport. According to the airport, nlmtd and TNW […]
The UK government today announced that it is continuing its review of night flight policy with a new consultation on the noise objectives for Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted airports. It says that the review will ensure that aircraft operations at those airports are managed so that the negative impacts of night flying on local residents […]
Gilles Bussutil, vice president, global guest experience, at leading airport lounge and travel experience provider, Airport Dimensions, explores the concept of hospitality and what it means in the airport environment. At the lounge, a warm welcome and a respite from the rigours of travel is, of course, expected. But a welcoming airport has many facets. […]
Today marks three years since the start of the first COVID lockdown in the UK, and reflecting on the occasion, OAG’s chief analyst, John Grant, states that although traffic still lags behind 2019 levels, the national recovery is going in the right direction. He says: “Our data shows that, three years on from the pandemic, […]
A year on from the launch of its refreshed sustainability strategy, Heathrow 2.0: Connecting People and Planet, Heathrow’s 2022 Sustainability report updates on the airport’s progress. Over half of the commitments towards net zero aviation and making Heathrow a great place to live and work have been marked as “on track” or “progressing”. In 2022, […]
ACI World has today published its 2023 edition of the Airport Economics Report and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), presenting a comprehensive view of the airport industry’s financial performance for the 2021 year. The annual Airport Economics Report presents an in-depth global analysis of airport industry revenues by source, costs, and related trends across the globe […]
Finnish airport operator, Finavia, today confirmed that its revenues grew substantially in 2022 and the operating margin turned positive. Nevertheless, the result for the financial year was negative due to the low passenger volumes at the regional airports and the low level of transfer travel at Helsinki Airport. The traffic decline at Helsinki Airport meant […]
Real estate development could act as the catalyst for the successful future development of many African airports, writes NACO’s aviation director for Africa, Marcel Langeslag. As airports continue to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, many are looking for ways to build a more resilient business that is less dependent on revenue generated […]
Hong Kong International Airport has selected SITA to provide a carbon management platform to monitor data on carbon emissions across the airport environment. The move will help the airport track key performance indicators as the airport progresses towards its net zero carbon goal. SITA’s carbon management platform, to be fully deployed by summer 2023, will […]
Auckland Airport has commenced its biggest redevelopment since the airport opened in 1966 with a brand-new domestic terminal to be fully integrated into the international terminal. “This is a major investment for Auckland Airport, one which we have been working towards for many years,” noted the New Zealand gateway’s chairman, Patrick Strange. “The domestic terminal […]
ACI World’s vice president and chief economist, Patrick Lucas, and vice president for airport customer experience, Dimitri Coll, remind us of the economic challenges facing small airports and how enhancing customer service can boost revenues. Airports are asset-intensive businesses that require large investments just to accommodate a single aircraft landing. They must achieve a critical mass […]
VPorts has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Airport to build and operate a first vertiport in RAK designed to establish the UAE as a world-class global AAM hub. ‘‘With the support of the Department of Civil Aviation of Ras Al Khaimah, we are excited to build […]
London Gatwick Airport has today published its financial results for 2022, and recognising the urgent need to make net zero a reality has accelerated its commitment to be net zero for its own Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 2030, 10 years ahead of its previous commitment. This commitment, it says, is aligned with […]
Airport World talks to Olivier Baric, Egis’ aviation director for Africa, about the infrastructure specialist’s interests in Africa, potential challenges ahead, and why he believes that long-term partnerships are key to delivering on airport promises. What is Egis’ involvement with African airports? We are investors and long-term partner operators in three airports in the Congo […]
SITA has been selected as the preferred digital and IT systems partner for vertoports for Volocopter, a pioneer of urban air mobility (UAM). Under the agreement, SITA has become the latest investor to join Volocopter’s Series E funding round, cementing the strategic vision espoused by this partnership. According to its backers, UAM will offer “a […]
ACI EUROPE claims that the combined efforts of the continent’s airports to reduce their carbon emissions was a highlight of ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation annual report for 2021-2022, published today. Indeed, it goes as far as to state that European progress made within the global carbon standard for airports emerged as the standout star. ACI […]
The Royal Schiphol Group is starting a collaboration with security technology company Pangiam to investigate ways of screening hand baggage more quickly and safely at Amsterdam Schiphol. The new technology, powered by artificial intelligence, could eventually help enable travellers to go through security checks faster, without compromising on safety. The aim of the collaboration is […]
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has celebrated the topping out of the Tom Bradley International Terminal Core with a beam signing ceremony. The Tom Bradley International Terminal Core is one of seven new cores that make up the $490 million dollar Terminal Cores project at LAX. The project, which is scheduled to complete in 2024, […]
A total of 5.2 million passengers travelled through Heathrow during February, with 26th February the busiest single day in Terminal 5 since Christmas 2019 with over 94,000 passengers. According to the UK hub, it “successfully managed” the February half-term getaway, when top holiday destinations were Dubai, New York and Madrid. It notes that overall passenger […]
ICF’s vice president, Eliot Lees, and senior consultant, Tod Yankee, consider the reasons why airports should implement green concessions programmes. Ready or not, airport managers are facing a major behavioural shift in consumers making purchases from retail and food and beverage concessions, which has given rise to a whole new discipline – Green Concessions Programming. […]
Shannon Airport is expecting to handle some 30,000 passengers during the upcoming St Patrick’s Day weekend – a healthy 24% more than the 21,000 passengers it handled during the same period last year. Mary Considine, CEO of Shannon Airport Group, said: “Our passenger forecast over the St Patrick’s period is a positive start to what […]
Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) has become the seventh major commercial airport in the United States to launch a zero-waste sustainability programme that collaborates with partners to collect used cooking oil and convert them into renewable fuels. As a result of the airport’s partnership with Fraport Maryland and Mahoney Environmental, BWI is now collecting used […]
Executive board member and chairman of the executive committee, Franck Mereyde, explains why ever expanding TAV Airports is eyeing new opportunities in Africa. Africa arguably offers the greatest development potential of any aviation market as its growth, which started with services in the 1920s by European operators Air France, Imperial Airways and Deutsche Lufthansa before […]
Brisbane Airport (BNE) has become the first Australian airport to receive Level 4 ‘Transformation’ status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. The new status recognises Brisbane Airport’s long-term carbon management strategy towards absolute emissions reductions and evidence of forging meaningful partnerships to reduce the emissions of airport partners. “Given Australia’s reliance on air travel to connect […]
Fraport has set itself the ambitious new target of aiming to reduce the carbon emissions directly under its control at Frankfurt Airport to 50,000 tonnes by 2030. The new total is 25,000 tonnes less than the previous target announced by Germany’s largest aviation hub. “Aviation needs to make a significant contribution towards protecting our planet’s […]
China’s re-opening to international travel is likely to be more of a slow burner than a game changer for the aviation industry, writes OAG’s chief analyst, John Grant. The news of China re-opening to all international travel from January 8, 2023, came as a surprise to most forecasters. Indeed, considering how much China’s capacity has […]
London Gatwick Airport will open two new restaurants and wine bars this spring – Vagabond Bar & Kitchen and South Downs Sparkling Wine Bar. The new outlets, the airport states, will showcase “a vast array of the best local wines, beers and produce from across the region, alongside global options”. Award-winning urban winery, Vagabond, will […]
President, Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone, today opened his country’s first new international airport terminal since independence, a key milestone in developing the pivotal West African state as a regional aviation hub. The new $270 million facility is three times the size of the existing terminal with capacity to handle up to one million […]
Airports big and small across the world were today recognised for their customer service excellence throughout 2022 in ACI’s annual Airport Service Quality (ASQ) awards. Winners ranged from the big hubs of Istanbul and Rome-Fiumicino in Europe; Dallas/Fort Worth and San Francisco in the US; and Singapore Changi and Shenzhen Bao’an in Asia-Pacific to some […]
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport’s executive vice president of global strategy and development, John Ackerman, tells Joe Bates more about the growth and future development plans of the Texas gateway. It feels like Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and the Dallas Metroplex area are on a bit of a roll, with the Texas gateway building a […]
Singapore Changi and Brussels Airport have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to augment their strategic partnership in air cargo development. With the goal of deepening cargo competencies, it is said that both airports will jointly drive initiatives to enhance their respective capabilities in pharmaceutical logistics, undertake studies and trials in the fields of digitalisation […]
Sacramento International Airport has become the latest gateway to deploy facial biometric technology at select boarding gates. The US airport has installed state-of-the-art technology from Amadeus that it says will “revolutionise the process of verifying traveller identities by comparing live photos to the traveller’s existing passport or visa photo in secure US Department of Homeland […]
Marshall Retail Group (MRG) and InMotion, both WHSmith companies, have unveiled ten exciting new outlets inside the brand-new Single Terminal at Kansas City International Airport (MCI). The new terminal at MCI features MRG retailers in both concourses, with a wealth of new concepts designed just for Kansas City, Missouri. MRG says that it takes pride […]
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is anticipating a busy spring break travel period that is expected to draw more than 12 million passengers to the airport between March and April. The increase in passenger and vehicle traffic will make this spring break the most travelled at LAX since 2019, leading Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) […]
Brisbane Airport is literally brewing up employment opportunities for people with a disability at its new Boronia Brew café. Indeed, to date, 10 staff with a disability have found employment at Boronia Brew, which officially opened a few days ago. Operated by HELP Enterprises, the social enterprise is providing training for supported workers, with hopes […]
ACI news is back, rounding up the latest announcements, initiatives and views from ACI World and across the ACI regions, this issue also featuring input from ACI EUROPE and ACI Asia-Pacific. ACI World news: Restoring economic equilibrium ACI World is urging regulators to support the economic sustainability of airports as social and economic engines of […]
Fraport AG Ground Services are currently trialling an autonomous baggage and cargo tractor at Frankfurt Airport. The electric vehicle will operate on an eight-kilometre-long test route within Frankfurt Airport’s secure area. The trial is designed to determine whether and under what conditions an autonomous vehicle can support regular baggage and cargo operations on the apron. […]
Hundreds of jobs will be on offer this weekend when Dublin Airport holds a two-day jobs fair for prospective candidates. Hosted by airport operator, daa, the Jobs Fair will take place at the Radisson Hotel, Dublin Airport, on Friday, March 3 (2pm-5pm), and Saturday, March 4 (10am-1pm). The free-to-attend daa Jobs Fair will provide attendees […]
ACI Africa secretary general, Ali Tounsi, considers some of the main challenges and opportunities facing Africa’s aviation industry and tells us more about the goals and ambitions of ACI Africa for the year ahead. Africa’s aviation industry is no stranger to challenges and while many of the traditional, and indeed global ones of safety, security […]
The first flights will depart from the new single terminal at Kansas City International Airport today, marking the end of a five-year development, design and construction effort and ushering in a new era of air travel in the region. The 1.1 million-square-foot, design-build project was delivered ahead of schedule and on budget while providing a […]
ACI World director general, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, considers the growth potential of Africa. As many of you will know, ACI World had the pleasure of partnering with ACI Africa for the ACI Africa/World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition last October. The successful event, which attracted over 500 delegates, took place in Marrakesh, Morocco, […]
New South Wales’ minister for tourism, Ben Franklin, announced today that Qantas Group has been successful with its application for the NSW Aviation Attraction Fund to support routes from Newcastle Airport to Cairns and Adelaide. Responding to the news, Newcastle Airport CEO, Dr Peter Cock, said the announcement was significant for the gateway and surrounding […]
A welcome point at London Luton Airport (LLA) has supported almost 30,000 Ukrainian arrivals and assisted 500 UK Homes for Ukraine sponsors since being established in March 2022. The welcome point at LLA has provided a range of support and services to Ukrainian arrivals including the provision of food and drink, overnight accommodation and SIM […]
VIEW THE ISSUE HERE Focus on: Africa Airport profile: Dallas/Fort Worth Special report: Small airports Plus: Green concessions & China traffic analysis Back in business Airport World editor, Joe Bates, looks forward to a more positive year for aviation, introduces some exciting changes to the magazine, and reflects on the ‘Africa’ theme of this issue. […]
Shannon Airport today welcomed Ireland’s Minister of State for the Department of Transport, Jack Chambers, for a flying visit. The Minister, who was met by Conal Henry, chair of the Shannon Airport Group, and the group chief executive officer, Mary Considine, was briefed on the facilities and operations at the airport and activities across the […]
Although current shopper behaviour among the young Gen Z traveller demographic does not show engagement or excitement with the duty free and travel retail offer, this is a clear contrast with their potential, the latest research from m1nd-set reveals. Following significant interest among industry partners and stakeholders in this young, high-potential age-segment, the Swiss-based travel […]
Hamad International Airport (DOH) has successfully renewed its Level 3 ‘Optimisation’ status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme for another year. The Qatar gateway says that the successful recertification is a reassurance that its carbon management processes and activities have effectively reduced CO2 emissions. During the recertification process, operator, MATAR, was audited by independent third […]
Changi Airport Group (CAG) has signed a formal partnership agreement with Aurrigo International for the continued joint development and testing of the company’s autonomous vehicles. According to Aurrigo, its innovative solutions offer the ability to reduce emissions and improve efficiencies in getting passenger bags to and from the terminal. The multi-year partnership with CAG provides […]
London’s Heathrow Airport has reminded the world about its ongoing ‘green revolution’ as it embarks on the second year of its Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) incentive scheme. In 2022, Heathrow launched a world first – an airport SAF incentive programme which aimed to cover up to 50% of the extra cost, making the fuel more […]
Dubai Airports today labelled 2022 a banner year for Dubai International Airport (DXB), revealing that it handled 66 million passengers during 12 months of robust growth. It notes that growth outpaced the annual forecast yet again in the final months of the year following an exceptionally strong fourth quarter, and believes that it is now […]
Zero-emission, hydrogen-powered air travel is the aim of a new partnership between ZeroAvia and Birmingham Airport (BHX). The companies have entered into a long-term partnership to make on-airfield hydrogen refuelling and regular domestic passenger flights of zero-emission aircraft a reality in the coming years. Hydrogen-electric engines use hydrogen in fuel cells to generate electricity, which […]
Assaia is confident that the deployment of its turnaround control solution at Halifax Stanfield International Airport will ensure the more efficient use of the Canadian gateway’s existing infrastructure, improve the on-time performance of its airlines and enhance safety. The solution, a combination of Artificial Intelligence and computer vision, will monitor aircraft turnarounds and will also […]
ACI World and Amadeus have today opened submissions for the third edition of the Technology Innovation Awards, putting a spotlight on industry-leading technology initiatives and leadership by airports around the world. Airport members of ACI are invited to submit their candidacy to the ACI World-Amadeus Technology Innovation Awards in one of three categories: Best innovation(s) […]
Finland’s Ivalo and Oulu airports will celebrate their 80th and 70th anniversaries, respectively, this year. Jonna Pietilä, Finavia’s vice president for northern Finland airports, has no doubt that both gateways play a key role in the country’s airport system. “The airports of Oulu and Ivalo have served passengers and airlines for decades and have developed […]
Around 3.7 million passengers passed through Frankfurt Airport (FRA) in January – 65.5% more than in the corresponding month a year ago. Airport operator, Fraport, says that it benefited from return travel from vacation destinations after the Christmas holidays, with warm weather destinations such as the Canary Islands, intercontinental destinations in the Caribbean, North America […]
Recent changes to federal funding programmes in the United States are dramatically widening the scope of airport expansion plans throughout the country, writes Mary Scott Nabers. In the fall of 2022, the FAA announced the availability of $1 billion during 2023 for airport expansion projects, and over the next several weeks, it will release its […]
Christchurch Airport’s renewable energy precinct, Kōwhai Park has taken a giant step closer to reality. After a year-long process, that attracted interest from organisations across the globe, the airport has chosen one of New Zealand’s largest energy companies, Contact Energy, and international solar developer, Lightsource bp, as its partners to deliver phase one of the […]
Almost 16 million passengers used Abu Dhabi’s five airports in 2022 – tripling the 5.26 million handled in 2021. The bulk of the total passed through Abu Dhabi International Airport with the remainder using either Al Ain International, Al Bateen Executive, Delma Island or Sir Bani Yas Island airports. His Excellency, Jamal Salem Al Dhaheri, […]
Passengers will soon be able to travel through Frankfurt Airport from check-in to boarding simply by scanning their faces at biometric touch-points across the gateway. This solution will utilise SITA and NEC technology and is available to all interested airlines at the airport. The implementation will see additional biometric touch-points installed by spring 2023. From […]
UK company AeroCloud Systems (AeroCloud) has won a contract to provide a full suite of airport operations management systems to Lincoln Airport (LNK) in the US state of Nebraska Its cloud-based airport operations platform will support ongoing terminal expansion work at LNK, which is due to be completed by February 2023. The Nebraska gateway handles around […]
Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) celebrated its third busiest year in 2022 when more than 3.88 million passengers passed through its facilities. SDF is also celebrating the greatest number of non-stop destinations ever at 37 on eight airlines. “Last year, 2022, was a banner year for us and something we’re very proud of following […]
The Full Year 2022 traffic report released today by ACI EUROPE shows that the airport industry finally turned the corner on the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the industry body. Passenger traffic across the European airport network nearly doubled (+98%) in 2022 compared to the previous year, reaching 1.94 billion passengers. However, that was still -21% […]
Miami International Airport (MIA) handled a record 50.6 million passengers in 2022, nearly 10% more than its previous best in 2019. The total included 21.3 million international passengers, 8.3 million more than 2021 but one million less than pre-COVID levels. Compared to the airport’s total of 37.3 million passengers in 2021, when the aviation industry […]
New ‘smart windows’ have been installed in the recently opened 350,000-square-foot expansion of Chicago O’Hare’s Terminal 5, a major milestone in the $1.3 billion, four-year investment programme to expand and modernise the gateway. The windows, provided by View Inc, use artificial intelligence to optimise the amount of natural light in the terminal while minimising heat […]
Hong Kong is to give away 500,000 airline tickets in a hugely ambitious promotional campaign to boost tourism numbers and attract visitors back to the region. As part of the government driven initiative it is also offering a host of ‘Hong Kong Goodies’ in the form of discount vouchers on food, drink, transport, hotels, shopping […]
Holland & Barrett, a leading UK wellness retailer, has partnered with WHSmith to offer a curated range of health, wellness and beauty products to customers travelling across the UK or jetting off on holiday. The trial will see Holland & Barrett concessions added to three WHSmith Travel stores in Heathrow Terminal 2 airside, Gatwick North […]
Birmingham Airport (BHX) in the UK has celebrated handing the 10 millionth customer in its current financial year. According to the airport, the milestone represents a story of the steady recovery for BHX, which emerged from the COVID-19 deep-freeze back in March 2022, when travel restrictions were lifted. Compared to the previous financial year (2021/22), 2022/23 has so far seen […]
Heathrow Airport CEO, John Holland-Kaye, has informed the Board of his intention to stand down during 2023 after nine years in the hot-seat. Praising his “exceptional leadership”, the Board notes that he built a strong management team, helped develop a consumer-focused culture, improved cost efficiency and put “Heathrow at the forefront of global aviation’s decarbonisation”. […]
Faced with increased disruptions, baggage mountains, and staff shortages, airports and airlines are ramping up their investment in technology to digitalise their operations and speed up the passenger journey by offering more self-service options, according to SITA. SITA’s 2022 Air Transport IT Insights report, published today, reveals that with the post-pandemic recovery CIOs want to […]
Finavia has built an underground wetland at Helsinki Airport to improve water management. The project is the first of its kind in the Nordic countries and is designed to improve the condition of streams and other waterways near the airport. “Water management is an important part of our environmental work, and we do our best […]
London’s Heathrow Airport today published its new Giving Back Programme, reasserting its commitment to the local community to make the area a great place to live and work. It is the first comprehensive community investment plan published by the airport, clarifying the various ways it already supports the local community as well as setting out […]
Washington Reagan National Airport has opened ‘Curiosity Runway’, a new play area that it hopes will pique the pre-flight imagination of families with children. The gateway has created the new space in partnership with the National Children’s Museum – a learn-through-play institution in downtown Washington DC that sparks curiosity through science, technology, engineering, arts, and […]
ACI EUROPE president, Javier Marín, last night addressed the specific challenge of the funding required to achieve the airport industry’s net zero carbon targets and compliance with ‘Fit for 55’. Speaking at ACI EUROPE’s annual reception held in the European Parliament in Brussels, Marín, who is managing director of Spanish airport operator AENA, warned of […]
Munich Airport and Lufthansa have “reaffirmed and strengthened” their successful strategic partnership by signing a letter of intent (LOI) to intensify and continue the sustainable development of Munich Airport. In the LOI, both parties commit to a shared sustainability strategy, to the expansion of Munich Airport as an intermodal transport hub, to the needs-based expansion […]
Swedavia, in collaboration with its partners at Stockholm Arlanda Airport – is to host a big Recruitment Day at the gateway on January 30 in a bid to fill some of the thousands of new jobs being created by the airport’s expansion and rising traffic figures. Sweden’s airport operator notes that with air travel taking […]
Shannon Airport’s strong recovery in 2022 exceeded expectations, according to Shanon Airport Group CEO, Mary Considine. The Irish airport welcomed over 1.51 million passengers to the airport in 2022, a 300% increase on 2021 figures, and an 88% recovery of 2019 passenger levels. “The accelerated pace of the rebound in air travel from Shannon has […]
The Canadian government is to invest of up to C$23.5 million under the National Trade Corridors Fund for an expansion and sustainability project at John C Munro Hamilton International Airport. This project, which will cost close to C$47 million, will allow the gateway to handle increased cargo operations by improving and expanding airfield capacity, increase […]
Creating a sense of common purpose Dr Richard Plenty and Terri Morrissey reflect on some of the challenges airports working with private investors may face by embracing a more entrepreneurial culture. We recently saw the much acclaimed film ‘Living’ where the main character, played brilliantly by Bill Nighy, spends his days in a bureaucratic office […]
Tulsa International Airport has celebrated the opening of a new ‘A History through Dance’ art exhibit by Megan Torres. The exhibit features photography from Torres Fine Art, wardrobe pieces, and history information that highlights Tulsa’s Ballet Folklórico group, Tierra Mestiza. Tierra Mestiza has been a part of the community of Tulsa since the late 1990s, […]
Emirates has taken yet another significant step in the resumption of its Australia capacity by increasing its service to two major cities – Sydney and Melbourne. The airline also announced today that it will also restart services to Christchurch, New Zealand via Sydney, offering a new path for Australians across the trans-Tasman route. From March […]
ACI EUROPE and industry partners A4E, ERA and IATA today welcomed the decision to postpone the implementation of the EU’s new smart border system for non-EU nationals (i.e. Entry Exit System, EES). The EES system will be a game changer for how the EU’s borders are managed. There are, however, a number of issues which […]
Fraport has assumed responsibility for the organisation, management, and performance of the security checkpoints at Frankfurt Airport (FRA). The German Federal Police, who were previously tasked with these responsibilities, will continue to hold statutory oversight and supervision roles, as well as overall responsibility for aviation security. They will also continue to provide armed protection at […]
Airport World talks to HOK’s Hiroyuki Kawakami and Azusa Sekkei’s Makoto Ishii about plans to transform and expand the international terminal at Fukuoka Airport in Japan. Construction is underway on a “state-of-the-art international terminal expansion and renovation project”, which together with a new runway, will effectively equip Fukuoka Airport to handle up to 16 million […]
Birmingham Airport (BHX) in the UK has announced that it is aiming to bolster its workforce ahead of what promises to be a bumper summer for overseas holidays. Data shows strong booking volumes for the summer as people continue to prioritise their summer breaks, giving the airport confidence that traffic levels are getting ever closer […]
Glasgow Airport is trialling a special assistance support app to ensure all passengers who require additional help at the gateway get the assistance they need. The UK airport reveals that around 25% of requests for special assistance are made on the day of travel and hopes that the PRM Assist app will supplement the current […]
After nearly three years off view to the public while it underwent professional conservation, the famed bronze portrait bust of former Los Angeles Mayor, Tom Bradley, is finally back at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and ready to be installed in its new permanent home. The bust, a 10-foot-tall bronze and granite sculpture created by […]
We report on some of the operational and maintenance news stories making headlines in Europe and across the wider airport ecosystem. Frankfurt’s Sky Line people mover system taking shape Frankfurt Airport has unveiled the the first vehicle for its new Sky Line people mover, which will carry travellers from the long-distance and regional train stations […]
The contrasting 2022 traffic recoveries of Hong Kong and Frankfurt and Dublin airports show just how far the European gateways are ahead of the Southeast Asian airport in terms of bouncing back from the global pandemic. For while Frankfurt and Dublin today announced that they handled 48.9 million and 28.1 million passengers respectively last year, […]
Matt Bentley from Service Works Global offers advice to facilities managers about asset management, including the key benefits and how technology can deliver efficiencies and cut costs. Many airports are now operating at close to pre-pandemic levels. Gatwick Airport, for example, is now offering flights to almost 90% of the destinations it served in October […]
JCDecaux has renewed its advertising concession with Singapore Changi Airport for another seven years, with an option for a further five year extension taking its contract to 2034. As air travel rebounds, JCDecaux believes that the extended partnership will harness growing industry trends to curate brand building media offerings that are data-driven and offer more […]
Airports across Europe continue to announce their annual traffic figures for 2022, the bulk of which are reporting a significant upturn in passenger numbers and routes as aviation’s recovery from the pandemic gathered momentum. Munch Airport, for example, reveals that it handled 31.6 million passengers in 2022 – 19 million more the previous year as […]
Daan Van Vroonhoven, Smiths Detection’s global director for aviation and regulatory compliance, considers how developments in screening solutions can help the air cargo industry meet the pressures it is facing on several fronts. The air cargo sector faces a range of ever evolving, and new, security threats coupled with tightening global regulation. In this climate, […]
ACI World today called on regulators to support the economic sustainability of airports as social and economic engines of communities worldwide, arguing that doing so ultimately benefits the travelling public. The call to action supports the recent ACI World Resolution Restoring Economic Equilibrium that urges governments to acknowledge the changed risk profile of airports in […]
Cork Airport believes that it is on track for a “strong recovery” in 2023 after revealing that it handled 2.24 million passengers last year. Its confidence is based on what it calls the swift recovery of international traffic after the removal of the last remaining COVID related travel restrictions. Last year’s passenger total meant that […]
Ever Rich Duty Free has partnered with William Grant and Tasa Meng on a Glenfiddich Perpetual Collection promotion at Taipei’s Taoyuan International Airport. To support the launch, the brand’s ground-breaking immersive Perpetual Collection pop-up concept has been installed in Terminal 2 and will be onsite until February 28. “This collection is Glenfiddich’s biggest launch in […]
The standout objective of Finavia’s newly published responsibility programme is to reduce the carbon emissions of Finland’s airports to net zero by the end of 2025. Talking about its new ‘Towards sustainable air travel’ initiative, Finavia’s vice president for sustainability and the environment, Mikko Viinikainen, enthused: “Operations at all our airports have been carbon neutral […]
Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) is to implement a cutting-edge, on-site laboratory to perform wastewater surveillance testing at Pearson International Airport. The pilot project, supported in part by funding from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program, is using partner LuminUltra’s technology to test for the presence of sub-variants of the SARS-CoV-2 […]
UK regional gateway, Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA), has announced that for the first time in its history, its airlines will 80 destinations year-round this year. It notes that new routes include Bergen (Norway), Porto (Portugal) and Perpignan (France) and that recent additions such as Katowice (Poland), Bucharest (Romania) and Cluj (Romania) will also continue into […]
Airport World discovers more about SFO’s new Airport Carbon Accreditation status, a climate goals agreement between Hamburg and Christchurch airports, and a handful of other green initatives across the globe. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is celebrating a major sustainability milestone after being awarded Level 4 ‘Transformation’ status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. The […]
New AMBAAR Club lounge opens in Salvador Bahia Airport Dimensions has opened a new airside AMBAAR Club lounge at Salvador Bahia International Airport as part of its collaboration with AMBAAR Lounge, which opened a landside facility at the Brazilian gateway in October. Designed to give passengers a last experience of Bahia (the Bay of All […]
London Stansted’s single runway is to be fully resurfaced in a five-month programme that begins this weekend. The work on the three kilometre long runway, which will be managed by engineering firm Lagan, will take place at night to minimise the impact on the local community and airport operations. Over the course of the project, […]
Despite a weak start to the year due to the Omicron variant and other global concerns, Sweden’s airports welcomed nearly 28 million passengers in 2022 – a 130% increase on the 12 million that passed through the country’s gateways in 2021. According to the Swedish airport operator Swedavia, 2022 ended on a strong note, especially at […]
Jordan’s Queen Alia International Airport has become the first gateway in the Middle East to achieve Level 3 status in ACI’s Customer Experience Accreditation programme. To obtain Level 3, the Amman gateway notes that it implemented an “advanced customer experience strategy through multi-faceted engagement with customers, employees and customer experience professionals”. In addition, it says […]
Global air and travel services provider, dnata, continues to expand at Erbil International Airport (EBL), recently breaking ground on its new, 20,000sqm cargo warehouse. The new facility represents an investment of $14 million and will create up to 50 additional, direct jobs with dnata in Iraq. The foundation stone for the cargo warehouse, which is […]
The host of ambitious infrastructure development projects unveiled across the globe in the final quarter of 2022 shows confidence in the future growth of aviation and the investor appeal of airports, writes Joe Bates. It proved to be a busy end to 2022 with global traffic figures on the rise and the announcement of a […]
Avports’ investment in Connecticut’s Tweed New Haven Airport shows that public-private partnerships can work for smaller US gateways, writes the company’s CEO, Jorge Roberts, and chief operating officer, Arturo Garcia-Alonso. Over the past 95 years, our team at Avports (formerly Pan Am World Services) has contributed to growth and continuity at over 30 small airport […]
Liege has become the first Belgian airport to announce its readiness to accommodate the distribution of sustainable aviation fuel to its airline customers. It notes that in the last few months of 2022, the airport’s fuel storage facilities have been audited and its storage and distribution procedures reviewed to ensure that they are equipped to […]
Welcoming China’s decision to re-open border with quarantine-free travel, ACI Asia-Pacific reiterated its calls for a consistent and harmonised approach from governments in response measures towards managing inbound travel. Commenting on the development, ACI Asia-Pacific’s director general, Stefano Baronci, said: “China has played a dominating role in the region’s economy and is anticipated to be […]
Tan Lye Teck, Changi Airport Group’s executive vice president for airport management, brings Joe Bates up to speed on how his gateway has fared in 2022 and explains why Singapore Changi is looking to the future with optimism. As we near the end of 2022, where would you say Singapore Changi is in its recovery […]
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is on target to handle close to 70 million passengers in 2022 after 60.1 million passed through its facilities in the first 11 months of the year. The airport welcomed more than 5.5 million passengers (+13%) in November, the upturn largely being driven by the continued growth in international traffic. […]
According to Airport Dimensions, its newly commissioned research has pin-pointed how airports must adapt their retail and experience offerings to appeal to the modern traveller. The data reveals, unsurprisingly, that practical factors make a significant difference when it comes to improving travellers’ passenger experiences. A substantial 80% of those surveyed, for example, cited comfortable seating […]
The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey is using public-private partnerships to create world class terminals and transform customer experiences across its airports, writes deputy director of aviation planning & development, Sarah McKeon. The concept of public entities partnering with private investors to bolster and complement public-sector capital spending – popularly referred to […]
Edinburgh Airport has donated £100,000 to charities and local community groups over the past year, with an increased fund returning for 2023. The airport’s Community Fund ensures communities benefit from its activities by providing financial support to community groups and charities committed to improving opportunities, facilities and services available to local people. Next year’s total […]