World in motion: ACI News

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 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 experience to ACI World having held a number of executive positions at LAWA before taking the top job.

His career also includes notable roles at Star Alliance, Credit Suisse, United Airlines, Reese McMahon LLC, Cambridge Management Consultants, and Deloitte Touche.

With a proven track record of leadership and strategic vision, he is well-equipped to lead ACI World into its next phase of growth and development.

In his new role, Erbacci will be responsible for representing the organisation on the global stage, implementing policies formulated by the General Assembly and World Governing Board, and driving membership growth – working closely with ACI’s different regions and stakeholders to advance the organisation’s mission.

“It is an honour and a privilege to be selected by fellow airport executives to serve and represent them as director general and CEO of ACI World,” enthused Erbacci.

“I am very excited to get started and look forward to working closely with the ACI World team, the ACI Regions, and our members – both airports and World Business Partners – to address the challenges and opportunities facing the aviation industry to further strengthen the role of airports as drivers of economic growth and development, and to help transform the travel experience.”

Candace McGraw, CEO of Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport and chair of ACI World, stated: “Justin brings a unique blend of proven leadership, global aviation experience, and strategic vision to ACI World.

“After an extensive global search, the Board and I are very pleased to welcome Justin to ACI World in his new role. We are confident that under his guidance, ACI World will continue to successfully serve as the leading advocate for the global airport community.”

The outgoing de Oliveira, who has served as director general of ACI World since 2020, said: “After four challenging, yet fruitful years at ACI, I am delighted to pass the baton to our new director general and CEO to continue the improvement and leadership of this fantastic organisation.

“I am confident in Justin’s ability to lead ACI World to great heights. His international experience and knowledge of the entire aviation sector will definitely help ACI continue to champion the global airport community, while fostering innovation and collaboration to shape the future of the sector.

“I will personally engage in the transition to ensure Justin’s seamless integration in Montréal and assist him in navigating our complex yet dynamic ecosystem that transcends borders, propelling our collective journey towards a brighter future in the skies.”

Despite joining ACI World at a hugely difficult time for aviation and, indeed the world, de Oliveira’s tenure at the ‘voice of the world’s airports’ has been marked by significant strides in enhancing global airport standards and fostering collaboration within the aviation community.

Under his leadership, ACI World has prioritised key sustainability initiatives and milestones, advocated for regulatory frameworks that support airport development, and facilitated knowledge sharing among member airports.

New resolutions adopted at ACI World’s Annual General Assembly

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 at ACI World’s Annual General Assembly in Riyadh.

The resolutions cover:
• Safety and security at airports as fundamental enablers of sustainable growth
• Enabling system capacity at airports to meet future growth
• Aviation decarbonisation and airport climate action

ACI World director general and CEO, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, noted: “Global passenger traffic is poised to soar, with projections nearing 20 billion by 2042, doubling the estimates for 2024.

“Safely and sustainably accommodating this exponential growth necessitates collaboration across the entire aviation system, including governments. Together, we must ensure sufficient capacity, maintain safety and security, and meet aviation’s net-zero targets.

“The unanimous adoption of the Resolutions demonstrates the commitment from the world’s airports for sustainable growth, and we thank ACI members for providing a strong collective response. Collaboration is not just essential; it’s the only way forward.”

Recognising that long-term and sustainable growth of aviation requires that the highest levels of safety and security are maintained, this Resolution calls for strengthened collaboration between airports, Civil Aviation Authorities, governments, international organisations,
and funding partners to enhance global aviation standards.

This includes increasing certified aerodromes, improving safety and security measures through capacity building initiatives, and investing in the development of a skilled aviation workforce.

Airports are encouraged to continue to support the peer review ACI APEX programme that helps airports optimise their operations, regulatory compliance, as well as raise aviation standards worldwide.

Recognising that ground and airspace capacity present one of the largest challenges in accommodating future air travel demand, this Resolution calls upon airports, governments, and other key stakeholders such as air operators and air navigation service providers to prioritise collaboration in maximising system capacity utilisation. This includes, through policy, access to timely funding, and operational and technical improvements.

The ACI World-Civil Air Navigation Services Organization (CANSO),  Airport System Capacity Enhancement (ASCE) programme, remains a key resource to optimise the use of airport system capacity, both in the air and on the ground.

Noting the commitment of airports to the industry’s Net Zero Carbon Goal, this Resolution urges governments and aviation stakeholders to prioritise sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) adoption, along with investment in new propulsion technologies like electric and hybrid electric aircraft, and associated airport infrastructure.

The Resolution emphasises the need for unified global approaches to aviation decarbonisation, including ensuring a sufficient supply of green energy to airports, and incentivising climate adaptation and mitigation infrastructure development through appropriate financial mechanisms.,

AMPAP coming back to Istanbul

iGA Istanbul Airport CEO, Selahattin Bilgen and ACI World director general and CEO, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, sign an agreement to bring the AMPAP training programme back to Istanbul in 2025.

According to the agreement, the Global Air Mobility Systems (GAMS) module of the AMPAP IAP programme, organised in collaboration with ACI World and ICAO, will take place in Istanbul in April and October 2025.

Connectivity in Asia-Pacific & Middle East

ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s newly released Air Connectivity Ranking 2023 study shows a diverse recovery pattern across the two regions, with notable improvements despite the ongoing geopolitical challenges.

Developed in partnership with PwC and based on coverage of 300 airports that account for almost 93% of the combined passenger traffic in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, the study reveals that:

• The Middle East, which reported near 4% growth in passenger traffic in 2023 vs 2019, is on its way to recovery with the region lagging just 5% below 2019 level in air connectivity.

• In the Asia-Pacific region, the latest figures from the 2023 Ranking indicate significant strides towards recovery connectivity, despite remaining 13% below 2019 levels. This represents a substantial improvement from the 36% decline observed in 2022 compared to pre-pandemic levels, highlighting gradual, but steady, progress towards recovery.

Commenting on the outcome of the study, Stefano Baronci, director general of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, said: “The report paints a positive picture of gradual recovery in air connectivity in Asia-Pacific and steady growth in the Middle East, with regional issues significantly influencing the pace and extent of recovery.

“This year is expected to confirm this positive trend, with the 300 airports sampled in our report improving their connectivity by an average of 59% in quarter 1 of 2024 compared to the same quarter in 2023, largely boosted by the Asia-Pacific airports, especially in China.

“Small airports, however, will have to face the highest challenge, and adequate transport policy support is recommended. To stay competitive, it is the right time to deploy reforms that are necessary to boost growth, especially in relation to timely build new airport infrastructure to accommodate future demand, further liberalising markets, and smoother visa policies.”

Key findings

• Passenger traffic from Asia-Pacific to other regions declined significantly due to prolonged recovery, primarily influenced by delayed market reopening in key areas like China, economic uncertainties, and operational limitations.

• Traffic to the Middle East continued to increase in 2023, with the overall expansion of flight routes particularly to regions like Africa and Central & South America.

• Dubai and Doha lead both regions in terms of transfer traffic, which can be attributable to the major airlines which are based there and serve extensive global networks.

• Air Transport Liberalisation has enhanced trade, tourism, and overall economic growth through improved accessibility and connectivity.

• The UAE is at the forefront of air liberalisation in the Middle East, showcasing remarkable growth in total air connectivity.

• Small airports have suffered the most in terms of connectivity drop and their recovery is expected to be slower than for bigger airports in terms of traffic.

Outlook for 2024 

The Q1 2024 quarterly index shows that airports have improved their direct connectivity by an average of 59% compared to the same quarter in 2023. In Q3 2024, airports in APAC and ME are expected to increase seat capacity by an average of 10% compared to Q1.

In 2024, the highest increase in seat capacity will largely be direct flights to and from China. The spotlight will be on Asia-Pacific as key markets that are dependent on Chinese traffic are expected to witness a gradual improvement in connectivity.

As for the Middle East, Riyadh, Abu Dhabi and Dubai will be in the spotlight as both Saudi Arabia and the UAE have added significant capacities to a diverse range of destinations.

Recommendations

• Building of new airport infrastructure, especially in megacities in Asia and fast-growing airports in Middle East, to meet the current and future demand.

• Institutional Stakeholders should actively seek to remove limitations in air traffic rights to boost competition.

• Relax visa policy to boost international traffic.

•  Improve connectivity for Small Island Developing States by encouraging private sector participation in aviation and tourism infrastructure development.

Elevating African aviation

ACI Africa is confident that the 33rd ACI Africa Annual General Assembly, Regional Conference & Exhibition, and Airshow in Johannesburg this September, will reach new heights, writes Romesh Bhoyroo.

Marking the fourth time South Africa has hosted this landmark event, it promises yet again to be a pivotal gathering for aviation professionals across the continent.

ACI Africa stands as a beacon for airport operators across the continent, dedicated to promoting professional excellence and addressing the unique challenges of the African aviation sector.

This year’s conference theme, ‘Flying Together: Airport Collaboration and Partnerships’ highlights the necessity of joint efforts to navigate the complexities of modern aviation.

“In today’s interconnected world, collaboration is key,” states ACI Africa’s secretary general, Ali Tounsi. “By pooling resources and expertise, airports, airlines, and regulatory bodies can drive innovation, improve safety, and enhance passenger experiences.

“The strong partnership between ACI Africa and Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), particularly in human resources and training initiatives, exemplifies the benefits of such collaboration.”

South Africa’s selection as the host country for the event is no coincidence. Known for its robust aviation sector and strategic connectivity, South Africa has consistently demonstrated excellence in airport management and operations.

“Hosting the conference in Johannesburg not only showcases South Africa’s strengths but also inspires other African nations to strive for similar achievements,” notes Tounsi notes.

With its vibrant culture and hospitality, South Africa provides an inviting backdrop for international delegates.

Hosting the conference in South Africa aligns seamlessly with ACI Africa’s mission to advance aviation across the continent, with the event expected to serve as a platform to highlight successful initiatives and best practices that can be replicated elsewhere.

“Discussions will focus on critical issues such as infrastructure development, regulatory harmonisation, and sustainability,” says Tounsi.

By bringing together industry leaders in Johannesburg, ACI Africa aims to foster a collaborative environment where innovative solutions can thrive.

“The event will feature diverse sessions, workshops, and panel discussions led by experts,” adds Tounsi. “These forums will provide valuable insights into the latest trends and technologies in aviation.”

The exhibition will further showcase cutting-edge innovations, allowing delegates to explore new products and services that can enhance their operations.

Delegates are invited to attend the Africa Aerospace and Defence Air show, hosted by the Ministry of Defence of South Africa, an event that will bring together the largest gathering of industry players in aerospace and defence (manufacturers and innovators) and buyers (high-level international delegations, defence chiefs of arms and senior procurement officers).

Delegates will also, of course, have the unique opportunity to visit Johannesburg’s landmarks, including Soweto Township, Mandela’s House, the Apartheid Museum, and a game park, adding a cultural dimension to the professional experience.

What sets the ACI Africa Regional Conference apart from others, says Tounsi, is its tailored focus on the African aviation sector, which “addresses the unique challenges and opportunities within the region”.

Please join us in Johannesburg this September to be part of a transformative experience that will shape the future of our industry.

For more information and to register for the conference, visit the event’s website https://aciafrica.zohobackstage.eu/joburg .