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Published by Aviation Media Ltd
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 at this time of the year, rising temperatures, new routes and more crowded airport terminals signify the start of the summer schedules in the Northern Hemisphere and, traditionally, some of the busiest few months ahead for passenger traffic.
At the time of writing (May 22), an ever-increasing number of airports are reporting impressive traffic growth for Q1, with most European gateways expecting demand to peak, as usual, during the summer months and continue in an upward trajectory for the rest of the year.
ACI EUROPE’s most recent traffic figures revealed that passenger volumes across the continent maintained a positive momentum during the first quarter of 2025, with numbers increasing by +4.3% over the same period last year.
double to 22.3 billion passengers per annum by 2053 – means that the aviation industry will have to up its game in terms of facilities and performance levels over the coming decades in order to meet demand.
And the industry will have to do this while never losing sight of the key priorities of safety, security and sustainability.
As ‘safety and security’ is the theme of this issue, it should come as no surprise to learn that we cover a number of different safety and security stories on the following pages.
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It says the Q1 growth in traffic was entirely driven by international passengers (+5.7%) as domestic traffic remained flat (0%) when compared to the same period in 2024. The figure for international travellers represents an 8.9% increase on pre-pandemic Q1 in 2019.
It wasn’t all good news, though, as ACI EUROPE’s director general, Olivier Jankovec noted that the Q1 data revealed that the post-pandemic travel boom is fading and that Europe was moving towards “normalised” growth rates in passenger volumes.
He also cautioned that geopolitics and macro-economic uncertainty remain key challenges to future growth.
The war in Ukraine, of course, continues to cast a shadow over Europe and indeed the world, and the recent outbreak of fighting between India and Pakistan has only served to raise tensions in that region.
Global aviation consultant with ICAO and former CEO of Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, Inderjit Singh, provides his thoughts on how global conflicts such as these disrupt air travel in an exclusive feature on pages 28-30 of this issue.
On a more positive note, rising passenger numbers – ACI World expects global traffic to more than
They include a review of pioneering airfield safety initiatives at Costa Rica’s Juan Santamaria Airport (SJO), Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) in the US, and Leeds Bradford (LBA) in the UK; taking a closer look at the benefits of intelligent video technology; consider the installation of more operationally friendly airport safety barriers; and report on the latest airport security news.
Our lead airport feature shines the spotlight on Lithuania, with Lithuanian Airports CEO, Simonas Bartkus, telling us more about the ongoing transformation of Vilnius Airport and the development plans for Kaunas and Palanga.
We also have a comprehensive report on the current growth trajectory of Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, India’s busiest and best-connected gateway.
Elsewhere in this issue, we have articles about transformative airport design at Houston George Bush and Austin-Bergstrom airports in Texas; enhancing existing airport lounges; and highlight a number of pioneering new sustainability initiatives across Europe and North America.
We round the issue out with our regular ‘people matters’ column and the latest SMART Airports and airport supplier news in our new ‘business exchange’ section.
I hope you enjoy the issue and look forward to catching up with many of you at the upcoming SMART Airports & Regions Conference and Exhibition in Atlanta in July.
p o r t e f f i c i e n c y a n d
p a s s e n g e r e x p e r i e n c e w i t h c u t t i n g - e d g e d i g i t a l s o l
s e a m l e s s , d a t a - d r i v e n m a n a g e m e n t .
O u r S m a r t A i r p o r t S o l u t i o n s
D i g i t a l S i g n a g e & D i s p l a y s – 4 0 0 + s c r e e n s f o r r e a l - t i m e f l i g h t u p d a t e s
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I n t e r a c t i v e K i o s k s – M u l t i l i n g u a l s e l f - s e r v i c e w i t h l i v e s u p p o r t .
I n f o r m a t i o n K i o s k s – E a s y a c c e s s t o a i r p o r t s e r v i c e s , m a p s , a n d t r a v e l
d e t a i l s .
Q u e u e M a n a g e m e n t – O p t i m i z e d p a s s e n g e r f l o w w i t h S - L i n e & Q u e u e -
M a t i c .
R e s t r o o m M o n i t o r i n g – A u t o m a t e d h y g i e n e & m a i n t e n a n c e t r a c k i n g .
S c a l e r P r o j e c t – A u t o m a t e d b a g g a g e w e
E l e v a t e Y o u r A i r p o r t O p e r a t i o n s w i t h F l i g h t M i n d s
V i s i t w w w . f l i g h t m i n d s . c o m | @ f l i g h t m i n d s . c o m
p o w e r e d b y
In this issue
3 Opinion
Editor, Joe Bates, reflects on rising global passenger numbers, geopolitics and the ‘safety and security’ theme of this issue.
8 Winds of change
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.
Bigger, better, smarter!
Joe Bates discovers more about the current growth trajectory of Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport.
New screening technology, biometrics and the recruitment of extra security staff feature in our security news round-up.
We shine the spotlight on three initiatives that show how airports are enhancing safety and efficiency across the airfield.
Utilising intelligent video technology can help enhance safety, security and operational efficiency at airports, especially during busy peak periods, writes Milestone Systems’ Martin McGrath.
A-SAFE’s James Smith explains why he
28 Turbulent times
Dr Inderjit Singh, a global aviation consultant with ICAO and former CEO of Indira Gandhi International Airport, considers the impact global conflicts have on the aviation industry.
32 Breaking the mould
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.
34 New and diverse
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.
36 Going green
Airport World shines shine the spotlight on a handful of very different sustainability initiatives across Europe and North America.
40 Business exchange
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.
42 People matters
Terri Morrisey and Dr Richard Plenty look at the importance of human factors and managing fatigue.
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Winds of change
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 symbolic new name – Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis International Airport.
The developments follow an impressive 2024 for Lithuania’s capital city gateway, which finally exceeded pre-COVID traffic levels when a record 4.8 million passengers passed through its facilities.
However, to say that VNO’s passenger numbers are back on track after the pandemic would be doing it a huge disservice because as well as COVID, the gateway has also had to deal with the loss of services to the former key markets of Ukraine, Belarus and Russia over the last three years due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
VNO’s ability to fill the void by attracting new airlines and growing its route network to the west, north and south, boosted by a significant upturn in outbound travel, means that VNO now has a very different traffic mix to the one it had in 2019.
Indeed, today, Germany (15%), Italy (11%) and the UK (9%) are the biggest markets served from VNO compared to the the UK (16%), Germany (12%) and Ukraine (8%) back in 2019.
As a result of the change, the busiest scheduled routes served from VNO in the first four months of 2025 were Warsaw, Riga and Frankfurt and the biggest of the 15 scheduled airlines serving Vilnius today in terms of market share are Ryanair, airBaltic and Wizz Air followed by LOT, the Lufthansa Group (Lufthansa, Brussels Airlines, Austrian and SWISS) and SAS.
Between them they all effectively operate short-haul flights to Europe, although the list of 51 destinations served from VNO also includes a handful of scheduled services to West Asia.
Passengers destined for destinations outside of Europe tend to catch connecting long-haul services out of hubs such as Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Frankfurt, Munich and Warsaw.
“Managing to replace the traffic we lost to the east is an amazing achievement for us,” enthuses Simonas Bartkus, CEO of Lithuanian Airports (LTOU).
“Our route network has undergone a significant transformation and, it continues to grow and develop, reflected by a double digit increase in passenger numbers in Vilnius in the first four months of 2025 compared to the corresponding period last year.
“While the number of international visitors to Vilnius and Lithuania is still slightly down on pre-COVID levels, we have coped with the new dynamic by accommodating more outbound traffic as the number of Lithuanians travelling abroad has hit record levels.
“We now have way more traffic to the west, north and south than we did in 2019, which has helped us compensate for the fact that we no longer serve Ukraine – which accounted for substantial passenger numbers –Belarus or Russia.”
VNO’s network development has certainly been helped by economic growth in Lithuania, which continues to grow at a faster rate than any of the other Baltic states.
He points out that VNO’s number of Mediterranean destinations spread across Turkey, Italy, Spain and Greece have grown hugely over the last five years to meet demand, while Lithuanians principally living abroad in Ireland, Norway, UK and Spain account for the bulk of VFR traffic.
Worthy of mention is the fact that for the first time ever Vilnius will have direct flights to Budapest in Hungary, Prague in the Czech Republic, Catania in Italy, Tel Aviv in Israel, Bergen in Norway, and Tirana in Albania this summer.
While the Egyptian resorts of Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh, Burgas in Bulgaria, the Greek island of Rhodes, Tivat in Montenegro, the Portuguese island of Madeira and a handful of resorts in Tunisia and Turkey will be served by charter flights.
All help ensure that based on passenger traffic, VNO is the second biggest airport in the Baltic states after Riga and the largest airport in Lithuania by some way as Kaunas – located only 100 kilometres from Vilnius – currently handles around 1.4mppa and Palanga close to 400,000.
As you would expect from an airport located just five to six kilometres from Vilnius’ historic old town, VNO serves as Lithuania’s main international gateway and airport of choice for the bulk of the country, the exception being for those living in the north who would either use Palanga or Riga in Latvia.
NEW DEPARTURES TERMINAL
Opened on February 4 this year, the new 14,400-square-metre Departures Terminal has doubled VNO’s passenger capacity to 2,400 per hour, paving the way for Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis international Airport to handle 8 million passengers annually by 2030.
The first floor houses the check-in area with self-service baggage drop-off stations, public spaces, cafés, and other commercial zones, as well as airline offices.
The second floor accommodates security screening, departure, and arrival gates for passengers travelling within the Schengen area. The terminal also features two new passenger boarding bridges, allowing direct boarding onto aircraft.
The new terminal is connected to the old passenger terminal via a spacious gallery, ensuring seamless movement between the terminals.
Lithuanian Airports notes that during the terminal's construction, significant improvements were made to the transportation infrastructure in front of Vilnius Airport.
Engineering networks were upgraded, road surfaces were renewed, and new canopies for passengers and vehicles were installed. The revised traffic scheme now accommodates higher transport volumes, making access more convenient and user-friendly.
Bartkus says: "The new terminal is needed because Vilnius Airport has been operating above its design capacity of 3.5 million passengers per annum for quite some time. It is part of our wider transformation plan for the airport’s terminals.
“By providing passengers with a higher level of comfort, we are also enhancing the competencies of our teams and raising service and air travel standards.
“The more spacious, brighter, and twice as efficient Departure Terminal also marks a new stage in technological advancements for us, as for the first time in the history of Lithuanian airports, dozens of new systems have been implemented and synchronised – from self-service innovations to safety and risk management solutions that minimise human errors.”
NEXT ON THE AGENDA VNO
With the new Departures area now up and running, Bartkus says that it is time to upgrade some of the remaining older gate areas and create an expanded new Arrivals Terminal.
Before then though, and beginning in mid-2025, the airport will redesign and repurpose the old check-in area into an airside commercial zone with shops, lounges and F&B outlets. This conversion is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
Simultaneously, the planning and construction of a new €50 million Arrivals Terminal is expected to start shortly with its completion anticipated by the end of 2028, by which time VNO should be equipped to handle around 10 million passengers per annum.
This would certainly put VNO on the front foot for decades to come in terms of its key infrastructure as, under LTOU’s most optimistic long-term plan, it isn’t expected to handle 10 million passengers per annum until the late 2040s, and then possibly 13mppa by 2052.
More immediately, LTOU is currently considering the merits of 11 architectural concepts for the new Arrivals Terminal to have been submitted in an international tender.
The concepts are publicly available on the official competition website, https://vnocompetition.lt/ and are also on display at the offices of the Lithuanian Architects' Union (LAS).
According to Lithuanian Airports, the architectural competition aims to create a new, functional arrivals terminal that will be integrated with the newly opened departures terminal and the renovated central plaza.
“At this stage, we want the public to have the opportunity to explore the submitted ideas and see what the future holds for Vilnius Airport. This project is a continuation of the airport’s transformation, already symbolised by the recently launched Departures Terminal,” says Bartkus.
“By implementing these changes systematically, we are building a modern and efficient airport infrastructure for all passengers.”
Bartkus notes that VNO’s single runway is adequate for its needs, so with the exception of some additional remote parking space for
aircraft and taxiway renovations, the airport’s airfield doesn’t require a major upgrade.
VNO NAME CHANGE
Although most people will always call it Vilnius Airport, since January 1, 2025, its official name has been Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis International Airport in honour of the prominent Lithuanian artist and composer.
Bartkus remarks that he is considered Lithuania’s Leonardo de Vinci and therefore one of the most important Lithuanians of all time, yet arguably few people outside of Lithuania are familiar with his work.
“It is a symbolic gesture by the government to honour the 150th anniversary of the birth of one of our most famous citizens,” he comments.
The initiative is part of a year-long celebration of his life, and will remain the official name of VNO until December 31, 2029, after which a decision will be made whether to keep it or not. Bartkus believes that the name change will be permanent.
As previously mentioned, the bold cultural gesture also coincides with major upgrades to the airport, which are expected take at least another five years to complete.
KAUNAS AND PALANGA AIRPORTS
Although in the shadow of VNO, LTOU’s other airports of Kaunas (KUN) and Palanga (PLQ) are also growing and expanding their route networks, the upturn in numbers at both gateways ensuring that a record 6.6 million passengers (+10%) used its airports in 2024.
This summer Palanga is being billed as a gateway to Turkey and Egypt due to regular charter flights to Antalya in Turkey and Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt. Amsterdam, Dublin, Oslo, London, Riga and Copenhagen are also served from the gateway to serve the needs of both business and leisure travellers.
While KUN’s route network, effectively driven by low-cost carriers, includes a number of destinations in Greece, Croatia, Ireland, Italy and the United Kingdom served by both scheduled and charter flights.
LTOU also hasn’t forgotten about them when it comes to developing their key aviation infrastructure. Palanga, for example, boasts a newly modernised terminal, while the operational capabilities of Kaunas are being boosted by capacity doubling upgrade and extension to its terminal and recent completion of a northern runway expansion programme.
The extension of KUN’s terminal is expected to be completed in Q3 2025 as LTOU invests close to €60 million on upgrading its airport infrastructure this year.
On the back of a strong summer season, Lithuanian Airports is predicting a modest 3.5% rise in traffic across its airports this year to reach 6.8 million passengers by year’s end.
“While summer is busier than winter, we do have extremely strong shoulder seasons, which basically means that the traffic levels at our airports remains pretty much the same from May until October, so passenger numbers and flights are fairly consistent and we don’t have to cope with the big July/August summer peaks experienced at most European airports,” explains Bartkus.
A big ambition of LTOU is for VNO to get a transatlantic route by the end of the decade, although Bartkus is realistic enough to accept that it won’t be easy.
“It’s kind of our North Star in terms of route development,” he says. “We are not sure if we will succeed in this ambition or not as there is plenty of competition and our existing route network feeds traffic into the hubs of many different airlines, but it is an ambition, is achievable, and we will not give up on it.”
SUSTAINABILITY
Bartkus reveals that Lithuanian Airports has an ambitious target to make Vilnius, Kaunas and Palanga net zero gateways by 2030.
He notes that the new Departures Terminal at VNO has 5,000 square metres of solar panels on the roof that will generate around a third of the facility’s electrical needs.
VNO’s plans to reduce carbon emissions include replacing all petrol/ diesel fuelled buses and ground power units (GPUs) with electric powered vehicles/equipment.
And there are also plans to build a new 4.5MW solar farm elsewhere on the airport site as well as a 1.2MW solar array at Kaunas and a 0.4MW plant at Palanga in line with LTOU’s ambition to achieve net zero emissions by 2030.
Vilnius joined ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme in 2016 and has achieved Level 3 ‘Optimisation’ status in the programme. Kaunas and Palanga both hold Level 2 accreditation.
Bartkus concludes: “We are very serious in all our ambitions and, in the case of achieving net zero operations by 2030, we are well on our way to achieving the goal.”
Bigger, better, smarter!
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 total of 77.8 million passengers represented a (+7.8%) rise on 2023 and a healthy 15% increase over the 68.4 million accommodated in pre-COVID 2019.
International traffic increased by almost 17% in 2024, largely driven by extra services from Air India and IndiGo, and domestic passenger numbers by 5.5%.
DEL is also India’s leading cargo hub – accommodating just over one million tonnes of freight in its FY2024 – and a sustainability and customer service pioneer based on its impressive sustainability record and annual performance in ACI’s ASQ Airport Experience Awards, which is based on passenger feedback on the day of travel.
It has certainly come a long way since Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) assumed control of the airport in 2006 as it inherited a facility with a modest terminal capacity of just 12 million passengers per annum.
Since then, DIAL’s relentless focus on expansion and modernisation has propelled the airport to a remarkable milestone – a capacity of 100 million passengers per annum.
This transformation, culminating in the recent Phase 3A expansion, underscores Delhi’s ascent as a leading aviation hub, aligning with the vision of creating a “bigger, better, smarter, and future-ready” gateway for India.
TERMINAL 1: A CORNERSTONE OF GROWTH
Central to this evolution is the newly developed Terminal 1, unveiled as part of the Phase 3A expansion.
Designed to handle 40 million passengers annually, airport CEO, Videh Kumar Jaipuriar, has no doubt that it exemplifies DIAL’s commitment to capacity and quality.
Indeed, he believes that the terminal’s upgrades “go beyond scale and have redefined the passenger experience”.
For as well as raising DEL’s capacity, the new-look Terminal 1 has eased pressure on Terminals 2 and 3 and, according to Jaipuriar, ensured a “smoother travel experience with improved amenities and advanced technology”.
The upgrade has certainly delivered an enhanced boarding experience for passengers courtesy of 22 passenger boarding bridges (it previously had none) that have eliminated the inconvenience of bus transfers, offering direct aircraft access.
He notes that T1’s new streamlined check-in facilities include 100 check-in counters, including 36 self-baggage-drop kiosks, alongside high-tech,
self-check-in machines and queue-busting mobile check-in options that have ensured quicker and easier airport journeys for passengers.
Baggage efficiency in the terminal has also been significantly improved by the use of ten 70-metre baggage reclaim carousels that have raised the terminal’s baggage handling capacity to 6,000 bags per hour.
While advanced technology such as cutting-edge scanners and intuitive systems are designed to minimise wait times, making the journey from check-in to departure – or arrival to baggage claim –smooth and more efficient.
Jaipuriar enthused: “These enhancements transform T1 into a passenger-centric hub, setting a new benchmark for efficiency and comfort in Indian aviation.”
EXPANDING BEYOND THE TERMINAL
DIAL’s vision for the future, of course, extends beyond the airport’s terminals to the airside infrastructure critical for a thriving hub.
The commissioning of a fourth runway, an eastern cross taxiway, and several rapid-exit taxiways have raised DEL’s airside capacity to potentially support up to 140 million passengers annually.
“These upgrades will enable smoother aircraft movements, reduce delays, and accommodate future traffic growth, positioning Delhi to compete with the world’s leading airports,” enthuses Jaipuriar.
“The Phase 3A expansion, with T1 as its centrepiece, is more than an infrastructure milestone – it’s a stepping stone toward establishing Delhi as a global aviation powerhouse.
“By blending scale, technology, and passenger-focused design, DIAL is not only meeting today’s demands but also paving the way for a future where India stands tall in the global aviation landscape.”
REFURBISHMENT OF TERMINAL 2 TO ESTABLISH GATEWAY AS AN INTERNATIONAL HUB
India’s hub strategy is set to revolutionise its aviation landscape by transforming select airports into international transit points, reducing dependency on foreign hubs like Dubai, Singapore, and Frankfurt for Indian travellers.
This ambitious plan, driven by the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s vision to make India a global aviation hub by 2047, hinges on three pillars: bolstering infrastructure; optimising connectivity; and fostering airline partnerships.
At the forefront of this transformation is Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, which DIAL believes exemplifies how a hub model can elevate India’s presence in global aviation.
And there’s more to come from DEL as earlier this year DIAL announced that Teminal 2 will temporarily close for four to five months to allow for work to start on its upgrade.
As part of its revamp, the decades-old terminal will undergo significant enhancements aimed at elevating the passenger experience and increasing the airport’s capacity to meet future growth demands.
“The refurbishment will modernise key areas of the terminal and surrounding infrastructure, ensuring that T2 remains a top-tier facility in the global aviation landscape, capable of accommodating the evolving needs of passengers and supporting the airport’s continued growth,” states the airport operator.
The refurbishment of Terminal 2 is part of DIAL’s commitment to creating a world-class hub for travellers across India and Southeast Asia.
The terminal and its associated apron have been serving passengers for over four decades, and with the rapid increase in air traffic, major upgrades are essential.
Jaipuriar, says: “We, at DIAL, are committed to enhancing the overall passenger experience by upgrading key infrastructure, improving operational efficiency, and elevating passenger comfort.”
Key highlights of the Refurbishment Plan for Terminal 2 include new passenger boarding bridges (PBB) upgrades; mechanical and electrical improvements; civil and infrastructure enhancements; new Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS) and signage; and airside and apron refurbishment.
When it comes to civil and infrastructure improvements, DIAL notes that the terminal’s aesthetics will be upgraded with modern ceilings, ‘smart’ washrooms and advanced flooring, while outside it is hoped that better road connectivity will improve passenger convenience.
In addition, new canopies at the forecourt will offer better protection to visitors from the weather, especially during hot summers and the monsoon season.
OVERCOMING HISTORICAL CHALLENGES
Across the country, historically, Indian airlines have struggled to compete on the international stage.
Putting this into perspective, Indian carriers have traditionally only captured 36% of the market for passengers travelling to or from India and just 1% of transit passengers travelling between two foreign destinations.
The far from ideal situation has led to Indian carriers and airports getting sidelined for international traffic flows as global competitors dominated on the often lucrative transit routes.
India’s hub strategy seeks to reverse this trend by consolidating domestic traffic from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities and channelling it into international networks through key airports like Delhi.
Jaipuriar notes that this not only boosts airline yields but also positions Delhi as a seamless transit point for both India-bound and international-to-international [I-I] passengers.
DELHI AS THE FLAGSHIP HUB
Delhi’s role as a hub goes beyond connecting India to the world –it is effectively a catalyst for economic progress and a symbol of resilience and ambition.
By linking smaller Indian cities to global destinations, says DIAL, the airport strengthens airline profitability and enhances passenger convenience.
Jaipuriar reveals that efforts are underway with the airlines to capture I-I traffic flows, with the ulitmate aim of strenghtening DEL’s hub status and leading “India’s ascent as a global aviation powerhouse, driving connectivity and prosperity across the region”.
SUSTAINABILITY CHAMPION
Indira Gandhi International Airport has long been a pioneer in the development and introduction of sustainable initiatives and solutions, effectively making it a green leader in Asia.
DEL, of course, became the first airport in Asia handling more than 40mppa to achieve net zero status for carbon emissions under its own control (Scope 1&2) in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme (Level 5) in 2024.
It is now working with other stakeholders to reduce Scope 3 emissions, which comprise aircraft emissions, passenger access, emissions through GSEs, and others.
Some of the initiatives that have helped DEL achieve its lofty status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme include the 100% use of renewable energy, that has elimated 200,000 tonnes of
CO2 annually; the use of taxibots to tow aircraft between gates and on the apron/airfield; and an all electric fleet of DIAL ground support vehicles.
DEL’s elevated Eastern Cross Taxiway commissioned as part of the recent Phase 3A expansion has reduced aircraft taxiing times, saving approximately 350kg of fuel per aircraft movement or 55,000 tons of CO2 annually.
The airport achieved LEED Platinum certification for its new Terminal 1 for adopting green construction methods, while its waste management efforts include the use of 350 rainwater harvesting systems and a zero liquid discharge sewage treatment plant.
Also worthy of note is the fact that 20% of its passengers currently use public transport (Metro and Bus) to reach DEL. The airport wants to increase this figure to 50% by 2030, leveraging the addition of new metro lines and APMs, which once again will significantly reduce the CO2 emissions associated with the gateway.
USING SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY TO ENHANCE OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY AND PASSENGER EXPERIENCE
As India’s busiest airport, DEL has strategically adopted innovative solutions to address the challenges of rising traffic and evolving traveller expectations.
One key recent development is the implementation of AI-powered predictive analytics, which enhances resource allocation and operational planning.
The use of AI & ML at the Airport Operation Centre (APOC) for instance, allowed DIAL to reduce the security screening wait time for domestic passenger by up to 25%.
“On the terminal side, we have implemented AI-enabled, sensor-based passenger flow management software to visualise passenger flows and monitor queue length and wait times,” says Jaipuriar.
“In India, we were the first airport to implement facial recognitionbased DigiYatra for efficient travel journeys. It enables contactless identity verification at entry and security points, cutting processing times and enhancing convenience.
“On the aiside; DIAL has recently launched the UTAM (Unified Total Airside Management) platform which helps to monitor aircraft turnarounds using computer vision to capture the movement of airside vehicles, and share automatic alerts to concerned teams for enhanced safety measures.”
NOIDA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
What impact, if any, does he believe the new airport will have on aviation in the Delhi region, and specifically, the future growth of DEL?
“The domestic Indian aviation market has grown at a compound annual growth rate [CAGR] of 8% to 9%, and in the future, the Indian market is likely to grow at a healthy rate of 8% to 10% over the next decade, and become one of the top three markets in world,” answers Jaipuriar.
“So, in the long-term, the India market/National Capital Region catchment will be big enough for both airports to grow.
“The catchment area for Delhi and Jewar, where Noida is located, are also different – hence Jewar would be a complementary airport to DEL as initially it would predominantly cater to its specific catchment areas across western Uttar Pradesh.
“In comparison, Indira Gandhi International Airport will continue to cater to Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Ghaziabad, and other neighbouring areas.
“With growing demand for intra-state connectivity/regional connectivity, Jewar can provide for the necessary demand for that segment.”
Search and go!
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 stories in this round-up, which also includes the introduction of a new biometric-based passenger processing initiative at Orlando International Airport and the recruitment of extra security staff at Shannon Airport.
MUNICH COMPLETES ROLL OUT OF COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY TECHNOLOGY IN TERMINAL 2
After three years of reconstruction work, the fully modernised central security lanes in Terminal 2 at Munich Airport were officially opened in April, 2025.
The 15 lanes were launched by the Southern Bavarian Aviation Authority, part of the Government of Upper Bavaria, just in time for the Easter holidays.
The modern technology with CT scanners facilitates and optimises processes for passengers and staff, while significantly enhancing overall security standards.
First and foremost, the new equipment offers greater convenience for passengers. For example, up to four passengers can present their hand luggage for screening at the same time and electronic devices and liquids no longer have to be removed from baggage.
The CT scanners also provide enhanced security by automatically detecting explosives in every piece of baggage. This, combined with the three-dimensional view of the screening images, should make work easier for the security staff, resulting in fewer follow-up checks and even more time saved at the security checkpoint.
Jost Lammers, CEO of Munich Airport, said: “The new security lanes are one of the most important quality features at our airport. Just in time for the first major travel season of the year, our passengers can now benefit from the latest and safest technology, more efficient processes and noticeably more comfort.”
In addition to the now completed regular lanes, two further security lanes with CT scanners will be built by the end of 2025, which will offer greater convenience, especially to families with small children and air travellers with limited mobility.
The planned conversion measures for Terminal 1 will be completed by the beginning of the 2026 summer vacation period.
ORLANDO INITIATIVE TO IMPROVE PASSENGER PROCESSING TIMES
Orlando International Airport (MCO) has introduced what it is calling Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) on select inbound flights in line with its strategy of striving to provide seamless operations through technology.
Introduced in partnership with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Florida gateway notes that the initiative will use biometric facial comparison for identity verification to increase CBP operational
efficiency, while “enhancing the traveller experience and building toward a truly seamless journey”.
The process, it says, allows CBP to focus on the traveller, reducing the burden of administrative tasks. “Technology is driving the way for more efficient passenger operations,” said Lance Lyttle, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA).
“Innovative programmes like EPP can significantly reduce processing times for passengers, without compromising security. MCO saw an increase of more than 800,000 international arrivals in 2024 than in 2023, many of them US citizens who would benefit from this programme. We deeply value our partnership with US Customs and Border Protection and thank them for their continued collaboration and support in helping us deliver a more seamless and secure experience for our international travellers.”
GOAA has selected iProov, a leading biometric solutions company, as their vendor to support EPP.
SHANNON AIRPORT WELCOMES NEW RECRUITS TO AIRPORT SEARCH UNIT
Shannon Airport has welcomed fourteen new members of its airport security team in anticipation of a busy summer schedule.
The new Airport Search Unit (ASU) officers have completed training which includes the operation of the airport’s state of the art threedimensional X-ray screening system.
It is this system, with built in explosive detection software, that eliminates the need for passengers travelling through Shannon Airport to separate their 100ml liquids or electronics from their cabin bags when going through security.
The training also included Cabin Baggage Search, Manual Handling, Sunflower Hidden Disability Training and much more. This was given by in-house instructors and involved both classroom and practical training, with their certification completed by examiners on behalf of the Irish Aviation Authority.
The new team members hail from Limerick, Clare, Tipperary and as far afield as Finland. They come from a variety of backgrounds including hospitality, retail, and healthcare as well as some having progressed through other departments of the airport such as the Mobility Assistance Unit.
Pat O’Brien, chief officer of the Shannon Airport Police Fire Service and Security, said: “The Airport Search Unit (ASU) officers are a vital part of both Shannon Airport security and the customer experience, which is always to the forefront of our operations here.”
WORK BEGINS ON SECURITY CHECKPOINT DELIVERY FOR JFK’S NEW TERMINAL 6
JFK Millennium Partners (JMP), the company selected to build and operate New York JFK’s new Terminal 6, has announced a partnership with K2 Security Screening Group (K2 SSG) to procure, install and deploy a state-of-the-art security screening checkpoint at the future 10-gate terminal.
K2 SSG, an industry-leading airport security screening systems specialist, will work closely with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Port Authority of New York & New Jersey (PANYNJ) and T6’s security technology providers Analogic, Rohde & Schwarz, CEIA, and Leidos, to maximise the checkpoint’s safety and efficiency, facilitating a seamless passenger experience.
The future JFK T6 security checkpoint will use advanced screening technologies such as Computed Tomography (CT) X-ray screening to streamline passenger flow while providing the highest security standards.
Automated bin return systems will facilitate the movement of passenger carry-ons, while enhanced Advanced Imaging Technology (eAIT) will be able to detect both metallic and non-metallic objects concealed in layers of clothing or on the body in the span of 1.5 seconds – considerably faster than previous technologies.
The new checkpoint will also feature Credential Authentication Technology 2 (CAT2), which will provide automated identity verification
to validate the authenticity of a passenger’s identification credentials and identify individuals who may require additional screening.
“Security screening plays an essential role in keeping our passengers safe and our airports secure – however, it can also be one of the more stressful parts of the passenger journey,” said Steve Thody, CEO, JFK Millennium Partners. “Working closely with the TSA, our future T6 security checkpoint will utilise the latest screening technologies provided by K2 and its partners to expedite T6 passengers through the checkpoint, ultimately providing a significantly improved guest experience while enhancing security in parallel.”
WALKTHROUGH SECURITY SCANNERS BECOME REALITY AT FRANKFURT AIRPORT
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 is claimed that the QPS Walk2000 provides significantly greater comfort and convenience at security checks, as instead of having to freeze in an awkward posture for scanning, travellers can simply walk through the scanner at a normal speed.
About 18,000 departing passengers commute through this checkpoint daily.
Going forward, the plan is to extend the use of this technology to additional security check lanes in Terminal 1 and also deploy it in the new Terminal 3.
“We’re the world’s first airport to set a new standard of passenger security with this 360° walkthrough scanner,” says Alexander Laukenmann, head of Fraport AG’s aviation division.
“During the test phase we worked closely with the German Federal Police to optimise its operation and pave the way for its certification.
“This is part of our ongoing efforts to improve the passenger experience by using the latest technologies to make checkpoints faster and easier to navigate while upholding our high standard of security. A special thank you goes to the whole project team.”
The millimetre-wave technology used in the QPS Walk2000 scanners also penetrates clothing while an avatar pinpoints potentially dangerous objects in real time.
NEW SECURITY SCANNERS AT EDINBURGH AIRPORT
All passengers passing through Edinburgh Airport can now keep liquids and large electricals in their bags, thanks to the completion of a multi-million-pound project to install new security scanners.
Eight new scanners have been installed, transforming the security hall by adding an additional two lanes. This completely modernises the process thanks to the new technology, which is also in place at other VINCI Airports as part of their approach to innovation.
The £24 million investment will allow passengers to move through security even quicker than they currently do, while also elevating the level of passenger and staff safety due to the use of 3D functionality.
Liquids still need to be 100ml or under but can remain in bags. This means the airport will no longer issue single-use plastic bags, delivering a sustainability benefit through the project.
Michael Hering, head of security at Edinburgh Airport, said: “This will be welcome news for the millions of passengers who travel through Edinburgh Airport every year, and we’re glad to be able to complete this project and speed up the process.
“We’ve invested almost £24 million to install this cutting-edge technology to improve the overall experience for passengers, and 97% of passengers are already passing through in under 10 minutes.
“It’s also important to note that our high safety levels have been maintained and improved on due to the 3D technology, meaning it is a faster, more secure process in time for peak summer.”
Airfield safety
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 runways need to be maintained and renovated or upgraded over time to ensure that they are fit for purpose and capable of meeting rising demand.
New technology, particularly in terms of airfield safety lighting, Foreign Object Detection (FOD), autonomous vehicles, and guiding aircraft to and from terminal buildings continues to advance.
As does the capabilities of the emergency rescue vehicles used by airports and equipment such as weather and avian radar.
Below we highlight three projects that have enhanced airfield safety at Costa Rica’s Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) in the US, and Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) in the United Kingdom.
AUTOMATED AIRFIELD SAFETY SOLUTION FOR JUAN SANTAMARÍA AIRPORT
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), Costa Rica’s most active gateway and the second-busiest airport in Central America, has traditionally suffered from a number of runway safety challenges owing to the local tropical climate, writes Vaisala’s Jarmo Pilli
During Costa Rica’s rainy season, high humidity lowers visibility to just 100-metres and poses potentially risky flight conditions or shuts them down altogether. Therefore, safe landings and take-offs require precise visibility readings.
Historically, Costa Rica’s airports have used human observers to measure runway visual range (RVR). However, the human
observer method is susceptible to inaccuracies and inefficiencies and proved increasingly unreliable under the COVID-19 pandemicinduced staff shortages.
Indeed, these shortages underscored the necessity of replacing human observation with an automated system that could offer real-time and reliable data.
As an answer, Costa Rica’s civil aviation authority installed an automated Vaisala LT31 RVR system at SJO. It chose this system for its high accuracy, low maintenance and dependability – important characteristics to operate in Costa Rica’s constantly changing rainy season weather conditions.
In contrast to traditional human-measured readings, Vaisala’s system provides uninterrupted, real-time visibility reports to assist air traffic controllers and pilots in making prompt and informed decisions.
Since its implementation, the Vaisala solution has greatly enhanced safety and operational efficiency at SJO.
Constant visibility measurement by LT31 helps decision-makers maintain runway operations under poor weather, minimising flight diversions and delays. Shifting busy flights to better-visibility morning slots instead of busy low-visibility afternoons minimises delays around SJO and improves the air travel experience.
Additionally, Vaisala’s technical team training reinforces the system’s performance in the long-term.
Consequently, the airport is now able to respond more quickly to evolving weather patterns, hence contributing to more efficient and safer air transport in Costa Rica’s critical tourism-driven economy.
AIRSIDE TRAINING GOES HIGH-TECH AT DFW
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) has partnered with ThoroughTec Simulation, a specialist simulation, training and workforce development company, to modernise its ARFF and airside operations training capabilities.
The Texas gateway believes that its investment in advanced training technology underscores its commitment to maintaining its status as a global leader in airport operations training.
The heart of this transformation will be eight high-fidelity, full-mission, motion-base simulators, including ARFF, Rapid Intervention, pumper truck, snow removal, aircraft tug and general airside driving modules.
All these simulators will operate in a 3D digital twin of DFW’s airport and surrounds. This ‘virtual airport’ will enable operators to familiarise themselves with the airport layout and procedures before entering any live airside operations.
Additionally, a virtual, off-road driving track will be supplied, allowing trainee drivers to hone their skills in challenging off-road scenarios.
COMBATTING AIRFIELD SUBSIDENCE
Airports face persistent challenges with ground stability. Issues like subsidence, water ingress, and heavy traffic can lead to movements of up to 75mm in Pavement Quality Concrete (PQC) slabs in high-use areas like taxiways, aprons, and slot drains, writes Geobear’s Richard Holmes.
This can cause cracking and misalignment, creating safety and operational risks that demand urgent repairs.
Subsidence, caused by voids or weakened ground beneath PQC slabs, destabilises these critical areas. Water ingress worsens the situation by softening the ground beneath, further accelerating instability and the risk of slab failure.
Heavy traffic from aircraft and service vehicles compounds the issue by creating a ‘pumping’ effect, forcing water and soil particles up onto the pavement surface through unsealed or failing pavement joints.
This creates a three-fold issue: destabilising the ground resulting in rocking slabs, increasing the likelihood of step misalignments, and contaminates the pavement surface with soil slurry.
Prompt, effective ground improvement is crucial but conventional techniques, like full slab replacement, are slow, invasive, and less sustainable.
For example, apron repairs for a 40 square metre area can take up to three shifts to complete, followed by a 24 hour curing period to achieve the required load-bearing strength. This limits airports’ operational capacity and puts critical infrastructure out of action.
Geobear’s geopolymer solution offers a faster, less invasive alternative. Technicians drill small holes and inject the material beneath PQC slabs and terminal floors. The material fills voids, binds soils to stabilise ground, and works to lift and realign pavements quickly and with no curing time.
A successful application of this solution took place at Leeds Bradford Airport in UK, where voiding beneath PQC slabs caused pavement instability. Our team developed a bespoke engineering plan for the site, treating 13 slabs on the airfield over four nightshifts, with a curing time of 20 minutes per slab.
This quick turnaround allowed the runway to return to service in time for the next operating day, unlike traditional concrete repairs which would have required a week to reach load-bearing capacity.
And the solution is projected to save Leeds Bradford Airport over £1 million maintenance costs over ten years for a typical 50-slab area.
Additionally, in line with the aviation industry’s focus on sustainability, geopolymer injection can reduce carbon emissions by 62% compared to traditional approaches like full slab replacement, as verified by Carbon Footprint Ltd.
In an industry where unplanned downtime can cost millions, addressing ground instability is essential.
Watch and learn
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 plans to cope with every eventuality.
Safety, security and efficiency remain at the top of the agenda, but each is amplified by the pressures of high volumes of traffic, poor weather, and seasonal employee challenges.
As global air traffic volumes keep climbing towards pre-pandemic heights, it’s important that the technology that protects airports keeps pace.
One technology solution not to be overlooked is video, which – when combined with artificial intelligence (AI) – offers a high-impact way to mitigate risks, streamline operations, enhance emergency response times, and improve the overall passenger experience.
By harnessing the power of the extensive existing video systems in airports, we can transform the way we approach operations during busy times and help improve customer experience and public perception. Smarter video solutions are an easy add-on that can help make modern airport management significantly easier.
USING VIDEO TECHNOLOGY TO SUPPORT SMOOTHER OPERATIONS
It might seem strange to some to say it, but video technology really is a secret weapon in the drive for smoother airport operations. Why? Because the use of smart cameras means that tech systems can process and present huge volumes of data to security and facilities
teams, allowing them to monitor events in real time and make informed and proactive decisions in the moment.
Indeed, there are many ways in which this can translate to on the ground operations ranging from queue management, security support, staffing levels and accommodating kerbside traffic.
– Queue management. Software can be trained to predict queues and bottlenecks based on crowd behaviour, allowing earlier intervention to avoid queues from forming, for example by opening more check in desks or security scanners.
– Security support. The use of AI has a role to play in supporting security, with cameras able to recognise specific behaviour patterns and flag them for human review instantly.
– Peaks and troughs. Footfall peaks and troughs are, of course, linked to flight times, but camera systems can help provide the data to inform staff throughout the airport from check in through to departures.
– Kerbside traffic. Kerbside traffic at arrivals and departures can be improved by using technology to support with everything from number plate recognition and dwell time to managing taxi and lift-share services.
By integrating video data with other airport systems including access control, baggage handling and retail delivers a holistic view of an airport's operations, enabling better automation and offering the opportunity for reduced manual errors.
HOW TECHNOLOGY IS ALREADY IN USE
There are numerous global examples of where airports have used cloud-integrated video technology software to support operations.
In Brazil, for instance, a major airport serving over 15 million passengers a year upgraded its systems during a cloud first initiative and now manages over 1,000 cameras, with video data retained for 200 days.
Live monitoring and playback alike are serving the airport well and enhancing its emergency response approach with instant access to critical video data, significantly improving the airport's ability to respond swiftly and effectively to emergency situations.
At another airport in Argentina, around 800 cameras support the security team with a mix of high-resolution cameras, pan/tilt/zoom systems, and thermal imaging cameras.
In this airport, a virtual perimeter defence software helps keep secure areas safe, automatically detecting motion and issuing alerts when activity is detected in areas where it shouldn’t be.
Video management software also helps support small airports. At Jackson Hole Airport in Wyoming, USA, for example, more than 220 cameras support with everything from monitoring security checkpoints and baggage areas to keeping an ice on plane de-icing away from the terminal.
With a relatively small staff, video can help with footfall management and flagging people crossing into restricted areas or moving against foot traffic flow.
HARNESSING THE POWER OF THE CLOUD
The changes in cloud connectivity in recent years means that working with cloud or hybrid solutions is second nature.
When it comes to using video tech to support operations, this is great news, because it means that systems can be integrated easily and painlessly. Using a cloud solution – rather than managing video data in an onpremises system – opens up greater possibilities for airport managers. In essence, cloud options provide more flexibility and scalability and are simple to install.
Cloud solutions work well for airports of all sizes thanks to their ability to flex and scale depending on requirements.
This not only means they are adaptable by size but also by season and busier periods like summer or end of year travel as they can be quickly scaled up.
KEEPING AN EYE ON COMPLIANCE
Regulations, governance and security compliance all have a hand in video data management, so it’s important to ensure that any video solution meets the stringent regulatory landscape around data handling.
When working with supplier partners, it’s important to ask them about their data handling and ensure that these integrate with your own policies and procedures.
As technology becomes even smarter, airports will benefit from increased automation and ways to augment human decision-making. Ensuring compliance forms a key part of this and is essential for airports that want to grow sustainably and continue to provide excellent service.
A LOOK TO THE FUTURE
Modern airport management is changing, but seasonal peaks in people flow remain a constant.
As we head into one of the busiest times of year for travel in the Northern Hemisphere, there’s a great opportunity for airport leaders to look critically at their operational management systems and consider how technology can play a greater role.
The cost of inaction is far greater than the cost of investment into the technology infrastructure that will enable the airport management of tomorrow.
About the author
Martin McGrath is the sales manager for UK & Ireland at Milestone Systems.
From risk to resilience
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 costly chain reaction.
The financial fallout is significant. Ground delays cost airports €166 per minute, according to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), while the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) puts the figure at $100.80 per minute for US passenger airlines.
Indeed, in 2022 alone, delays and cancellations cost the industry $17-20 billion in the US and €19–22 billion in Europe.
To protect efficiency, airport operators need to act early by spotting risks and removing friction before it spirals into cost, disruption, or danger. For this level of operational resilience to happen, proactive risk reduction needs to become a priority.
OPERATIONAL FRAGILITY IN CRITICAL ZONES
Airports are pressure vessels. Aprons, baggage-handling areas and terminals each play host to a range of fast-paced, high-consequence processes that have little tolerance for disruption.
These environments rely on infrastructure doing its job quietly and consistently without interruption. Airside, ground vehicles move in tight choreography between aircraft stands. A tug out of line or a belt-loader
a minute late can block a gate, delay the next arrival, and trigger a chain of missed departures.
The pressure also plays out in the movement of baggage between terminal and aircraft. Tugs and trailers transport thousands of bags across service roads, racing the clock between arrivals and departures.
One misjudged turn, clipped corner or incident deriving from using unsafe desire lines can halt an entire belt of departures, triggering offloads, missed flights, and urgent repairs. This is especially critical at gates and aprons, where 80% of airport accidents occur, and nearly a quarter damage aircraft.
In these high-risk zones, traditional steel-and-concrete barriers become failure points. Their rigidity magnifies minor collisions into major disruptions, requiring immediate downtime and reactive maintenance from already stretched operations teams.
These systems were not built to absorb impact or protect continuity. To reduce risk, airports need infrastructure that works with pressure, not against it.
THE REACTIVE MODEL IS RUNNING OUT OF RUNWAY
These recurring challenges have two things in common. Firstly, they are not isolated, they happen daily across airports all around the world. Second, they are accepted as part of doing business.
The approach has remained largely reactive. Something breaks, someone fixes it. Someone is late, someone reroutes. But this model is now proving unsustainable.
Delay-related costs are harder to absorb and getting costlier by the day, with turnarounds growing tighter and traffic surging.
Meanwhile, many airport operators are being asked to do more with less. The aviation industry lost 2.3 million jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic, with ground-handling and security roles the ones impacted the most.
That number has not yet recovered, yet passenger numbers have soared since then, leaving airports severely understaffed.
Thin workforces work under more stress, which directly causes more oversights and mistakes. In other words: incidents (and subsequent delays) are more likely. For this reason, it is important to support them in any way possible to enhance their efficiency and reduce the risk of human error by removing the friction points they are forced to deal with.
That means eliminating safety hazards, redesigning inefficient layouts, and replacing outdated infrastructure that makes their jobs harder.
This process starts by addressing the root cause: a safety infrastructure that creates more problems than it prevents.
BUILD TO BEND, NOT BREAK
Airports operate under tight schedules and tighter margins. With collisions a certainty in high-traffic zones like baggage-handling areas, materials need proven resilience as well as flexibility. That is why more facilities now are deploying polymer-based barrier systems built to dissipate the energy of repeated impacts from ground-handling vehicles.
Unlike traditional materials that fatigue or fail after one strike, high-specification polymers return to shape without structural compromise. This durability translates into quicker ROI and longer-term savings by cutting out emergency repairs, replacements, and the operational downtime they trigger.
But not every polymer barrier performs the same. Only those with proven impact testing and lifecycle data can meet the demands of 24/7 ground operations. Performance matters, as does having the independent certifications that prove it.
The right barrier solution does much more than just protect from the impact: it maintains its structural integrity so that operations can keep going, a characteristic that clearly outperforms cheaper, short-lived alternatives.
WHY SMARTER RISK REDUCTION MEANS BETTER OPERATION FLOW
The impact of this shift is tangible. Having polymer-based barriers instead of steel ones considerably reduces the number of replacements required thanks to their resilience after repeated superficial impacts over time.
By reducing maintenance, airports keep operations flowing, and engineering teams can focus on preventive upkeep rather than scrambling to fix cracked concrete under a floodlight tower minutes before a night arrival.
But physical resilience is only part of the picture. Airports investing in smart safety infrastructure are now gaining access to real-time data through Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)-enabled systems. These technologies are integrated into the barriers and track impacts, identify high-risk areas, and reveal patterns in near misses.
They feed all this data into a software that notifies operators of any incident instantly and gives them insights that make it possible to redirect incoming flights to an alternative stand, eliminating potential delays in turnaround times, adjust layouts, retrain teams, or reinforce specific zones before more serious incidents occur –not after.
This way, risk stops being a statistic and becomes a set of clear, actionable signals.
In baggage areas, for example, fewer disruptions mean that the flow of luggage remains consistent, even when tug trucks and forklifts collide with protective systems. Fewer bottlenecks, fewer cascading delays and a measurable drop in avoidable equipment repairs.
These gains also make performance more predictable, helping airports to operate at pace without pushing systems past breaking point. By removing common failure points and reducing risk before it escalates, airports are building a baseline of operational reliability that holds under pressure.
AN INFRASTRUCTURE THAT NEVER GROUNDS YOU
Often success is measured by what hasn't gone wrong. Every delay avoided, every transfer completed, every bag delivered on time are the quiet wins that define performance.
But they do not happen by chance. They rely on infrastructure that absorbs pressure, resists failure, and delivers insight before problems escalate.
Proactive safety is the basis of that infrastructure. It reduces downtime, smooths operations, and gives teams the insights they need to stay ahead of risk instead of reacting to it. The smarter the infrastructure, the sharper the operational edge.
Start where the cracks keep appearing. Replace fragility with systems that hold up under real-world conditions.
It is time to move away from traditional safety and transition to a risk-reduction infrastructure that absorbs impact, recovers instantly, and keeps operations flowing, not one that shatters under pressure.
About the author
James Smith is co-CEO at A-SAFE and specialises in industrial safety innovation, with a rigorous focus on quality testing standards. AW
Turbulent times
Dr Inderjit Singh, a global aviation consultant with ICAO 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 FACING AVIATION
The global aviation industry in 2025 is navigating a perfect storm of challenges: supply chain disruptions, rising fuel prices, skilled labour shortages, mounting environmental concerns, increasing maintenance costs, cyber threats, and escalating insurance premiums. Yet, geopolitical instability stands out as the most disruptive force.
Aviation has always been closely tied to geopolitics. As a global connector of commerce, diplomacy, and tourism, air travel is vulnerable to the tremors of territorial disputes, cross-border tensions, and political conflict.
THE ECONOMIC FALLOUT OF CONFLICT ON AVIATION
Global conflicts impact aviation at every level. Operational costs in the conflict zones increase flight durations due to re-routing, pushing up fuel usage, and logistical complexity of crew scheduling.
Higher operational expenses inevitably lead to increased fares, subsequently lowering passenger numbers and revenue. Airlines thus experience considerable revenue losses due to decreased passenger volumes, cancelled flights, and interrupted cargo services.
Due to heightened risk levels the insurance premium rise significantly, causing premiums to soar 20–30% in high-tension regions.
The unpredictable nature of geopolitical events, and instability lead to delays in capital investments in airport infrastructure upgrades, new aircraft, and route expansions.
Most critically, passenger safety perceptions and confidence plummet during times of conflict, leading airlines to sacrifice profits to avoid reputational and safety risks. Even a single incident can shatter traveller trust and permanently damage airline reputations.
AIRSPACE RESTRICTIONS: A COSTLY DETOUR
One of the most immediate consequences of geopolitical strife is airspace closures. Whether due to diplomatic sanctions, military action, or safety advisories, these restrictions force detours that translate directly into longer flights, higher costs, and operational chaos.
Conflicts often disrupt the supply of critical components and resources for aircraft manufacturing and maintenance, leading to production delays and increased costs.
Aviation is a recognised pivotal global infrastructure, enabling economic growth, and cultural exchange. However, rising geopolitical tensions, are increasingly disrupting global air travel.
Here is my analysis of the substantial impact recent global conflicts, territorial disputes and political instability have had on air travel, providing detailed data-driven insights, examining economic repercussions, and exploring strategic responses.
From Lto R, images on Unsplash courtesy of DmytroTolokonov; José Pablo Domínguez and MahmoudSulaiman.
RUSSIA–UKRAINE WAR (2022–PRESENT)
The war between Russia and Ukraine has significantly disrupted air travel and altered global flight patterns.
Western nations banned Russian carriers from their airspace, and in retaliation, Russia restricted access to its skies for numerous carriers. This has led to re-routed long-haul flights between Europe and Asia, forcing airlines to fly further north or south, resulting in increased fuel burn and travel times and decreased per flight profitability.
Data from Eurocontrol demonstrates that re-routing due to the conflict increased average European flight times by approximately 7%, has had an impact on more than one million annual flights, and more than $2.25 billion annually in additional fuel and operational expenses. Eastern European passenger traffic dropped by approximately 20% during 2022-2023. Reportedly, several Ukrainian airports have been severely damaged or rendered inoperable.
MIDDLE EAST INSTABILITY
Ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Iran, Israel, and neighbouring nations, have led to airspace closures and restricted flight corridors.
During heightened tensions between the US and Iran in early 2020, airlines were advised to avoid Iranian airspace due to potential security threats. The war in Yemen has also led to restricted air routes over the Arabian Peninsula, affecting Gulf carriers significantly.
The net result was additional annual airlines cost of approximately $1.2 billion due to rerouting, a decline in regional passenger numbers by 15% during peak conflict periods, and an increase in aviation insurance premiums ranging between 20-30%.
NORTH KOREA
Due to North Korea’s unpredictable history of frequent missile tests and lack of international aviation transparency, most airlines avoid North Korean DPRK airspace entirely. This has made East Asian flight planning more complex, requiring strategic re-routes to ensure passenger safety.
AFGHANISTAN (POST 2021 TALIBAN TAKEOVER)
In Central Asia, following the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, many airlines ceased flights over Afghan airspace due to security uncertainties. This affected flight routes between Europe and South Asia, leading to detours that increased operational costs.
SOUTH CHINA SEA & EAST CHINA SEA
The South China Sea and East China Sea in the Asia-Pacific Region have witnessed escalating territorial disputes involving China, Japan, Vietnam, and Philippines.
Such conflicts have significantly impacted crucial aviation corridors, prompting airlines to adopt alternative flight paths to ensure safety.
Around 500,000 flights get impacted on an annual basis, causing an operational cost increase of around $1 billion, and approximately 10% decrease in passenger traffic during periods of conflict.
SYRIA (2011–PRESENT)
The Syrian Civil War has significantly impacted regional air travel, leading to the suspension of numerous airlines’ operations in affected airspaces.
Re-routing of flights has resulted in operational disruptions and substantial cost increases. Major airports in Syria have severely been damaged or destroyed.
SOUTH ASIA 2025: A NEW FLASHPOINT
In April 2025, a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, claimed the lives of 26 tourists. India attributed the attack to Pakistan-based terror groups, launching retaliatory airstrikes, triggering a regional military escalation – the worst in 30 years.
Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian carriers, which prompted India to reciprocate by banning Pakistani carriers. These closures forced numerous major international airlines, including Lufthansa, Air France, British Airways, and Singapore Airlines, to re-route flights to avoid the conflict zone.
India suspended operations at 32 airports across its northern and western regions, including major hubs like Amritsar and Srinagar, leading to the cancellation of over 430 flights.
The airspace closures and re-routed flights resulted in substantial financial losses for airlines. Indian carriers alone faced an estimated annual loss of approximately $840 million due to increased fuel costs, longer flight paths, and operational challenges.
The conflict’s impact extended beyond South Asia, affecting global aviation routes. Flights from the UK to Asia experienced delays of up to four hours due to the combined effect of avoiding both Pakistani and Russian airspaces. Passengers faced missed connections, extended travel times, and increased ticket prices.
Despite a temporary ceasefire agreement on May 10, 2025, reports of ongoing drone attacks and retaliatory responses persist.
THE WAY FORWARD: GLOBAL CO-ORDINATION AND RESILIENCE
As geopolitical risks become a defining feature of modern aviation, a co-ordinated global response is essential.
Governments, airlines, airport operators, and international bodies must collaborate to enhance threat detection through real-time intelligence sharing and develop alternative routes and simulate crisis scenarios.
Further, we ought to implement smart air traffic management to optimise re-routes, minimise disruptions, and strengthen airport security especially in known volatile regions.
A CALL FOR ACTION
Terrorism continues to target the core values of freedom, democracy, and human dignity. It destabilises governments, violates human rights, and directly threatens global aviation.
Beyond defence, the fight against violent extremism requires multilateral co-operation, community engagement, academic and religious dialogue, and, most importantly, responsible media narratives.
MY TAKE – THE NEW NORMAL
Among the political, military, and civil-aviation leadership we need an intense desire and determination to end this menace of cross-border terrorism at its very roots, from where it emanates; including those who plan and glorify such events.
We must recognise that geopolitical dynamics no longer impact isolated regions/territories, as the connectivity impact of aviation has transcended the notion of finite and distinct boundaries, leading to event driven pan world consequences.
The international community needs not just preachers of peace but committed partners ready to act decisively to mitigate global impact.
The idea that war brings peace is a common saying, often used in political and military contexts. It suggests that war can, at times, be a necessary means to achieve a lasting peace.
At home, the US government responded to the 9/11 attacks by creating the Department of Homeland Security and introducing a range of security measures at airports that have since become the global template for successfully implementing security measures.
It is an unfortunate reality that geopolitical tensions are a part of our lives that require us to be aware and better prepared going forward.
The aviation industry is not just about moving people – it is about connecting economies, cultures, and civilisations, therefore protecting it from the ripple effects of conflict is no longer optional, it is vital.
About the author
Dr Inderjit Singh is an ICAO aviation consultant and former CEO of Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, India. He can be contacted at inderjit.singh@aviationanalyst.net or indi279@gmail.com
15 - 17 July 2025 | Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Breaking the mould
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.
Awell-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 goal of achieving a seamless journey for passengers, but it can become a natural part of the process when thoughtfully integrated.
Striving for a seamless journey in Texas are Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), both of which are undertaking major expansion projects that could potentially help shape the future of air travel and improve all aspects of the journey.
From a floating security structure at IAH’s Terminal B to early-stage planning at AUS that anticipates passenger demand for decades, these projects highlight a shift in airport design that enhances security and the overall travel experience.
ELEVATING
SECURITY AT IAH’S TERMINAL B
Designing for security has long been about containment – enclosing the space, controlling movement, and filtering people through as quickly as possible.
But what if security wasn’t a bottleneck? What if it was an elevated experience – both figuratively and literally?
That’s the idea behind Terminal B at IAH, a transformative project led by United Airlines and designed in collaboration by Page and Grimshaw. Here, a floating security structure marks a radical departure from conventional checkpoint layouts.
Instead of wedging security checkpoints amid the terminal’s flow, they are lifted above the main circulation area, creating a distinct space for screening. This reconfiguration frees up the room below and offers a more intuitive and stress-free experience.
During terminal planning, this approach helped accommodate space constraints, while the final design introduced a highly creative and distinctive solution to enhance the passenger experience.
Beyond aesthetics, this new layout improves security by addressing the psychological aspects of crowding and confusion – factors that can contribute to security risks.
A space with clear sightlines, logical movement, generous volume and dynamic lighting fosters a more relaxed environment, transforming what could be a congested, high-stress checkpoint into a streamlined, frictionless and pleasant process.
The resulting spacious security area accommodates higher throughput without sacrificing comfort.
Security isn’t static, and the space designed to support it shouldn’t be either. A key screening innovation in Terminal B is the integration of biometric screening, including facial recognition technology and automated processing lanes.
These advancements reduce human error and expedite security, allowing passengers to move through checkpoints with minimal stops while maintaining high safety standards.
The terminal’s adaptable design ensures it can easily integrate future technologies, such as AI-powered threat detection and new scanning processes, which will define the next decade of airport security.
The reconfiguration of Terminal B also enhances connections to other airport operations. Concourses are accessed from the upper level recompose area, through the Central Hall in the repurposed original 1969 terminal building.
At the heart of the Central Hall is a dynamic media display enclosing an existing vertical circulation core and providing an exciting landmark.
Baggage claim areas are accessed through this core, with planning that guides natural movement rather than funnelling travellers into narrow, high-traffic corridors.
The goal is an environment where security and post-security are efficient and unobtrusive, something travellers experience without actively thinking about.
Security innovations also extend to the terminal’s architecture. The design of the terminal’s structure plays a role in security efficiency –open spaces and increased ceiling heights improve visibility for both passengers and security personnel, reducing blind spots and enhancing overall awareness.
Additionally, the placement of digital wayfinding systems helps passengers anticipate the next steps in their journey, eliminating the uncertainty that often leads to congestion.
PRE-DESIGN WITH PURPOSE: FORWARD-THINKING STRATEGY AT AUSTIN-BERGSTROM
In Austin, the challenge isn’t just building for post-security viability, but timing the right moves.
The airport programme, designed in collaboration by Page and Fentress, is in pre-design, meaning today’s decisions will shape its adaptability for decades.
Unlike IAH’s transformation of an existing terminal, AUS is planning a new midfield concourse that will be connected by an underground tunnel for passengers, utilities, and baggage systems.
Design choices are focused not on immediate needs, but on what will be required in 2040, 2050, and beyond as the airport grows with further concourse expansions.
Scalability is crucial. Austin’s population is growing rapidly, and air travel demand is projected to double in the coming decades.
The existing airport is designed to handle 15 million passengers, but in 2022 it served 21.1 million passengers, and with forecasts projecting growth to continue into the next decade, there is a need for a multi-year expansion plan that must be flexible enough to evolve without requiring major overhauls.
Passenger experience must seamlessly integrate with programmatic needs for this growing airport, minimising congestion while allowing for the adoption of new technologies.
AI-driven simulations will help designers test different scenarios for passenger flow, ensuring that the infrastructure can evolve alongside security advancements.
Additionally, AI-powered heat mapping will provide real-time insights into congestion, allowing airport staff to adjust operations dynamically and maintain smooth passenger flow, even during peak times.
Beyond security, Austin’s expansion improves the passenger experience for both arrivals and departures. The concourse layout is designed to minimise the perception of long walking distances, with intuitive signage and amenity areas that promote relaxation rather than stress.
Comfortable spaces encourage efficient movement, which benefits both security and overall airport operations.
Sustainability is also central to AUS’ long-term vision. The design incorporates natural lighting, energy-efficient systems, and water conservation initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of expansion.
THE NEXT GENERATION OF AIRPORT DESIGN
Future-proofing for the next generation of air travel isn’t just about building for now – it’s about ensuring airports can adapt to the future.
Whether that’s new security challenges, evolving passenger expectations, or yet-to-be-invented technologies, the spaces designed today are built to accommodate change rather than resist it.
As airports evolve, we believe that the projects at IAH and AUS will serve as a blueprint for integrating security and passenger movement with overall experience.
Indeed, in our opinion, these initiatives set a new standard for how terminals can balance safety, innovation, and user-friendly design, offering a nationwide model for future airport expansions.
The future of the air travel experience depends on how well airports can adapt to the ever-changing technical landscape of global aviation. AW
New and diverse
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 challenge is occurring within a broader context of airports needing to evolve into experience-centric hubs, prioritising flexible spaces, digital innovation and personalised services.
CHALLENGES FACED BY OLDER LOUNGES
Many existing lounges were designed when access to them was far more restricted. This has created several challenges as passenger expectations evolve.
Overcrowding is a key concern, as the rise of pay-per-use models and expanded membership programmes has led to higher lounge footfall, often resulting in congestion and diminished service levels.
Lounges also face the challenge of meeting diverse service expectations. With a more varied passenger base, they must balance the needs of business travellers seeking quiet workspaces with those of leisure passengers desiring a more social and relaxed atmosphere.
In addition, older lounges may lack the modern amenities and operational efficiencies required to handle increased demand without sacrificing comfort and exclusivity.
Overall, there is a recognition that a lack of space and variable retail revenues are affecting profits and compromising passenger satisfaction.
REFURBISHMENT AS A STRATEGIC SOLUTION
To strike a balance between premium exclusivity and broader accessibility, lounge refurbishments are essential.
These refurbishments should focus on several key areas. Optimising layouts is crucial, which involves expanding seating areas, creating designated zones for different traveller types such as business, leisure, and family-friendly, and improving crowd flow.
Airport Dimensions’ Explore the Experience Era study, which surveyed over 100 global airport decision makers, found that many airports already cite this as a priority over the next 10 years with 40% of airports investigating flexible, modular spaces to better serve travellers worldwide.
Enhancing offerings by broadening the range and quality of amenities as well as providing exclusive food and beverage options and access to digital capabilities such as automated check-ins also important.
This can be achieved by introducing tiered services where premium passengers can access quieter, more exclusive areas, while still providing general access to other well-appointed lounge spaces.
Finally, technology integration plays a significant role. With the report stating that 94% of airports believe that developing their digital capabilities is ‘absolutely essential’ or ‘important’ to improving commercial returns.
More specifically it claims that utilising digital tools for capacity management, reservation-based entry, and personalised service enhancements can improve overall efficiency and passenger journeys.
CASE STUDIES OF SUCCESSFUL REFURBISHMENTS
At Airport Dimensions we are constantly implementing and evolving these strategies to modernise our lounges in a bid to ensure happy travellers.
The newly refreshed Club at Charleston International Airport, for example, takes design inspiration from Charleston’s iconic Rainbow
Row. The design integrates the city’s vibrant colours, charm, and historic essence into the lounge, creating a warm, welcoming environment that feels distinctly ‘Charleston’.
The refurbished lounge addresses accessibility challenges by offering 20% more seating and flexible arrangements to accommodate both groups and solo travellers, effectively ensuring all guests have a comfortable space to relax or work.
The lounge is designed as a multifunctional space with versatile zones that allow guests to easily transition from relaxation to productivity.
Another example is the Gatwick North My Lounge. In early 2024, an expansion increased seating capacity, optimising space and improving guest flow. While some seating was reallocated from the adjacent No 1 Lounge bistro area, this was balanced by a purpose-built servery to streamline food and beverage service.
We believe that these improvements demonstrate how thoughtful refurbishments not only elevate the guest experience but also drive greater operational efficiency.
OPERATIONAL BENEFITS OF LOUNGE REFURBISHMENTS
Refurbishing airport lounges to better balance premium offerings with broader accessibility challenges can also provide significant operational and business advantages beyond just improving the customer experience.
For example, when undertaking refurbishments airports and lounge operators can create dedicated zones to suit and cater for different traveller needs. By creating quiet business areas, family zones, and social lounges, accessibility can be balanced by directing visitors to their dedicated ‘zone’, allowing passenger flows to be effectively managed and a premium feel to be maintained in lounges.
This approach also reduces passenger frustration by minimising wait times, leading to higher overall satisfaction scores.
Optimised space utilisation is another advantage. Real-time occupancy tracking and smart seating arrangements can help maximise lounge capacity without compromising comfort, which is a key priority for airports as they evolve to keep up with surging travel demand.
For instance, the implementation of a virtual queue management platform designed to help streamline customer flow and reduce wait times has already created a 10% increase in the average clearing rates for guests checking into The Club lounges across the US since the completed roll out to the network late last year.
Flexible design with scalable, modular elements also makes it easier to adjust spaces based on fluctuating passenger volumes or future expansion needs.
Rethinking staff workflows can improve service delivery times for food, beverages, and guest assistance. Integrating self-service kiosks, mobile check-ins, and automated booking systems reduces administrative burdens on staff, allowing them to focus more on personalised guest interactions.
In addition, modern refurbishments offer sustainable and cost-effective solutions. For example, the introduction of sustainable materials, LED lighting, and smart climate control systems reduces long-term operational costs.
Upgraded kitchens and food service areas can implement better waste management practices, aligning with environmental sustainability goals. Whilst making data driven decision making possible through technological innovations implemented during refurbishments.
Finally, refurbished lounges equipped with digital platforms can collect valuable data on passenger preferences, dwell times, and spending habits, enabling more targeted marketing and service improvements.
Data analytics can also help predict busy periods, allowing for proactive staff scheduling and resource planning to maintain service quality.
Ultimately, by aligning with the evolving needs of passengers, airports can continue to enhance efficiency, comfort, and overall satisfaction.
About the author
Shaun Weston is the senior vice president for global operations and guest experience at Airport Dimensions. AW
Going green
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 bird hide, designed to resemble the airport’s iconic control tower, serves as a camouflaged lookout, allowing visitors to watch a huge range of bird species ‘coming into land’, along with other local wildlife.
According to the UK hub, the tower has been created to raise awareness of Heathrow’s Nature Positive Plan, detailing how the airport will better understand and, where possible, reduce its environmental impacts.
Becky Coffin, Heathrow’s communities and sustainability director, said: “Our work to support nature happens all year round – from introducing cattle to graze habitats in spring, to discovering new-to-science fungi in our woodlands in autumn, and rotational hedgerow management in winter.
“Maintaining and restoring nature is a priority for Heathrow, and we hope this birdwatching experience helps bring our Nature Positive Plan to life and shows travellers that Heathrow is committed to biodiversity, giving them greater confidence in their travel choices.”
Heathrow notes that its commitment to building on its ongoing efforts to protect and actively restore local biodiversity and ecosystems forms part of the airport’s wider Connecting People and Planet sustainability strategy, which includes a £250 million investment from the airport into carbon and sustainability improvements for the 2022-2026 period.
Heathrow manages 170 hectares of land across the 13 biodiversity sites surrounding the airport – equating to 10% of Heathrow’s overall footprint.
EXETER AIRPORT DEMONSTRATES POTENTIAL OF HYDROGEN
Elsewhere in the UK, a pioneering demonstration showcasing how hydrogen can support the decarbonisation of airport ground operations has taken place at Exeter Airport.
In a first of its kind for the UK, the trial saw a TUI Boeing 737 passenger aircraft undergo a turnaround using ground support equipment powered by green hydrogen. The live demonstration involved a hydrogen-powered baggage tug, pushback tug and ground power unit.
The airport believes that it might have been the first time in the world that multiple pieces of hydrogen-powered equipment were simultaneously used for a commercial air transport operational aircraft and using ‘green’ hydrogen from renewable energy sources.
Stephen Wiltshire, managing director of Exeter Airport, noted: “The demonstration shows how hydrogen can be integrated into day-to-day airport operations, with lessons we can share across our airport group and the wider sector.”
The pioneering trial was supported by the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s Hydrogen Challenge programme and held in partnership with TUI, Cranfield University, ULEMCo, MULAG and Boeing.
SHH.. QUIETLY DOES IT VAN NUYS AIRPORT
The jet operators that reduced their noise levels at Van Nuys Airport (VNY) in 2024 have been recognised by Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) in its annual Friendly Flyer Award Program.
"The Fly Friendly Program is an important part of Van Nuys Airport's overall outreach and sustainability efforts, in which we work to benefit our neighbouring communities through engagement, enrichment, and action," said Jacob Haik, Van Nuys’ airport manager.
"Together, as part of an ongoing dialogue of community stakeholders, airport tenants, and regulators, we are building a VNY that is responsive to its neighbours and enables economic opportunities in more sustainable ways than ever before."
The Friendly Flyer Award Program was established in 2012, and recognises jet operators that achieve the highest level of compliance with mandatory noise policies and voluntary noise abatement programmes at VNY.
The 26 winners included the MC Group, Chrysler Aviation, Fly Alliance, Flexjet, Talon Air and Vista America.
"These winners have been instrumental in minimising aircraft noise and play an important role in helping our neighbours maintain their quality of life," said Crystal Lee, LAWA’s deputy executive director for the airport development group, sustainability, energy, environmental and development services.
"In 2024, these operators reduced their cumulative net VNY night-time jet operations by 21% year-over-year, demonstrating their commitment to flying quieter and friendlier for the benefit of our surrounding communities."
SJC UNVEILS NEW SUSTAINABILITY MASCOT
San José Mineta International Airport celebrated Earth Day by launching a new initiative dedicated to keeping landside areas clean and unveiling a new sustainability mascot.
Clean SJC is a new employee-led initiative dedicated to keeping the airport’s landside areas clean and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.
The airport notes that it builds on SJC’s recent milestones that include LEED Silver certification of its new Facilities Administration and Fleet Maintenance buildings and upgrade to Level 2 certification in the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme.
Future Clean SJC events will expand to include volunteer creek clean-ups along the Guadalupe River, in partnership with Valley Water and the Creek Connections Action Group, extending SJC’s impact beyond airport grounds.
Earth Day also marked the debut of ‘Perry’ the chick, the airport’s new sustainability champion mascot, inspired by San José’s unofficial bird, the Peregrine Falcon.
Perry joins the flock of seven endearing chicks that have become a favourite among aviation enthusiasts and SJC travellers alike, commemorating the 75th anniversary of the airport’s inaugural commercial flight in February 1949, which arrived carrying two pilots, seven human passengers and 2,550 baby chickens.
“Clean SJC is powered by dedicated staff who are passionate about supporting our community,” enthused SJC’s director of aviation, Mookie Patel. “I am proud of the SJC team for their leadership in sustainability, as we welcome Perry the chick to the airport family.”
DUBLIN AIRPORT TO INVEST IN EXPANDING ITS ONSITE SOLAR FARM
Dublin Airport has committed to a significant expansion of its on-site solar farm as it wants renewable solar energy to meet more than 20% of its annual electricity needs by 2030.
Operator, daa, made the announcement at the official opening of Phase 1 of Dublin Airport’s solar farm by Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien TD.
Phase 1 saw the installation of more than 15,000 solar panels by Greenvolt Next, one of Ireland’s leading providers of renewable energy solutions, on a 28-acre site located close to the south runway and visible from the R102.
Now operational, the 9MWp solar farm is expected to generate 7GWh to 9GWh per annum dependent on weather conditions, which is 10% to 13% of Dublin Airport’s annual consumption.
This is sufficient to cover the electricity needs of the entire airfield, with excess electricity contributing to the energy needs of the airport terminals and campus.
The commitment to Phase 2 will see the airport campus further reduce its impact on the national electricity grid as part of a wider pipeline of renewable energy projects.
Subject to planning permission, Phase 2 envisages the staged deployment of an additional 6,000 solar panels by late 2027.
This is sufficient to fully power the baggage systems in T1 and T2 and means a further 4% – 6% of the annual electricity needs of Dublin Airport will come from renewable energy generated on-site.
Vincent Harrison, daa’s chief commercial and development officer, noted: “Investing in solar reduces Dublin Airport’s reliance on the national electricity grid and boosts our onsite energy generation capabilities.
“Continuing to invest in modernising Dublin Airport so our terminals and airfield operations are as sustainable as possible is a key part of our €2 billion Infrastructure Application, which also asks to increase the passenger cap to 40 million a year.
“As the recent power issues at Heathrow showed, ensuring critical national infrastructure has resiliency in the event of power disruption is essential to avoid significant knock-on impacts. We will continue to
invest in sustainability and infrastructure projects that set Dublin Airport up for the long-term.”
NEW AIRPORT CARBON ACCREDITATION MILESTONE FOR LIÈGE AIRPORT
Liège Airport in Belgium has taken a major step forward in its carbon reduction journey by upgrading to Level 4 status in ACI's Airport Carbon Accreditation programme.
This achievement builds on more than a decade of climate action and reflects the airport’s deep commitment to aligning its operations with the goals of the Paris Agreement.
Having first joined the programme in 2010 and reached Level 2 by 2018, Liège Airport has steadily advanced its carbon management practices. The airport’s ongoing actions include the large-scale electrification of its vehicle fleet, energy optimisation of its buildings, and a transition to LED lighting, which alone saves 460,000 kWh of electricity annually.
On the heating side, Liège Airport (LGG) has achieved further savings of 1.58 million kWh of gas per year.
As part of its collaborative approach to decarbonisation, the airport has also developed a Stakeholder Engagement Plan that outlines concrete steps to reduce emissions across the entire site, from transport and infrastructure to operations.
The airport’s sustainability commitments reflect a long-term vision: to reduce relative CO2 emissions by at least 75% by 2030 and 85% by 2040 (based on 2017 levels), with the ambition to reach zero emissions by 2050 without relying on offsets.
Laurent Jossart, CEO of Liège Airport, commented: “We are proud of this long-term collaboration with our partner-operators at the airport. We remain determined to continue our efforts to decarbonise and green airport activities, by promoting a collective and mutually beneficial approach.”
The SMART Airports & Regions 2025 Conference & Exhibition is a unique opportunity to showcase your products and services to this targeted and hard to reach audience.
Business exchange
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) believes that its pioneering and innovative approach to airport efficiency through TAM highlights how advanced technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and real-time data co-ordination can significantly enhance every day operations.
CPH’s TAM initiative leverages two advanced technological solutions: Assaia ApronAI and Airhart Operations Orchestration.
Using computer vision-based AI, Assaia’s solution monitors key turnaround activities in real time, providing predictive alerts and actionable insights to prevent delays.
While Airhart’s system serves as the central operations orchestration hub, ingests real-time operational data, dynamically recalculates Target Off-Block Times (TOBT), and automates interventions to protect turnaround integrity.
As a result of embracing the new technologies, already measurable improvements in efficiency and reliability at Copenhagen Airport are said to include reducing delayed expected departure times caused by late flight arrivals by an average of 6.5 minutes, saving an estimated $540,582 in six months.
In addition, having real-time insights has allowed for better stand and baggage system usage, reducing congestion and improving operational efficiency and reduced aircraft fuel burn.
Samuel Hjøllum Rude, head of operational airport services for Copenhagen Airports, notes: “At CPH, we are committed to leveraging innovation to improve airport operations. This collaboration with Assaia and Smarter Airports is a major step toward making Total Airport Management a reality.
“By integrating AI-powered turnaround monitoring with real-time orchestration, we are creating a more resilient and efficient airport for our passengers and partners.”
ABM has been awarded a three-year facilities management contract by Edinburgh Airport. The contract is for the delivery of services across its airport estate, including the terminal, corporate offices and contractor buildings.
The partnership is said to highlight the success of ABM’s strategic efforts to expand its facilities management expertise in the aviation sector where it already has a strong presence delivering services such as ground handling, special assistance, airside cargo management, security and passenger experience.
LONDON GATWICK TO DEVELOP INTEGRATED AIRPORT CONTROL SYSTEM
London Gatwick is advancing data-driven airport operations through its partnership with technology provider Veovo to develop an Integrated Airport Control (IAC) System.
It is hoped that the collaboration will create a more predictive, connected environment for operational decision-making and accelerate Gatwick’s shift to Total Airport Management, where continuous AI/Machine learning-driven prediction enables the airport to pre-empt operational challenges and intelligently respond.
At the core of the development is the Virtual Control Room, a real-time hub that highlights key data, KPIs, and alerts, giving a clear view of what matters now and what’s ahead. Beneath it, the platform integrates data from across the ecosystem, predicts future scenarios, and triggers actions to keep operations smooth.
Developed together with Veovo technology partners Amorph, the IAC benefits from strong usability principles and a design focused on practical decision-making.
“The future of airport operations lies in predictive decision-making,” says Gatwick’s head of operations, Neil Harvey.
“With Veovo, we are building a system that provides a clear operational picture and proactively guides the right actions to minimise disruptions and enhance efficiency.
“This is about building fantastic passenger journeys, optimising resources, and improving on-time performance.”
Veovo CEO, James Williamson, states: “This collaboration reinforces London Gatwick’s commitment to innovation and sets a new benchmark for data-driven airport management in Europe.”
ATL’S PLANE TRAIN APM UPGRADE
Alstom has delivered the first of 29 Innovia new APM R vehicles to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport as part of an $87 million project to replace existing stock.
This latest generation of vehicles will reduce the risk of in-service failures and provide more reliable service for passengers at the world’s busiest airport.
SMART AIRPORTS & REGIONS – ON APPROACH FOR 2025!
With Just two months to go – all roads lead to Atlanta for the SMART Airports & Regions Conference & Exhibition 2025!
Anticipation is building as we prepare to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the SMART Airports & Regions Conference & Exhibition, hosted by Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, on July 15-17, 2025.
Join over 600 aviation industry leaders in Atlanta for three dynamic days of conferences, workshops, tours, and world-class networking!
What to expect in 2025: 90+ confirmed industry expert speakers across three powerful days
Day Conference Programme featuring the exciting Day Two Summit Series:
• Future Design & Development Summit
• Airports NEXT –Innovation Summit
• Airports Net Zero Summit
Pre-conference workshops:
• The Autonomous Future of Airports
• SMART Revenue Opportunities
• Aerotropolis Primer –Setting the Stage
Exclusive networking highlights:
• Airport Area Tour, Welcome Reception, Farewell Reception
• Networking Evening at the Porsche Experience Center Atlanta – including the Porsche Driving Experience!
– Buckle up and enjoy a 2–3 minute adrenaline-filled demo lap in a Porsche with a professional driver – feel the power, precision, and thrill on one of two purpose-built tracks.
Don't miss this unforgettable celebration of innovation, sustainability, and collaboration at the heart of one of the world’s busiest airports.
Join us in Atlanta on July, 15–17, 2025 – for the landmark 10th Anniversary of SMART Airports & Regions!
PEOPLE matters
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 creative ideas? Or do we only notice later – when fatigue sets in, our performance begins to suffer, and we make mistakes?
When we are under pressure, especially when we are experiencing high workloads, it is all too easy to carry on too long. We cut corners in an effort to meet tight deadlines, make unwarranted assumptions and commit errors of judgement with potentially serious consequences.
Human errors of judgement are particularly problematic for those in safety-critical roles. Indeed, work on air traffic controllers has been the subject of research by psychologists interested in the impact of high-pressure environments on attention span since the 1960s.
Their studies explored the relationship between workload, stress and automation on people’s ability to manage periods where intense concentration was necessary. They articulated how the human element could contribute to accidents and paved the way for further research in air traffic management.
They found that fatigue can indeed compromise focus, reaction time, and decision-making, and could result in potentially catastrophic errors of judgement. At the same time, they found that there was rarely a simple relationship between fatigue and performance in real life settings. An understanding of the whole humantechnology system was vital, a ‘human factors’ approach.
The importance of the human factor has become a hot topic again recently in the United States, which has experienced a number of “near misses” in air traffic management. For example, a near-collision at New York’s JFK Airport between a Delta aircraft and an American Airlines jet in early 2023 received substantial media attention. There are many other recent cases.
Could the fact that the US has been facing a critical shortage of air traffic controllers in recent years be a common factor in this spate of incidents? Could understaffing be leading to fatigue and misjudgements?
The answer (so far) seems to be that fatigue, in itself, is not the prime cause, but the human element remains important. For example, failures in communication between air traffic controllers and aircraft as well as issues associated with interruptions, distractions and multi -tasking are cited in some reports. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) published similar findings in May 2024, saying that no fatigue related accident or serious incident involving air traffic controllers had been reported in the previous ten years.
However, it also found that reporting mechanisms were not fully effective, and that good practice required the implementation of a Fatigue Risk Management System providing guidelines on rostering, fatigue reporting and other mitigating mechanisms.
This seems like a sensible proposal. Indeed, a more systematic approach to looking at work patterns and their impact on fatigue and wellbeing might well have a broader applicability to jobs in airports – not only safety critical roles. Conventional work patterns are being eroded and transformed through hybrid working, digital advances, and competitive pressures. We come across many people who claim they feel ‘overwhelmed’ by work pressures as a consequence.
In a sector which needs to attract, motivate and retain people, it is important to keep the person at the centre. So why not proactively manage fatigue rather than let it manage us?
This means looking systematically at what work patterns make most sense, developing people’s resilience, offering wellness programmes, developing peer support networks and providing psychological services if needed. It also means educating people on how to manage fatigue. And – on that note – it’s time for us to take a break!
Chris McLaughlin became the CEO of Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) on May 19, succeeding Sean Donohue, who is retiring after more than a decade leading DFW.
The Supervisory Board of Berlin Brandenburg Airport has appointed István Szabó as its new chief operating officer effective from autumn 2025. He will take over the operational responsibilities from Thomas Hoff Andersson who has moved to Munich Airport to become its new chief operating officer.
Brisbane Airport has appointed Scott Norris as its new executive general manager for commercial and will oversee retail, commercial, parking and industrial development at the Queensland gateway.
London Luton Airport (LLA) has appointed Lord John Hutton as chair of the board to oversee the next phase of the airport’s development. Operated by Aena, London Luton is the UK’s fifth largest airport.
About the authors
Terri Morrissey and Dr Richard Plenty run ACI’s Human Resources training. They received a Presidential Citation from the American Psychological Association in June 2022 for their leadership in advancing global psychology. Contact them at info@thisis.eu
