Airports Innovate conference highlights the future of airport technology

The recent Airports Innovate conference and exhibition held in Rome showcased the ever-evolving landscape of airport innovation, with a strong emphasis on technological advancements and the critical role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping future practices. Organised by Aeroporti di Roma (ADR), the conference attracted over 400 delegates from 53 countries, highlighting a global interest in the future of aviation.

The event commenced with an opening address from Vincenzo Nunziata, the chairman of ADR, who welcomed attendees and set the tone for discussions on innovation. Marco Troncone, ADR’s CEO, followed suit with a passionate speech regarding the importance of collaboration and innovative solutions in evolving airport operations. He stated, “Innovation is a crucial pillar in ADR’s mission to build the airport of the future,” indicating that a forward-thinking approach is key to accommodating the shifting expectations of travellers, particularly among younger generations. Troncone referenced findings from Booking.com, noting that 34% of travellers consider an airport’s offerings when choosing a destination, with 43% of Gen Z and millennials yearning for indulgent airport experiences.

Catherine Mayer, SITA’s vice president for airports and master of ceremonies for the conference, underscored the multifaceted nature of innovation, asserting that it can take many forms. “Innovation is also very disruptive and critical for businesses and organisations. Today, in order to succeed, in order to be ahead of the competition, and in order to really be a leader, we have to innovate,” she stated.

The discussions spanned various topics, including the current state of European airports, presented by Olivier Jankovec, director general of ACI EUROPE. Jankovec highlighted that while 43% of European airports achieved full passenger recovery in 2023, the financial health of the sector remained precarious, owing to rising operating costs and an overall debt of €130 billion. Looking forward, he projected that passenger volumes will see significant growth, with an anticipated rise of 12% in 2025 and 19% in 2026.

A focus on sustainability emerged, with Jankovec noting the key areas for transformation as sustainability, innovation, and diversification. ACI World’s director general, Justin Erbacci, echoed these sentiments, discussing the anticipated 9.5 billion passengers globally by 2024 while acknowledging that airport profitability has declined. He emphasized the necessity of using existing capacity more efficiently and sustainably through the integration of new technologies.

The conference also addressed the increasing implementation of AI and robotics within airport operations. During a panel discussion, SITA’s senior product manager, Gareth Lawton, spoke about the empowering potential of AI in enhancing operational efficiency and collaboration among teams. He remarked, “We believe that AI is going to be a critical enabler that helps us tackle problems in a number of different areas,” positioning AI as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human roles.

Furthermore, innovative advancements in air mobility were highlighted, particularly the development of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) technologies. Panelists discussed ongoing projects in various regions, particularly the plans for a vertiport at Gimpo Airport in South Korea and the recently launched operational vertiport in France. Alban Negret, head of innovation at Groupe ADP, praised the integration of these new modes of transport in shaping a new future for airports.

Sustainability was again brought to the forefront during discussions about hydrogen as a fuel source for aviation. Aena’s director of sustainability, Ana Salazar Lopez-Pedraza, argued that airports must adapt to sustainability goals, proposing that hydrogen could revolutionise airport operations and serve as a critical energy backbone by 2050. Similarly, Peter Gallen from Zeroavia emphasised the urgency of upgrading refuelling infrastructures in anticipation of hydrogen-powered aircraft expected to begin operations by 2026.

The conference concluded with the announcement that Korea Airports Corporation will host the next Airports Innovate conference in 2025, solidifying the event’s commitment to continuous growth and adaptation in an ever-evolving industry. Overall, the conference underscored a collective recognition among executives and participants that innovation is indeed a priority in responding to the complex challenges facing the aviation sector today and in the future.

Source: Noah Wire Services