How tech is transforming airports

The world of travel is changing rapidly as emerging technologies are being implemented to enhance efficiency, safety, and the overall passenger experience. As someone who works in the travel technology space, I recently had the pleasure of experiencing some of these technologies firsthand on a business trip to Dallas. The power of innovation and technology in action was apparent from the moment I entered the airport. The use of touchless technology, including facial recognition, meant that I was able to breeze through immigration without even having to present my passport. It was like witnessing a glimpse into the future, where cutting-edge solutions seamlessly replace archaic processes, making air travel safer and more convenient than ever before.


* Biometric authentication systems are increasingly being implemented at airports worldwide. Facial recognition, fingerprint scans, or iris scans are being used to verify a passenger's identity and reduce wait times while improving security. Among global airports that have implemented biometric authentication systems are DFW Airport in Dallas, Changi Airport in Singapore, and Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. Biometric exit implementation at Miami International Airport has decreased processing times by as much as 80%. Several airports in India are implementing facial recognition technology to simplify and digitise the airport entry and security clearance process. This approach employs DigiYatra, a contactless air travel solution introduced by the civil aviation ministry and Digi Yatra Foundation, which represents the next step towards creating a digitally empowered society.


* Robotics and automation technologies are increasingly being used to perform tasks such as baggage handling, security screening, and cleaning. These technologies can reduce the need for human labour, increase efficiency, and improve safety. Some of the airports that have implemented robotics and automation technologies include Haneda Airport in Tokyo, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, and Dubai International Airport.


* Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are being used to streamline airport operations and improve the traveller experience. For example, AI can analyse security footage to detect suspicious behaviour, and ML can predict how many staff members are needed at a particular checkpoint based on historical data. Hong Kong International Airport has implemented a passenger flow management system that uses AI to predict passenger traffic and allocate resources accordingly. Likewise, several international airports are now adopting AI/ML technology to enhance airport operations, and there are various potential use cases where AI/ML can be implemented.


* IoT technology can be used to collect data from various airport systems and sensors, enabling airport operators to make informed decisions about resource allocation and maintenance. Among airports implementing IoT technologies are Barcelona-El Prat Airport, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai. Such implementations employ sensors and beacons to monitor the real-time movement of passengers and staff, helping a seamless airport operation. The use of IoT-enabled baggage tracking systems has reduced baggage mishandling rates by up to 20%, according to a study by SITA, the IT provider for the air transport industry.


* Sustainability offers a way for airports to operate more efficiently, reduce their environmental impact, and become more financially sustainable over the long term. Bangalore KIA (Kempegowda International Airport) has installed a 3.4 MW solar power plant that contributes a notable proportion of the airport's energy needs. The airport also uses energy-efficient lighting and air conditioning systems, rainwater harvesting, and waste management systems to reduce its environmental impact. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol uses geothermal energy to heat and cool its buildings, while Incheon International Airport in South Korea has implemented a smart waste management system that uses AI and ML to sort and recycle waste.

With technology leading the way, the travel industry is set to undergo significant transformation. Touchless technology is becoming the norm post the Covid-19 era. As someone who loves to travel, I am excited about what the future holds and can't wait to see what other wonders await us.

Sanjeeb Patel is director of software engineering at Sabre Bengaluru