Airports Implement AI Solutions to Efficiently Handle Increasing Global Passenger Numbers
As global air travel continues to rebound, reaching a staggering projection of 10.2 billion passengers in 2026, airports are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance operational efficiency and improve passenger experiences. This embrace of AI not only reflects the industry’s commitment to embracing innovation but also highlights the dynamic changes occurring within the aviation sector, aiming to meet the demands of modern travelers. According to ZezapTV, these advancements mark a significant shift in how airports manage everything from check-in to baggage handling, ultimately enhancing the travel experience for millions.
As global air passenger traffic is forecast to reach 10.2 billion in 2026—a growth of 3.9 percent year-over-year—airports are investing heavily in technological advancements to optimize infrastructure and operational efficiency. Data from the Airport Council International indicates that artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a driving force behind these improvements, allowing airports to better manage the rising demand.
Amad Malik, chief AI officer at Airport AI Exchange, emphasizes that airports are now incorporating AI into various workflows to revolutionize passenger flow management, airside maintenance, cybersecurity, and customer experiences—both in-person and online. The increasing use of AI-powered analytics is enabling airports to anticipate congestion at critical points, such as security checks and immigration, which helps to reduce delays significantly. Rather than relying solely on reactive crowd management, airports are shifting towards predictive operations that enhance passenger experience.
AI is also making strides in baggage optimization and biometric processing, allowing travelers to pass through immigration seamlessly without presenting a physical passport. These developments reflect the continuous efforts of airports to improve efficiency while prioritizing the comfort of their passengers.
The use of AI is not limited to expediting immigration and check-in processes; it extends to automated boarding, baggage handling and tracking, predictive maintenance, and even personalized services. According to Mahmood AlSeddiqi, former vice president of IT for the Bahrain Airport Company, AI-powered analytics facilitate the customization of services to meet individual preferences, streamlining the travel experience from check-in to boarding.
Despite the advancements, some industry experts argue that aviation’s overall adoption of AI technologies has been disproportionate. Malik notes that even though AI has evolved rapidly, the aviation sector’s utilization of such technology remains relatively limited, largely due to its reliance on legacy systems and an inherently cautious operational stance. Given that the foundation of avionic technology often dates back several decades, progress can be slow, especially in an industry where safety and regulatory compliance is paramount.
The conversation at the Airport AI Exchange event highlighted the need for substantial investment in modernizing aviation technology while balancing innovative practices with safety protocols. As the sector evolves, the integration of AI stands to redefine the landscape of air travel, promising a future of enhanced efficiency and superior passenger experiences.
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