Volume 19 (2025)

The US airport industry is one of the most financially resilient sectors in the world. No governmentowned airport in the US has ever filed for bankruptcy or defaulted on its bonds. In fact, US airports have remained financially resilient despite airline bankruptcies, airline dehubbing at airports, the 9/11 terrorist attack that shut down the US airport industry for several days, recessions including the Great Recession of 2008–9; and most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic that reduced passenger traffic by over 90 per cent at US airports for an extended period. This paper explores the five primary reasons for this financial resilience: the US airport legal structure, the essentiality of airports (and airlines), airline actions during bankruptcy, airports’ financial strength and airport management. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/.
Keywords: financial resilience; use and lease agreement; bond indentures; FAA regulations; essentiality; bankruptcy

Transformative changes are coming to aviation during the next decade. Demand for air travel is growing rapidly. Digital tools and artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping the travel experience. And passengers are demanding more from airports, expecting them not just to be seamless and efficient but also destinations in themselves that can surprise and delight. Meeting these diverse and changing needs is a major challenge for airports everywhere. Drawing from the experience at Toronto Pearson International Airport, where a decade-long capital programme is getting under way, this paper will consider where global hubs should make capital investments to position themselves for the future. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/.
Keywords: capacity; infrastructure; investment; resilience

The aviation industry has long been a cornerstone of global connectivity and has been adapting over the years to meet rising demand. As technology progresses, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative power, reshaping the aviation landscape. This paper explores the significant role of AI and automation in the ground operations ecosystem and the new airport era of digitalisation. Smart airports are offering solutions that enhance operational efficiency, improve customer experiences and empower employees with advanced tools and knowledge. The paper also examines the implications of AI, addressing the challenges of adoption, including system compatibility, cost concerns and regulatory compliance. It highlights what stakeholders can expect from emerging innovations, including enhanced efficiency, transparency and safety. As aviation embraces technological advancements, a collaborative effort between operators, employees and technology providers is essential. By focusing on innovation with a clear vision, the industry is likely to achieve a future where efficiency and passenger satisfaction reach the highest levels. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/.
Keywords: AI automation; smart airports; ground operations; digitalisation; customer experience

This paper is intended as a guide for terminal planners to the spatial considerations relating to baggage handling systems as airports respond to passengers’ growing desire for more control over their travel experience with self-service, on-demand return or third party pick-up and delivery. Airports are also seeking to improve the operational processes of their staff and stakeholders with reduced manual handing and improved efficiency. Regulatory bodies are influencing system design with increased outbound security screening requirements and inbound customs and agricultural screening. Terminal planners need to consider how these can be incorporated into the spaces. This baggage handling guide contains some ‘rules of thumb’ and spatial recommendations. It can be added to the planners’ toolkit to help airport terminals to optimise the operational spaces today and also enable future trends if systems require retrofitting later. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/.
Keywords: baggage; automation; planning; trends; self-service

The aviation industry is experiencing a transformative period marked by rapid technological advancements, rising passenger demand and the need for enhanced safety and efficiency. Airports, as strategic centres for global connectivity, trade and innovation, require a highly competent, adaptable workforce to manage the complexities of modern airport functions. This paper underscores the significance of partnerships and collaborations in airport competency development, examining their role in driving innovation, reducing costs and ensuring compliance with international standards. By highlighting best practices such as knowledge exchange programmes, joint simulations and technologyintegrated training, the paper illustrates how collaborative efforts advance training methodologies, improve operational and business performance and enhance workforce capabilities. Moreover, it addresses the influence of leading organisations in shaping global training standards and the critical role of structured collaboration among stakeholders. Emphasis is also placed on enterprise-specific competency frameworks and the need for performance-based, measurable outcomes in training partnerships. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/.
Keywords: airport competency development; partnerships in aviation; aviation workforce development; strategic training alliances; stakeholder cooperation

The research described in this paper aimed to develop a cost optimisation model for determining the optimal approach to expanding airport capacity in metropolitan areas, taking into account demand uncertainties. The study began by analysing airport capacity expansion cases from diverse global regions to identify potential metropolitan-level solutions and key cost functions associated with airport capacity issues. A deterministic optimisation model was then developed using mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP), incorporating six cost functions: capital cost, operation cost, delay cost, noise cost, operational readiness airport transfer (ORAT) cost and passenger access cost. The model was validated through a case study of the Sydney metropolitan area in Australia over a 50-year horizon and further tested for reliability using six additional experimental models. Subsequently, the deterministic model was adapted into a stochastic optimisation model employing Monte Carlo simulation to address the uncertainties in future traffic demand. This stochastic model was evaluated under three different demand scenarios, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings highlight the model’s reliability and reveal the trade-offs among the six cost functions over time, as well as the influence of demand uncertainty on identifying optimal solutions. The research underscores the effectiveness of integrating MINLP and Monte Carlo simulation methods for long-term airport capacity planning in metropolitan areas and addressing the diverse needs of airport stakeholders. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/.
Keywords: airport capacity; airport expansion; cost optimisation model; multi-airport system; linear programming; Monte Carlo simulation

This paper explores the assessment of the impact of sustainability initiatives in six US small hub airports. A holistic approach with three phases — sustainability planning, implementation and monitoring — was employed to better understand how small hub airports gauge the success and impact of a sustainability initiative before implementation. The study objectives were twofold: (1) to gain an in-depth understanding of sustainability assessment methods and tools, and sustainability metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) used to assess the impacts of sustainability initiatives in the three phases; and (2) to develop a preliminary sustainability impact assessment framework that incorporates impact assessment from the start of planning of sustainability initiatives. Researchers used multiple case study research methodology. Sustainability planning documents from six small hub airports were gathered and examined, followed by interviews with airport executives and airport planning consultants. The documents were analysed for each individual airport and the interviews were analysed thematically in aggregate. Findings show that the small hub airports studied have adopted sustainability practices in airport planning; however, there is no uniform approach for setting performance metrics and KPIs. Where used, monitoring of performance metrics and assessment of the impacts of sustainability initiatives is not clearly defined. In addition, small hub airport operators face various challenges in assessing the impacts of sustainability initiatives, including lack of a standardised assessment framework and lack of in-house sustainability experts. In addition, these airports operate with limited budgets, leading to human resources and financial constraints, leaving no budget for active monitoring of sustainability initiatives. Based on the findings of the study, researchers developed a framework for assessing the impacts of sustainability initiatives that may be used by airport operators to inform decision making on assessment of the impacts of sustainability initiatives. The proposed framework may be most applicable to small airports such as the ones in this paper. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/.
Keywords: airport sustainability; sustainability assessment metrics; key performance indicators (KPIs); small hub airports; sustainability assessment

This paper explores the strategic importance of multimodality for airport hubs, especially considering sustainability goals that are pressuring airports to innovate. Although the European Commission (EC) has encouraged the transformation of airport hubs into multimodal transport hubs since 2011, most airport hubs prioritise aviation transfers over true multimodal connectivity. In response, Schiphol Airport has been taking active steps toward a multimodal future, supported by a collaborative PhD project with TU Delft, following an action research approach. Through iterative research cycles, this study reflects on Schiphol Airport’s efforts to address passenger needs and enhance multimodal services. The research includes cases focused on improving passenger experience in multimodal trips, developing a support system for rail/bus transfers, enhancing information services and conducting strategic sessions with key stakeholders. The findings show that creating a seamless multimodal travel experience requires attention to passenger needs for clear navigation, efficient hub facilities and consistent, real-time information throughout the journey. Reliable updates and knowledgeable staff enhance travellers’ confidence, while special transfer services and efficient coordination make the process smoother. Practical challenges persist, however, due to regulatory restrictions and the prioritisation of airline operations over multimodal initiatives. Achieving a robust multimodal system requires coordinated efforts across sectors and regulatory, infrastructural and service improvements. Overall, the findings highlight that long-term success in multimodal travel relies on deep collaboration and a shared vision among operators, hubs and mobility service providers, with the action research approach offering an effective way to facilitate this process by focusing on underlying needs and building trust among stakeholders.
Keywords: airports; multimodal; transition; passenger experience; action research

This paper explores how organisations, particularly in the aviation industry, can evolve their safety management systems (SMS) to foster a deeply ingrained safety culture. Key concepts such as the Bradley Curve, management of change (MOC) and proactive safety strategies are discussed, alongside actionable steps to evaluate and strengthen safety practices supported by an airport example. The paper emphasises leadership’s role in embedding safety into daily operations for improved outcomes and resilience.
Keywords: leadership; enhanced safety culture; management of change; proactive safety strategies; FOD walks

Airports around the US are experiencing immense changes, from more passengers and new technologies to increased demands for energy resources that are cleaner, yet reliable. In a time of dramatic change, it is imperative for airports to work with energy providers to find and implement solutions in the race for reliable and cleaner power amid widespread shifts in the energy industry. This paper details how US airports are preparing for the situation and innovating alongside their local utility and private energy developers. These airports vary in size, region, growth and project maturity and can thus offer unique perspectives for journal readers of all kinds. The paper details several case studies on how airports are navigating the new energy landscape. By tracing the chronological process from early planning to implementation, these cases can provide readers with valuable real-world lessons and best practices on preparing for ‘energy turbulence’ by engaging with utilities and private energy developers.
Keywords: energy transition; energy demand; reliability and resilience; sustainability; microgrids; energy-as-a-service

Regional airports are the backbone of connectivity in Europe, with key challenges for growth and development in terms of policy and regulatory requirements, environmental, social and financial sustainability. The mission of regional airports is to strive to offer their own region the best possible connectivity. They face a combination of new and harsher market conditions compounding structural economic viability issues, decarbonisation goals and the need to keep investing for the future. Seasonality is a huge challenge for many regional airports, as they need significant capacity during peaks, while that capacity remains unused the rest of the year. Facing the challenge of seasonality, it is imperative to identify solutions that optimise resources, both operational and financial, thereby ensuring the sustainability of the business. This paper provides several examples of European regional airports, with a particular focus on Turin, to illustrate the concrete solutions adopted by these airports to address the challenge of seasonality. The paper concludes by underscoring the advantages for airports and the reference territories that result from the extension of seasonality.
Keywords: regional airports; seasonality; Turin Airport; low cost; financial viability

This paper focuses on the contradiction within the airline and airport industry regarding the stated focus on improving the passenger experience and the actual conditions that most passengers face when travelling. The commercial travel industry presents and promotes itself as introducing new technologies and systems and expanding and improving airport spaces in order to create a positive and pleasant journey for the passenger. The reality is that passenger satisfaction with air travel is decreasing even as airlines and airports deploy new systems and rebuild airport spaces. This paper is presented to call attention to the gap between what is said and what is done in terms of serving the customer.
Keywords: passenger experience; passenger journey; customer satisfaction; technology; stress; satisfaction

The rapid advance of technology and the growing demand for enhanced contextual information are reshaping the IT architecture requirements within airports. As airports evolve into smart hubs, the need to integrate geospatial data, real-time analytics and seamless communication systems is becoming increasingly vital. This paper explores the key considerations for preparing IT infrastructure to support this demand. From the integration of data sources to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT), the paper examines how airports can remain competitive while ensuring smooth passenger experiences, efficient operations and improved security.1
Keywords: geo-spatial information; IT architecture; IoT; smart airport; digital twin

This paper investigates the economic and environmental impacts of transitioning ground service equipment (GSE) from diesel-powered to electric-powered alternatives. By modelling aircraft turnaround processes for three different aircraft types, the driving and operating times of GSE are analysed. This analysis forms the basis for comparing the variable and total cost of diesel versus electric GSE, demonstrating that electric GSE offers significant cost advantages over its diesel counterparts, including reductions of 70 per cent in variable costs and approximately 35 per cent in total costs. Additionally, the study quantifies the environmental benefits in the context of the European Union (EU) Emission Trading System, noting that diesel GSE incurs approximately 4 per cent higher costs due to emissions. To further enhance both the economic and environmental outcomes, two improvement measures are proposed: adopting local green energy generation and implementing electric GSE designed for full-day operation. Ultimately, the paper advocates for a comprehensive approach that transforms the airport‘s electric system into a local grid with integrated local energy generation, storage and smart charging solutions, paving the way for substantial progress toward net zero airports.
Keywords: net zero goal aviation; airport ground handling; electrification

This paper describes the collaboration between two airport departments that depend on each other to develop a commercial terminal area. It outlines the new opportunities that building information modelling (BIM) planning brings to the planning and construction of a new terminal building at Vienna Airport. It describes how this digital planning tool is helping to facilitate the development of a virtual reality (VR) tool for use by the commercial department in discussions with possible new tenants. Further, it discusses the importance of developing non-aviation commercial revenues, which currently not only contribute to passenger satisfaction but also provide airports with a considerable volume of income to fund infrastructural developments. The paper not only describes new planning tools and the importance of travel retail and food and beverage (F&B) offers, but also how synergies within one company can be used to reduce costs in the process — here specifically in a lower investment for the development of the VR tool.
Keywords: BIM; construction; terminal expansion; openBIM

This paper describes the origins of environmental, social and governance (ESG) in compliance and brand building, and its evolution into a topic of significant strategic importance to airports owing to the stakeholders driving it forward: finance, government, employees and the airport organisational ecosystem. The paper describes factors acting to resist the growth of the ESG trend, while underscoring the importance of ESG as a risk management tool and a way to maintain the airport’s social licence to operate. It describes the approach that Vantage Group has employed to address ESG at its airports, including establishing an indicator framework drawing on widely accepted standards, gathering data to establish a baseline for those indicators, setting goals and embarking on a journey of continuous improvement to enhance ESG performance.
Keywords: ESG; environment; social; governance; climate; sustainability

Regional airports serve as vital connections between regions, both domestically and internationally. It is essential to view airports as key infrastructure that supports the economic and social growth of their respective regions. As the entry point to a region, an airport’s success is not solely reliant on the expertise of its managers in creating effective governance, infrastructure, operations, and workforce development, but also on the attractiveness of the region itself to potential investors, contractors, and tourists. Consequently, a regional airport’s lack of profitability may not stem from poor management decisions, but rather from the broader economic conditions of the region it serves. Public funding or government ownership often covers the financial losses of these airports, which is typically considered state aid. However, this should be supported by a solid legal framework that permits the provision of compatible state aid in appropriate circumstances, ensuring the alignment of development across various regions within the European Union (EU). This approach would foster better communication between regions, promoting their development and convergence. While regional airports may not be profitable, their contribution to the well-being of European society is paramount.
Keywords: airports profitability factors; State aid for airports and airlines; Polish regional airports

The paper explores the multifaceted risks posed by climate change to airport infrastructures and the strategic planning required to mitigate these risks. Climate change, driven by greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, leads to increased global temperatures and extreme weather events, which significantly impact critical infrastructure systems, including airports The paper highlights the importance of addressing climate stress on infrastructure to ensure long-term sustainability. Airports are particularly vulnerable to weather-related disruptions, such as storms, sea level rise and changes in climatic patterns, which can affect operations and safety. The authors emphasise the need for systematic and comprehensive climate risk assessments, as recommended by international organisations like the United Nations and the European Union. Aeroporti di Roma (ADR) conducted a comprehensive climate risk assessment for its two airports, Leonardo Da Vinci in Rome-Fiumicino (FCO) and G. B. Pastine in Rome-Ciampino (CIA). The assessment involved screening relevant climate hazards, scoping critical assets and dynamic modelling of risks. The methodology used included the classification of climate-related hazards, analysis of past and future climate conditions and the development of a climate atlas for easy retrieval and graphical representation of data. The key results of the assessment were presented through a Hazard Assessment Atlas and an Assets Scorecard, which detailed the exposure, vulnerability, mitigation measures and risks for each asset. The mitigation measures identified were grouped into four main categories: design, integration/extension of control models, integration/ extension of monitoring and maintenance plans and infrastructure resilience. The paper concludes that the comprehensive climate risk assessment allowed ADR to develop a detailed understanding of the vulnerability and resilience of its airport infrastructures. This understanding enabled the preparation of a Climate Adaptation Plan, which includes short, medium and long-term mitigation measures to reduce the impact of risks and increase asset resilience. The plan is integrated into the Airport Development Plan and the ADR Business Plan.
Keywords: climate change; airport infrastructure; risk assessment; mitigation measures; vulnerability; resilience; climate adaptation; hazard assessment; strategic planning

In the US, public-use airports are typically owned and operated/governed by local government — meaning cities, counties or state-authorised authorities (airport or port). Whichever type of governance structure the airport has, there is likely a board, either advisory or authority. Airport board membership is typically determined by the governing body (council or commission); the number of members and the term of service may vary. Members who join the board often bring new, innovative ideas with the best intentions but may not have a thorough understanding of the intricacies of the airport industry. The people appointed or elected to boards are usually energetic and successful in their fields and want to use that knowledge effectively elsewhere in the community. It is important to harness this new energy and provide detailed airport and aviation industry training, enabling the board to make effective decisions and function at the highest level. This paper provides a customisable foundation for an airport to use for its board orientation and ongoing training sessions. Essential elements for orientation and training include understanding the members’ role on the board, their level of authority, expectations of the members and of meetings, meeting etiquette and the specialised nature of the airport industry. Lastly, a compilation of important documents and information is provided to assist airport executives in developing and implementing meaningful airport board orientation and training.
Keywords: board of directors; orientation; training; airport

This paper discusses the future of small airports that struggle with profitability. According to international studies, profitable operations require up to 1 million passengers per year. The paper showcases the situation at small airports in Finland, from hundreds of thousands to only tens of thousands of passengers per year. The airport company Finavia operates a total of 20 airports throughout Finland. Finnish airports can be divided into three categories: growing, stable and decreasing, based on their current situation. The paper discusses the global and local trends affecting profitability, cost structures and future possibilities for small airports.
Keywords: profitability; network airports; airports; small airport; state support

There is ever-increasing pressure on airlines and airports to provide a positive customer experience for travellers. Coupled with the imposition of fees for baggage, the expectation of efficient and effective service is high. Yet, airport baggage handling systems (BHS) are often overlooked in large terminal projects. BHS design and procurement decisions are frequently based solely on capital investment considerations, without a holistic analysis of the life cycle cost of the system. Encouraging stakeholders to look at the project through a total cost of ownership (TCO) lens involves diving into design decisions, equipment selection, construction planning, operations and maintenance strategies, as well as the impact of various procurement methods. This paper offers a framework for engaging in a broader analysis of the considerations and trade-offs across the BHS project life cycle. Engaging all stakeholders from the beginning and helping them understand the impact of their choices during each phase of a BHS project can not only reduce costs, but uncover opportunities for innovation, energy efficiency and automation.
Keywords: baggage handling; total cost of ownership; BHS; equipment cost; procurement

Airports are critical economic engines and employment generators for their communities. Above all they place emphasis on the safety and security of their facilities, operations and customers. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is an organisation responsible for ensuring the security of transport systems in the US and, like other regulatory bodies, often proposes new rules or amendments to meet changing security standards, following a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, which permits stakeholders to provide valuable feedback to influence the future of airport operations. In April 2023, the TSA issued its Airport Security Program National Amendment (TSA-NA-23-02), which requires airports to implement a costly and impractical employee screening policy without any financial or operational support. As of late September 2024, airports were required to conduct random physical screening of aviation workers entering certain access points in terminal buildings and will eventually be required to procure and use explosive detection screening equipment to conduct the screening. The lack of collaboration, coordination and input from the aviation industry on this proposed unfunded mandate produces significant impacts to airport operators. This paper describes the importance of collaboration, as industry organisations, including the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) and Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA), are calling on federal agencies to broaden public participation in the regulatory process. In order to ensure a continued safe and secure aviation system, it is critical that the TSA and federal partners work more collaboratively with airports.
Keywords: unfunded mandate; security; employee screening; regulatory; rulemaking

Modern airports face increasing challenges due to the growing number of passengers and evolving security threats. The successful operation of an airport requires a delicate balance between efficiency, security and passenger satisfaction. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers the potential to revolutionise airport operations by improving passenger experience, enhancing security and optimising efficiency. Implementing AI presents challenges, however, including the need for a strong data foundation and a focused approach. Organisations should avoid trying to do too much at once and focus on specific AI applications. Building a data-driven culture and investing in data teams and chief data officers (CDOs) are essential for successful AI adoption. By addressing these challenges and embracing AI, airports can create a more efficient, secure and passenger-friendly environment.
Keywords: artificial intelligence; AI; data-driven decision making; passenger experience; future airports; airport technology; airport management

This paper explores the critical intersection of data analytics and human behaviour within the aviation industry, emphasising the need for a balanced approach to enhance operational efficiency and passenger experience. As airports increasingly rely on data-driven decision making, the paper identifies key areas where data can optimise operations while also highlighting the importance of understanding human stressors in dynamic airport environments. Readers can expect to gain insights into how various stressors influence traveller behaviour and decision making. By employing a human-centred design approach and recognising the complexities of passenger experiences, stakeholders can develop strategies that effectively address both operational goals and individual needs. The paper illustrates the significance of context in interpreting data and the necessity of collaboration among diverse teams to create guest-centric solutions. Ultimately, it underscores that integrating human understanding with data analytics is essential for navigating the challenges of modern air travel, ensuring that advancements truly enhance the travel experience rather than complicate it.
Keywords: data analytics; passenger experience; human behaviour; operational efficiency; collaboration

Munich International Airport (MUC) is a major European hub that, in 2023, served 219 destinations in 64 countries by 99 airlines. Like many airports throughout the industry, MUC has been affected by staff shortages and has explored ways to improve efficiencies while maintaining safety and security. This paper describes a project to automate a process for random assignment of airport staff and airline crews to alternative screening areas at a control point. The paper explains the approach taken from concept design through implementation, including the challenges faced, the lessons learned and ultimately, the success achieved.
Keywords: automated staff assignment; tracking; LiDAR; process design; visual walkthrough

At Ontario International Airport (ONT), elevating the customer experience goes beyond increasing operational efficiency. By using a comprehensive, data-driven approach to creating a customer journey map, ONT gains a clear and comprehensive understanding of a passenger’s experience throughout the airport. This paper identifies key problems, areas of success and opportunities for improvement, leading to informed decision making and strategic investments that elevate overall customer satisfaction. Readers will learn the purpose and application of a customer journey map, including how to identify critical touchpoints and visualise the user experience from start to finish. The paper also introduces behavioural science tools, such as retina-scanning glasses, which help benchmark current experiences and uncover gaps in service. Additionally, it highlights the role of data-driven insights in influencing future design strategies, considering spatial features, emerging trends, policy changes and technology integration. The paper describes how to analyse and prioritise recommendations across each touchpoint, fostering cross-organisational consensus and guiding strategic investments in enhancing the airport experience. This knowledge is vital for professionals looking to innovate in service and infrastructure improvements, ensuring a world-class experience for airport passengers.
Keywords: passenger journey mapping; user experience; environmental quality; Ontario International Airport (ONT); wayfinding

Airports generate vast amounts of data across various systems that are crucial for operational efficiency, safety and enhanced passenger experience. As airports increasingly rely on this data in order to adapt to evolving passenger experience demands, business environments and regulatory requirements, data governance becomes essential for managing, safeguarding and leveraging data effectively. A robust data governance framework provides the structure for ensuring data quality, security and compliance while enabling airports to harness data for artificial intelligence (AI) applications such as predictive maintenance and passenger flow management. By starting with a clear scope, objectives and policies, airports can build a data governance framework that addresses both current needs and future challenges. This paper explores the role of data governance in making airports AI-ready, outlining best practices for implementing a governance programme. It highlights the importance of tools such as data lineage tracking and the need for strong data security measures to comply with regulations such as General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The paper also emphasises the need for a culture of accountability, outlining key roles such as data stewards and chief data officers (CDOs) to ensure consistent, robust data management. As AI adoption grows, airports must focus on maintaining data integrity, fostering transparency and ensuring regulatory compliance to unlock the full potential of their data assets while safeguarding privacy and building stakeholder trust.
Keywords: data governance; artificial intelligence; AI; data privacy and security; regulatory compliance

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of synthetic compounds that are ubiquitous in many consumer and industrial products, including certain fire-fighting foams such as aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) until 2024 for incident response and readiness. Recent regulatory changes, public health concerns and liability implications are likely to result in the discontinuation in the supply of AFFF; use of AFFF may also no longer be a tenable option for many airports based on its potential impact on public health via groundwater and public drinking water supplies. Transitioning from AFFF to a fluorine-free (F3) product involves assessment of liability, planning capital acquisitions and implementing the change successfully across airport lines of business. This paper specifically explores the successful PFAS management and transition strategy at Nantucket Memorial Airport.
Keywords: per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS); fluorine-free foam (F3); aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) transition; decontamination; capital planning

Air travel is one of the most developed and advanced forms of transport, the success of which is reflected in a high level of innovation and the safety and comfort of passengers. In the context of long-term growth in air travel, constant cost and capacity pressures at airports and rapid advancements in innovative technologies, numerous opportunities arise. The greatest risk for any airport would be to neglect digital transformation. Technological improvements based on innovative, sustainably oriented technologies have significant potential. This paper discusses how to address current challenges at airports using evolving technologies and artificial intelligence (AI). It examines the dynamics of ground handling operations and highlights the transformative impact of technology and innovation. Unlike landside operations, many airside processes at most airports remain manual and inefficient. The paper introduces an advanced solution for monitoring aircraft ground handling, enabling proactive management of flight delays and resource shortages due to changes in flight schedules. This tool offers insights into potential efficiency gains by using a system of cameras and AI for the automatic recognition of the start and end of aircraft turnaround processes, without human intervention in the process itself.
Keywords: aircraft turnaround; ground handling; artificial intelligence