IT innovation: Enabling growth

We round-up some of the latest IT news stories making headlines across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East in the last quarter of the year.

TAOYUAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO PARTNER WITH SITA

SITA is partnering with Taipei’s Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) to transform its passenger processing solutions.

According to SITA, its check-in kiosk solutions will bring new innovation to TPE and help make passenger processing “become a state-of-the-art feature of the airport experience”.

With the new check-in and baggage handling processes, Taipei Taoyuan International Airport is expected to reduce wait times and improve its overall efficiency.

It has chosen SITA to provide its Local Departure Control System (LDCS), Common Use Terminal Equipment (CUTE) and Common Use Self-Service (CUSS) systems, including a full hardware refresh of 80 check-in kiosks to support all international flights in Terminals 1 and 2.

Sumesh Patel, SITA’s APAC president, said: “Airports around the world are facing challenges on many fronts, from staffing to efficiency, and improving the overall passenger experience. TPE can become a pioneer in the Asian market in terms of digitalisation and innovation, becoming an example for others in an ever-evolving travel industry.”

While Nelson Wang, TPE’s operation committee chairman, noted: “As part of our improvement programme, the smart use of technology will maximise our existing infrastructure, and provide our passengers with a world-class experience, while supporting our airline customers in managing their operations more efficiently.

“SITA’s CUSS and CUTE systems are key to meeting our ambitions – from managing the flow of passengers through our terminals to making all of our passengers’ journeys smoother and more efficient.”

ROBOTS AT THE READY AT QUEEN ALIA

Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport has unveiled four state-of-the-art cleaning robots that it believes will significantly enhance its cleaning processes, resource allocation and overall efficiency.

The new additions, introduced by AMM operator Airport International Group (AIG) in collaboration with MENA Facilities Management, are also said to highlight AIG’s commitment to adopting the latest technology and maintaining a clean and hygienic environment for passengers, employees and visitors.

“We constantly strive to provide our passengers, employees and visitors with exceptional facilities for a truly comfortable experience while at QAIA,” notes AIG CEO, Nicolas Deviller.

“With MENA Facilities Management, we are dedicated to enhancing our airport journey, setting new benchmarks for cleanliness and comfort, while underscoring our unyielding pursuit of a welcoming atmosphere where passengers feel at home.”

While Aboud Abu Gharbieh, CEO of MENA Facilities Management, noted: “This collaboration reflects our commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance operational efficiency and maintain the highest standards of cleanliness in one of the region’s most important aviation hubs.

“Our goal is to support the airport’s ongoing efforts to provide a safe and welcoming environment for travellers, and we look forward to working together to achieve this vision.”

CALL FOR AVIATION TO EMBRACE TRANSFORMATION

Smart solutions provider, Aurrigo International, is urging the aviation industry to embrace innovation and drive the evolution of ground support equipment.

Aurrigo CEO, professor David Keene, believes that the adoption of what he calls iGSE (intelligent Ground Support Equipment) will take operational efficiency to the next level.

His vision encompasses a suite of advanced, integrated technologies designed to enhance operational performance and streamline airside activities.

Keene insists that adopting smart airside solutions will allow the industry to reduce turnaround times, improve reliability, and significantly lower its environmental footprint.

“Today’s aviation landscape demands that we step up our game,” said Keene. “As we move into a new era of airside operations, it is imperative that we harness advanced technologies to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

“The future belongs to those who will lead the charge in reimagining how ground handling is performed.”

He outlined automation, data analytics and sustainability as key areas where iGSE can make a profound impact.

Keene noted that implemwenting automated systems can minimise human error and enhance operational speed and that leveraging real-time data would allow airports and ground handlers to optimise resource allocation and improve decision-making processes.

As for sustainability, he has no doubt that integrating eco-friendly practices into ground support operations will reduce emissions and support global sustainability goals.

“By moving to iGSE, we can create a more connected and efficient ground handling environment that meets the demands of modern air travel,” stated Keene.

“This is not just about technology; it’s about transforming our industry to better serve airlines, passengers, and the planet. Who will be the first GSE to transition to an iGSE approach?”

Aurrigo is no stranger to airports with its range of autonomous vehicles being trialled at gateways across the world, including Singapore Changi (pictured above) which continues to trial its Auto-DollyTug, a zero emission, all-electric baggage and cargo tractor.

DRIVING INNOVATION IN HR MANAGEMENT

AI Driven Innovation in human resources management was the central topic of discussion at the ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s Regional Human Resources Committee meeting in Chinese Taipei.

HR leaders from across the region discussed how artificial intelligence will impact and reshape the airport workforce.

The committee also examined how HR can be a guiding force through these changes and ensure that AI improves work without compromising human dignity and wellbeing.

AOT’S AUTOMATED BIOMETRIC IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM

Airports of Thailand (AOT) has launched a new Automated Biometric Identification System powered by facial recognition technology, aimed at delivering a faster, more convenient, and secure experience for passengers across six AOT airports.

Passengers can register to use the new biometric system upon checking in at the airport, either at a manned check-in desk or at a self-service kiosk.

Once enrolled, passengers consent to the use of their biometric data for that specific journey, eliminating the need to present a passport or boarding pass at baggage drop, security checks, and boarding.

The new service is available at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai airports.