ACI NEWS

TK Elevator (TKE) has extended its maintenance contract with Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). According to TKE, the renewed partnership highlights its ability to deliver on its Universal Service proposition to provide OEM-level services and support for mobility equipment across major brands, contributing to the development of the gateway. Under this latest four-year contract, TK […]

Menzies Aviation has been awarded a 15-year license to provide ground handling services at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), one of India’s fastest‑growing airports for both domestic and international traffic. The license, awarded by Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), is effective from April 1, 2026, with operations expected to commence immediately upon securing required regulatory […]

International travellers departing Brisbane can now enjoy Brooki Bakehouse’s cult-favourite cookies on the go, with the viral social media sensation unveiling the world’s first Brooki Bakehouse cookie vending machine, at Brisbane Airport. The new Brisbane outpost will give travellers 24/7 access to the signature chunky cookies, with each cookie freshly baked, sealed for freshness and […]

Smiths Detection has enabled the successful launch of an automated International Remote Baggage Screening System (IRBS), which it believes sets a new global standard for cross-border aviation security and passenger processing between South Korea and the United States. According to Smiths Detection, the achievement was led by Incheon International Airport Corporation (IIAC), which it claims […]

Perth Airport today reports that it has made significant progress with the construction and planning of its multi-billion-dollar investment programme. In early 2025, Perth Airport partnered with Bechtel as its Capital Portfolio Partner to establish governance, tools, and processes to integrate the projects and set the programme up for success. Bechtel has now been appointed […]

ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID) today released its latest outlook on air cargo performance across the region, highlighting stabilising demand, recovering supply chains, and long-term growth until 2028. The updated version of ACI APAC & MID’s Short Term Forecast 2025-2028, developed with OAG, projects Asia-Pacific air cargo volumes to grow 4.3% […]

President and CEO, Hag-Jae Lee, talks to Joe Bates about the success, ambitions and future development plans of Incheon International Airport. HOW WOULD YOU SUM UP YOUR FIRST TWO YEARS IN THE HOT-SEAT AT INCHEON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT CORPORATION? I have enjoyed it and, from day one, have felt deep gratitude for the rare opportunity to […]

Joe Bates takes a whistle-stop tour across the Asia-Pacific & Middle East region to find examples of innovation and excellence in terms of hospitality and customer service initiatives. Ever inventive Changi Airport Group (CAG) has unveiled the world’s first outdoor bamboo garden at an airport. Located a short walking distance from the Hub & Spoke […]

Sumesh Patel, SITA’s president for Asia Pacific, considers some of the technologies that will transform the passenger experience at airports in the decades to come. The air traveller journey is entering its most profound transformation in decades, and across the Asia-Pacific region, airports face an unrelenting challenge of having to serve record numbers of travellers […]

The remarkable performance of aviation in Western Australia continues with Perth Airport posting a new all-time record for total passenger numbers for the second time in just four months. The total passenger numbers figure for October came in at 1.66 million, easily cruising past the previous record of 1.61 million which was only set in […]

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has announced new record-breaking milestones in Saudi Arabia’s global connectivity performance, which has seen a continuous increase in passenger numbers and air connectivity. A total of 103.1 million passengers travelled via Saudi airports, while total flight movements reached 713,000, marking an increase of 9% and 5% respectively. The […]

The Sunshine Coast is set to make history, with Jetstar today announcing the launch of direct flights from Sunshine Coast Airport (SCA) to Singapore via Bali from early next year. Commencing in March 2026, the new service marks the first direct connection between the Sunshine Coast and Southeast Asia providing seamless access to one of […]

Dubai International Airport recently (DXB) transformed part of its airfield into a high-energy cycling arena as part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC). The extraordinary event, executed in collaboration with fitness studio CRANK, delivered one of the city’s most unique and highly anticipated fitness experiences. Returning for its second year, the DXB Runway Ride expanded […]

Newcastle Airport’s executive general manager for people and communications, Burcak Sezer, represented Australia on the international stage last week at the Future-Proofing Airport Development workshop in Singapore. Bringing together decision-makers from across the Asia-Pacific and hosted by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), the two-day forum focused on how airports can leverage […]

Its opening may still be up to a year away, but preparations for the milestone are well underway at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport with the ramp-up of its operational readiness programme. The programme will see ongoing trials carried out across the terminal and broader airport precinct over the months ahead. At the same […]

Today, an inaugural ceremony marked the official opening of Techno International Airport in Phnom Penh. Designed by Foster + Partners, the new terminal building is said to embody Cambodia’s long-term vision for growth. It also evokes a strong sense of place, drawing inspiration from one of the oldest civilisations on earth, inspired by its vernacular […]

Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH), Chinese Taipei’s second-largest international gateway, is to deploy SITA’s next-generation passenger processing systems to “make check-in faster, boarding more efficient, and airport operations more resilient and secure”. The airport’s new deal includes with SITA includes the latest versions of its passenger processing solutions, including Common Use Terminal Equipment (CUTE), Common Use […]

Following a competitive and transparent procurement process, Perth Airport has awarded a 10-year ground transportation contract to Kinetic-owned SkyBus to deliver comprehensive landside bus services across the airport precinct. SkyBus will commence services at Perth Airport on November 3, 2025, launching with a fleet of 11 branded buses including two battery electric buses. The gateway’s […]

The redevelopment of Sunshine Coast Airport’s domestic terminal is gathering pace with the appointment of construction company McNab as the builder of its highly anticipated new facility. Global architects firm Populous | Fentress Studios are designing the terminal marking a major milestone in the expansion and growth of one of Australia’s fastest-growing airports. The redevelopment […]

The New Zealand Airports Association has welcomed Transport Minister Chris Bishop’s announcement outlining new government initiatives to strengthen New Zealand’s freight system. Chief executive, Billie Moore, said the focus on freight growth and resilience recognises the vital role the transport sector plays in underpinning New Zealand’s economy. “Airports are critical links in the freight network, […]

Brisbane Airport is marking a historic milestone today, recording the busiest day in its 100-year history. A combined total of 82,779 passengers are passing through the Domestic and International terminals, setting a new overall record. This unprecedented surge is driven not only by Brisbane Lions fans traveling to Melbourne for the AFL Grand Final and […]

Hong Kong is hosting Routes World for the first time this week, the event being held at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). The event serves as a pivotal platform for global air network planners to explore new opportunities for closer collaborations in establishing flight routes. And HKIA took the opportunity to sign two memorandums of […]

Qatar’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a Sister Airport agreement with Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). The move is expected to help advance co-operation between Qatar–China and expand global air connectivity via Doha. The agreement, complements Qatar Airways’ partnership with China Southern Airlines and the MoU between the […]

Sydney Airport is about to get a whole lot sweeter, with much-loved cookie brand Brooki Bakehouse set to open a pop-up store at the T2 Domestic terminal. Opening in early November, the pop-up will be the first location for Brooki Bakehouse outside Queensland, giving passengers the chance to pick up the brand’s famous pre-packaged cookies […]

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) today signed Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) with airports in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan with a view to enhancing air connectivity with the region and co-operation in other aspects of aviation development. AAHK CEO, Vivian Cheung, signed MoUs with Shymkent Airport in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan Airports Joint Stock Company, which manages all […]

The latest news and views from World Business Partners across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. VIETNAM AIRPORT AWARD FOR ADB SAFEGATE Air Traffic Control Tower systems and equipment at Vietnam’s eagerly awaited Long Thanh International Airport are to be supplied by ADB SAFEGATE. The project includes delivering ASMGCS and related sub-systems, including surveillance sensors, to […]

The aviation industry is getting better at baggage handling with the number of mishandled bags continuing to fall globally, led by the Asia-Pacific region. Asia-Pacific’s aviation sector stood out globally in 2024, achieving the world’s lowest baggage mishandling rate at 3.1 bags per 1,000 passengers, a level it has consistently maintained over recent years. According […]

We report on the latest sustainability success of New Zealand’s Christchurch Airport. Christchurch Airport (CHC) has received a Platinum award in ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s Green Airports Recognition 2025 programme, the accolade recognising the airport’s leadership in building a clean energy future through its solar farm Kōwhai Park. The airport was one of only […]

Retail innovation will play a key role in enhancing the airport experience going forward, writes Chris Gwilliam, global senior vice president of business development at Airport Dimensions. An ever-increasing number of the world’s bigger airports are undergoing a fundamental shift as they transition from being a mere point of transit to a destination in their own […]

FedEx has completed its transition to a direct service presence in Saudi Arabia and opened its new head office in Riyadh. The global logistics giant has been granted an economic license to operate as a foreign air carrier in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). The move is […]

David Keene, CEO of Aurrigo International plc, explores what it will take for aviation to fully embrace autonomous technology and revolutionise the airport experience. Airports and airlines can easily predict how the aviation sector will look in the next 12 months. However, fast forward a decade, and the picture becomes far less certain. Why? Because […]

Sunil Tuli, president of the Asia Pacific Travel Retail Association (APTRA) and group chief executive of King Power Group (Hong Kong), reflects on the dramatic rise of Indian aviation as a priority market for travel retail in India and beyond. The world’s fastest-growing major economy has an aviation sector that is battling to keep pace […]

With traffic growth now firmly back on the agenda, airports across Asia, the Pacific and the Middle East are investing in upgrading their facilities, writes Joe Bates. According to data from ACI Asia-Pacific and Middle East, airports across both regions are poised to undergo extensive development, with combined investments of $240 billion dedicated to both […]

Dubai Airports has celebrated Emirati Women’s Day by unveiling a photo gallery of Emirati women in aviation at Dubai International Airport (DXB). The exhibition, launched on the 10th anniversary of Emirati Women’s Day and in conjunction with the Dubai Airports Women’s Network (DAWN), is part of this year’s national theme of ‘Hand in Hand, We […]

Changi Airport Group provided a sneak preview of its new new mega Terminal 5 at a recent groundbreaking ceremony for the eagerly awaited new facility. A significant step in the development of Changi Airport took place on May 14 when Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong officiated at  the groundbreaking ceremony for the  gateway’s Terminal 5. […]

Completion of the construction of the terminal and runway ensures that the countdown is on to the opening of Western Sydney International Airport. Sydney’s new 24-hour airport is one step closer to welcoming its first passengers, with major construction works across Western Sydney International Airpport (WSI) now complete. Indeed, Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese,  and […]

Manager for communications and brand marketing, Yuman Lau, provides a quarterly round-up of the latest news and developments from ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East. AIR CONNECTIVITY CONFERENCE IN SHANGHAI ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID),  in partnership with the China Civil Airports Association, successfully organised the Air Connectivity Conference 2025, hosted by […]

In July, Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) handled 5.2 million passengers and 33,670 flight movements, representing 9.7% and 8.3% year-on-year growth respectively. While transfer/transit passengers continued to experience growth from a low base, overall passenger traffic growth softened due to adverse weather and a decline in travel demand to Japan. Cargo throughput saw a 3.9% […]

For the first time ever, Perth Airport in Australia has surpassed 1.6 million passengers in a one month period. The July 2025 total of 1,609,744 easily beats the previous July period of 1,493,299 passengers. It also outstrips our best previous month of January 2025 that saw 1,564,314 passengers travel through our terminals. International travel to […]

Airport Dimensions has unveiled its new Blue Sky Premier Lounge at Makassar Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport in Indonesia. The opening marks the first milestone following a strategic investment in Blue Sky Group’s subsidiary PT Bumi Liputan Angkasa, earlier this year. As the company’s 17th lounge in its growing Asia-Pacific network, Airport Dimensions notes that the […]

Emirates has launched its new daily service to Hangzhou, marking its fifth gateway in the Chinese mainland and the second new destination added in under a month, following Shenzhen. Operated by Boeing 777-300ER, flight EK310 landed at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport on July 30 to a warm welcome from local dignitaries, airport officials, and a […]

A few weeks earlier than expected, Newcastle Airport has opened its brand-new terminal, marking a major milestone in the region’s aviation and infrastructure history. From today, all arriving passengers will enter through the Australian gateway’s eagerly awaited, spacious new terminal. Initially slated for an August launch, the terminal has opened early, which the gateway claims […]

Brisbane Airport (BNE) has awarded its International Travel Essentials retail contract to Lagardère AWPL following a highly competitive RFP process. The transformed retail offering will include five refreshed Relay concepts over three levels at the International Terminal. Passengers can expect a redefined experience including a new flagship concept for the Lagardère Travel Retail-owned RELAY brand. […]

Singapore Changi Airport welcomed 17.5 million passengers in Q2, 2025, a healthy 5.9% upturn on the corresponding period last year. Singapore’s gateway to the world also reported an increase in aircraft movements, handling a total of 93,600 flights during Q2, up 4.9% on the same period a year ago. Changi’s top five markets for the […]

Latest ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East study shows annual regional connectivity surged 14%, primarily driven by the Gulf hubs and China’s reopening to global traffic. ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s highly anticipated Air Connectivity Ranking 2024 reveals a remarkable 14% year-on-year increase in connectivity across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, driven by strong international demand, […]

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) today published the Annual Report of Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) for the fiscal year ended 31 March 2025. During the year HKG saw double-digit increases in passenger and cargo throughput as well as flight movements. Passenger traffic grew 21.6% year-on-year to 54.9 million, cargo throughput climbed 10.3% to 5.0 […]

Director general Stefano Baronci reflects on a busy and successful second quarter of the year for ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East. As we stand on the cusp of the next decade, a clear imperative emerges for the aviation industry: substantial investment in infrastructure. The skies of Asia-Pacific and the Middle East are set to witness […]

We look back at some of conference sessions, key announcements and award ceremonies held during April’s ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East Regional Assembly, Exhibition and Conference in New Delhi. The New Delhi setting for this year’s ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East Regional Assembly, Exhibition and Conference almost guaranteed that it would provide a rich tapestry […]

Dubai Airports has launched DXB Greet & Go, a new smart pick-up service at Dubai International (DXB) Terminal 3. Designed for guests arriving in Dubai with pre-booked hotel, limousine, or tour operator services, this new solution replaces traditional guest paging with a seamless, technology-enabled experience. According to the airport operator, with DXB Greet & Go, […]

Perth Airport has appointed Australian firm Woods Bagot to lead a global consortium of architecture and design companies to shape the face of its new international and domestic terminals. The New Terminal project – including terminal facilities, aprons and taxiways – will be one of the most complex construction projects undertaken in Perth. Woods Bagot […]

Design & Build: Game Changing New Facilities Special Report: Regional Conference Review Plus: Air Connectivity, India Retail Focus & IT Trends DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE VIEW FROM THE TOP Director general Stefano Baronci reflects on a busy and successful second quarter of the year for ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East. REGIONAL UPDATE Manager for communications Communications […]

Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) welcomed 736,709 passengers during May 2025, marking a 12.7% increase compared to the same period last year. The Jordanian gateway also recorded 6,532 aircraft movements throughout the month, a 10.8% year-on-year rise, while cargo traffic amounted to 6,217 tons, indicating an 8.9% decline against May 2024. During the January to […]

Airport and local government leaders from across New Zealand are gathering in Wellington today for Airports Day, with a clear focus on improving connectivity, unlocking infrastructure investment, and building a stronger, more competitive aviation system. Hosted by NZ Airports, the event marks the launch of a new strategy for the association. “Our strategy is grounded […]

Menzies Aviation and strategic partner Aviation Handling Services (AHS) have inaugurated a new state-of-the-art cargo facility at Queen Alia International Airport in Jordan. The ceremony was officiated under the patronage of His Excellency Dr Jaafar Hassan, Prime Minister of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and represented by His Excellency Muthana Gharaibeh, Minister of Investment. Charles […]

In a major step before opening, Newcastle Airport’s new international terminal came to life yesterday as over 120 local volunteers helped test the facility during a full-scale Mass Passenger Exercise. With surfboards in tow, guitars slung over shoulders and bags packed to the brim, participants from across the Hunter took on the role of international […]

SSP has partnered with Asia Pacific Breweries Singapore (part of The Heineken Company) to open two Heineken World Bars in Singapore Changi Airport. The launch marks the debut of the Heineken World Bar concept in Asia. The first World Bar can be found in Terminal 2 towards Gate E, behind the Enchanted Garden. The second […]

A new satellite service is helping airports and airlines stay connected, even during blackouts, natural disasters, or in the most remote or infrastructure-limited locations. With the launch of SITA Managed Satellites, the technology leader claims that airports around the world can now maintain vital communication at all times. The fully managed service is now available […]

The Prime Minister of Singapore today officiated at the groundbreaking ceremony for Changi Airport’s new “mega terminal”, Terminal 5, which operator CAG states “will strengthen the gateway’s position as a leading air hub”. According to Changi Airport Group (CAG), T5 will be powered by state-of-the-art airport systems and extensive automation that will allow the airport […]

Restaurants, cafes, bars, fast food outlets and more are being invited to help create a diverse, world-class dining experience at Western Sydney International (Airport (WSI). Food and beverage operators that completed an extensive registration of interest process may now tender to join Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) as part of its growing retail and […]

We shine the spotlight on the route development success of Sydney Airport, a milestone for Emirates and a number of new services launching across the region in 2025. HONG KONG AND ISTANBUL SUCCESS FOR SYDNEY AIRPORT Sydney Airport’s route network is being boosted by a second Hong Kong carrier and the news that Turkish Airlines […]

We report on some of the ways airports continue to raise the bar on customer service and reward reward staff who go the extra mile. BENGALURU-KEMPEGOWDA OPENS INDIA’S FIRST SENSORY ROOM In a step towards promoting inclusive air travel, Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) has introduced a first of its kind sensory room at an […]

ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID) has contributed $50,000 to Airlink, a disaster logistics non-profit organisation, to support humanitarian relief efforts in Myanmar following the recent devastating earthquake. In addition, ACI APAC & MID has launched a campaign amongst its members in aid of the relief efforts in Myanmar. The funds raised […]

ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s manager for communications and brand marketing, Yuman Lau, provides the quarterly news round-up. ADDRESSING DRONE INTRUSIONS AND LANDSIDE SECURITY CHALLENGES ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID) addressed airport security challenges, focusing on landside attacks and drone intrusions at the 9th Annual Technical and Operational Meeting (ATOM) of […]

Airports across the region continue to upgrade their facilities to enhance their capacity and operational efficiency, writes Joe Bates. HAMAD CONTINUES TO ENHANCE ITS FACILITIES Hamad International Airport (DOH) has officially unveiled its new Concourses D and E as part of its latest terminal expansion programme. According to the gateway, both new additions are “designed […]

The impressive performance of Asia-Pacific and Middle East airports in ACI’s ASQ Airport Experience Awards demonstrates their commitment to customer service excellence, writes Joe Bates. Airports big and small from across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East once again led the way in ACI’s annual ASQ Airport Experience Awards, winning a total of 68 accolades across […]

ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East today honoured three airports for their outstanding commitment to aerodrome safety with the presentation of its inaugural Safety Recognition Awards 2025. The awards were presented at the ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in New Delhi, India. Dubai International (DXB) in the UAE, Bengaluru-Kempegowda (BLR) in […]

Newly appointed president of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, SGK Kishore, aims to position airports as key drivers of economic growth while prioritising resilience, efficiency, and seamless passenger experiences, writes Sunil Subbaiah. CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR APPOINTMENT AS PRESIDENT OF ACI ASIA-PACIFIC & MIDDLE EAST. HOW DO YOU ENVISAGE YOUR LEADERSHIP SHAPING THE REGION’S AIRPORT INDUSTRY? […]

Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on a milestone year for aviation, a busy start to 2025, and looks forward to ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in Delhi. The aviation industry marked a new milestone in 2024 with passenger traffic not only rebounding from the pandemic but exceeding pre-pandemic levels, signalling […]

The installation of Newcastle Airport’s first-ever aerobridge, a new baggage carousel, and key terminal finishes have signalled the final phase of a once-in-a-generation project that will redefine connectivity and economic growth for the Hunter Region forever. All are seen as key developments as the gateway prepares to officially become an international port of entry to […]

Kansai International Airport’s fully refurbished Terminal 1 has opened to accommodate the millions of passengers expected to pass through the iconic building to attend World Expo in Osaka. The new Terminal 1 includes a 60% increase in the size of the international departure lounge and retail offerings, the introduction of innovative retail layouts based on […]

Airports in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions are poised to undergo extensive development, with combined investments of $240 billion dedicated to both upgrading existing facilities (brownfield projects) and building new airports (greenfield projects) between 2025 and 2035. This capital expenditure, revealed today by Airports Council International Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID), […]

We find out more about the current growth trajectory of Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is India’s busiest and best-connected gateway, handling close to 80 million passengers annually and non-stop services to 150 destinations across the globe. Operated by GMR Airports Limited-led Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), last year’s […]

Vivian Kar-fay Cheung has been appointed the new permanent CEO of Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK). Unanimously endorsed by the AAHK Board and approved by the Chief Executive of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the appointment will be effective from April 7, 2025, for a term of three years. She was […]

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) has recognised the customer service efforts of airport at its annual Customer Service Excellence Programme (CSEP) awards ceremony. This year’s awards received an overwhelming response, with over 60 organisations submitting nearly 430 nominations, recognising over 870 dedicated colleagues and teams. Vivian Cheung, acting CEO of Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), […]

Preliminary February 2025 traffic figures released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed continued growth in international passenger and cargo markets, supported by positive business and consumer demand across the region. An aggregate total of 30.8 million international passengers flew on the region’s carriers in February, representing a 5.9% increase over the […]

The world’s largest equipment rental company, United Rentals, has become the latest company to commit to developing its business at Brisbane Airport.  United Rentals has secured a landmark 15-year lease, marking the beginning of a transformative era for the company. Armed with a lengthy wish list of site specifications and inclusions, the global brand looked […]

Airport Profile: Delhi Special report: The Region’s ASQ Champions Plus: Sustainability, Route Development & New Technology DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE VIEW FROM THE TOP Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on a milestone year for aviation, a busy start to 2025, and looks forward to ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in Delhi. […]

Airports in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East regions collected a total of 68 accolades in ACI’s 2024 ASQ Airport Experience Awards. The awards highlight the region’s commitment to delivering world-class airport experiences amid rapid passenger growth. This year, 10 airports from Indonesia won awards across categories, while eight airports China and seven from India were […]

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). has unveiled its ‘Golden Trumpet Trail’, a pathway of over 200 golden trumpet trees that are bursting into bloom, filling the air with vibrant golden yellow hues. The Golden Trumpet Trail lies near Kwo Lo Wan Road and HKG’s HKIA Ancient Kiln Park. Two viewing spots are set up in […]

Christchurch International Airport has reported a strong financial performance for the first half of the 2025 financial year, with net profit increasing by 10.5% to NZ$23.8 million compared to the same period last year. Board chair, Sarah Ottrey, said: “As a key asset for Christchurch city and the South Island, Christchurch Airport is pleased with […]

Traffic figures at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) reached a new high in January when it handled 5.28 million passengers (+27.8%) and 33,660 aircraft movements (+17%). The increase in aircraft movements represented a post-pandemic high, as did the over 193,000 passengers that used the gateway on January 25. Operator, Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), notes that […]

Christchurch Airport has taken another significant step in its commitment to operational excellence and sustainability, taking possession of New Zealand’s first electric fire truck today. The Rosenbauer RT (Revolutionary Technology) is also the first electric fire truck at any airport in the Southern Hemisphere, reinforcing the airport’s leadership in sustainable airport practices. The arrival of […]

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia is opening the domestic private aviation market to international operators, by announcing the removal of cabotage restrictions for foreign on-demand charter flights within the Kingdom. The decision is part of GACA’s broader strategy to boost the private jet market, supported by the establishment of a […]

Singapore Changi Airport handled 67.7 million passengers in 2024, up 14.8% on 2023 and less than 1% down on pre-COVID 2019 traffic levels. Aircraft movements, totalled 366,000 in 2024, up 11.5% compared to 2023. A total of 1.99 million tonnes airfreight throughput was recorded in the year, surpassing 2023’s level by 14.6%. In a busy […]

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) recorded “robust traffic growth” in 2024 as the airport entered a new era of three-runway operation, with flight movements in December rose year-on-year by 12.5% to 33,550. It was close to pre-pandemic levels, with individual daily flight movements exceeding pre-pandemic level, setting new record high. In December 2024, year-on-year passenger […]

Changi Airport has unveiled what it believes is the boldest ever refresh of its signature retail campaign to give shoppers the winning chance for the ultimate luxury travel experience of a lifetime to their dream holiday destinations. The year-long ‘Changi Millionaire Experiences’ campaign will see winners of the quarterly draws pick from what it calls […]

The latest news and views from World Business Partners across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. VANDERLANDE ACQUIRES SIEMENS LOGISTICS Vanderlande has signed an agreement to acquire value-added baggage, cargo handling and digital solutions provider, Siemens Logistics. According to Vanderlande, the proposed transaction will significantly enhance its value to its customers by providing accelerated access to […]

Stephan Hirmer, Amadeus’ head of end-to-end passenger servicing for airport and airline operations, considers how AI is transforming aviation. The air transport industry is under pressure to handle growing passenger volumes while maintaining high security standards and meeting the needs of travellers who increasingly expect a seamless experience. With Airports Council International predicting passenger volumes […]

Sustainable master planning can ensure that airports balance expansion plans whilst accelerating their sustainability objectives, writes Alton Aviation Consultancy’s Mabel Kwan. Airports are vital gateways to nations, linking cities, driving trade and serving as cultural hubs for millions of travellers. However, whilst aviation has brought about economic and social benefits, it has also increased the […]

Airports across ACI’s Asia-Pacific and Middle East region continue to pioneer green initiatives and deliver on sustainability, writes Joe Bates. DXB CONTINUES TO RAISE THE SUSTAINABILITY BAR Dubai International Airport’s (DXB) has achieved Level 4 ‘Transformation’ status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. The UAE hub notes that the achievement recognises its efforts to cut […]

Qatar’s gateway to the world, Hamad International Airport (DOH), handled  52.7 million passengers last year – a healthy 15% increase on 2023. Aircraft movements also rose to 279,000, marking an 10% year-on-year increase, while a total of 2.6 million tonnes of cargo handled, a rise of 12% compared to the previous year. Additionally, the airport […]

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 […]

ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s manager for communications and brand marketing, Yuman Lau, provides the quarterly news round-up. KEY COMMERCIAL INSIGHTS AT THE TRINITY FORUM 2024 ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s director general, Stefano Baronci, unveiled a number of key insights from our latest survey on non-aeronautical revenues at The Trinity Forum 2024. He pointed […]

Joe Bates reports on some of the highlights of the recent Airports Innovate conference and exhibition in Rome. All roads led to Rome for this year’s Airports Innovate conference and exhibition, which once again showed that airports are becoming increasingly innovative in the ways that they operate and plan for the future. New technology was, […]

We provide a snapshot of some of the latest news stories from across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. SINGAPORE CHANGI PLANNING S$3 BILLION UPGRADE Changi Airport Group (CAG) is to invest S$3 billion over the next six years on enhancing Terminals 1 to 4 at Singapore Changi Airport. The investment programme will improve services such […]

Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the achievements of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East in 2024 and looks forward to next year and working with a new president and Executive Board. This year has been a significant one for ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID), marked by key achievements across our advocacy […]

We take a closer look at the development plans of Perth Airport where new facilities and passenger growth are very much on the agenda. Perth Airport has officially unveiled its master plan for the future, which will deliver its long-awaited “one airport” vision for Western Australian travellers. The A$5billion investment programme will bring all operations […]

Airport Profile: Perth Special report: Airports Innovate Plus: Sustainability, Master Planning & Regional News DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE VIEW FROM THE TOP Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the achievements of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East in 2024 and looks forward to next year and working with a new president and Executive Board. INDUSTRY NEWS We […]

Hospitality brand Marhaba, part of dnata, is gearing up to assist a record 500,000 travellers at Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central–Al Maktoum International (DWC) airports this festive season. Jaffar Dawood, dnata’s divisional senior vice president, UAE Airport Operations, said: “As more travellers head home or embark on holiday trips this festive season, demand […]

HK Express Airways (HK Express) has launched Hong Kong’s first direct service to Mount Fuji Shizuoka Airport (FSZ) in Japan. The new destination, the airline’s tenth in Japan, is expected to prove popular with budget travellers. “As Hong Kong’s only low-cost carrier, HK Express is dedicated to providing affordable fares so that adventurous travellers can […]

SITA has announced a strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea International Airport (RSI), becoming one of the Specialised Airport Systems (SAS) providers for the airport’s new main terminal building. This marks a milestone in the growing collaboration between RSI and SITA, following SITA’s work on the successful deployment of the airport’s Air Taxi Terminal. […]

Menzies Aviation has secured a new ground handling license to deliver passenger, ramp and cargo services at Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Menzies Aviation Malaysia – a joint venture (JV) with Malaysian supply chain management company, MMAG Holdings – will begin delivering ground handling services at the airport from January 2025. under the 12-month license. Private […]

The latest news and views from World Business Partners across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. Macau opening for Plaza Premium Group Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has opened its highly anticipated Plaza Premium First lounge at Macau International Airport. “Ten years ago, we opened our first lounge at Macau International Airport,” said PPG’s founder and CEO, […]

With 80% of the project now complete and its first international airline secured, Western Sydney Airport is on track to open in late 2026. Western Sydney Airport (WSI) is one step closer to reality following the completion of its roof, paving the way for the acceleration of its internal fit out. According to a new […]

Abu Dhabi Airports CEO, Elena Sorlini, tells Joe Bates more about the transformational benefits of Zayed International Airport’s new Terminal A and the company’s customer service strategy. What does good service mean to you? In an airport sense, to me great customer service is about transforming the airport experience into an exciting and memorable part […]

Embracing art in terminal buildings might not be the newest fad in the world, but it appears to be one that airports across the globe are taking more seriously than ever before as they strive to create unique experiences for passengers and boost customer satisfaction levels. Arguably, the most famous art installation of all is […]

Andrew Caughey, head of sustainable aviation at AtkinsRéalis, offers advice to airports seeking to become future fuels ready. Airports will be a critical enabler for the transition to zero emission flight. While future flight aircraft are progressing swiftly through their development cycle, they won’t be able to deliver on their promise of cleaner aviation and […]

Saudi aviation is on track for a record breaking year with more passengers than ever before passing through the Kingdom’s airports. Indeed, Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) believes the country has enjoyed an outstanding year based on the upturn in traffic, with record growth in passenger numbers, connectivity, and aviation cargo. It […]

Its achievements, ambitions and commitment to protecting the environment quite simply make Christchurch Airport one of the greenest and sustainably run gateways on the planet, writes Joe Bates. An ever growing list of accolades for its sustainability initiatives ensure that New Zealand’s Christchurch International Airport is a world leader when it comes to its efforts […]

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 […]

ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s manager for communications and brand marketing, Yuman Lau, provides a comprehensive round-up of the latest developments and insights from the airport industry. FIRST-EVER ACI APEX REVIEW IN MALAYSIA FOR SECURITY ENHANCEMENT Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI) has successfully undergone an ACI Airport Excellence (APEX) in Security review. With the support […]

We provide a snapshot of some of the latest news stories from across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. CONSTRUCTION OF CHANGI’S TERMINAL 5 TO START NEXT YEAR The construction of Changi Airport’s highly anticipated Terminal 5 will start in the first half of 2025, according to Singapore’s Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Lawrence Wong. […]

Director General, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the advocacy efforts of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East to raise awareness of the social and economic importance of the region’s airports and the huge infrastructure challenges ahead. While we may think about bustling terminals filled with people heading to far-off places, the significance of these hubs extends far […]

Airports across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East continue to raise the sustainability bar and reduce their carbon footprint, writes Joe Bates. BENGALURU AND DELHI GATEWAYS LEAD THE WAY Two of India’s busiest airports, Bengaluru-Kempegowda and Delhi-Indira Gandhi, have joined an elite group of 16 leading airports worldwide by achieving the highest Level 5 status in […]

With soaring traffic figures, an ambitious new investor and plans to become the first transfer hub in the Philippines, these are exciting times for Mactan Cebu International Airport, writes Joe Bates. Air traffic is on a huge growth trajectory in the Philippines and Mactan Cebu International Airport (CEB) is no exception to the rule, with […]

Airport profile: Mactan Cebu Special report: Western Sydney Airport Plus: Airport Art, Customer Service & Regional News DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE VIEW FROM THE TOP Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the advocacy efforts of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East to raise awareness of the social and economic importance of the region’s airports and the huge […]

Newcastle Airport in Australia has joined forces with CommBank to fund a raft of pioneering sustainability programmes via an innovative A$235 million Green Sustainability-Linked Loan (GSLL). The GSLL converts existing loan funding to one linked to specific sustainability actions and outcomes. Airport CEO, Dr Peter Cock said with the support of the GSLL, Newcastle Airport […]

The 2024 Brisbane Airport Lost Property Auction is officially underway, featuring the surprising items left behind by the 22.6 million passengers who travelled through the terminal in the past year. Despite efforts to reunite owners with their belongings, many items remain unclaimed well beyond the standard holding period. Brisbane Airport (BNE) holds an auction once […]

Preliminary August 2024 traffic figures released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) revealed robust growth in international air passenger demand, even as traffic volumes approached pre-pandemic levels. On the back of the region’s resilient economic growth, Asia Pacific airlines collectively carried 32.3 million international passengers in August, reflecting a 21.7% year-on-year increase […]

Brisbane Airport is pleased to announce the successful completion of major works on the airport’s legacy runway, with aircraft operations returning to normal from 4pm on Sunday, 29th September. For the past 3 months, essential maintenance has been carried out on the ends of the runway, which shortened the length available for aircraft use from […]

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) handled 4.92 million passengers in August, a healthy 23% rise on the corresponding month a year ago. The gateway also registered year-on-year growth in August for both cargo volumes (+10.6%) and aircraft movements (+26.1%), handling 406,000 tonnes of cargo and 31,605 flights respectively during the month. Airport Authority Hong Kong […]

Etihad Airways has announced a significant boost to its connectivity to Sydney, with an increase from daily services to 10 services per week set to commence from July 2025. The Australian gateway notes that the decision will cement Sydney Airport’s status as the country’s most connected gateway to the Middle East. Greg Botham, Sydney Airport’s […]

Singapore Changi has unveiled the world’s largest ever display of sunflowers at an airport, with some larger than life sculptures being eight metres tall. ‘A Sunflower Sojourn’ features over 5,000 sunflowers of more than 10 exquisite varieties, beautifully arranged at over 20 locations across all four terminals. The showcase extends outdoors to Hub & Spoke […]

Rudy Daniello, Amadeus’ executive vice president of airport and airline operations, highlights some key technology investment trends. Our latest research, Travel Technology Investment Trends 2024 Airports, demonstrates that self-service is now mature, with more than half of the airports we surveyed providing self-service at check-in, bag-drop, and boarding. But what does the future hold? And […]

The latest news and views from ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s World Business Partners. PPG TO INVEST IN MIDDLE EAST EXPANSION Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has announced a strategic investment of $100 million to expand its presence in the Middle East with a major focus on Saudi Arabia. It says that the funds will be […]

Massimiliano Martinenghi, project director at Scott Brownrigg, tells us more about the planned expansion of Madinah Airport in Saudi Arabia. Madinah Airport (MED), officially known as Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport, is a hugely important gateway for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as it serves the second holiest city in Islam. Madinah is home […]

We take a closer look at a handful of sustainability stories making headlines across the region in the first half of 2024. ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP IN DOHA Hamad International Airport is celebrating its 10th anniversary, and among a host of facts and figures surrounding the milestone, it notes that it is fully committed to environmental sustainability […]

We shine the spotlight on Perth Airport’s historic commercial agreement with Qantas and the recovery and expansion of its international route network. Qantas and Perth Airport have reached an historic commercial agreement which will unlock a multi-billion dollar wave of investment and deliver new international and domestic flights, giving a major boost to Australia’s tourism […]

ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s manager for communications and brand marketing, Yuman Lau, provides a comprehensive round-up of the latest developments and insights from the airport industry. ACI ASIA-PACIFIC & MIDDLE EAST GREEN AIRPORTS RECOGNITION 2024 ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East took the opportunity to celebrate the winners of its Green Airports Recognition (GAR) 2024 […]

In the second instalment of his two-part article, Marnix (Max) Groot, focuses on ongoing and planned airport development projects in South East and East Asia. Asia is a hot spot for infrastucture development projects with China, in particular, in the midst of a programme to upgrade its existing airports and build dozens more to give […]

Editor, Joe Bates, looks back at some of the many highlights of the recent ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East/ACI World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in Riyadh. With the worst days of the global pandemic fast becoming a distant memory for airports, and global passenger numbers either already above or set to exceed 2019 […]

Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on a busy and productive few months for ACI AsiaPacific & Middle East and looks forward to two key events in the second half of the year. As historian and archaeologist, Josephine Quinn, stated in her recent book, “It is connections, not civilisations, that drive historical changes”. This perspective resonates […]

In its continued effort to improve safety and security at Guam’s only commercial airport, the AB Won Pat International Airport Authority, Guam (GIAA) is proud to announce that it is the first in the region to receive approval of the TSA’s Aviation Workers Screening (AWS) Program. It was also recognised to be in the top […]

Travellers in the world’s fastest-growing aviation market, India, are some of the world’s most enthusiastic lounge users with an ever-growing appetite for an elevated airport experience, according to new research. ‘AX24: The Age of the Airport Experience’, the latest round of research from global airport lounge and experience specialists Airport Dimensions, is a comprehensive study […]

Qatar’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) today released its traffic figures for the first half of 2024, describing the year-on-year upturn in passengers, cargo and aircraft movements as “exceptional growth”. In facts and figures, during in the first half of 2024, passengers numbers increased by 25% over the same period last year, while aircraft movement soared […]

Special report: Infrastructure development in South East and East Asia In the spotlight: Raising the sustainability bar Plus: Route development; Upgrading Madinah; and IT investment trends DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE VIEW FROM THE TOP Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on a busy and productive few months for ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East and looks forward to […]

Singapore Changi Airport handled 16.5 million passengers from April to June 2024, an increase of 13.4% compared to a year ago. The upturn means that the airport is now operating close to pre-pandemic traffic levels – in fact, the Q2 number is just 1.8% down on the corresponding period in 2019. Aircraft movements, including landings […]

Avolta has announced the renewal and extension of its duty-free contract with Australia’s Perth Airport to 2031. Using sustainable design principles, the contract includes nearly 3,000sqm of commercial space across four stores, and centres on the transformation of Avolta’s Terminal 1 Departures store into a state-of-the-art walkthrough space. Rather boldy, perhaps, Avolta and Perth Airport […]

New data released today shows Brisbane Airport saw significant recovery in passenger numbers in FY24, with 22.6 million passengers or 95% of pre-COVID FY19 levels, with notable growth in international travel which rose 39% over the past year. There was a total of 17 million domestic passengers, up 5.7% on the previous year, and reaching 97% of […]

Travelex is to double its bureaux, terminal and staff footprint at Singapore Changi Airport having won the tender for a new five-year contract at the major Asian hub. The company, which has provided retail travel money services at Changi since June 2016, operating ten bureaux across Terminals 2 and 3. The new contract, which will […]

Brisbane Airport (BNE) has announced one of the final missing pieces of the post-pandemic puzzle will fall into place this December when Jetstar reconnects Queensland with Thailand through direct B787 services to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK). The new non-stop service is forecast to bring in more than 190,000 additional inbound seats to Queensland over three-years, worth […]

Traffic numbers continue to rise at Hong Kong International Airport as it recovery from the global pandemic gathers pace. Figures released by Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) today show that 4.07 million passengers and 29,855 aircraft movements were handled at the airport in May, upturns of 30.8% and 34.5% respectively on the corresponding month a […]

Preliminary financial performance figures released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) revealed a strong rebound in the earnings of Asia Pacific airlines in 2023, following three consecutive years of losses. Combined net earnings totaled a solid $8.8 billion for the calendar year, on the back of healthy travel demand in both leisure […]

Loong Air has launched a new direct service between Xi’an in China’s Shaanxi Province and Samarkand International Airport in Uzbekistan. The first flight landed at Samarkand at 12:08 local time yesterday (Sunday), and was given a traditional water cannon welcome upon arrival on the taxiway. Passengers, who included a delegation of airline executives, tour operators […]

Improving communication and operations through democratised data can have huge benefits for airports, writes Uri Guterman, vice president of product at AeroCloud. Airports are busy places, with the world’s busiest hubs regularly handling over 100,000 passengers per day and daily operations supported by many different stakeholders. And the intricate workings of terminals can present significant […]

We take a closer look at a handful of sustainability initiatives at HKG, AMM and SIN airports. NEW RENEWABLE DIESEL MILESTONE Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) has announced the launch of a renewable diesel pilot project at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) as part of its ambition to make it the world’s greenest airport. Hong […]

The latest news and views from ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s World Business partners. NOIDA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT SET TO OPEN LATER THIS YEAR With its construction nearing completion and navigation equipment currently being installed, India’s newest gateway, Noida International Airport, is expected to open in late 2024, the exact opening date depending on how work […]

Singapore is celebrating the fifth anniversary of Jewel Changi Airport, the now iconic nature-themed entertainment and retail complex. Singapore Changi’s impressive Jewel complex turns five this year, and according to all the latest visitor figures, continues to go from strength to strength. Indeed, airport operator Changi Airport Group, notes that Jewel Changi Airport enters its […]

We take a look at some of the milestone route launches to have taken place across the Asia-Pacific and Middle East region this year. The heat really is on airports when it comes to route development as their airline customers, and the routes and destinations they serve, will play a major factor in their future […]

Qantas and Perth Airport have today reached an historic commercial agreement which will unlock a multi-billion-dollar wave of investment and deliver new international and domestic flights, giving a major boost to Australia’s tourism industry. As part of the 12-year agreement, Perth Airport will invest around A$3 billion in new terminal facilities and a new parallel […]

The sustainable growth and development of its facilities remains a top priority for Auckland Airport as it undertakes the biggest infrastructure upgrade in its history, writes Joe Bates. With most international visitors to New Zealand arriving in Auckland, it should come as no surprise to learn that Auckland Airport (AKL) is the country’s busiest airport […]

In this two-part article, Marnix (Max) Groot, managing editor of the Momberger Airport Information newsletter, reports on a selection of infrastructure development projects that are either underway or planned across Asia. While Asia has been slower to recover from COVID-19 than other regions, the future looks bright, with hundreds of airports either being built, upgraded […]

Preliminary April 2024 traffic figures released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) underscored strong demand for international passenger travel, with both business and leisure markets continuing to enjoy robust growth. Overall, a combined total of 28 million international passengers flew with the region’s carriers in April, representing a 32% increase compared to […]

The new Terminal 2 at Bengaluru’s Kempegpowda International Airport puts nature and biodiversity at the heart of the passenger experience, writes Andrew Haines, senior associate at Grant Associates. The lush landascapes within its walls make Terminal 2 at Bengaluru Kempegowda International Airport one of the most unique and greenest airport buildings on the planet. Indeed, […]

We report on some of the news stories making headlines across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. EXCEPTIONAL TRAFFIC GROWTH IN ABU DHABI Abu Dhabi Airports, the operator of five airports across the Emirate, has released what it is calling “exceptional” passenger traffic results for the first quarter of 2024. The high praise for its Q1 […]

Airports from Asia-Pacific and the Middle East once again shine in ACI’s annual Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards for customer experience excellence in 2023. Airports from across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East have earned themselves a reputation for providing outstanding customer service over the years, and this trend continued in 2023 with 31 different gateways […]

ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s manager for communications and brand marketing, Yuman Lau, provides a comprehensive round-up of the latest developments and insights from the airport industry. ACI REGIONS SIGN GROUNDBREAKING SUSTAINABILITY AGREEMENT ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East has signed a groundbreaking MoU with ACI EUROPE, marking a significant milestone in our commitment to sustainability. […]

Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the success of ACI Asia-Pacific and Middle East’s strategic plan to date and looks forward to this year’s annual Assembly, Conference & Exhibition in Riyadh. After a year of significant progress in traffic recovery, the aviation industry is on the brink of growth and transformation in 2024. Yet, despite […]

Hong Kong International Airport is to host Routes World 2025, a prominent annual global aviation event, in September next year. The event is expected to attract over 3,000 global aviation industry leaders to Hong Kong to explore the latest developments and opportunities in the city, and pave the way for new air connections with HKG. […]

Airport profile: Auckland Special report: Infrastructure Development Plus: ASQ Awards, Sustainability and Kempegowda’s T2 DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE VIEW FROM THE TOP Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the success of ACI Asia-Pacific and Middle East’s strategic plan to date and looks forward to this year’s annual Assembly, Conference & Exhibition in Riyadh. INDUSTRY NEWS We […]

Singapore Changi is to get a new hotel next to Terminal 2, which is expected to be completed and fully operational by 2028. Changi Airport Group (CAG) and SGX Mainboard-listed OUE Limited (OUE) announced the news today, with OUE awarded the tender by CAG for the lease and development of the facility, which will be […]

Changi Airport Group subsidiary, Changi Airports International (CAI), has established a joint venture to manage the non-aeronautical business at China’s Wuxi Shuofang International Airport (WUX). The new JV is with the Wuxi Sunan International Airport Group Co Ltd (Wuxi Airport Group), a company wholly-owned by Wuxi Municipal People’s Government of China. Under the terms if […]

Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV), a prominent member of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East and ACI World, is proud to announce that it is to co-host The Trinity Forum 2024. The prestigious forum will be hosted in collaboration with Imex Pan Pacific Group (IPP Group) and will convene in the bustling metropolis brimming with culture […]

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) has announced the launch of a renewable diesel pilot project at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) as part of its ambition to make it the world’s greenest airport. Hong Kong claims to be the first airport in Asia to use renewable diesel, which can reduce greenhouse gas emission by 87% […]

Airports from around New Zealand met in Auckland yesterday for the inaugural Regional Airport Summit, to discuss the role of airports in lifting regional prosperity. “New Zealand’s regional airport network is critical for economic development as well as social, emergency and medical connectivity for all parts of the country,” stated NZ Airports chief executive Billie […]

TK Elevator provided 106 boarding bridges for the new state-of-the-art Terminal A at Abu Dhabi’s newly renamed Zayed International Airport (AUH). The company also provided the terminal with Advanced Visual Docking Guidance Systems (A-VDGS) and an MAX Monitor and Control system, which features a combination of live airport visualisation with real-time information and control. Covering […]

ACI World today announced the best airports for customer experience worldwide chosen by passengers in its annual Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards. The winners include a total of 31 airports from the ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East region – 27 in Asia-Pacific and 4 from the Middle East. Among the award winning gateways are Delhi’s […]

Hag Jae Lee, CEO of Incheon International Airport Corporation, and Jost Lammers, CEO of Munich Airport, today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Munich Airport’s Airport Academy. The airport’s state that the partnership “will focus on joint initiatives to develop and implement innovative training programmes that address the changing needs and requirements of the […]

Singapore Airlines has opened a new SilverKris Lounge at Perth Airport for its business class and qualifying frequent travellers. The airline will also be returning to its pre-COVID frequency of four daily services at Perth Airport next month. The airline currently operates twenty-five flights per week on the Perth-Singapore route which will increase to a […]

The latest Airport Industry Outlook, released by ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID), presents a positive trend in the recovery of passenger traffic and airport finances. However, macroeconomic factors continue to pose challenges to the overall recovery of the sector. The Airport Industry Outlook, developed in partnership with Mott MacDonald, reveals the […]

A new solar photovoltaic (PV) system is to be installed on the rooftop areas of Singapore Changi’s terminal buildings, terminal auxiliary structures, airfield and cargo buildings. The new sustainability friendly addition will be designed, built, owned and operated by Keppel Ltd (Keppel) for 25 years when it is completed in early 2025. When up and […]

Abu Dhabi Airports has confirmed the appointment of Elena Sorlini as its managing director and CEO on a permanent basis after serving as interim boss for the last eight months. The company operates of Abu Dhabi International Airport and four other commercial gateways in the emirate. Since joining Abu Dhabi Airports, Sorlini has overseen the […]

The latest news and views from ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s World Business partners. DUBAI WORLD CENTRAL TO GET HUGE NEW ENGINEERING FACILITY ADP Ingénierie has been appointed as project consultants for Emirates’ huge new $950 million ultra-modern engineering facility at Dubai World Central–Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). Spread over one million square metres, the […]

Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) in Cambodia has provided further evidence of its green credentials by achieving Level 3 ‘Optimisation’ certification in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. The programme requires the monitoring of the airport carbon footprint and the implementation of actions to reduce the footprint over the years. To achieve its targets, PNH has […]

Editor, Joe Bates, rounds-up some of the sustainability news stories making headlines across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. TAKING AIRPORT CARBON ACCREDITATION TO NEXT LEVEL Christchurch Airport and nine European airports are the first in the world to achieve the new Level 5 status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme, with Christchurch being the only […]

We report on the launch of a new multi-billion dollar investment programme designed to transform the facilities at Brisbane Airport. Brisbane Airport is embarking on its next great transformation, with a A$5 billion plus Future BNE investment programme, which it says is designed to create a better airport experience and cater for Queensland’s growing population […]

ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s manager for communications and brand marketing, Yuman Lau, rounds-up the latest news and developments from an exciting final quarter of 2023. WARM WELCOME TO NEW BOARD MEMBERS ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID) has appointed two new members to its Board. The two additions are Carrie Hurihanganui, […]

Sydney Airport closed out 2023 with its strongest monthly passenger traffic since 2019, with a total of 3.58 million passengers passing through the terminals in December 2023. The total represented a 15.8% increase on passenger traffic in December last year and a 90.6% recovery compared to December 2019. Sydney Airport’s T1 international terminal saw 1.5 […]

Pragma Consulting’s Katie Hastings looks at some examples of retail/F&B innovation at airports across the globe. Airports have enjoyed a sudden influx of high passenger numbers since the end of the pandemic. While this is great news, it has had an impact on airport operations, and commercial space capacity has become a major challenge for […]

The inaugural Airports Innovate conference in Oman proved to be an event to remember for the 500 delegates in attendance, writes Joe Bates. As you would expect from an event dedicated to ‘innovation’, the inaugural Airports Innovate conference in Muscat, Oman, addressed a number of innovative ways airports, and the aviation industry, are tackling the […]

We provide a snapshot of some of the latest news stories from across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East in the final quarter of 2023. NEW TERMINAL FOR NAKHON SI THAMMARAT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Nakhon Si Thammarat International Airport in southern Thailand is set to open its new $60 million international terminal in December. The new eight-gate […]

The opening of Abu Dhabi International Airport’s eagerly awaited Terminal A is expected to signal the dawn of an exciting new era for the UAE gateway, writes Joe Bates. Without doubt the opening of the new state-of-the-art Terminal A at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) is a game changer for the UAE gateway, as it […]

Preliminary November 2023 traffic figures released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed solid expansion in international passenger markets, with healthy travel demand buoyed by continued recovery in tourism activity across the region. A combined total of 25.1 million international passengers flew on Asia Pacific airlines in November, representing a strong 76.9% […]

ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on a successful year and looks forward to an even better 2024. As we pull the curtains on 2023, it’s a moment of excitement to reflect on our remarkable achievements and reinforced connections with members across our region. We navigated the year with great optimism, […]

A record 45.9 million passengers passed through Hamad International Airport (DOH) last year – 31% more than in  2022 when Qatar hosted the FIFA World Cup finals. The airport also enjoyed a 22% rise in flights and a modest upturn in cargo volumes as it welcomed 252,059 aircraft movements and 2.34 million tons of freight […]

Airport profile: Abu Dhabi Special report: Brisbane Airport Upgrade Plus: Sustainability and Retail/F&B Innovation DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE VIEW FROM THE TOP ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on a successful year and looks forward to an even better 2024. INDUSTRY NEWS We provide a snapshot of some of the latest news […]

A total of 3.41 million passengers passed through Sydney Airport in November 2023, a rise of 15% on the corresponding month a year ago, and just 8.6% below pre-pandemic levels. Sydney Airport’s T1 international terminal saw 1.26 million passengers pass through in November, a 29.8% increase on the same month last year and a 93% […]

Airports Council International today officially launched Level 5 certification of its global Airport Carbon Accreditation programme at the 28th United Nations Climate Change conference (COP28). Amsterdam Schiphol, Christchurch, Göteborg Landvetter, Madeira, Malmö and Rotterdam The Hague airports are among the first 10 airports on the planet to reach the new highest certification level in the […]

Visitors arriving in Western Australia will now be met with new Noongar language welcome signs that light up to reflect the six seasons of the Noongar calendar. The six-metre-high signs are adorned with Indigenous symbols that reflect the landscape and meaning of Wadjak Boodja. Perth Airport’s chief commercial and aviation officer, Kate Holsgrove, said the […]

United Parcel Service (UPS) has reached an agreement with Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) to develop a new hub facility at Hong Kong International Airport. The airport is confident that the new facility which will further enhance HKG’s cargo capacity and reinforce its status as the world’s leading air cargo hub. Expected to complete in […]

The latest news and views from ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East’s World Business partners. PASSENGERS TURN TO TECHNOLOGY TO ENHANCE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE Travellers are looking to technology to optimise every aspect of the post-pandemic travel landscape, from addressing pain points in the airport journey and supporting air transport sustainability to streamlining intermodal travel, according to […]

Brisbane Airport’s Lost Property Auction is back with a record number of items, allowing the public to grab a bargain just before Christmas. A total of 673 lots are on offer this year, with online bidding closing progressively on Sunday, December 17, from 10am. Around 60,000 people per day pass through the Domestic and International […]

We take a closer look at the growth and development of the Plaza Premium Group, which has evolved from being a lounge operator to one of the biggest airport hospitality providers over the last 25 years. The enthusiasm and desire to grow his business still burns brightly in Plaza Premium Group (PPG) founder and CEO, […]

We take a closer look at some of the retail/F&B stories that have been making headlines across the ACI Asia-Pacific and Middle East region. STARRY GALLERIA OPENS AT CHONGQING JIANGBEI China’s Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG) has opened a new commercial street of international brands in Terminal 3A (T3A). The new ‘STARRY GALLERIA’ initiative is […]

Airports across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East continue to invest in facilities, equipment, services and green strategies in a bid to reduce their carbon footprint, writes Joe Bates. NEW SUSTAINABILITY MILESTONE FOR HYDERABAD Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport has become the latest gateway to achieve Level 4 ’Transition’ status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. […]

Sheikh Aimen Al Hosni, CEO of Oman Airports, talks to Joe Bates about the evolution and development of his country’s airport system. CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE MORE ABOUT OMAN’S AIRPORT SYSTEM? We operate four commercial airports, Muscat (MCT), Salalah (SLL), Duqm (DQM) and Suhar (OHS), and separately operate and manage a number of […]

Incheon International Airport is to ramp up its efforts to enhance its logistics operations in a bid to become the leading logistics hub in Northeast Asia, writes Joe Bates. New CEO, Hag-jae Lee, has wasted no time in outlining plans to take logistics services at Incheon International Airport (ICN) to new heights, with the ultimate […]

With IATA’s winter season now underway, OAG’s list of the Busiest International Airports for November 2023 reveals that Asia-Pacific airports are moving up, while European airports see month-on-month capacity decreases. Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the busiest international airport once again with 4,805,790 scheduled seats. London Heathrow stays in second place but the gap between […]

Manager for communications and brand marketing, Yuman Lau, rounds-up the latest news and developments for ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East. NEW RIYADH OFFICE AND REBRANDING AS ACI ASIA-PACIFIC & MIDDLE EAST What an incredible quarter it has been, marked by a significant milestone. We launched our new Middle East office in in Riyadh, the Kingdom […]

The Golden Arches of McDonald’s Australia are ready to rise for the first time at Brisbane Airport’s Domestic Terminal this summer. It’s one of 10 new food and beverage destinations opening in the coming months as part of the airport’s terminal redevelopment. Last year, 16 million passengers passed through the transport hub, which is the […]

Airline leaders gathered at the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) 67th Assembly of Presidents held in Singapore this week, welcomed the robust recovery of air travel in the Asia-Pacific region. Reflecting the collective priorities and shared resolve of Asian airline leaders, the Assembly of Presidents today passed a series of resolutions covering sustainability, aviation […]

Nakhon Si Thammarat International Airport in southern Thailand is set to open its new $40 million international terminal next month. The new eight-gate facility covers 30,000sqm and is said to boast state-of-the-art facilities that will boost the airport’s capacity to four million passengers per annum. Three airlines – Nok Air, Thai AirAsia and Thai Lion […]

Passengers can expect a number of new attractions and good distractions in the new-look northern wing of Singapore Changi’s Terminal 2. Singapore Changi Airport recommenced operations in the northern wing of Terminal 2 (T2) on September 28 after three-and-a-half years of engineering works to enhance and expand it. The upgrade has extended the life of […]

We provide a snapshot of some of the latest news stories from across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. ABU DHABI’S NEW TERMINAL TO OPEN IN NOVEMBER As Asia-Pacific and Middle East Airports magazine went to press, the final operational readiness trials were taking place in Abu Dhabi International Airport’s new state-of-the-art Terminal A ahead of […]

ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the rebranding of the region, the latest connectivity, traffic and economic trends, and looks forward to future events. The last quarter was indeed historic for us as ACI Asia-Pacific has expanded its reach and influence, officially becoming ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC […]

Sydney Airport’s popular volunteer ambassadors are now sporting a new uniform, which has been 100% Australian designed and made. Since 1999, ambassadors have been offering customer support in the terminals, with teams across T1 international as well as T2 and T3 domestic. The ambassador programme was introduced to help with the influx of visitors for […]

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) operator, Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), has signed an agreement with the Dongguan Port Group to establish a joint venture to develop HKIA Dongguan Logistics Park in Mainland China. The new facility will handle sea-air cargo transhipments being transported between Hong Kong and Dongguan. When completed, cargo security screening, palletisation […]

ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East today announced the findings of its market research on airport concession business models and non-aeronautical revenues on the opening day of the The Trinity Forum 2023 in Hong Kong. Based on survey feedback from airport operators across the region, the research reveals that airports are giving “noteworthy consideration” to new […]

Airport profile: Oman’s airport system Special Report: Singapore Changi’s Terminal 2 Plus: New era for ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE VIEW FROM THE TOP ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the rebranding of the region, the latest connectivity, traffic and economic trends, and looks forward to future […]

BVLGARI, the Roman jeweller and master of coloured gems, is celebrating the opening of the boutique in Changi T2, in partnership with Valiram. As you would expect, the store front has an elegant grand antique black marble portal which features the brands Roman lettered iconic logo, and the show windows are set in a decorative […]

A total of 3.37 million passengers passed through Sydney Airport in September 2023, representing a 92.3% recovery compared to pre-pandemic September 2019 and the strongest post-COVID traffic recovery rate to date. Sydney Airport’s T1 international terminal saw 1.27 million passengers pass through in September, a 93.1% recovery compared to September 2019. Domestic passenger traffic was […]

Companies around the world are adopting various sustainable ways to reduce carbon footprint within their business eco-system, writes Pradeep Panicker, CEO of GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL). Being mindful of safeguarding the environment, encouraging the workforce to adopt simple sustainable practices, and aiming for a net zero journey will be a game changer. We […]

Heinemann Australia has relaunched its Heinemann & Me Loyalty Programme in its Sydney Airport international and forthcoming domestic airport stores, The initiative enables personalised customer experiences and offers experience that rewards customers for their loyalty and repeat business. It notes that passengers now have access to over 500 luxury and premium brands covering everything from […]

ACI Asia-Pacific, a trade association representing 623 airports from 47 countries/territories, has been rebranded as ACI Asia-Pacific and Middle East (ACI APAC & MID) following the launch of its new office in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This shift aims to reflect the regions the association serves and cater to the growing Middle Eastern and […]

SSP Group is to open seven new Point stores at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport, offering passengers a range of food options en route to their departure gates. Six of the new stores are compact units, while a larger unit will also serve as a kitchen to serve the other outlets. All will be located across various […]

Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport is reporting that it handled a record number of mangoes this year. Indeed, it is says that it has set a new benchmark after “a remarkable surge in mango exports” this mango season led to it handling 6,84,648 kilos of the fruit – a 124% rise on last year. Furthermore, this […]

Abu Dhabi International Airport’s long awaited new state-of-the-art terminal will officially open for business in early November. Known as the Midfield Terminal Building during the construction phase but now known as Terminal A, its opening will mark a significant milestone for the emirate as it has the potential to transform the local aviation ecosystem. Operator, […]

Christchurch Airport’s new approach to minimising waste, and its work mentoring other airports to become more sustainable, has netted two international awards from ACI Asia-Pacific. The airport has won ‘Green Airports Recognition 2023’ and the ‘Airport Carbon Accreditation – Mentor’ awards from the association. The airport’s created a new waste sortation room where a team […]

Newcastle Airport is celebrating another major milestone with the planning approval for development applications of the first two building projects on Astra Aerolab. Two multi-tenanted buildings, a hybrid office/industrial office and a central hub office, designed to accommodate SMEs, startups and education and training facilities will be constructed with works likely commencing in early 2024. […]

The latest news and views from ACI Asia-Pacific’s World Business partners. ENHANCING THE PASSENGER EXPERIENCE AT BLR’S TERMINAL 2 The new Terminal 2 at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) continues to impress visitors with its state-of-the-art technology and unique garden aesthetic, designed to reflect Bengaluru’s status as India’s ‘Garden City’. Based on the success of […]

Passenger numbers continue to grow at Hong Kong International Airport, rising by 14.9% in July on the same month a year ago as a total of 3.8 million travellers passed through the gateway. According to operator, Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), the daily passenger average in July exceeded 120,000, recovering to 60% of the pre-pandemic […]

Changi Airports International (CAI) has signed two agreements with Cairo Airport Company to jointly develop Cairo International Airport, one of the busiest airports in Africa and the largest airport in Egypt by passenger and cargo traffic. The first consultancy agreement is passenger focused and seeks to implement impactful solutions to improve passenger experience at Cairo […]

SNC-Lavalin and Engineering Net Zero director, Isabelle Smith, shares insight on the challenges ahead and explains why data-driven decisions will be fundamental in achieving the industry’s green ambitions. The long, steady journey to reduce carbon emissions is becoming urgent. Against the unrelenting pressure of a changing, unpredictable climate, the task is enormous. Aviation accounts for […]

Aerotropolis concept creator, Dr John Kasarda, explains why certain hubs prosper and describes what it takes to become a world-class air logistics hub. A frequent question asked by executives of larger commercial airports and their surrounding jurisdictions is, what can we do to become a major air logistics hub? They ask this question because air […]

Changi Airport Group’s Claudia Wong explains how Singapore’s gateway to the world keeps its airside staff cool during the hot summer months. Singapore Changi is one of the world’s busiest international airports and its status ensures that it is home to many staff, including 30,000 airside workers engaged in multiple roles such as ramp assistants, […]

Manager for communications and brand marketing, Yuman Lau, rounds-up the latest news and developments from ACI Asia-Pacific. HUMAN RESOURCE CHALLENGES AND CYBERSECURITY ON AGENDA OF AVIATION SECURITY COMMITTEE Airport security experts extensively deliberated on the human resources challenges and cybersecurity threats at the 30th ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Aviation Security Committee (RASC) meeting held recently in […]

We provide a snapshot of some of the latest news stories from across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. FEVER PITCH AT AUCKLAND AIRPORT Auckland Airport has unveiled its new-look International Arrivals area with a grandstand and mock football field to welcome visitors ahead of the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 tournament. Chief customer officer, […]

Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the negative impact of soaring airfares and a busy second quarter of the year that included the 18th ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in Kobe. Soaring airfares across the globe grabbed many headlines in the second quarter of 2023 and, sadly, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East were […]

The 18th ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in Kobe, Japan, marked a strong return for ACI Asia-Pacific’s annual event, writes Sunil Subbaiah and Yuman Lau. The 18th ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition provided the perfect opportunity for us to reconnect with our members and industry colleagues, and it didn’t disappoint. Indeed, […]

New Incheon International Airport CEO, Hak-jae Lee, has outlined the gateway’s new focus on creating smart logistics clusters and further enhancing its global route network. Indeed, the airport states that his leadership “promises to infuse fresh vitality into the airport’s logistics operations” that will fulfil the vision of establishing Incheon as a global logistics hub. […]

Airport profile: Sydney Special Report: Creating a Top Logistics Hub Plus: Keeping Cool at Changi and Destination Net Zero DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE VIEW FROM THE TOP Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the negative impact of soaring airfares and a busy second quarter of the year that included the 18th ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly, Conference […]

Sydney Airport is looking to the future with optimism with the sustainable operation and development of its facilities high on the agenda, writes Joe Bates. The sustainable operation and development of its facilities is so important to Sydney Airport (SYD) that it is front and centre into the master plan that will shape its growth […]

Qatar Aviation Services Cargo has achieved a milestone certification, certifying the cargo facility at Hamad International Airport as a Smart Facility. QAS Cargo is the first cargo ground handing agent in the Middle East and Africa region to attain the Smart Facility Operational Capacity Certification (SFOC). This achievement complements the recent IATA Centre of Excellence […]

SITA has been awarded a landmark deal by the Airports Authority of India to provide technology to 43 of India’s biggest airports. India’s Civil Aviation is among the fastest-growing aviation markets globally and will be a major growth engine to make India a $5 trillion economy by 2024. The deal will see improvements over 2,700 […]

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), Hong Kong’s gateway to the world, celebrated its 25th anniversary today. The Chek Lap Kok gateway, which replaced the former downtown airport of Kai Tak Airport on July 6, 1998, marked the occasion with a series of music and dance performances in the terminal and the give away of commemorative […]

Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, made a flying visit to Newcastle Airport today for the official ground-breaking ceremony for the Terminal Expansion Project. The event marks the beginning of construction for the project, which is designed to enhance the airport’s capacity, efficiency, and overall user experience. Newcastle Airport CEO, Dr Peter Cock, says the transformative […]

Auckland Airport has unveiled its new-look International Arrivals area with a grandstand and mock football field to welcome players and fans, ahead of the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 tournament. The airport’s chief customer officer, Scott Tasker, said they wanted to give players and fans a warm Kiwi welcome to the host city and […]

Preliminary May 2023 traffic figures released by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed that international passenger markets continue to grow strongly amidst the restoration of flights in the region. The region’s carriers registered a 193.2% year-on-year increase in the number of international passengers carried to 21.4 million in May. As a percentage of […]

Brisbane Airport’s Gert-Jan de Graaff has been appointed to the Federal Government’s Australian Jet Zero Council to help ensure a sustainable aviation sector. De Graff, CEO of operator Brisbane Airport Corporation, will represent airports across the county on the inaugural council. Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister, Catherine King, made the announcement in […]

Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) welcomed 3,501,681 passengers during the first five months of 2023 – a 38% rise on the corresponding period a year ago. The Amman gateway also handled 30,078 aircraft movements (+18.7%) and 25,021 tons of cargo (+6.6%) between January and the end of May. Jordan’s gateway to the world enjoyed a […]

Hong Kong International Airport’s Sky Bridge has its own cocktail bar after today’s opening of ‘Intervals’ by the Plaza Premium Group. PPG boldly promises that the first-of-its-kind concept will offer “an unparalleled world-class cocktail and dining experience”. Indeed, it describes as Intervals as being a destination in its own right, offering “a creative concept that […]

Airport charges have remained steady since the pandemic, while airfares have soared above pre-pandemic levels as major airlines reap record profits hampering the aviation industry recovery, reveals ACI Asia-Pacific’s study on airfare trends in the region. The comprehensive study, undertaken in collaboration with Flare Aviation Consulting, examined around 36,000 routes in the top 10 aviation […]

Hamad International Airport (DOH) is celebrating the UN’s World Environment Day by backing its goal to Beat Plastic Pollution. Today’s event focuses on encouraging people and businesses around the world to review their plastic consumption and introduce a shift towards a circular economy. The Qatari gateway notes that part of Hamad International Airport’s environment sustainability […]

Traveller numbers are on the rise at Hong Kong International Airport, with 3.1 million passengers passing through the gateway in April. The total represents a massive upturn on the 126,000 that passed through its facilities in the travel restricted same month a year ago. Compared to the same month last year, flight movements more than […]

ACI Asia-Pacific today announced the results of its Green Airports Recognition (GAR) Programme 2023, recognising 12 airports in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East for demonstrating outstanding accomplishments in their sustainability projects. During the past decades, our industry has grown exponentially and is expected to continue to do so in the years to come. As air […]

Noida International Airport (NIA) has signed an agreement with Amadeus for the provision of a “world-class” passenger processing system (PPS) including common use check-in, boarding, baggage reconciliation, and DigiYatra-enabled biometric capabilities. Under the agreement, Amadeus will design, supply, commission, operate, and maintain the cloud-hosted end-to-end PPS for Noida International Airport. In line with the terms […]

A host of new carbon reducing initiatives, renewable energy plans and more show that sustainable development continues to be a top priority for the region’s airports, writes Joe Bates. Shanghai airports rewarded for green, energy saving efforts Shanghai’s Pudong and Hongqiao airports have received the top rating in China’s first carbon evaluation of airports. Eight […]

The latest news and views from ACI Asia-Pacific’s World Business partners. Navi Mumbai to utilise ADB Safegate’s cutting edge airfield lighting technology ADB SAFEGATE is to install its Airfield 4.0 lighting technology at Mumbai’s Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA). The cutting-edge airfield lighting solution readies the greenfield airfield for Level 4 Advanced Surface Guidance and […]

Virtual queuing is coming to an airport near you soon and could represent the future of waiting at airports, writes Steve Covate. With the notable exception of the COVID caused disruptions, it could be argued that airports – and the airlines and businesses that operate within them – have made giant strides in reducing wait […]

Sunny Yoon, executive director of Incheon International Airport Corporation’s Terminal Operation Group, talks to ACI Asia-Pacific’s Sunil Subbaiah about the South Korean hub’s commitment to delivering a world-class passenger experience. An increasingly competitive market has pushed airports to provide a superior customer experience. As passenger needs rapidly evolve, airports must know their customers’ expectations to […]

Manager for communications and brand marketing, Yuman Lau, rounds-up the latest news and developments from ACI Asia-Pacific. ACI ASIA-PACIFIC REITERATES CALL FOR ADOPTION OF ONE-STOP SECURITY ACI Asia-Pacific participated at the 9th Annual Technical and Operational Meeting (ATOM) of the Cooperative Aviation Security Programme – Asia Pacific (CASP-AP) in Singapore in early February 2023. The […]

ICF’s Lewis Burroughs and Rob Rushmer look to the future and consider how the transition to electric and autonomous vehicles could impact on existing drop off and car parking infrastructure at airports. Ever since an airport was first invented in the early 20th century, most people – passengers and employees – have accessed it by […]

Perth Airport is looking to partner with a world-class operator for its first hotel development. “A hotel located in the Airport Central precinct has been part of our Master Planning for many years”, reveals Dan Sweet, the Australian gateway’s chief property officer. “We are working towards consolidating all commercial air services to the Airport Central […]

Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the latest traffic trends, the association’s ongoing advocacy efforts and looks forward to the upcoming ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in Kobe. It might sound dramatic, but I strongly believe that this year heralds a new dawn for the aviation and tourism industry. After having remained shut […]

The A$110 million expansion of Newcastle Airport’s terminal will include significant upgrades to the airport’s existing terminal building as the gateway strives to provide a world-class passenger experience for the region. The airport today appointed Construction Control as the managing contractor for the project. “The biggest beneficiaries of the airport’s upgrade will be the people […]

Asia-Pacific Airports takes a closer look at a few of the customer experience news stories to have made headlines this year. Established customer service champion, Singapore Changi, has added another innovative attraction to its bow with the opening of a new rock-climbing wall in Terminal 3. Located in the Terminal 3 Basement and managed by […]

We provide a snapshot of some of the latest news stories from across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. Hyderabad and Queen Alia celebrate birthday milestones Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport and Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport recently celebrated milestone events, the Indian gateway turning 15 years old and the Jordanian gateway toasting the 10th anniversary […]

Nicolas Notebaert, CEO of VINCI Concessions and president of VINCI Airports, tells Joe Bates more about Kobe Airport and plans to develop and grow traffic to the Kansai region. Can you tell our readers a little more about your Japanese airport network? In Osaka, we operate Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Osaka Itami Airport (ITM), […]

ACI Asia-Pacific and ACI EUROPE have jointly called on India and the European Union (EU) to establish a comprehensive aviation agreement to liberalise traffic rights and boost regulatory alignment, including the acceleration of decarbonisation policies between the two regions. The call was made during this week’s EU-India Aviation Summit organised jointly by the European Commission […]

China’s re-opening to international travel is likely to be more of a slow burner than a game changer for the aviation industry, writes OAG’s chief analyst, John Grant. The news of China re-opening to all international travel from January 8, 2023, came as a surprise to most forecasters. Indeed, considering how much China’s capacity has […]

Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has announced the opening of a new lounge in international departures at Adelaide Airport (ADL). The airport’s first and only international lounge, it spans 532sqm and can accommodate up to 137 guests. According to PPG, its bespoke design “incorporates beautiful features of natural stone, marble, granite and travertine, timber, a raked render […]

A total of 29 airports across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East have been recognised for their customer service excellence in ACI’s annual Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards for 2022. Airports big and small across the world have been recognised for their customer service excellence throughout 2022 in ACI’s annual Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards. Winners […]

The latest 2022 Airport IT Insights Survey reveals that airports are ramping up their investment in technology to digitalise their operations and streamline the passenger journey through more self-service options. The report – produced annually by ACI World and SITA – notes that with the quicker than expected recovery of air travel demand, chief information […]

Airport profile: Kobe Special Report: Sustainability Plus: Surface access, China’s re-opening & Virtual queuing DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE VIEW FROM THE TOP Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the latest traffic trends, the association’s ongoing advocacy efforts and looks forward to the upcoming ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in Kobe. INDUSTRY NEWS We provide […]

In a major milestone for Sydney Airport, the Australian hub welcomed its 50th airline with the arrival of Vietjet’s inaugural service from Ho Chi Minh City. This is the highest number of airlines flying regular scheduled passenger services the airport has ever seen in its 103-year history. Flight VJ85 touched down in Sydney this morning […]

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) held on to its lofty position as the busiest cargo airport on the planet in 2022, handling a total of 4.2 million tonnes of cargo during the year, according to ACI World’s annual traffic figures. Operator, Airport Authority Hong Kong, notes that it retained the top position in 2022 despite […]

Brisbane Airport is set to undertake the largest industrial project in its history for global logistics and delivery company Aramex Australia. Operator, Brisbane Airport Company (BAC), will kickstart the development of Airport Industrial Park with the construction of international courier business Aramex’s new 26,120sqm office and warehouse – equivalent in area to more than three-and-a-half […]

Dubai Airports CEO, Paul Griffiths, says that Dubai International Airport (DXB) will continue to strive for excellence after the gateway’s status as the world’s busiest international airport in 2022 was confirmed by new ACI World data. He notes: “We are obviously quite thrilled to top the list of the world’s busiest international airports for the […]

Incheon International Airport (ICN) today celebrates its 22nd anniversary, just a few weeks after handling its 100 millionth transfer passenger. The number of transfer passengers at Incheon Airport has steadily increased since recording 1.63 million passengers at the time of its opening in 2001, reaching 7.23 million passengers in 2019. In 2021, which was hit […]

Preliminary February 2023 traffic figures released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed that international passenger markets continued to expand at a robust pace, buoyed by the strong appetite for travel, in tandem with the Lunar New Year holiday season. Overall, 16.9 million international passengers were carried by Asia Pacific airlines in […]

Auckland Airport has commenced its biggest redevelopment since the airport opened in 1966 with a brand-new domestic terminal to be fully integrated into the international terminal. “This is a major investment for Auckland Airport, one which we have been working towards for many years,” noted the New Zealand gateway’s chairman, Patrick Strange. “The domestic terminal […]

VPorts has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Airport to build and operate a first vertiport in RAK designed to establish the UAE as a world-class global AAM hub. ‘‘With the support of the Department of Civil Aviation of Ras Al Khaimah, we are excited to build […]

Between them, 64 airports from Asia-Pacific and the Middle East have reduced their carbon emissions by 162,623 tonnes (Scope 1 & 2), according to ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation Annual Report for 2021-2022. This is equivalent to the CO2 emitted during the production of close to 24 million cotton t-shirts. ACI Asia-Pacific’s director general, Stefano Baronci, […]

Brisbane Airport (BNE) has become the first Australian airport to receive Level 4 ‘Transformation’ status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. The new status recognises Brisbane Airport’s long-term carbon management strategy towards absolute emissions reductions and evidence of forging meaningful partnerships to reduce the emissions of airport partners. “Given Australia’s reliance on air travel to connect […]

ACI World, in partnership with travel technology company Amadeus, today announced the winners of this year’s Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards, recognising the best airports for customer experience worldwide, as selected by passengers. A total of 28 Airports from Asia-Pacific and the Middle East were recognised for 2022. Nine Indonesian Airports were recognised for ASQ […]

Brisbane Airport is literally brewing up employment opportunities for people with a disability at its new Boronia Brew café. Indeed, to date, 10 staff with a disability have found employment at Boronia Brew, which officially opened a few days ago. Operated by HELP Enterprises, the social enterprise is providing training for supported workers, with hopes […]

HKIA Consultancy Limited (HKIA Consultancy) and U-Tapao International Aviation Company Limited (UTA) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding collaboration on the U-Tapao International Airport and Eastern Airport City Development Project near Bangkok. Under the MoU’s framework, HKIA Consultancy will advise UTA on matters related to airport planning, operations, smart technology and commercial development. […]

Hamad International Airport (DOH) has demonstrated its green credentials by successfully renewing its Level 3 ‘Optimisation’ status in ACI Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. The Qatar gateway says that the successful recertification is a reassurance that its carbon management processes and activities have effectively reduced CO2 emissions. During the recertification process, operator, MATAR, was audited by […]

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) today signed a Cooperation Framework Agreement (CFA) with Dongguan Municipal People’s Government to deepen collaboration in facilitating intermodal cargo transhipments for the Greater Bay Area (GBA). The CFA was signed by Lyu Chengxi, Mayor of Dongguan, and Fred Lam, CEO of AAHK, with witnesses that included AAHK chairman, Jack So. […]

Newcastle Airport in Australia will welcome more direct flights to Cairns this year after Jetstar announced its decision to up its frequency on the route. Airport CEO, Dr Peter Cock, welcomed the announcement, saying it’s more good news for the region. “We are thrilled to once again partner with Jetstar and Cairns Airport for a […]

A total of 15.9 million passengers used Abu Dhabi’s five airports in 2022 – more than tripling the 5.26 million handled in 2021. The bulk of the total passed through Abu Dhabi International Airport with the remainder using either Al Ain International, Al Bateen Executive, Delma Island or Sir Bani Yas Island airports. His Excellency, […]

Hong Kong is to give away 500,000 airline tickets in a hugely ambitious promotional campaign to boost tourism numbers and attract visitors back to the region. As part of the government driven initiative it is also offering a host of ‘Hong Kong Goodies’ in the form of discount vouchers on food, drink, transport, hotels, shopping […]

Sime Darby Motors Australia is moving into the newest 9,450sqm warehouse and distribution facility at Brisbane Airport’s thriving Export Park. Martin Ryan, Brisbane Airport Corporation’s executive general manager for commercial, noted: “Our attraction of this global business demonstrates our unrivalled offering for industrial companies, with unparalleled transport connections and access to 24/7 operations. “With Brisbane […]

Airport International Group (AIG), operator of Jordan’s Queen Alia International Airport, reports that the Amman gateway “recorded noteworthy achievements in terms of traffic growth, global connectivity, decarbonisation and customer experience” during 2022. While its traffic figures have yet to reach pre-COVID levels, Queen Alia noted improvements last year – welcoming 7.8 million passengers – 72% […]

In an expansion of capacity between Europe and Brisbane, Emirates has announced that it will move to double-daily flights between Dubai (DXB) and BNE, increasing the number of tourists flying into Queensland. It currently operates a daily A380 service to Brisbane. From June, this will be joined by an additional daily B777-300ER with 354 seats. […]

The latest news and views from ACI Asia-Pacific’s World Business partners. RECORD BREAKING CONTRACT FOR ADB SAFEGATE AUSTRALIA ADB SAFEGATE Australia has won the largest airfield lighting contract in its history and as a result is set to deliver its latest Airfield 4.0 technology to Western Sydney International Airport (WSI). The greenfield airport, which is […]

Ever Rich Duty Free has partnered with William Grant and Tasa Meng on a Glenfiddich Perpetual Collection promotion at Taipei’s Taoyuan International Airport. To support the launch, the brand’s ground-breaking immersive Perpetual Collection pop-up concept has been installed in Terminal 2 and will be onsite until February 28. “This collection is Glenfiddich’s biggest launch in […]

David Whitely from FTI Consulting explains why environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues should be a top priority for the region’s airports and aviation leaders. As we see a greater focus on the role of business in confronting broader societal issues, there is now a stronger imperative for airports to develop and adopt a more […]

John Brash, founder of global branding agency, Brash, explains why he believes that the rebranding of Abu Dhabi Airports is an ode to the future of aviation. It’s no secret that the aviation sector has been beset by challenges since the outbreak of the global pandemic. However, as with any challenge, comes great opportunity. This […]

We shine the spotlight on a handful of exciting ongoing or recently announced development projects across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. NEW RIYADH MEGA HUB AND AEROTROPOLIS Saudi Arabia has unveiled plans for a new mega hub for Riyadh which will be called King Salman International Airport. According to the master plan, King Salman International […]

Welcoming China’s decision to re-open border with quarantine-free travel, ACI Asia-Pacific reiterated its calls for consistent and harmonised approach from governments in response measures towards managing inbound travel. Commenting on the development, ACI Asia-Pacific’s director general, Stefano Baronci, said: “China has played a dominating role in the region’s economy and is anticipated to be one […]

From sharing industry insights at regional events to making significant decisions at its Board Meeting, ACI Asia-Pacific has had a successful quarter. ACI ASIA-PACIFIC APPOINTS THREE NEW MEMBERS TO REGIONAL BOARD ACI Asia-Pacific is pleased to announce that it appointed three new Board members during the recent 34th Board Meeting in Muscat, hosted by Oman […]

Tan Lye Teck, Changi Airport Group’s executive vice president for airport management, brings Joe Bates up to speed on how his gateway has fared in 2022 and explains why Singapore Changi is looking to the future with optimism. AS WE NEAR THE END OF 2022, WHERE WOULD YOU SAY SINGAPORE CHANGI IS IN TERMS OF […]

BRISBANE AIRPORT CONSIDERS BUILDING A NEW TERMINAL 3 Brisbane Airport is consulting with its airline partners about the possibility of a future Terminal 3 as it looks at the best way of handling a projected 50 million passengers annually through its terminals by 2040. “We are running out of terminal capacity and we’re looking at […]

ACI Asia-Pacific director regional, Stefano Baronci, reflects on a busy and successful end to 2022. A decade of negotiations has finally concluded with ICAO member states committing to support net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 as the long-term aspirational goal (LTAG). This is a landmark decision to make our industry more sustainable, and the commitment from […]

Airport profile: Singapore Changi Big plans: Airport projects in Saudi Arabia Plus: Abu Dhabi Airports’ new brand, ESG & WBP news DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE VIEW FROM THE TOP ACI Asia-Pacific director regional, Stefano Baronci, reflects on a busy and successful end to 2022. INDUSTRY NEWS We provide a snapshot of some of the latest news […]

Christchurch Airport  has announced that Justin Watson will succeed the departing Malcolm Johns as its chief executive on January 1, 2023. Watson, currently the airport’s chief aeronautical and commercial officer, was considered the best fit for the role after what the gateway called “months of extensive search” for a new leader. Indeed, director and chair […]

Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) has entered into an historic six-year agreement to secure power that is linked to renewable energy from Queensland’s Clarke Creek Wind Farm & Blue Grass Solar projects as part of its commitment to be net zero for scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2025. BAC is the first customer to sign […]

Sydney Airport’s new luxury precinct is now home to Louis Vuitton’s first retail travel store in the southern hemisphere, as well as Gentle Monster’s first store in the region. The brand’s largest stand-alone travel retail store in the world offers a broad selection of premium women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, shoes, leather goods, accessories, watches, jewellery […]

Port Hedland International Airport, based in a remote area of Western Australia and in the midst of a terminal redevelopment programme, has become one of the first regional airports in the Antipodes to embrace the cloud for common-use check-in and boarding systems. The airport expects that turning to the cloud will give it an edge […]

Fortnum & Mason, an upmarket department store from the UK, has partnered with Lagardère Travel Retail to open its first travel retail location in Asia in the East Hall luxury zone at Hong Kong International Airport. The 46 square metre store offers a wide assortment of the brand’s most in-demand teas, biscuit, chocolates, tea accessories, […]

Hamad International Airport (HIA) continues to host a number of exciting activations and events for passengers travelling through the airport and beyond during the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The events at Doha’s gateway to the world include match day themed performances, a mosaic photo wall, a number of kids’ zones, fan zones and viewing […]

Saudi Arabia today unveiled plans for a new mega hub for Riyadh which will be called King Salman International Airport. According to the master plan, King Salman International Airport will boost Riyadh’s position as a global logistics hub and stimulate transport, trade and tourism. It is expected to accommodate up to 185 million passengers and […]

Abu Dhabi Airports today released its passenger traffic results for the third quarter of 2022, which show that 4.7 million passengers passed through its gateways during the period from July 1 to September 30. The total, handled across Abu Dhabi International Airport and the smaller gateways of Al Ain International, Al Bateen Executive, Delma Island […]

In spite of the global macroeconomic headwinds and geopolitical instability, the aviation industry has maintained its consistent recovery providing a positive outlook for the year ahead, according to the ACI Asia-Pacific’s Airport Industry Outlook, a quarterly assessment of the airports’ performances. The Airport Industry Outlook for Quarter 3 2022 (July to September), developed in partnership […]

In collaboration with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai (GDRFA), Emirates airline is now offering international travellers the opportunity to speed up their airport experience by consenting to the use of biometric data. The first agreement of its kind globally, the strategic partnership between GDRFA and Emirates is a co-operative effort […]

Despite being less than a decade old, Hamad International Airport today officially unveiled its airport expansion project to the world. The Qatari gateway believes the expansion, which includes what it calls a “masterpiece garden at the centre of the airport”, will enrich the passenger experience and transform the airport into an “extraordinary destination where any […]

The 2022 Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS) is underway at the Sakhir Air Base after being officially opened by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and Prime Minister. Celebrating a decade of distinction, Bahrain’s sixth air show is said to be offering an exciting programme of new features, industry-leading […]

Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind Saudi Arabia’s new Red Sea International Airport and AMAALA resort, has appointed Reem Emirates Saudi to construct the façade and roof shell of the new gateway and its landside facilities. The airport will be operated by daa International, the international subsidiary of Irish airport operator, daa, which recently […]

Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR) today announced that it is back at pre-COVID passenger levels owing to the high traffic numbers recorded in its current financial year. Displaying the ongoing momentum of passenger recovery, passenger traffic volumes at BLR registered over 102% growth in domestic travel and about 85% growth in international travel in […]

The latest news from ACI’s Asia-Pacific and global World Business Partners. HIGH FASHION AT SYDNEY AIRPORT Sydney Airport is reinvigorating the luxury retail precinct in its T1 International terminal with the arrival of some of the most sought-after brands showcased in a new-look 2,700sqm streetscape. Joining Sydney Airport for the first time are Balenciaga, Bottega […]

Etihad Cargo in partnership with Abu Dhabi Airports is preparing to launch a new state-of-the-art pharmaceutical cool chain facility at Abu Dhabi International Airport. Etihad Cargo’s customers will benefit from the carrier’s expanded International Air Transport Association (IATA) Center of Excellence for Independent Validators (CEIV) Pharma certification for pharmaceutical and life science logistics and provision […]

Hong Kong International Airport’s impressive Sky Bridge opened today, allowing passengers to conveniently travel between Terminal 1 and its Satellite Concourse (T1S). The latest addition to the airport’s infrastructure is 200-metres long and 28-metres high and equipped with escalators and automated walkways. Spanning a taxiway at the airport, Sky Bridge is the world’s longest airside […]

Asia-Pacific Airports takes a closer look at a handful of key infrastructure development projects making headlines across the region. Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport’s new Terminal 3B Construction of Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport’s $3.5 billion Terminal 3B and fourth runway are said to be going well, with the new terminal seemingly on target to be completed […]

Kansai International Airport, operated since 2016 by VINCI Airports with its partner ORIX, has inaugurated a new domestic area in Terminal 1. According to the airport, the first completed stage of planned remodelling work is designed to improve the passenger experience due to the “introduction of more functional commercial spaces redesigned around new shops and […]

Abu Dhabi Airports today unveiled its refreshed brand architecture and visual identity, which the operator of Abu Dhabi’s five airports believes reaffirms its commitment to developing the aviation sector in the UAE’s capital. According to Abu Dhabi Airports, the “refreshed brand architecture, unifying the visual identity of Abu Dhabi Airports and its subsidiaries, draws inspiration […]

Christchurch Airport has become the latest gateway to embrace the Sunflower Lanyard scheme, a programme for people who would like a little more assistance without having to ask for it. The lanyards are used by people with a non-visible disability to indicate the wearer would like additional support, assistance or a little more time. Those […]

MXD Development Strategists’ Chris LeTourneur outlines what we can expect from Jeddah Airport City and explains why he believes it represents the potential future of airport centric development. Jeddah Airport City at King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA) is arguably taking airport-centric development to a new level, enhancing the western gateway to the Kingdom of Saudi […]

Airport International Group’s Rula Dawood charts Queen Alia International Airport’s pioneering decarbonisation journey in ACI’s Airport CarbonAccreditation programme. A few years after being awarded the 25-year concession to manage the rehabilitation, expansion and operation of Queen Alia International Airport in Jordan, Airport International Group (AIG) commenced the airport’s decarbonisation journey. From the outset it was […]

From making recommendations at the ICAO DGCA Conference and meeting regulators in India to engaging with the Japanese government, ACI Asia-Pacific has been busy engaging with stakeholders and policymakers across the region. MAKING AN IMPRESSION AT ICAO DGCA CONFERENCE Participating at the ICAO DGCA Conference in Incheon, Republic of Korea, ACI Asia-Pacific made a strong […]

Christchurch Airport in New Zealand and Hamburg Airport in Germany, two airports on the opposite sides of the earth, have announced that that they will pursue their ambitious climate goals together in the future. The airports have liaised with each other for some time as each has taken a pioneering role in aviation’s decarbonisation journey […]

Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on some of the operational, financial and manpower challenges facing the region’s airports and provides an overview on ACI Asia-Pacific’s latest advocacy efforts. A sense of normalcy seems to have been restored to the aviation sector in the last few months following the withdrawal of health measures and inbound travel […]

Brisbane Airport’s Lost Property Auction is back with a record number of valuable items, allowing the public to grab a bargain as well as own some unique pieces of aviation history. 500 lots are up for sale, with online bidding closing on Sunday, November 6. Around 60,000 people per day pass through the Domestic and […]

VINCI AIRPORTS AWARDED CONCESSION FOR FAA’A AIRPORT VINCI Airports will operate Faa’a International Airport in Tahiti for the next 40 years after being awarded the concession to develop it by the French government. The main airport and gateway to French Polynesia, Faa’a International Airport – also known as Tahiti International Airport – welcomed 1.5 million […]

The Middle East, sustainability and traffic recovery are among the main focuses of ACI Asia-Pacific’s new president, Emmanuel Menanteau, writes Sunil Subbaiah. Newly appointed ACI Asia-Pacific president, Emmanuel Menanteau, is a well known face in the region, having gained substantial experience working across Asia over the last two decades. Indeed, his assignments to date have […]

The relaxation of travel restrictions and successful COVID vaccination programmes in many parts of Asia-Pacific and the Middle East has led to a cautious sense of optimism for the aviation sector. It feels like the post pandemic recovery of airports in Asia-Pacific and Middle East is finally beginning to gather some pace, with passenger traffic, […]

ACI World has published its tenth quarterly assessment analysing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, its effects on airports, and the path to recovery. More than two years since the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the COVID-19 outbreak a global pandemic, a certain “normality” has started to emerge thanks to a historic vaccination effort which […]

ACI Asia-Pacific has welcomed the commitment by ICAO States to adopt a Long Term Aspirational Goal for civil aviation to reach net zero emission by 2050. Director general, Stefano Baronci, said: “As a voice of 127 airport members, operating 618 airports across 46 countries, ACI Asia-Pacific welcomes governments’ support to adopt the 2050 Net-Zero Carbon goal […]

Interviewed: ACI Asia-Pacific president, Emmanuel Menanteau Special report: Queen Alia’s sustainability journey Plus: ACI Asia-Pacific, Regional and WBP news DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE VIEW FROM THE TOP Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on some of the operational, financial and manpower challenges facing the region’s airports and provides an overview on ACI Asia-Pacific’s latest advocacy efforts. INDUSTRY […]

Preliminary August 2022 traffic figures released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed robust recovery in international air passenger markets as pent-up travel demand continued to drive growth, despite increasingly challenging global economic conditions. In August, the region’s airlines carried a combined 13.1 million international passengers, compared to just 1.4 million recorded […]

On the eve of ICAO’s 41st Triennial Assembly, Airports Council International (ACI) is calling on States to adopt an ambitious environmental agreement. ACI World director general, Luis Felipe de Oliveira, said: “The adoption of an ambitious environmental agreement at the ICAO 41st Triennial Assembly fully aligned with the Paris Agreement and the aviation industry’s own […]

China’s tougher border measures and Japan’s cautious approach towards relaxation of inbound travel restrictions could displace Asia-Pacific as the world’s largest air passenger market for the year 2022. Asia-Pacific which has dominated the civil aviation market for several years prior to the pandemic, is estimated to finish second, behind Europe in terms of passenger share, […]

Australian national flag carrier, Qantas, today launched a new route to Bengaluru (BLR) from Sydney (SYD), providing the first direct air connection between Southern India and Australia. QF68 will cut nearly three hours off of the current fastest travel time between the two cities and significantly boost connectivity between India and New South Wales. Since […]

More than one million people will pass through Brisbane Airport in the two weeks of the upcoming school holidays, as travellers make the most of the spring break. The peak times in the Domestic Terminal (6am-9am and 5pm-7pm) will be at 100% of pre-COVID levels during the holiday period, with around 57,000 people passing through […]

New Zealand’s Christchurch Airport has announced that its chief executive, Malcolm Johns, is to leave in 2023 after after nine years at the helm. Board chair, Catherine Drayton, said: “The Board and executive have worked closely to build a strong team and company over the past decade, as the airport has navigated a number of […]

Doha’s Hamad International Airport has opened a second airport hotel inside its terminal. The airport says that the Oryx Garden Hotel, which is located in the North Plaza, is “one of many new experiences” that are part of an airport expansion project due for completion ahead of Qatar hosting the FIFA World Cup later this […]

TGI Fridays has launched its first airport branch in the Middle East at Bahrain International Airport (BIA). Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) CEO, Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah, attended the opening ceremony alongside other officials. Offering an open kitchen concept and contemporary décor, the restaurant can accommodate 118 guests at any one time. Alongside a wide selection […]

H.E. Jamal Salem Al Dhaheri is the new managing director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, his brief being to “continue the journey of success” achieved by predecessor, Shareef Hashim Al Hashmi. According to Abu Dhabi Airports, the appointment is in line with the next phase of its development as it continues to transform and […]

Australia’s Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, Catherine King, has launched Australia’s first all-electric refuelling vehicle during her first official visit to Brisbane Airport (BNE). Operated by Air bp, the vehicle was developed in Australia, and is the first all-electric hazardous goods vehicle and refueller approved for use in this country. “Its […]

Abu Dhabi Airports has reported “healthy figures for passenger traffic”, revealing that it handled 6.2 million passengers across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Al Bateen Executive, Delma and Sir Bani Yas Island airports in the first half of 2022. CEO, Shareef Hashim Al Hashmi, said: “Our passenger traffic results for this year’s first half represent another stride […]

Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) has welcomed today’s release of the Trax International report commissioned by Airservices Australia. “Brisbane Airport wants to minimise the impact on our neighbouring communities. We welcome this independent report and look forward to working with all partners including airlines to reduce noise for residents,” said BAC CEO, Gert-Jan de Graaff. BAC […]

A steady surge of growth throughout the second quarter has propelled Dubai International’s (DXB) half yearly traffic to 27.9 million passengers, just 1.2 million shy of the airport’s total annual traffic last year. DXB achieved the milestone despite a significant reduction in capacity resulting from the 45-day closure of its northern runway in May-June for […]

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) welcomed 401,000 passengers in July, 2022, a colossal 259.3% increase over the same period last year, although passenger volumes remain significantly down on pre-pandemic levels. Cargo throughput and air traffic movements recorded 17% and 3.1% year-on-year drops to 348,000 tonnes and 11,485 movements, respectively. The relaxation of inbound travel and […]

Bengaluru Kempegowda operator, BIAL, today announced an open call inviting artists and art groups to submit proposals for a 20-metre high “monumental sculpture” at the forest belt area in Terminal 2. The Art Programme in Terminal 2 will apparently mirror two themes – Karnataka’s rich heritage and culture and Naurasa – the nine emotions highlighted […]