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TK Elevator extends partnership with Hong Kong International Airport

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 to provide ground handling services at Bengaluru-Kempegowda

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 […]

Cookie vending machine opens at Brisbane Airport

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 […]

International remote baggage screening first at Incheon

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 […]

Significant progress made in Perth’s One Airport vision

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 […]

Growth trajectory for cargo in Asia-Pacific & Middle East

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% […]

That winning feeling: Incheon International Airport

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 […]

Gardens, games and more!

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 […]

IT innovation: The digital era

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 […]

Perth Airport enjoying year of record breaking growth

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 […]

New traffic milestones for Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

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 […]

Game changing new international route for Sunshine Coast Airport

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 […]

DXB runway transformed into cycling arena for Dubai Fitness Challenge

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 […]

Event showcases Newcastle Airport’s strategic growth and evolution

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 […]

Operational readiness testing begins at Western Sydney International Airport

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 […]

Ceremony marks opening of Cambodia’s Techo International Airport

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 […]

SITA technology for Kaohsiung International Airport

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 […]

Perth Airport’s new bus partner to go 100% electric within a decade

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 […]

Sunshine Coast Airport’s Terminal Redevelopment Project

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 […]

New Zealand’s airports back government’s freight initiatives

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, […]

Busiest ever day at Brisbane Airport

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 […]

Routes World event begins at Hong Kong International Airport

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 […]

Hamad and Beijing Daxing sign MoU for Sister Airport collaboration

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 […]

Brooki Bakehouse to pop up in Sydney Airport’s domestic terminal

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 […]

Boosting connectivity between Hong Kong and Central Asia

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 […]

WBP NEWS

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 […]

On the case!

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 […]

Green champion

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 […]

The place for good buys

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 expands presence in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

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 […]

Driving change

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 […]

Market force

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 […]

Looking to the future

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 […]

New gallery at DXB celebrates Emirati women in aviation

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’s mega terminal

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. […]

Making milestones

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 […]

Regional update

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 […]

Hong Kong enjoys good month for traffic growth

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% […]

New monthly passenger high for Perth Airport

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 […]

New lounge for fast growing Indonesian gateway

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 launches fifth route to Mainland China

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 […]

Newcastle Airport unveils new terminal

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 to enhance its retail offering

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. […]

Traffic continues upward trajectory at Singapore Changi Airport

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 […]

Growing connectivity

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, […]

Solid year of growth for Hong Kong International Airport

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 […]

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. 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 […]

Delhi delight!

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 […]

Smart new Arrivals service introduced at Dubai International Airport

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, […]

Global architecture and design consortium to work on Perth’s New Terminal project

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 […]

Asia-Pacific & Middle East Airports – Issue 2, 2025

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 enjoys rising passenger numbers in May

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 […]

New Zealand’s gateways gather in Wellington for Airports Day

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 […]

New cargo terminal opens at Queen Alia

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 […]

Mass passenger exercise held at Newcastle’s new terminal

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 […]

Asia’s first Heineken World Bars open at Singapore Changi

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 […]

New satellite service to boost airport communications

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 […]

Groundbreaking ceremony for Changi’s mega Terminal 5

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 […]

F&B tenders invited for Western Sydney International 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 […]

Welcome aboard!

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 […]

Raise and reward

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 finds funds to support Myanmar earthquake victims

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 […]

Regional update

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 […]

New Infrastructure: Build and grow

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 […]

Fantastic journey!

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 APAC & MID recognises aerodrome safety champions

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 […]

Smart thinking!

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? […]

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. The aviation industry marked a new milestone in 2024 with passenger traffic not only rebounding from the pandemic but exceeding pre-pandemic levels, signalling […]

Big few months ahead for future of Newcastle Airport

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 […]

KIX ready for World Expo after completion of T1 upgrade

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 […]

Investment to transform Asia-Pacific and Middle East airports

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), […]

DEL: Bigger, better, smarter!

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 Cheung confirmed as new CEO of Airport Authority Hong Kong

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 airport recognises staff customer service excellence

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), […]

Lunar New Year boosts Asia-Pacific airlines traffic in February

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 […]

Brisbane Airport to welcome equipment rental giant to business precinct

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 […]

Asia-Pacific & Middle East Airports – Issue 1, 2025

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. […]

Region’s airports shine in annual ASQ customer experience awards

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’s Golden Trumpet Trail

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 Airport reports healthy 10.5% increase in half year profits

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 […]

New traffic high for Hong Kong International Airport

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 unveils New Zealand’s first electric fire truck

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 […]

Saudi Arabia opens up domestic market for charter flight operators

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 […]

Traffic at Singapore Changi virtually back to pre-COVID levels

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 registers robust traffic growth in 2024

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 […]

Singapore Changi unveils refreshed shopping campaign for 2025

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 […]

WBP News

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 […]

Intelligent thinking

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 […]

Green planning

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 […]

Green innovation

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 […]

Good year for traffic growth at Hamad International Airport

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 […]

IT innovation: Enabling growth

We round-up some of the latest IT news stories making headlines across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East in the last quarter of the year. TAOYUAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TO PARTNER WITH SITA SITA is partnering with Taipei’s Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) to transform its passenger processing solutions. According to SITA, its check-in kiosk solutions will bring […]

ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East: Regional update

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 […]

Innovation all the way

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, […]

Industry news

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 […]

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. This year has been a significant one for ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID), marked by key achievements across our advocacy […]

One vision

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 […]

Asia-Pacific & Middle East Airports – Issue 4, 2024

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 provider expecting busy festive season in Dubai

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 launches new Hong Kong-Mount Fuji service

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 to be key partner for Red Sea International Airport

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 to start ground handling services in Malaysia

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 […]

WBP News

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, […]

Looking good!

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 […]

Game changer

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 […]

Works of art

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 […]

Fuel for thought

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 […]

Year of growth for Saudi Arabia’s airports

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 […]

Green machine!

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 […]

Queen Alia International Airport unveils new cleaning robots

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 […]

REGIONAL UPDATE

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 […]

Industry news

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. […]

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 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 […]

GOING GREEN

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 […]

Onboard for growth

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 […]

Asia-Pacific & Middle East Airports – Issue 3, 2024

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 secures green sustainability loan

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 […]

Brisbane Airport’s Lost Property Auction is officially underway

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 […]

Asia-Pacific’s airlines report significant upturn in international traffic

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 completes runway renovation project

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 […]

Good year for Hong Kong as traffic continues to rise

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 […]

Sydney Airport welcomes Etihad’s decision to increase services

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 […]

Sunflowers take over the terminals at Singapore Changi

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 […]

Top technology priorities

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 […]

WBP News

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 […]

Expanding Madinah Airport

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 […]

Going green

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 […]

Routes and destinations

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 […]

Regional update

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 […]

Asia’s big build

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 […]

ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East annual conference: One to remember!

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 […]

View from the top

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 […]

Safety and security accolades for Guam airport

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 […]

India’s travellers seeking an ‘elevated’ airport experience

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 […]

Exceptional half year 2024 growth for Hamad International Airport

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 […]

Asia-Pacific & Middle East Airports – Issue 2, 2024

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’s Q2 traffic close to pre-pandemic levels

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 extends duty free concession at Perth Airport

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 […]

Passenger numbers continue to soar at Brisbane 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 to double footprint at Singapore Changi

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 […]

Bangkok flights soon to be back on agenda at Brisbane Airport

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 […]

Hong Kong enjoys impressive traffic upturn in May

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 […]

Positive outlook for region’s airlines despite challenges

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 […]

New Xi’an-Samarkand flights launched by Loong Air

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 […]

Time to share?

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 […]

Going green

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 […]

WBP NEWS

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 […]

Jewel in the crown

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 […]

Routes and destinations

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 […]

Perth Airport to get new terminal and parallel runway

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 […]

Growing responsively

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 […]

Maximising their potential

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 […]

Airlines report continued growth in international traffic

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 […]

Bengaluru’s green terminal

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, […]

Industry news

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 […]

Everyone’s a winner!

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 […]

Regional update

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. […]

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. 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 to host World Routes event in 2025

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. […]

Asia-Pacific & Middle East Airports – Issue 1, 2024

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 […]

New hotel for Singapore Changi Airport

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 […]

CAI to help boost non-aero revenue at Chinese airport

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 […]

Vietnam airport operator to host The Trinity Forum

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 […]

Renewable diesel project launched at Hong Kong International Airport

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% […]

New Zealand’s regional airports highlight their importance

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 […]

Operational efficiency levels reach new heights at Abu Dhabi’s Terminal A

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 […]

Region’s airports excel in ACI’s ASQ customer excellence awards

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 […]

Incheon International Airport Corporation signs new training MoU with Munich Airport

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 […]

Perth Airport welcomes opening of new Singapore Airlines lounge

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 […]

Outlook positive with rising passenger traffic and airport finances

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 […]

Changi Airport to install new rooftop solar PV system

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 […]

Elena Sorlini takes up Abu Dhabi Airports role on permanent basis

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 […]

WBP News

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 […]

New carbon accreditation milestone for Phnom Penh International Airport

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 […]

Green pioneers

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 […]

Investing in the future

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 […]

Regional update

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’s traffic recovery gathering pace

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 […]

Menu of innovation

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 […]

Highlighting innovation

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 […]

News round-up from across the region

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 […]

Ready to write the next chapter

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 […]

Outlook for air travel positive after better year for Asia-Pacific airlines

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% […]

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. 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, […]

Exceptional year of traffic growth for Hamad International Airport

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 […]

Asia-Pacific & Middle East Airports – Issue 4, 2023

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 […]

Traffic continues to rise at Sydney Airport

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% […]

Airport Carbon Accreditation programme launches new top level

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 […]

New Noongar language welcome signs unveiled at Perth Airport

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 […]

UPS to build new hub facility at Hong Kong International Airport

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 […]

WBP News

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 […]

Goodies to go under the hammer at Brisbane Airport’s Lost Property Auction

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 […]

Hospitality king!

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, […]

Shop and fly

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 […]

Green innovation

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. […]

Spotlight on Oman

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 […]

Ambition speaks volumes

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 […]

Demand rising at Asia-Pacific’s busiest international airports

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 […]

Regional update

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 […]

Brisbane Airport to welcome new McDonald’s restaurant

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 […]

Airlines pursue SAF target and greater collaboration on aviation safety

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 […]

Dawn of new era for southern Thailand gateway

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 […]

Welcome to Terminal 2

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 […]

Industry news

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 […]

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 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 […]

New look for Sydney Airport’s volunteer ambassadors

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 […]

AAHK to jointly develop logistics park in Mainland China

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 […]

New research turns spotlight on airport business models

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 […]

Asia-Pacific & Middle East Airports – Issue 3, 2023

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 boutique opens in Singapore Changi’s Terminal 2

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 […]

Traffic recovery gathering pace at Sydney Airport

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 […]

Shaping a sustainable future for Hyderabad International Airport

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 relaunches loyalty programme at Sydney Airport

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 […]

Rebrand sees launch of ACI Asia-Pacific and Middle East region

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 […]

New Point stores to open at Bangkok’s Suvarnabuhmi Airport

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 […]

Record number of mangoes handled at Bengaluru Kempegowda

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 […]

November opening for Abu Dhabi’s new Terminal A

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, […]

Sustainability efforts of Christchurch Airport win industry awards

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 […]

Green light for Newcastle’s Astra Aerolab projects

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. […]

WBP News

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 […]

Hong Kong’s passenger traffic continues to bounce back

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 […]

CAI to help enhance passenger and cargo operations at Cairo airport

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 […]

Destination net zero

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 […]

Creating top logistics hubs

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 […]

Cool runnings!

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, […]

ACI Regional News

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 […]

Industry News

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, […]

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 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 […]

Good to be back!

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, […]

Incheon’s new CEO outlines plan to create smart logistics clusters

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. […]

Asia-Pacific Airports – Issue 2, 2023

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: Being a good neighbour

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 […]

Milestone certification for cargo facility at Hamad International Airport

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 to provide technology to 43 of India’s biggest airports

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 celebrates 25th anniversary in style

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 […]

Milestone ceremony for Newcastle Airport’s Terminal Expansion Project

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 […]

Fever pitch at Auckland Airport ahead of FIFA Women’s World Cup

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 […]

Outlook remains positive for Asia-Pacific’s airlines

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 de Graaff joins Australian Jet Zero Council

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 […]

Successful first five months of year for Queen Alia

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 […]

Bar with a view opens in Hong Kong’s Sky Bridge

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 […]

ACI Asia-Pacific warns that soaring air fares threaten industry recovery

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’s World Environment Day pledge to beat plastic pollution

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 […]

Passenger numbers rising rapidly in Hong Kong

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 announces ‘Green Airports Recognition’ winners

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 […]

Amadeus to be key technology partner for Noida International Airport

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 […]

Going green: Sustainable development remains a top priority

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 […]

WBP News

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 […]

The waiting game

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 […]

Leading by example

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 […]

Regional update

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 […]

Crossroads for surface access?

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 looking for partner to operate its first hotel

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 […]

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. 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 […]

Newcastle Airport’s Terminal expansion project set for take-off

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 […]

The high life!

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 […]

Industry News

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 […]

Big in Japan

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), […]

EU-India aviation agreement would boost connectivity and sustainability

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 […]

Back in the game: China re-opens to international travel

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 opens Adelaide’s first lounge for international travellers

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 […]

Customer Excellence: Going the extra mile

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 […]

Investing in IT still key priority for airports

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 […]

Asia-Pacific Airports – Issue 1, 2023

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 […]

Sydney Airport celebrates the arrival of its 50th airline customer

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 retains status as world’s busiest cargo gateway

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 logistics hub to boast mega-warehouse

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 […]

DXB confirmed as the world’s busiest international airport in 2022

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 celebrates 22nd birthday as a leading cargo and logistics hub

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 […]

International airline passenger numbers rising but cargo struggles

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 commences biggest development progamme since opening

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 […]

Ras Al Khaimah Airport to get its own Vertiport

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 […]

Airports in Asia-Pacific and Middle East continue to reduce CO2 emissions

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, […]

New Australia first carbon accreditation rating for Brisbane Airport

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 […]

Asia-Pacific airports shine in ACI’s ASQ Customer Service Excellence Awards

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 […]

Brewing up employment opportunities at BNE for people with a disability

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 to support commercial development of Thailand’s U-Tapao International Airport

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 demonstrates commitment towards sustainable practices

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 […]

Hong Kong signs new sea-cargo agreement with Dongguan government

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 welcomes more direct flights to Cairns

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 […]

‘Remarkable year’ for traffic recovery at Abu Dhabi Airports

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 ramping up efforts to welcome back visitors

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 […]

Major new tenant for Brisbane Airport’s Export Park

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 […]

Year of “noteworthy achievements” for Queen Alia

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% […]

Brisbane to get double-daily Dubai service from Emirates

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. […]

WBP NEWS

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 […]

Immersive whisky promotion unveiled at Taoyuan International Airport

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 […]

ESG IS HERE TO STAY

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 […]

Looking good!

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 […]

Thinking big!

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 […]

ACI Asia-Pacific welcomes China’s relaxation of travel restrictions

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 […]

ACI NEWS

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 […]

The Changi way

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 […]

INDUSTRY NEWS

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 […]

VIEW FROM THE TOP

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 […]

Asia-Pacific Airports – Issue 4, 2022

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 […]

Justin Watson to become new chief executive of Christchurch Airport

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 […]

Got the power: New renewable energy deal for Brisbane Airport

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 […]

Louis Vuitton latest luxury brand to open store at Sydney Airport

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 […]

Remote Australian airport embraces cloud technology

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 store opens at Hong Kong International Airport

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 goes football crazy during FIFA World Cup

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 […]

Master plan unveiled for new Riyadh mega hub

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 […]

Year of sustained momentum for Abu Dhabi Airports

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 […]

Airports across Asia-Pacific still experiencing challenging times

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 […]

Emirates makes it easier for international passengers to use DXB

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 […]

Bold new terminal expansion project opens at Hamad International Airport

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 […]

Successful first day at Bahrain International Airshow

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 International Airport set to open by end of next year

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 […]

Passenger traffic at Kempegowda back to pre-pandemic levels

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 […]

WBP NEWS

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 […]

New pharma cool chain facility at Abu Dhabi International Airport

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 […]

First passengers cross Hong Kong International Airport’s Sky Bridge

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 […]

Planning ahead

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 unveils new look domestic area

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 […]

Refreshed brand launches new visual identity for Abu Dhabi Airports

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 introduces Sunflower Lanyard scheme

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 […]

Airport centric development: Raising the bar in Jeddah

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 […]

FROM MAPPING TO TRANSITION

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 […]

REGIONAL UPDATE

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 and Hamburg airports form climate change partnership

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 […]

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. 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 set for biggest ever lost property auction

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 […]

INDUSTRY NEWS

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 […]

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

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 […]

BETTER TIMES ARE COMING

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, […]

Balancing the risks in uncertain times

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 welcomes ICAO agreement on climate change

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 […]

Asia-Pacific Airports – Issue 3, 2022

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 […]

Robust airline passenger traffic growth but cargo volumes decline

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 […]

Call for ambitious environmental agreement at ICAO Assembly

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 […]

Europe set to overtake Asia-Pacific as biggest aviation market in 2022

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, […]

Bengaluru-Kempegowda welcomes Qantas’ new non-stop Sydney service

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 […]

Travel records set to tumble at Brisbane Airport

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 […]

Christchurch Airport’s chief executive Malcolm Johns to leave in 2023

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 […]

Second hotel opens at Hamad International Airport

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 […]

Bahrain International Airport unveils new TGI Fridays outlet

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 […]

New managing director and CEO for ambitious Abu Dhabi Airports

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 […]

BNE home to Australia’s first all electric refuelling vehicle

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 […]

‘Healthy’ half year for Abu Dhabi’s airports

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 welcomes noise review

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 […]

DXB’s traffic recovery gathers pace with strong second quarter

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 […]

Passenger volumes continue to recover in Hong Kong

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 […]

“Monumental sculpture” sought for Bengaluru Kempegowda

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 […]

Traffic rise across region continued in Q2 – ACI Asia-Pacific

There has been cautious sense of optimism for the aviation sector following the relaxation of travel restrictions and successful vaccination programmes in many parts of Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, according to the latest figures released today by ACI Asia-Pacific. The second edition of its Industry Outlook for the second quarter of 2022 (April to […]

WBP NEWS

The latest news from ACI’s Asia-Pacific and global World Business Partners. AIRBIZ WORKS ON PROJECT TO EXPAND GOLD COAST TERMINAL Airbiz says that it is proud to have had the opportunity to work with Queensland Airports Limited (QAL) on a project to increase the size of the Gold Coast Airport terminal to three levels, with […]

Investing in sustainability

Carlos Kaduoka, SITA’s head of business strategy for airports, considers how new technology will play a key role in helping airports respond to the demands for a greener industry. The travel recovery is well underway. As the summer travel season approaches, airlines and airports have been caught off guard by the speed of recovery. Airports […]

COME SHOP WITH ME

Fluent Commerce’s senior vice president of global sales, Rob Shaw, suggests some potential solutions to create a seamless airport shopping experience. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the globe in ways that could not have been predicted – hitting the travel industry especially hard.  And it goes without saying that the lack of travellers has had a […]

ACI NEWS

Senior manager for media and communications, Sunil Subbaiah, rounds-up the latest news and developments from ACI Asia-Pacific. GREEN AIRPORTS RECOGNITION WINNERS ACI Asia-Pacific continued to be vocal and active in promoting airport sustainability at different levels. This year, ACI Asia-Pacific recognised twelve airports in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East for their outstanding achievements in carbon […]

ACI urging States to reach global agreement on decarbonisation

ACI is calling for the upcoming ICAO meeting in Montréal to reach an agreement on a long-term aspirational goal for CO2 emissions reductions, aligned with the Paris Agreement 1.5°C goal and the industry objective of net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The meeting, due to take place at ICAO’s headquarters next week, will examine the […]

Forward thinking

As borders begin to re-open, is it time for APAC airports to reconsider how they will look and digitally interact with passengers in the future? Amadeus’ senior vice president of airport and airline operations for the region, Sarah Samuel, investigates. When the pandemic emerged in 2019, Asia-Pacific was the first to feel its impact. And […]

VIEW FROM THE TOP

Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the appointment of a new Regional Board president, the need to focus on decarbonisation, plans for a Middle East office and ACI Asia-Pacific’s advocacy efforts during the first half of 2022. In many ways, the summer of 2022 sparked a fresh lease of life for the aviation industry. COVID-19 […]

ACI Asia-Pacific makes impression at ICAO’s 57th DGCA Conference

ACI Asia-Pacific has called for flexible regulatory policies, innovative procedures, greater efficiency and a better passenger experience as part of its long-term approach to help airports make a sustainable recovery. At the ICAO’s 57th Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation for Asia and Pacific Regions in Incheon, South Korea, ACI Asia-Pacific made a number […]

Familiarisation flights begin on Hong Kong’s new third runway

Operation familiarisation for flights on Hong Kong International Airport’s new North Runway started today. At 08.24, a Government Flying Service plane landed as the first flight taking part in the familiarisation on the Third Runway, followed by the first commercial flight, a cargo flight from Shanghai Pudong, touching down at 08.27. Final preparation for operation […]

THE PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE

Kyung Wook Kim, president and CEO of long-time ASQ champion, Incheon International Airport, tells Joe Bates more about his gateway’s customer service focus and ambitions. WHY DO YOU TAKE GOOD CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE SO SERIOUSLY? Because customer feedback touches on many different areas and sheds light on what we have to do to do even better.  […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC BOARD MEETING & REGIONAL ASSEMBLY HELD IN SINGAPORE

Hosted by Changi Airport Group, the 17th ACI Asia-Pacific Board Meeting & Regional Assembly held in Singapore from May 16-18, 2022, proved to be a productive and highly successful event, writes senior manager for media and communications, Sunil Subbaiah. Though scaled down significantly and different from our usual annual gatherings, the event saw an overwhelming […]

HOSTING JOYFUL CONNECTIONS

Dato’ Iskandar Mizal Mahmood, managing director of Malaysia Airports, talks to Joe Bates about his company’s customer service strategy, ASQ successes and recovering from the global pandemic. Anyone who has ever visited Malaysia, particularly those lucky enough to have been on holiday there, will know that they can expect a warm welcome and, more often […]

New interactive gallery promotes attractions of Changi Precinct

Singapore’s gateway to the world has stepped up the promotion of its Changi Precinct, which it hopes will prove a big hit with passengers wishing to explore and have fun as traffic numbers begin to rise again after the global pandemic. The new ‘Hello, Changi Precinct’ gallery in Terminal 3 is essentially designed to drive […]

Green shoots

New ACI data reveals ‘green shoots of recovery’ for airports in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. The aviation industry in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East is experiencing green shoots of recovery, according to the first edition of Airport Industry Outlook, a new quarterly report by ACI Asia-Pacific. The report, developed in partnership with Mott MacDonald, […]

CHRISTCHURCH AIRPORT: LEAN AND GREEN

Christchurch Airport has never lost sight of its sustainability goals and is now arguably the greenest gateway on the planet, writes Joe Bates. Christchurch Airport has set a new sustainability milestone by going beyond being carbon neutral and becoming climate positive. Its general manager for planning and sustainability, Nick Flack, believes the move is an […]

Asia-Pacific Airports – Issue 2, 2022

Airport profile: Christchurch Special report: ACI Asia-Pacific Board Meeting & Regional Assembly Plus: Investing in Sustainability & Green Shoots of Recovery DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE VIEW FROM THE TOP Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the appointment of a new Regional Board president, the need to focus on decarbonisation, plans for a Middle East office and […]

Etihad resumes flights to Beijing after two-and-a-half year break

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has resumed passenger flights between Abu Dhabi and Beijing. Etihad Airways inaugural flight EY888 landed in Beijing this morning at 05:25 (local time), becoming the first regular direct international passenger service to return to Beijing under the latest mandate of the Joint Prevention and […]

Latest airline traffic figures show ’cause for optimism’

Preliminary May 2022 traffic figures released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed international air passenger demand strengthened markedly amidst the lifting of travel restrictions that unleashed a robust return of travellers since the pandemic. For the month, the number of international passengers carried by Asia Pacific airlines increased more than five-fold […]

Asia-Pacific governments urged to support UN climate goal for aviation

Air Transport Action Group’s executive director, Haldane Dodd, today urged Asia-Pacific’s governments to work together with colleagues from around the world to adopt a long-term climate goal at the upcoming International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Assembly. Dodd, outlining the importance of coming to an agreement at the United Nations level on a long-term climate goal […]

Bechtel to support Tata Projects on construction of new Delhi gateway

Bechtel Engineering and Construction India Private Limited has signed a contract to support Tata Projects in its delivery of Delhi’s new Noida International Airport. Tata Projects’ work includes constructing the terminal, runways and airside infrastructure roads, utilities, landside facilities and other ancillary buildings for an opening capacity of 12 million passengers annually by 2024. Tata […]

Saudi Arabian LCC launches flights to Amman

Jordan’s Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) today welcomed its first flight from Saudi Arabian low-cost carrier, flyadeal, which will operate daily direct services between Amman and Jeddah and Riyadh. The Amman gateway says the new service underscores ongoing efforts to expand its airline and destination networks, while offering passengers diverse, affordable travel options. The inaugural […]

Queensland ends mask mandate at airport terminals

Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) has welcomed today’s announcement by Minister for Health Y’vette D’Ath that Queensland will end requirements for face masks to be worn within airports at all times. The decision comes after moves by the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee to end the mandatory requirement. “The Queensland government’s decision to end the mask […]

Robots at the ready at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport

Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport has introduced a new first for India, AI-driven, assistance robots designed enhance passenger experience. Currently at the trial stage, 10 robots have been deployed to help guide passengers through the airport and answer basic queries. It notes that the robot count will be increased in a “calibrated manner” and will be […]

WFS to operate cargo terminal at Bengaluru-Kempegowda

Global air cargo logistics provider, Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), has been awarded a 15-year license to operate its first cargo handing operation in India at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR). As a result of the agreement with Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), from May 2023, WFS will be responsibible for the development, operation, management and […]

Asia-Pacific airlines enjoy a better month for passenger traffic

Preliminary April 2022 traffic figures released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed a healthy increase in international passenger demand, as the progressive relaxation of border restrictions across the region stimulated business and leisure travel. Overall, Asia-Pacific airlines recorded a 272.9% jump in the number of international passengers carried (a total of […]

Etihad takes first sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) delivery at Tokyo Narita

Neste and ITOCHU are celebrating the first delivery its sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to Etihad Airways at Tokyo’s Narita International Airport. The delivery to Etihad marks the first time in Japan that SAF will be supplied to an overseas airline at an airport in Japan. This milestone is a result of the recently expanded partnership […]

‘Green shoots of recovery’ for Asia-Pacific and Middle East

Asia-Pacific and the Middle East aviation industry is experiencing green shoots of recovery, according to the first edition of the Airport Industry Outlook, a quarterly report by Airports Council International Asia-Pacific (ACI APAC). The report, developed in partnership with Mott MacDonald — a global engineering, management and development consultancy— provides a snapshot of how airports […]

Traffic continues to climb at Queen Alia International Airport

Queen Alia International Airport welcomed 1.83 million passengers during the first four months of 2022, 204.8% more than during the corresponding period a year ago. The Jordanian gateway also enjoyed an 126.6% increase in aircraft movements and 31.4% rise in cargo volumes compared to 2021. Queen Alia operator, Airport International Group (AIG), however, notes that […]

Terminal 2 set to resume operations at Singapore Changi on Sunday

Changi Airport Group today announced that operations in Terminal 2 will resume on 29 May 2022, the first phase of the terminal’s re-opening as the gateway prepares to meet the expected increase in passenger traffic in the months ahead. Closed for an upgrade since May 2020, T2’s phased re-opening will augment Changi’s capacity. When completed […]

Emmanuel Menanteau to be next president of ACI Asia-Pacific

Emmanuel Menanteau will become the new president of ACI Asia-Pacific on June 1, succeeding Changi Airport Group CEO, Seow Hiang Lee, whose time in the hot-seat has come to an end. Menanteau – Cambodia Airports’ CEO and VINCI Airports’ area director for the USA, Europe and South East Asia – is a familiar face at […]

Construction update on Singapore Changi’s new Terminal 5

Construction of Changi’s planned Terminal 5 is set to resume in two or three years’ time, ensuring that it is operational by the mid-2030s, according to Singapore’s Transport Minister, S. Iswaran. Work on the project was halted in May 2020 when the global COVID-19 pandemic began to bite in Singapore, and passenger numbers at the […]

New self-service technology unveiled at Perth Airport

Perth Airport says that returning passengers will notice ‘some changes’ in its International terminal that it believes will further enhance the passenger experience. “To streamline passenger check-in, an exciting new addition is the conversion of 16 check-in counters at T1 International into automated bag drops and 36 new self-check-in kiosks in what was the queuing […]

New initiative designed to boost air travel to Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has announced a Harmonising Air Travel policy, which it says will make international travel to the Kingdom “simpler, easier and more enjoyable by removing the confusion over travel requirements currently discouraging millions of people from booking flights”. Designed in co-operation with the UN’s International Civil Aviation Organisation […]

Qantas to resume Perth-London service later this month

Qantas has announced that it will relaunch services between Perth and London, in the UK, from May 23. For the two years following its launch in March 2018, the Qantas non-stop service between Perth and London was one of the airline’s most popular and profitable routes. Perth Airport CEO Kevin Brown said it was exciting […]

Asia-Pacific airlines enjoy a better month in March

The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) today released its preliminary traffic figures for March 2022 traffic which show  improved growth in international passenger demand as more Asian economies eased travel restrictions after two years of lockdowns and strict border control measures. The number of international passengers carried by the region’s airlines almost tripled to […]

Bengaluru Kempegowda sets new cargo records

Despite challenging circumstances due to multiple waves of COVID, Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) recorded its highest-ever cargo volumes in its last financial year (FY2022). The gateway reports that it handled an all-time high tonnage of 411,513 tonnes of cargo, recording a growth of 26% as against 326,643M processed in FY2021. International cargo recorded a […]

New ‘climate positive’ high for Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport has achieved a new milestone for the aviation industry by becoming the world’s first climate positive gateway. Its general manager for planning and sustainability, Nick Flack, believes that the move makes his gateway a global leader in the transition of airports and aviation to a lower carbon future. “Achieving this next level in […]

New aero-medical base set to open at Brisbane Airport

Brisbane Airport (BNE) is planning to deliver a A$72 million Queensland Regional Aeromedical Base that will connect more Queenslanders to major hospitals and life-saving medical care. The 14,470sqm multi-tenanted facility will be located between Brisbane Airport’s two runways at the Airport North Precinct and will accommodate the Royal Flying Doctors Service (RFDS), LifeFlight, and Queensland Health facilities. […]

Queenstown looking forward to traffic bouncing back over Easter

Queenstown Airport in New Zealand is gearing up for the school holiday period with two busy long weekends expected. Over Easter weekend, between Thursday April, 17 and Monday 21 April, there will be 175 flights (arrivals and departures) with 21,000 passengers anticipated to pass through the terminal. The following Friday, April 22, to Monday, April […]

Plaza Premium Group and marhaba sign joint venture agreement

Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has entered into a joint venture agreement with fellow airport hospitality brand, marhaba, to expand their international offering. The partnership brings together two major hospitality brands to combine knowledge and resources, which according to the partners, “will take airport hospitality to the next level through excellent and innovative airport concierge and […]

EVERYTHING COUNTS

Airport Authority Hong Kong is determined to take the lead in integrating carbon management, sustainable best practices and green design across the airport campus, writes general manager for sustainability, Peter Lee. Climate change has become one of the most pressing global issues in recent years and there has been increasing public concern over the aviation […]

SMART SOLUTION

Getting smart about rate-making and the management of existing infrastructure and resources can help airports recover from the global pandemic, writes Veovo’s marketing manager, Siobhan Boyle. As the aviation market moves into recovery, many airport operators are re-evaluating the value of long-term exclusive gate and terminal lease models. Common use terminals, where airports manage gates […]

WBP NEWS

The latest news from ACI’s Asia-Pacific and global World Business Partners. NEW PROCESSING TECHNOLOGY FOR NEPALESE GATEWAYS The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal has selected Collins Aerospace to provide passenger processing and baggage systems at Nepal’s Tribhuvan (KTM), Gautam Buddha (BWA) and Pokhara (PKR) international airports. According to Collins, its solutions will help the airports […]

READ ALL ABOUT IT!

Asia-Pacific Airports magazine takes a closer look at a handful of the sustainability stories making headlines across the region in early 2022. QUEEN ALIA DEMONSTRATES GREEN CREDENTIALS Despite another challenging year for the global air travel industry, Jordan’s Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) says that it marked a number of significant milestones in 2021, one […]

ADAPT AND GROW

Sho Kataoka, manager of NAA’s Airport Sustainability Office, explains why Tokyo Narita has introduced an even more focused and ambitious sustainability plan. The global COVID-19 pandemic has led to extremely tough times for Narita International Airport, with significant suspension and reduction of passenger flights due to travel restrictions for the last two years.  In addition, the […]

REGIONAL UPDATE

Head of communications and events, Jeannie Wong, rounds-up the latest news and developments from ACI Asia-Pacific. SINGAPORE TO HOST 17TH ACI ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL ASSEMBLY After a two year hiatus, ACI Asia-Pacific will hold its first in-person gathering since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic on May 18, 2022, when Changi Airport Group hosts the 17th […]

LEADING BY EXAMPLE

Being one of the world’s most environment friendly and sustainable gateways is a top priority for Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, writes CEO, Videh Kumar Jaipuriar. Airports have always been in the spotlight when it comes to their impact on the environment and the steps taken by them to operate in a sustainable manner, and […]

INDUSTRY NEWS

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE CHAMPIONS  Thirty two airports from Asia-Pacific and the Middle East have won 2021 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards, which celebrate and showcase the world’s best airports as voiced by travellers. Twenty six awards were shared across eight ‘Best by Size and Region’ categories, and included Indonesia’s Pattimura (AMQ) and Sultan Thaha Syaifuddin (DJB) […]

HAMAD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT: GOALS GALORE

Hamad International Airport’s chief operating officer, Badr Mohammed Al Meer, tells Joe Bates more about the latest traffic trends, IT innovation and expansion plans of Qatar’s gateway to the world. DOHA’S ANNUAL THROUGHPUT SOARED FROM 12.3 MILLION PASSENGERS IN 2008 TO 38.7 MILLION IN 2019 MAKING IT ONE OF THE WORLD’S FASTEST GROWING AIRPORTS. WHAT […]

VIEW FROM THE TOP

ACI Asia-Pacific director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on a new joint initiative with the Asia Pacific Travel Retail Association, a successful trip to the Middle East and changes to the Regional Board. It is fair to say that the first quarter of 2022 didn’t quite turn out the way we had hoped or expected, with […]

Asia-Pacific Airports – Issue 1, 2022

Airport profile: Doha’s Hamad International Airport Special report: Resource management Plus: ACI Asia-Pacific, Regional & WBP news DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE   VIEW FROM THE TOP ACI Asia-Pacific director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on a new joint initiative with the Asia Pacific Travel Retail Association, a successful trip to the Middle East and changes to the […]

Bengaluru Kempegowda and Amazon to establish Joint Innovation Centre

Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport today revealed that it is working with Amazon Web Services (AWS) to establish a Joint Innovation Centre (JIC) that it hopes will drive the development and adoption of digital solutions in aviation. According to Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), the JIC will also enable start-ups to accelerate innovation in aviation, smart […]

Fraport to end Xi’an Xianyang links by selling stake in Chinese gateway

Global airport operator, Fraport AG, has announced its intention to sell its 24.5% stake in China’s Xi’an Xianyang International Airport. Fraport, which earlier this month announced plans to divest itself of its shares in St Petersburg’s Polkovo Airport following Russia’s invasion of the Ukraine, has agreed to sell its shares in Xi’an Xianyang to Chang’an […]

Governments urged to support air travel recovery in Asia-Pacific

ACI Asia-Pacific and the Asia Pacific Travel Retail Association (APTRA) are urging governments and policymakers to enact a simpler, harmonised approach for travel health checks and regulations to encourage passenger confidence to fly again as borders progressively reopen. The warning comes as both organisations fear that Asia-Pacific’s air travel industry is losing its competitiveness and […]

Bahrain International Airport celebrates Earth Hour and shows green credentials

Bahrain International Airport (BIA) showed its commitment to environmental sustainability yesterday as it celebrated this year’s Earth Hour by dimming or switching off all non-essential lights across the gateway. Earth Hour is an annual worldwide movement organised by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah, CEO of Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), […]

New study to evaluate potential for SAF in Indian market

Global airport operators Groupe ADP and GMR Airports today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus, Axens and Safranto to conduct a joint study on Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and their potential in India. The objective of the study, conducted under the lead and co-ordination of Groupe ADP and GMR Airports, is to understand […]

BAC welcomes government’s initiative to boost international visitors

Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) has warmly welcomed Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s A$60 million boost to attract international visitors back to Australia, noting that every international aircraft arriving in Brisbane brings up to A$1 million worth of economic activity for the country. This funding boost, it states, will encourage travellers to ‘bring back the bucket list’ […]

Emirates set to restart dual airport cargo operations in Dubai

Emirates SkyCargo is to “reactivate” its cargo hub at Dubai World Central (DWC) for dedicated freighter aircraft operations from March 26, 2022. The move to reinstate operation at Emirates SkyCentral DWC will mark a return to dual hub cargo operations in Dubai for the air cargo carrier after a period of nearly two years. In […]

Malaysia getting ready for return of international passengers

Malaysia Airports (MAHB) has revealed that its international airports are “getting ready to receive the influx of international passengers into the country” once its borders reopen on April 1, 2022. It notes that it has been continuously working with the Malaysian authorities, including the Ministry of Health (MOH), to improve the process flow at its […]

Brisbane Airport welcomes back Emirates’ A380 aircraft on Dubai route

Brisbane Airport (BNE) has welcomed Emirates’ A380 back to Queensland’s skies for the first time in nearly three years, with the iconic superjumbo returning to the gateway last night. Emirates’ A380 will resume daily services between BNE and Dubai (DXB), replacing the airline’s other wide-body aircraft that serviced the route throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the […]

New LEGO store and tech shop open at Melbourne Airport

Lagardère Travel Retail opened two new stores at Melbourne Airport this week – a LEGO store and Tech2Go outlet. Located in Terminal 4, the new LEGO store is expected to prove popular with both kids and their parents, while the Tech2Go  is said to be the “go-to place for customers seeking out new and exciting […]

Celebrations as international flights return to Melbourne Airport

Melbourne Airport (MEL) today welcomed back international tourists from around the globe to Victoria for the first time in almost two years. This morning two of Melbourne’s top chefs were among those at MEL’s international terminal to provide a warm welcome to arriving passengers. Frank Camorra of MoVida and Shane Delia of Maha surprised some […]

Sustainable aviation fuel now available at Singapore Changi

Shell announced today that it has become the first supplier of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to customers at Singapore Changi. It notes that it has also completed the upgrading of its facility in Singapore which will enable blending of SAF in Singapore. The company believes that its announcement represents a significant milestone for the aviation […]

Queen Alia’s customer service efforts recognised by ACI World

For the second year in a row, Jordan’s Queen Alia International Airport has been recognised in ACI Worlds ‘Voice of the Customer’ initiative. The initiative acknowledges airports that continued to prioritise passengers and remained committed to ensuring their voice was heard throughout the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. To qualify for this recognition, which is separate […]

Valentine’s Day flowers boost cargo volumes at Bengaluru-Kempegowda

Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) facilitated the movement of more than 183,000 kilos of roses to 25 international and domestic destinations in the build up to Valentine’s Day – nearly twice as many as last year. It notes that domestic shipments have witnessed a 200% plus increase, rising to around 6.5 million rose stems, while […]

Dubai Airports joins United for Wildlife’s Transport Taskforce

The CEO of Dubai Airports underlined the transport hub’s commitment to helping eradicate the illegal trade in wildlife after signing a declaration at a special event with Prince William, The Duke of Cambridge and founder of The Royal Foundation’s United for Wildlife. Paul Griffiths spoke after becoming the latest signatory of The Buckingham Palace Declaration, […]

Plaza Premium Group expecting busy Chinese New Year

Plaza Premium Group (PPG) is anticipating a major travel surge during the Lunar New Year festive period, as families travel to reunite for the Spring Festival. To bring luck to travellers in the Year of the Tiger, the Group is presenting Lunar New Year offers across Plaza Premium Lounges, Aerotels and the Smart Traveller loyalty […]

Airlines continue to struggle due to collapse of international travel

The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) says that its preliminary traffic results for 2021 show the “continued decimation in international air passenger demand for the region’s airlines”. In summary, it noted that “tight border restrictions implemented in response to the prolonged COVID-19 pandemic dashed hopes of recovery in air travel markets”. Overall, the 16.7 […]

Rising cargo volumes boost Hong Kong’s 2021 traffic performance

While 2021 was a year to forget for Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) in terms of passenger traffic, the picture couldn’t have been more different for cargo, with the gateway handling five million tonnes (+12.5%) of freight. The upturn in cargo volumes ensured that the airport handled more freight last year than the 4.8 million […]

Pop-up gin shop opens at Melbourne Airport

Lagardère Travel Retail has joined forces with Four Pillars to bring a pop-up gin shop to Terminal 1 at Melbourne Airport. Open now, the one-stop gin shop offers a selection of Four Pillars gins, including core and limited releases. A select range of ‘Made from Gin’ products is also available to purchase, including Breakfast Negroni, […]

Perth Airport embarks on “significant” security upgrade

Perth Airport has announced that it has “embarked on a significant upgrade” of its passenger screening infrastructure across all terminals. The new advanced security screening equipment is being introduced as part of the Federal Government mandate to further strengthen Australia’s domestic and international aviation security. Airport CEO, Kevin Brown, said the airport’s top priority is […]

Kazakhstan’s Almaty Airport reopens for flights

Almaty Airport, which was closed to flights for security reasons on the evening of January 5 during the events in Kazakhstan, reopened for flights today. The gateway is part of TAV Airports’ global airport network. TAV Airports president and CEO, Sani Şener, said: “Kazakhstan has a special importance for us due to our historical and […]

WBP NEWS

The latest news from ACI’s Asia-Pacific and global World Business Partners. NEW ALMATY BAGGAGE SYSTEM AWARDED TO ALSTEF GROUP Alstef Group has been awarded the contract to install the baggage handling system for the new international terminal at Almaty International Airport in Kazakhstan. Situated on the ancient trade route known as the ‘Silk Road’, the […]

Home and away

We take a closer look at a handful of headline grabbing corporate social responsibility initiatives taking place in the Asia-Pacific region and across the globe. NEW CAMPUS TO PROVIDE SHELTER AND EDUCATION FOR 300 GIRLS Bengaluru Kempegowda operator, Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), and main shareholder Fairfax have joined forces with the Sparsha Trust on […]

Transforming KIX

Kansai Airports is renovating Kansai International Airport’s existing facilities and introducing new technology to enhance the passenger experience. Kansai Airports  – a consortium created by VINCI Airports and ORIX in 2015 – has launched the largest airport renovation project in the region for 50 years to boost the airport’s appeal and support Japan’s post-pandemic recovery.  […]

Luxury and sustainability: Saudi Arabia’s new Red Sea Airport

Sustainability and the environment are a top priority at Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea airport project where daa International has been awarded the contract to operate the new airport on completion, writes Curtis Grad. An entirely different class of airport is being built on the remote Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, one that will be […]

VIEW FROM THE TOP

Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the work of ACI Asia-Pacific over the final quarter of 2021 and looks forward to next year. While the summer months saw the progressive resumption of travel in many parts of the world, international travel, particularly in Asia, struggled with the resurgence of the delta variants of the coronavirus. […]

Dubai International Airport fully operational ahead of December peak period

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is 100% operational again with all terminals, concourses, lounges, restaurants and retail outlets open for business following the reopening of the final phase of Terminal 3’s Concourse A. Terminal 3 is expected to serve more than 1.6 million passengers in the second half of December during the month’s peak seasonal travel […]

INDUSTRY NEWS

GROUND-BREAKING CEREMONY HELD FOR DELHI-NOIDA The clock is running down to the opening of Delhi’s new Noida International Airport (NIA) after the foundation stone for the new gateway was put in place in the presence of Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi. In the picture above, NIA CEO, Christoph Schnellmann, and Daniel Bircher, chairman and managing […]

Siem Reap handles first international flight for 20 months

Siem Reap International Airport handled its first international flight since March 2020 today when Singapore Airlines relaunched services to Cambodia’s second largest city. As of today, Singapore Airlines will operate daily flights between Siem Reap and Singapore on the Boeing 737-8, which features the airline’s all-new narrow-body cabin products. The carrier notes that will also […]

Regional update

Head of communications and events, Jeannie Wong, rounds-up the latest news and developments from ACI Asia-Pacific. NET-ZERO CARBON INITIATIVES  Climate change and sustainability continue to be at the forefront of our minds with various activities and initiatives revolving around these topics.  Earlier this year, ACI airport members across the globe pledged to achieve Net-Zero Carbon […]

Honeywell signs MOU with Riyadh Airports Company

Honeywell and Riyadh Airports Company (RAC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the use of Honeywell technologies that enable integration and automation at King Khalid International Airport (KKIA) to increase efficiency, predictability and safety in its airport operations while also minimising environmental impact. The MoU between RAC and Honeywell outlines the implementation, […]

Building for the future

President and CEO, Jerry Dann, tells Joe Bates more about the ambitions and future development plans of Taoyuan International Airport. Can you tell me more about your planned new Terminal 3 and how big a milestone it is for the airport?  It is a huge milestone for Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) as it will boost […]

Hong Kong’s airport operator outlines Net Zero 2050 carbon strategy

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) today unveiled the target and strategy to achieve Net Zero Carbon by 2050 at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), with a midpoint target of 55% reduction of absolute emissions by 2035 from a 2018 baseline. Fred Lam, CEO of AAHK, said: “Sustainability is at the centre of our long-term development […]

Asia-Pacific Airports – Issue 4, 2021

Airport report: Taipei Taoyuan Special report: Corporate Social Responsibility Plus: Red Sea Airport & Transforming KIX   READ THE ISSUE ONLINE DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE   VIEW FROM THE TOP Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the work of ACI Asia-Pacific over the final quarter of 2021 and looks forward to next year. INDUSTRY NEWS A […]

Queen Alia reaffirms commitment to customer service excellence

Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport has renewed its Level 2 Airport Customer Experience Accreditation (ACEA) issued by ACI World until November 2022. The Jordanian gateway, operated by the Airport International Group (AIG), initially obtained this accreditation in 2020 in acknowledgement of its efforts to promote service excellence and customer satisfaction, becoming one of only five […]

Expressions of Interest invited for Brisbane Airport’s BNE Auto Mall

Brisbane Airport is calling for Expressions of Interest (EOI) for its largest non-aviation project undertaken to date, BNE Auto Mall. The EOI is calling for reputable businesses and groups with experience and capability in managing exemplar entertainment, hospitality, events, and track facilities to become the Track and Event Operator. BNE Auto Mall will be located […]

‘World leading’ energy park to be built at Christchurch Airport

Christchurch Airport is committing 400 hectares of its Harewood campus to Kōwhai Park – a new platform for generating renewable energy at scale to enable businesses to transition away from fossil fuels. The pioneering project was launched with New Zealand’s Energy Minister, Megan Woods; Climate Change Minister, James Shaw; and Christchurch mayor, Lianne Dalziel, planting […]

Hong Kong International Airport to host Virtual Job Fair

More than 1,000 job openings at over 30 companies associated with Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) will be up for grabs at a Virtual Job Fair tomorrow and on Friday. The event has been organised by Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) and the Labour Department with the job opportunities said to be across the entire […]

Bengaluru Kempegowda unveils new fire rescue vehicle simulator

Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) has become the first gateway in South Asia to commission a Rosenbauer Tactical Simulator, an addition it says further strengthens its firefighting capabilities. With this simulator, firefighters can train in a realistic environment, master the tactical use of Rosenbauer Panther crash fire tenders (CFTs) as well as operate High Reach […]

Easing of travel restrictions leads to 20% upturn in traffic at DXB

Dubai Airports today revealed that passenger traffic through Dubai International Airport (DXB) has grown by almost 20% in the last four weeks to reach 20.7 million in the year to date to October. It notes that the upturn in traffic is down to the changes in travel restrictions in key global markets in recent months […]

eVTOL test flight at Seoul’s Gimpo International Airport

Volocopter has completed the first test flight of its 2X aircraft in South Korea at Seoul’s Gimpo International Airport. It was the first ever crewed public test flight of a fully electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) air taxi in South Korea and was witnessed by the country’s Minister for Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, Noh […]

Sydney Airport accepts huge A$23.6 billion bid from consortium

Sydney Airport is set to be sold for a colossal A$23.6 billion ($17.5 billion) after the board unanimously voted to accept an offer from an infrastructure investment group. The offer from Sydney Aviation Alliance (SAA) has been on the table for over a month and the deal, should it go through, will make it one […]

Perth Airport welcomes launch of new service to Tasmania

The state government and Perth Airport has congratulated Virgin Australia as it turns its attention to introducing new routes between Western Australia and Tasmania with the launch of a non-stop service between Perth and Launceston which commenced today. Western Australian government tourism minister, David Templeman, said he was excited to welcome the new Virgin Australia […]

ACI Asia-Pacific urges more governments to reopen borders

ACI Asia-Pacific today urged more governments to reopen borders and relax quarantine requirements especially in countries which have reached satisfactory vaccination rates, to prevent repeat of a dismal year for Asia-Pacific and Middle East airports. This follows the release of latest figures forecasting sustained losses in 2021 for airports in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. […]

WBP NEWS

The latest news from ACI’s Asia-Pacific and global World Business Partners. PLAZA PREMIUM GROUP AWARDED BENGALURU KEMPEGOWDA CONCESSION Bangalore International Airport Limited has awarded the Plaza Premium Group (PPG) a 10-year concession to carry out a host of passenger service activities at Bengaluru Kempegowda. As a result, PPG will provide meet and assist, porter, PRM […]

Weak international demand ensures tough times for Asia-Pacific airlines

Preliminary September 2021 traffic figures released by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) reveal yet another month of severe weakness in international air passenger demand, whereas international air cargo markets continued to strengthen on the back of growth in demand. For the month, the region’s airlines carried a combined total of 1.2 million international […]

Taking to the cloud

A new era of connectivity, innovation and opportunity has begun for Cambodia Airports, writes Laurence Erbs, general manager for Siem Reap International Airport. Recently, I joined Cambodia Airports and found that, like many others, we were beginning the process of further modernising by moving to the cloud. The decision to continue this forward-looking project even […]

Parking puzzle

ACI Asia-Pacific’s Samantha Solomon explores the role of simulations in airplane parking projects before, during and post pandemic. Like all in the aviation sector, the impact of the pandemic has not left global consulting firm Beca untouched. Over the course of the pandemic, the New Zealand-company has seen airport design projects terminated, postponed, or reduced […]

Investing in Sustainabilty

It might not seem like a priority right now, but ACI World has revealed that more than $2.4 trillion will have to be spent on enhancing the infrastructure of the world’s airports by 2040 in order to meet future demand. The size of the task ahead – which will include modernising existing facilities as well […]

Green energy

Anaerobic digestion can help airports become more environmentally friendly and reduce their carbon footprint, writes Jocelyne Bia. Before the coronavirus outbreak stole the headlines, the main concern for people and governments around the world was the climate emergency and the need for urgent action. Like many other industries, the aviation sector was under pressure to […]

Regional update

Communications manager, Samantha Solomon, rounds-up the latest news and developments from ACI Asia-Pacific. BE PART OF THE CLIMATE CHANGE SOLUTION From the Pacific Islands stretching across Asia and into the Middle East, airports of all sizes are having to adapt to and manage the effects of climate change. Whether this means coping with the effects […]

Sustainable mission

Joffrey Maï explains how VINCI Airports is rolling out the group’s pioneering global environmental strategy in the Asia-Pacific region. VINCI Airports is leveraging its position as one of the world’s biggest airport operators to enhance the environmental performance of its Asia-Pacific gateways and help set the sustainability bar for airports across the globe. Asia, of […]

New analysis recognises Perth Airport’s sustainable development

Perth Airport has achieved an overall score of 98% in annual analysis by the Global ESG Benchmark for Real Assets (GRESB). GRESB is an international process that rates the environmental, social and governance performance of major infrastructure assets. Perth Airport CEO, Kevin Brown, said that the 98% score was an outstanding improvement over the 76% […]

INDUSTRY NEWS

NEW AIRPORTS OPEN IN MALAYSIA AND CHINA Despite today’s tough operating environment, the number of airports in the Asia-Pacific region continues to grow with the recent opening of the new Mukah Airport (MKM) in Sarawak, Malaysia, and Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) in China. Mukah’s new $70 million gateway replaces the town’s former short take-off […]

VIEW FROM THE TOP

Director General, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the importance of air travel and some key priorities and initiatives planned by ACI Asia-Pacific for the remainder of 2021. After 20 months of virtual calls, I finally got to meet the director generals of ACI’s other regions in person again this summer after flying to Rome for a […]

BAC reveals ‘concerns’ about key elements of roadmap to re-opening of Queensland

Brisbane Airport operator, Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC), today issued the following statement in response to the announcement of a roadmap to easing travel restrictions in Queensland. The statement, in full, reads: “We’re pleased to see a roadmap to the reopening of Queensland. However, there are elements of it that are of great concern in relation […]

Making milestones

Bangalore International Airport Limited’s managing director and CEO, Hari Marar, tells Joe Bates more about the ambitions and development plans for India’s third busiest gateway. Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport has been making milestones since it opened, and the desire to be the best airport in India means that this trend is unlikely to stop over […]

Vancouver unveils roadmap to net zero carbon emissions

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) has unveiled its roadmap to net zero carbon emissions, which it claims balances innovative approaches with practical actions that will see the gateway’s operations become net zero by 2030. Earlier this year, YVR was the first airport in Canada to commit to net zero emissions by 2030, accelerating its original climate commitment by […]

Da Nang in Vietnam to host Routes Asia in June 2022

Routes Asia will take place in Vietnam for the first time when Da Nang hosts the region’s 16th annual route development forum in 2022. The air transport industry and the economic benefits it brings will, of course, be critical to enabling the world’s economic recovery from COVID-19 pandemic. Over the past three years, more than […]

Bengaluru Kempegowda becomes perishable cargo leader

The 48,130 tonnes of perishable shipments handled at Bengaluru Kempegowda International Airport in its last financial year made it India’s leading gateway for handling time sensitive goods such as fruit, vegetables, flowers and poultry. Using figures from India’s Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), Bengaluru Kempegowda (BLR) says that it handled 31% […]

DXB launches new food, beverage and retail ordering service

Dubai International Airport (DXB) today launched the region’s first mobile F&B and retail ordering service without the need to download an app. From today, all hungry passengers have to do is reach for their mobile to order food and drinks from DXB’s F&B outlets and have it delivered directly to them. And the ability to […]

Brisbane Airport welcomes Australia’s move to re-open international border

Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) has welcomed the announcement of the framework to safely re-open Australia to the world in the coming months. “This is the best news we’ve had in more than a year,” enthused BAC CEO, Gert-Jan de Graaff. “We stand ready to work with Commonwealth agencies and the Queensland Government to facilitate the […]

Dufry extends duty free concession at Cambodia’s main airports

Dufry has extended its duty-free concession at Cambodia’s three international airports in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville or five and a half years. The airports handled a total of 11.6 million international travellers in 2019, although these kind of figures are not expected to return for a while as COVID continues to restrict global […]

Queenstown not convinced about need for new Central Otago Airport

Queenstown Airport today questioned the need for a new Central Otago Airport in New Zealand. The new airport is being proposed by Christchurch Airport on the basis of a preliminary aeronautical assessment of its proposed location in Tarras. The assessment suggests that the site is able to support an airfield with a single runway of […]

Shell outlines sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) ambitions

Royal Dutch Shell plc has announced its ambition to produce around two million tonnes of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) a year by 2025. It also aims to have at least 10% of its global aviation fuel sales as SAF by 2030. “Currently, sustainable aviation fuel accounts for less than 0.1% of the world’s use of […]

Asia-Pacific Airports – Issue 3, 2021

Airport report: Bengaluru Kempegowda Special report: Cambodia’s cloud initiative Plus: Parking puzzle, Industry & WBP news   READ THE ISSUE ONLINE DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE   VIEW FROM THE TOP Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the continued challenges of COVID-19 and ACI Asia- Pacific’s efforts to hasten the industry’s recovery and ensure its future sustainability. […]

New initiatives designed to ensure Perth Airport is COVID-safe

Perth Airport today reassured the travelling public that it continues to roll out new COVID-safe initiatives and practices through its car parks and terminals to keep passengers and workers safe. According to the airport’s chief commercial officer, Kate Holsgrove, the Australian gateway has “reimagined the traveller journey from carpark to forecourt, to terminal, to security, to […]

Cargo volumes and passenger numbers rise in Hong Kong

Cargo volumes at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) continue to go in the right direction, rising by 15.5% in August as 429,000 tonnes of freight passed through the gateway. All three cargo categories – namely imports, exports and transhipments – recorded double-digit growth at HKG in August. Cargo to and from North America and Southeast […]

Christchurch Airport ready for challenges ahead after announcing FY21 profit

New Zealand’s Christchurch Airport has reported net profit after tax of NZ$38.7 million for its 2021 financial year (FY21), off a total income of NZ$189.5 million. The profit included underlying operating profit and revaluations of investment property on its Christchurch Campus and is slightly down on the NZ$46.7 million net profit after tax it recorded […]

Launch of Dubai Airports Youth Council in UAE

Dubai Airports has for the first time collaborated with the UAE’s Federal Youth Authority (FYA) to create the Dubai Airports Youth Council. Aligned with other top UAE government entities, the DA Youth Council was developed with the vision of the UAE’s leaders in mind and is the latest example of the airport’s commitment to developing […]

Queenstown Airport Corporation looking to future after tough year

Queenstown Airport Corporation (QAC) has admitted that implementing a plan to “stabilise the business in the complex and uncertain operating environment created by COVID-19″ was top of the agenda during its last financial year, ending June 30. Reflecting on the impact of COVID-19 on the business and the region, QAC Board chair, Adrienne Young-Cooper, noted […]

Hong Kong cargo giant introduces its first robot to enhance efficiency

The largest independent cargo handler at Hong Kong International Airport has turned to robotic technology to help it locate and retrieve spare parts in its newly opened Automated Parts Store (APS). According to Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl),  the new robotically-operated parts dispensing system enables urgently-needed spares to be quickly accessed around the […]

On the right track

A new A$10 billion rail link looks set to make travelling to Melbourne Airport quicker, easier and more environmentally friendly, writes Joe Bates. While few Asia-Pacific airports can boast high speed rail links like the ones at Frankfurt and Zurich airports in Europe, the region is no stranger to impressive train connections with Kuala Lumpur, […]

Traffic struggles continue for Asia-Pacific’s airlines

Preliminary June 2021 traffic figures released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) show that international passenger demand remained suppressed by ongoing tight border restrictions. Across the Asia Pacific region, many countries recorded a surge in COVID-19 transmissions caused by new variants, with limited vaccine supplies hampering vaccination progress. Indeed, the region’s airlines […]

WBP NEWS

The latest news from ACI’s Asia-Pacific and global World Business Partners. NEW MILESTONE FOR DELHI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT’S TAXIBOT Indira Gandhi International Airport’s semi-robotic aircraft towing vehicle, TaxiBot, has successfully completed 1,000 operations, reducing the Indian gateway’s CO2 emissions by 532 tonnes and helping save 214,000 litres of aircraft fuel in the process. Introduced two years […]

New IT solutions to prepare Clark International Airport for future growth

Clark International Airport (CRK) in the Philippines has selected a suite of Collins Aerospace ARINC airport solutions to help provide a seamless passenger experience for the increased number of travellers expected to pass through the airport following its 2021 expansion. The gateway has selected ARINC’s passenger processing and airport operation solutions to move passenger flow […]

Every little counts

We turn the spotlight on Hamad International Airport’s efforts to enhance its waste management, green operations at Phnom Penh International Airport and carbon accreditation for Hawke’s Bay Airport. Doha’s Hamad International Airport (DOH) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Qatar’s Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) to improve its waste management. As a […]

Redefining airport retail

A pioneering new e-commerce initiative aims to make airport shopping at Malaysia’s airports and at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport in Turkey easier and more convenient. Malaysia Airports is one of the world’s largest airport operators in terms of passenger numbers, handling more than 141.2 million across its network of 39 Malaysian airports and Istanbul […]

Singapore based firm to provide test credentials for IATA Travel Pass

Accredify, a Singapore-based firm that creates and issues verifiable documents, today announced that it has signed an agreement with the IATA to issue COVID-19 Test Credentials that will be accepted for IATA Travel Pass. This collaboration will make Accredify one of the first lab and clinic aggregators in the Asia-Pacific region to participate in the […]

Egypt’s Nile Air launches weekly services to Al Ain

Al Ain International Airport (AAN), owned and operated by Abu Dhabi Airports, has welcomed two new weekly flights from Cairo. The inaugural Nile Air service from the Egyptian capital landed at Al Ain International Airport on Monday, July 12, at 21:15 local time. Francois Bourienne, chief commercial officer at Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “We are […]

HOLDING PATTERN

Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) director general, Subhas Menon, praises the resiliency of the region’s airlines as the aviation industry awaits the smart, sustainable and safe restart of international travel. To the casual observer, the Asian aviation industry should be close to collapse after the unrelenting onslaught of bad news and misfortune in the […]

REGIONAL UPDATE

Communications manager, Samantha Solomon, rounds-up the latest news and developments from ACI Asia-Pacific. ASIA-PACIFIC AIRPORTS IMPROVE LOCAL AIR QUALITY Six airport members from Australia, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong SAR and India received top honours in this year’s Green Airports Recognition programme for outstanding achievements in improving local air quality. The submissions showcased innovative practices ranging […]

New Zealand to review airport funding and air navigation system

The New Zealand Airports Association (NZ Airports) has welcomed the confirmation of a wide-ranging review which will encompass the funding needs of smaller airports. The announcement, made by Transport Minister, Michael Wood, includes a review of the country’s air navigation system, which will involve looking at the form and functions of Airways NZ, the national […]

Global effort

With international travel still very much on hold because of COVID-19, it is going to take the effort of all industry stakeholders to restore global connectivity, writes James Brass from aviation consultancy, York Aviation. The last 18 months has been profoundly strange for the air transport industry. After years of growth and expanding route networks, […]

Reconnecting the world

Travel bubbles, health passports and new touchless technology are all set to play a role in facilitating aviation’s recovery from COVID-19, writes Joe Bates. With traffic numbers still significantly down on pre-pandemic levels and airlines understandably reluctant to launch new routes in such a tough operating climate, the aviation industry remains very much in survival […]

Big investments needed in new infrastructure to meet future demand

A new study by ACI World shows that Asia-Pacific and Middle East airports will have to develop new greenfield airports and invest in modernising and expanding their existing airport infrastructure to meed demand over the next 20 years. According to The Global Outlook of Airport Capital Expenditure,at least $1.3 trillion needs to be invested on […]

Local community groups benefit from Brisbane Airport grants

Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) has distributed more than A$18,000 in grants to 19 charitable organisations and community groups as part of its philanthropic Community Giving Fund. BAC acknowledges in the current environment, it is now more important than ever to support organisations doing exceptional work in our community. Twice a year BAC calls for applications […]

VIEW FROM THE TOP

Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the continued challenges of COVID-19 and ACI Asia-Pacific’s efforts to hasten the industry’s recovery and ensure its future sustainability. The road to travel recovery is proving to be bumpy and winding in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, with uncertainties playing out on many levels and a resurgence of COVID-19 […]

INDUSTRY NEWS

GUANGZHOU BAIYUN WAS THE WORLD’S BUSIEST AIRPORT IN 2020 The global impact of COVID-19 meant that 2020’s world traffic rankings had a very different look to normal, with Guangzhou Baiyun (CAN) in China replacing Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL) as the busiest gateway on the planet. Guangzhou Baiyun took top spot by handling 43.7 million passengers in […]

Expansion on the horizon

With new owners and a capacity doubling new terminal on the way, the future looks bright for Kazakhstan’s Almaty Airport, writes Joe Bates. Almaty Airport is under new ownership after a consortium led by global airport operator, TAV Airports, acquired the Kazakhstan gateway earlier this year. The deal is expected to take Kazakhstan’s gateway to […]

Hong Kong cargo giant Hactl to open aircraft engine handling complex

Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) is making a bid to increase Hong Kong’s involvement in the movement of aero engines through the establishment of a new Aero Engine Handling Centre at Homng Kong International Airport. Hong Kong is one of only two locations in Asia which have certified repair, modification and overhaul facilities […]

Asia-Pacific Airports – Issue 2, 2021

Focus on: Route development Special report: Travel bubbles & health passports Plus: Sustainability, e-commerce & WBP news   READ THE ISSUE ONLINE DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE   VIEW FROM THE TOP Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the continued challenges of COVID-19 and ACI Asia-Pacific’s efforts to hasten the industry’s recovery and ensure its future sustainability. […]

Airports confirm commitment to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050

ACI Asia-Pacific welcomes the announcement that ACI World and the five ACI regions – in collaboration with members – have created a long-term carbon goal for their member airports. The announcement simply says: “ACI member airports at a global level commit to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and urge governments to provide the […]

Wizz Air expecting busy next summer in Abu Dhabi

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, the newest national airline of the United Arab Emirates, today announced that it will serve 24 destinations from the UAE hub from the summer of 2022. Among the destinations are routes to Kazakhstan, Greece, Egypt, Oman, Ukraine, Israel, Serbia, Armenia, Georgia, Cyprus, Italy, Hungary, Poland, Bulgaria and Romania. According to the […]

WBP NEWS

The latest news from ACI’s Asia-Pacific and global World Business Partners. VANDERLANDE WINS NEW SYDNEY AIRPORT CONTRACT Vanderlande has been chosen to supply the baggage handling system (BHS) for Australia’s planned new Western Sydney International Airport (WSIA). The greenfield project is being completed in several phases and is expected to enter operational readiness and acceptance […]

Gold in the hold

Its chief officer for cargo, Guillaume Halleux, tells us more about the airport facilities, fleet and route network that make Qatar Airways one of the world’s biggest cargo airlines. How important is cargo to Qatar Airways? The cargo division is a significant contributor to the airline’s revenue and overall business, and this has been growing […]

Emirates and flydubai ramping up operations from Dubai International Airport

Emirates and flydubai expect to serve 168 destinations from Dubai by the end of May, a route network that they believe delivers on their customer promise to reintroduce more convenience, choice and seamless connectivity for travellers. Since the revival of their strategic codeshare partnership in early September 2020, close to 500,000 passengers have flown on […]

Keeping cool

SATS has continued to invest in equipment, manpower and new cargo handling solutions to serve its customers throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, writes senior vice president for cargo services, Nazri Othman. The air cargo industry has experienced sharp declines in cargo volumes with COVID-19 disrupting supply chains around the world since its onset last year. As […]

Hong Kong’s traffic recovery continues with double digit rise in cargo volumes

Cargo volumes at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) are rising, although passenger numbers continue to struggle, based on the gateway’s April traffic statistics, released today by Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK). The latest totals show that the airport handled 389,000 tonnes of cargo (+15.5%) in April, and while both its passenger numbers and air traffic […]

REMAINING RESILIENT

Lim Ching Kiat, managing director, air hub development at Changi Airport Group, explains how Changi Airport is helping maintain Singapore’s air cargo supply chain and spearheading its recovery from COVID-19. COVID-19 has gravely impacted the global aviation industry and cargo volumes at Singapore Changi initially proved no exception, with throughput down due to the significant […]

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Vivian Lau, executive director of Hong Kong cargo handling giant, Hactl, looks back on a tough year for aviation and hopes for better things for the industry in 2021. To say that 2020 was an extraordinary year for air cargo and the aviation industry would be an understatement. After a promising start with solid cargo […]

Federal funding for Newcastle Airport’s airfield upgrade

Australian Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, visited Newcastle Airport today to announce the much-anticipated funding for a significant upgrade to the airfield that Newcastle Airport accesses from RAAF Base Williamtown. The upgrade works, which will commence this year in conjunction with the RAAF’s scheduled runway maintenance programme, will see the runway upgraded to Code E status, […]

Advantage Anchorage

Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport enjoyed a record breaking year for cargo and has some ambitious plans to enhance its freight facilities, writes marketing and communications manager, Eland Conway. The coronavirus pandemic has caused global disruption and a downturn in passenger traffic the likes of which we’ve never seen before, and Ted Stevens Anchorage International […]

Industry News

LEADING BY EXAMPLE – ASIA-PACIFIC’S 2020 ASQ WINNERS It might have been easy for the region’s airports to let their usual high customer service standards drop in 2020 as the coronavirus pandemic significantly reduced their passenger numbers, but ACI’s Airport Service Quality (ASQ) awards prove otherwise, with 30 winning Best Airport by Size accolades and […]

Hamad’s Asset Management System renews BSI excellence certification

Qatar’s Hamad International Airport continues to be recognised for its sustainability efforts, this week having its Asset Management System (AMS) ISO 55001:2014 certification from the British Standards Institution (BSI) renewed for another three years. The Doha gateway believes that the recertification endorses its approach to delivering efficient and effective asset management across the airport’s infrastructure. […]

ACI Asia-Pacific Regional update

Communications manager, Samantha Solomon, rounds-up the latest news and developments from ACI Asia-Pacific. HUMAN RESOURCES CASE STUDIES The Regional Human Resources (HR) Committee has published a guide that is designed to help airports prepare their respective workplaces and workforce for the return to the new normal. Via this publication, the committee sought to highlight key […]

Vertical reality

We take a closer look at plans for the world’s first vertiport for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in Singapore and how its opening might revolutionise taxi services at Changi Airport. It feels like momentum is gathering pace in Asia-Pacific, Europe and North America for a new type of airport taxi – one […]

Asia-Pacific’s cargo hubs: Delivering the goods

Editor, Joe Bates, reports on the 2020 performance of the region’s leading cargo hubs and the key role they are playing in helping distribute the COVID-19 vaccine. In terms of volumes and payloads, air cargo fared much better than the passenger side of the business in 2020, and that seems likely to be repeated for […]

Executive jet facilities to be enhanced in Hong Kong

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) has given the green light to Hong Kong Business Aviation Centre (HKBAC) to expand its business aircraft facilities at Hong Kong International Airport. The airport operator is confident that the HK$400 million project will “further enhance the competitiveness of Hong Kong as an international aviation hub” and supports “Hong Kong’s […]

Welcome to the future: Spotlight on Bahrain’s new terminal

Bahrain Airport Company CEO, Mohamed Yousif Al-Binfalah, tells Joe Bates more about what passengers can expect from the airport’s new state-of-the-art terminal. Bahrain International Airport (BIA) celebrated a major milestone on January 28 when its eagerly awaited new terminal opened for business. The new state-of-the-art facility is the crowning jewel of a massive and comprehensive […]

VIEW FROM THE TOP

Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on how ACI Asia-Pacific has stepped up its efforts to support its airport members and World Business Partners during the COVID-19 pandemic. Whisper it softly, but with the global roll out of COVID-19 vaccines gathering pace, there are finally reasons to believe that the end of the pandemic could be […]

Australian and New Zealand airports celebrate return of trans-Tasman flights

Airports in Australia and New Zealand have been celebrating the reopening of quarantine free trans-Tasman travel for the first time in 12 months. In Brisbane, Brisbane Airport opened 16 ‘Green Lane’ services yesterday to accommodate Air New Zealand and Qantas flights between BNE and Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. The airport reports that all eight arrivals […]

Sneak preview of Chengdu Tianfu’s commercial offerings

China Duty Free Group (CDFG) and The Design Solution today provided a sneak preview of their design scheme for the 4,000sqm airside commercial area at Chengdu’s new Tianfu International Airport (TFU). The airport is due to open in mid 2021, ready for the International University Sports Federation (FISU) Chengdu 2021 Summer World University Games in […]

Asia-Pacific Airports – Issue 1, 2021

Issue theme: Cargo Airport report: Bahrain & Anchorage Plus: ACI Asia-Pacific, Industry & WBP news   READ THE ISSUE ONLINE DOWNLOAD THE ISSUE   VIEW FROM THE TOP Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on how ACI Asia-Pacific has stepped up its efforts to support its airport members and World Business Partners during the COVID-19 pandemic. […]

New lounge experience at DXB promised by Marhaba

Dubai-based marhaba, dnata’s airport hospitality brand, has unveiled a brand-new design and experience at one of its flagship Dubai International Airport (DXB) lounges after an extensive renovation. As a result, it boasts that travellers can expect an entirely new lounge experience at Dubai International Airport’s Terminal 3. A highly-anticipated, bespoke feature for the Dubai market […]

Sydney Airports signs technology deal with SITA

SITA has announced a five-year contract with Sydney Airport for the provision of common-use services at both Terminal 1 (international) and Terminal 2 (domestic). The project went live on March 1, 2021, featuring SITA Flex, an advanced common-use platform, and SITA Bag Message, which eliminates the need for multiple baggage system interfaces between airlines and […]

APTRA webinar addresses key challenges facing airport retail

The first Asia Pacific Travel Retail Association (APTRA) APAC Dialogue webinar on March 17, 2021, was a hotspot gathering for the industry with over 600 delegates joining from across the globe. APTRA executive director, Christina Oliver, comments. “APTRA’s ambition in this new series of webinars is to maintain inclusive dialogue, to share and learn from […]

Rapid testing lab for COVID-19 opens at Abu Dhabi International Airport

Abu Dhabi International Airport has opened a rapid testing lab for COVID-19 in a bid to facilitate the resumption of air travel and assist with quarantine tracking procedures. The new facility, opened by Abu Dhabi Airports in partnership with Pure Health and Tamouh Healthcare, is believed to be the region’s first PCR testing laboratory within […]

Newcastle Airport upgrade added to Australia’s Priority List

Infrastructure Australia (IA), the nation’s independent infrastructure advisor, has today announced that Newcastle Airport’s proposed upgrade has been added to its 2021 Priority List. The associated Williamtown Special Activation Precinct, which surrounds the airport and was recently announced by the NSW Government, has also been included. In response, Newcastle Airport CEO, Dr Peter Cock, said […]

New duty free outlet opens at Kannur International Airport

GMR Kannur Duty Free Services Ltd today launched its first duty free outlet amid much fanfare and enthusiasm at the Kannur International Airport. Located at International Arrivals, the new outlet offers an assortment of some of the world’s most popular brands across liquor, perfume, confectionery, tobacco, travel essentials and authentic handpicked souvenirs. Rajesh Arora, CEO […]

Grab yourself a bargain in Brisbane Airport’s Lost Property Auction

Jewellery, laptops, headphones, surf boards, artwork and a circular saw were among the items left behind by passengers at Brisbane Airport last year, and are now up for grabs in its annual Lost Property Auction. Hundreds of valuables go up for auction today, with bidding remaining open until Sunday 21 February and, for the third […]

Compulsory COVID-19 testing for airport staff to begin in Hong Kong

Hong Kong International Airport is to launch COVID-19 testing schemes for airport staff who are subject to the requirements stipulated in the government’s compulsory testing notice issued today. The Hong Kong Government’s notice requires that everyone employed at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) or providing a hired service in the airport area between now and […]

Traffic data shows ‘dismal’ numbers for region’s airlines in 2020

Asia-Pacific based airlines suffered a huge downturn in traffic in 2020, the extent of the decline being revealed today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA), which says that its members handled only 18% of the passengers they boarded in 2019. The worst 12 month decline in the history of commercial aviation in the […]

Industry news

News, views and reviews from ACI’s Asia-Pacific and global World Business partners. NEW GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP FOR PLAZA PREMIUM GROUP Plaza Premium Group has taken its Allways meet and assist service offering to another level by forming a strategic partnership with YQ Now, which has a presence at 600 airports in 140 countries across the globe. […]

Solar flair

Asia-Pacific Airports takes a closer look at the development of a solar energy farm at Melbourne Airport. A new 10 MW solar energy farm is taking shape at Melbourne Airport, which is set to produce enough clean energy to provide power to all four passenger terminals. The renewable solar farm will generate 16.8 GWh of […]

Big business

Joe Bates turns the spotlight on Asia-Pacific’s global airport operators and finds out more about the regional development plans of VINCI Airports and the Zurich Airport Group. While expansion hasn’t exactly been a top priority in 2020, all of the region’s global airport operators – those with equity stakes in airports in more than one […]

Jordan’s Queen Alia signs ‘Airports for Trust’ charter

The world’s biggest airport group comprising gateways operated by France’s Groupe ADP and Turkey’s TAV Airports have signed the ‘Airports for Trust’ charter, announcing their shared ambition to build an even more sustainable and responsible airport industry. The airports span the world and range from hubs like Paris CDG in Europe to Queen Alia in […]

Refurbished Plaza Premium Lounge opens at Hyderabad-Rajiv Gandhi

The Plaza Premium Group has opened its newly refurbished lounge in the Domestic departures area at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport. The new and improved facility is spread over an area of 773 square metres, can accommodate over 200 passengers and boasts facilities ranging from work stations, a dining area and private seating zone for […]

Striving for excellence

In this exclusive Q&A, Hamad International Airport’s senior vice president for technology and innovation, Suhail Kadri, discusses his gateway’s IT strategy. What is the philosophy/strategy of Hamad International Airport (HIA) when it comes to new technology? Our goal is to be the best airport in the world and this ambition ensures that we have harnessed […]

End of month opening date for Bahrain’s new terminal

Bahrain International Airport today announced that its long awaited new $1.1 billion terminal will open for business on January 28. According to Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), moving operations to the new state-of-the-art facility is a major step towards achieving the Kingdom’s ambitious Economic Vision 2030. The vision is based on diversification and sustainability goals and […]

ACI Asia-Pacific news

Communications manager, Samantha Solomon, rounds-up the latest news and developments from ACI Asia-Pacific. VIRTUAL WBP ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSES ROAD TO RECOVERY ACI Asia-Pacific recently hosted its first virtual roundtable event for the region’s World Business Partners, which provided companies from multiple disciplines with the opportunity to hear first-hand from airport leaders about their perspectives on aviation’s […]

Regional news

A snapshot of the biggest news stories from across the region. NEW INDIAN AIRPORT OPERATOR The Adani Group has officially taken over responsibility for operating Ahmedabad, Lucknow and Mangaluru airports in India. It will also be responsible for managing and developing each airport and their respective infrastructure for the next 50 years while former operator, […]

Making history: Dubai International Airport

Asia-Pacific Airports celebrates the 60th anniversary of Dubai International (DXB) and reflects on its response to COVID-19 and planned future development. Celebrating success is not something we did much of in 2020, so it seemed only right that we change that in our final issue of the year by turning the spotlight on Dubai International […]

Ireland’s daa international to manage Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea airport

Saudi Arabia’s planned new Red Sea airport is to be managed by daa international, the international business subsidiary of the operator of Ireland’s Dublin and Cork airports. The Red Sea Project is a major development being built over 28,000 square kilometres on Saudi Arabia’s west coast to create a new luxury tourism destination. The first […]

View from the top

Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on ACI Asia-Pacific’s Regional Board meeting and the success of ACI’s Airport Health Accreditation and Airport Carbon Accreditation programmes. The continued devastating impact of the global pandemic means that the world is in a very different place at the beginning of the new decade than it was at the beginning […]

New Year traffic rise expected at Dubai International Airport

Dubai Airports is gearing up for an upsurge in the number of passengers expected to pass through Dubai International (DXB) over the next few days. It is estimated that 545,000 passengers will use DXB between January 1-7, with throughput peaking on January the 2nd and 3rd when more than 78,000 travellers are expected to depart […]

Plaza Premium boosts hospitality offering with marhaba partnership

Plaza Premium Group and marbaba have formed a strategic partnership to enhance their offering of airport lounges and meet and greet services around the world. The partnership will see both companies expand market presence by consolidating service distribution and customer engagement through integrated cross-selling capabilities. It will initially cover major airports in strategic markets across […]

A step closer to reality for Delhi’s new international airport

Delhi Noida International Airport will boast a passenger terminal designed by architects Grimshaw, Nordic – Office of Architecture, Haptic and Indian practice STUP. The team was selected from a shortlist of three by Zurich Airport International for “demonstrating a proficiency in balancing passenger comfort with sustainability, and timeless design with flexibility for future needs”. The […]

Brisbane Airport’s domestic traffic bouncing back

Brisbane Airport (BNE) is set to welcome more than 30,000 daily passengers tomorrow for the first time since March 16, declaring the milestone a clear sign that domestic travel is recovering. Specifically, on Friday, the airport’s Domestic Terminal will see more than 16,000 arrivals and 14,000 departing passengers from a total of 309 flights. Off the back of interstate borders re-opening, […]

Airport Health Accreditation for Jordan’s Queen Alia International Airport

AIG has announced that Jordan’s Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) has received ACI’s Airport Health Accreditation in recognition of its efforts to deliver a safe airport experience to passengers in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. As both QAIA and the aviation industry at large remain considerably impacted by the unprecedented global health crisis, the […]

New screening technology for Hamad International Airport

Qatar’s Hamad International Airport (HIA) has become the first airport in the Middle East to install Smiths Detection’s HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX machines, which utilises Computed Tomography (CT) technology to X-ray screen carry-on baggage at security checkpoints. The new additions are expected to help expedite the security screening process by allowing passengers to keep electronic devices […]

Hyderabad’s duty free operator goes the extra mile for customers

Hyderabad-Rajiv Gandhi International Airport’s duty free operator, Hyderabad Duty Free (HDF), has launched a WhatsApp Virtual Assistant Chat-bot service that allows it communicate with passengers on international flights and answer any queries. Leveraging the massive global WhatsApp user base of over 2.7 billion users, the airport believes that the new Chat-bot service is a “convenient […]

ACI APA 2020, ISSUE 04

In the spotlight: Dubai International’s 60th anniversaryInnovation pioneer: Doha’s IT philosophySpecial report: Asia-Pacific’s global airport operatorsPlus: ACI Asia-Pacific, Regional and WBP news Read the issue online Download the issue View from the top Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on ACI Asia-Pacific’s Regional Board meeting and the success of ACI’s Airport Health Accreditation and Airport Carbon Accreditation […]

Christchurch sets new benchmark for Airport Carbon Accreditation programme

Christchurch Airport has become the first airport in the the world to reach Level 4 Transformation status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. The New Zealand gateway believes that the high achievement is evidence of its continued efforts to align its carbon management strategy with the global climate goals. It also follows ACI’s recent announcement […]

New China Duty Free Group partnership for The Design Solution

The Design Solution is to work with the China Duty Free Group (CDFG) as the retail giant accelerates its growth in China and the extended region. It joins a select group of retail design agency partners that will work with CDFG on a range of projects to support it in bids for new space and […]

Smart travel on the agenda at Abu Dhabi International Airport

Abu Dhabi International Airport is trialling a new enhanced ‘Smart Travel’ system, which it is confident will “shorten queues and streamline processes throughout the airport to deliver a smoother and more seamless passenger experience”. Developed by airport operator, Abu Dhabi Airports, in partnership with ConvergentAI and powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), the new system is […]

Israeli delegation visits Dubai ahead of launch of new flights to Tel Aviv

Dubai Airports, operator of Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC), received a delegation of representatives of Israeli airlines El Al, Israir and Arkia at its corporate offices at DXB on Tuesday morning. The delegation’s visit follows the signing of a number of bilateral agreements between the two countries, and the recently announced launch […]

APTRA’s COVID-19 testing campaign to governments gaining traction

The Asia Pacific Travel Retail Association’s call for governments to implement standardised COVID-19 testing on passengers is beginning gain some traction, with 10 states across the region responding “positively” to the campaign. Across the aviation, travel and tourism industries, a wide range of stakeholders are increasingly aligned in calling for increased testing as a key […]

Latest airline traffic figures make for gloomy reading

The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) today revealed that its preliminary traffic figures for September show that “both international passenger and cargo demand is at markedly depressed levels, with no sign of recovery in sight”. The 1.1 million international passengers that flew on Asia-Pacific airlines in September, was just 3.6% of the 30 million […]

Muscat becomes first Middle East airport to gain health accreditation

Muscat International Airport in Oman has become the first airport in the Middle East to be accredited under ACIs Airport Health Accreditation programme. “We spared no initiative to ensure our passengers feel secure going through our airports,” said Oman Airports CEO, Sheikh Aimen bin Ahmed Al Hosni. “Planning and implementing the highest international standards of […]

Hamad’s health and safety measures recognised by BSI certification

Hamad International Airport has become the first gateway in the world to achieve independent verification from BSI (British Standards Institution) for its implementation of ICAO’s COVID-19 Aviation Health Safety Protocols. The verification for Hamad International Airport (HIA) was conducted following its successful audit for compliance of measures outlined by the ICAO Council Aviation Recovery Taskforce […]

Emirates unveils new self-service kiosks at Dubai hub

Emirates has introduced self check-in and bag drop kiosks for what it hopes will ensure a “more seamless airport experience” in Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport. The service is now available to customers travelling to all destinations except to the US, Canada, China, India and Hong Kong due to additional requirements from these destinations. […]

ACI APA 2020, ISSUE 03

In the spotlight: Canberra Airport Special report: Resuscitating commercial revenues Design & Build: Delhi Noida International Airport Plus: Investor appeal of airports & Industry news Read the online issue Download the issue View from the top Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on ACI Asia-Pacific’s efforts to support the region’s airports through COVID-19 and help reboot […]

APTRA calls for alignment on government responses to COVID-19

The Asia Pacific Travel Retail Association (APTRA) has launched a campaign to over 45 individual governments across the region with a proposal for regional alignment on quarantine rules and testing on arrival and departure at airports, in a move that would safeguard public health and promote industry recovery. Reflecting the views of many of its […]

Airport Health Accreditation for Hyderabad’s gateway to the world

Operator, GHIAL, has announced that Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport has achieved Airport Health Accreditation (AHA). The accreditation recognises the airport’s efforts to make it a safe environment for passengers and staff in line with ACI’s Aviation Business Restart and Recovery guidelines and ICAO Council Aviation Recovery Task Force (CART) Recommendations along with industry best […]

Jordan’s Queen Alia International Airport renews carbon neutral status

Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) has successfully renewed and extended its Level 3+ ‘Neutrality’ status in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) programme. As the sole airport to have attained the ACA Level 3+ ‘Neutrality’ in the region, QAIA insists that it continuously deploys best environmental practices and periodically updates its energy conservation procedures. Actions, it […]

Incheon becomes Asia-Pacific’s first airport health accredited gateway

ACI Asia-Pacific today announced that Incheon International Airport in Seoul, South Korea, has become the first airport in the region to be accredited under the ACI Airport Health Accreditation programme. ACI’s Airport Health Accreditation programme assists airports by assessing new health measures and procedures introduced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic in accordance with ICAO Council […]

ACI Asia-Pacific calls for end to quarantine requirements

ACI Asia-Pacific is urging governments to replace quarantine requirements with testing and contact tracing protocols to ensure the sector’s survival amid a worsening situation for airports in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. The latest preliminary forecast figures show that Asia-Pacific and Middle East airports will lose 55% and 60% passenger volume by the end of […]

Hong Kong extends relief package to airport community until October

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) today announced that its relief package for the airport community will extend for another two months to end of October 2020 in view of the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The coronavirus pandemic and continuing political unrest in Hong Kong has had a huge impact on traffic at Hong […]

Industry news

News, views and reviews from ACI’s Asia-Pacific and global World Business Partners. Revamping the retail offerings in Beijing Capital’s Terminal 3 Beijing Capital International Airport has appointed a UK based airport design consultancy to help it redevelop and expand the commercial planning and design of the international departure lounge in Terminal 3. The airport wants […]

China’s aerotropolis ambitions

Mainland China has fully embraced the aerotropolis concept with over 100 hugely ambitious  projects now underway across the country, writes Dr John Kasarda. Asia leads the way in airport city and aerotropolis development and China is the region’s most enthusiastic adopter of the aerotropolis model, with more than 100 of its airports and their surrounding […]

Game changing new runway planned for Chatham Islands

The NZ Airports Association (NZ Airports) has welcomed the government’s announcement that the Chatham Islands will receive NZ$40m in COVID-19 recovery funding, the great majority of which will go to upgrading the runway at Tuuta Airport, allowing larger aircraft to land. The association’s chief executive, Kevin Ward, said the investment will be a real and […]

Changing times

Cameron Mann considers the impact COVID-19 is likely to have on passenger facilitation at airports as the industry strives to provide a safe and secure aviation ecosystem. Aviation continues to advocate for a risk-based approach to security, which effectively involves concentrating on and understanding individuals, and spending the most time dealing with those you know […]

Playing the long game

Sustainable design must be high on the agenda of the world’s airports post COVID-19 to enable the industry to build back better, writes Roger Swinbourne, Arup’s sustainability leader for the Australasia region. Sustainability is a concept that aims to optimise outcomes for human and natural environments, both now and with a view to the long-term […]

Airlines urge governments to do more to kick-start international travel

The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) is urging governments to ease what it claims are “unduly onerous restrictions on international air travel” to re-establish global connectivity with evidence-based measures to safeguard public health. More than six months into the COVID-19 pandemic, the Asia Pacific air transport industry notes that it is taking initial steps […]

Touchless travel

Airports are leaders in the use of new technology, which will make touchless travel possible and hasten aviation’s recovery from COVID-19, writes Collins Aerospace’s Tony Chapman. There was a time not long ago when commercial airline passengers arrived early at airports to shop at high-end boutiques, eat at nice restaurants and enjoy a cocktail before […]

Talking shop

Sunil Tuli, president of the Asia Pacific Travel Retail Association (APTRA) and group chief executive of King Power Group (Hong Kong) shares an industry perspective on the COVID-19 pandemic. As air travel virtually ground to a halt across Asia-Pacific in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, so too did an essential lifeline of over $36 […]

Queen Alia International Airport to modernise its IT systems

Queen Alia operator, Airport International Group (AIG), is to modernise its IT systems in partnership with Amadeus. The gateway says that the move will deliver a foundation for innovation and the flexibility to react to new market dynamics. The first phase of the implementation has just been completed with QAIA using Amadeus technology to integrate its […]

Global effort

Collaboration and co-operation will prove key to overcoming COVID-19, although aviation potentially faces a long road to recovery, writes Inderjit Singh. Aviation is one of the most important pillars of the global economy as the sector provides millions of jobs across the world and contributes heavily to its GDP.  It is also a survivor, as […]

ACI Asia-Pacific news

Communications manager, Samantha Solomon, reports on 2020’s Green Airports Recognition and Young Executive of the Year award winners; a LinkedIn milestone and the formation of a Regional COVID-19 Taskforce. VIRTUAL CELEBRATION FOR GREEN AIRPORT RECOGNITION WINNERS Take a bow Kaohsiung International Airport (Kaohsiung City, Chinese Taipei), Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (Hyderabad, India) and Taoyuan International […]

Road to recovery

Joe Bates provides a snapshot of how the region’s airports have responded to the COVID-19 pandemic and are planning for a brighter future. The region’s airports have turned to technology and new processes and procedures to ensure that they are equipped, ready and able to handle passengers when government’s finally lift travel restrictions and commercial […]

Dubai International Airport welcomes back foreign carriers

Today marked another milestone day in Dubai International Airport’s recovery from the COVID-19 as the UAE gateway welcomed the resumption of scheduled operations by foreign carriers. A total of 13 international airlines resumed scheduled flights this week as Dubai, and Dubai International Airport (DXB), effectively opened for business to overseas tourists from July 7. Airlines […]

View from the top

Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the impact of COVID-19, ACI Asia-Pacific’s recent virtual Regional Board meeting and Assembly, new Strategic Plan and a host of other issues. From a period of sustained passenger traffic growth in 2019 to the halfway point of 2020, the industry is now in survival mode, crippled by the loss […]

New airport to be built to serve Saudi Arabian luxury resort

Saudi Arabia has unveiled plans for a new airport to serve what has been described as a new “ultra-luxury destination” on its Red Sea coast. The new destination is called AMAALA and the airport, which is slated for completion in 2023, will boast a design that that is said to have been inspired by the […]

ACI APA 2020, ISSUE 02

Issue theme: Passenger facilitation In the spotlight: Sustainable design Special report: China’s aerotropolis projects Plus: Airport retail & Industry news Read the online issue Download the issue View from the top Director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on the impact of COVID-19, ACI Asia-Pacific’s recent virtual Regional Board meeting and Assembly, new Strategic Plan and a […]

New COVID-19 measures unveiled at Singapore Changi

Singapore Changi claims that it has begun “transforming the passenger experience with new contactless and cleaning innovations for a safer, but yet seamless, airport journey”. It notes that the measures, which include touchless technology and autonomous cleaning robots, will be rolled out airport-wide in preparation for when air travel into and out of Singapore gradually […]

Kuwait’s new terminal to boast state-of-the-art hold baggage screening system

Smiths Detection, a leading threat-detection and security-technology company, will supply hold-baggage screening equipment for Kuwait’s new International Airport Terminal 2, which is currently under construction. The contract includes the installation of HI-SCAN 10080 XCT units for screening hold baggage. Terminal 2, which is intended to become an international transit hub, will have the ability to […]

Hokkaido Love! campaign launched to boost tourism to Japanese island

New Chitose Airport operator, Hokkaido Airports Co Ltd (HAP) has launched a social media marketing campaign in a bid to re-boot tourism to the Japanese island. Launched in conjunction with the Hokkaido government and the Hokkaido Tourism Organization, its HOKKAIDO LOVE! initiative is designed to encourage tourists to return to Japan’s northern most island, which […]

The region’s airports are ready for aviation to restart

Airports across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East are ready for the restart of the sector following the crippling effects of the COVID-19 pandemic with the ongoing implementation of a set of common public health measures, according to ACI Asia-Pacific. The association notes that they are ready they implemented measures in full support and alignment with […]

Interstate flight restrictions begin to lift at Canberra Airport

Canberra Airport has announced that passengers are now able to fly without restrictions to Sydney and Melbourne. Head of aviation, Michael Thomson, said that his gateway is open for business, and passengers are safe and secure to fly to and from Melbourne and Sydney for business and leisure. “We are very excited people can now […]

New master plan for Cambodia’s Sihanouk International Airport

Cambodia’s Sihanouk International Airport has unveiled a new master plan to accommodate its projected traffic growth for the next 20 years. Construction of a second passenger terminal between now and 2030, extending the airport’s runway by 800 metres to 3,300 metres, a new taxiway and additional aircraft stands are the key projects of Phase 1 […]

Transfer traffic to slowly resume in Hong Kong from June 1

Hong Kong International Airport has announced that it will commence “the gradual resumption of transfer/transit services” from Monday. Operator, Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), says that a host of enhanced health measures at the airport have made the June 1 date possible. In tandem with the gradual resumption of transfer/transit services, all passengers, including departing, arriving […]

Lagardére Travel Retail re-opens outlets in Australia and New Zealand

Lagardère Travel Retail Pacific has begun to re-open some of its stores across the region, starting with a handful of outlets in the domestic terminals at Auckland, Brisbane, Christchurch, Perth and Melbourne this week. According to the travel retailer, the small selection of stores will be used as test cases with restricted trading hours, with […]

EMIRATES UNVEILS HYGIENE KITS FOR PASSENGERS AS FLIGHTS RESUME

Emirates believes that it has set industry-leading safety standards for its passengers with the introduction of complimentary hygiene kits that include masks, gloves, antibacterial wipes and hand sanitiser. It states that the new hygiene kits, launched for today’s resumption of services to nine destinations from Dubai International Airport (DXB), show the care being taken at […]

QATAR AIRWAYS RESUMES FLIGHTS TO BRISBANE ON THURSDAY

Qatar Airways will resume services to Brisbane Airport this week, the first of three weekly scheduled services from Doha touching down at the Queensland gateway on Thursday. The services will operate under existing bilateral rights until 30 Jun 2020 with the airline carrying both commercial passengers and freight, providing a critical cargo channel for Australian […]

NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH

Airports across the world are actively working to reduce their noise footprint and engaging with their communities to create environmental capacity, writes Envirosuite’s senior aviation specialist, Matt Mills-Brooks. There are two types of constraints on airport growth, physical capacity, which relates to the limits imposed by the runway, terminal, security or in the case of […]

TIME TO GO DIGITAL?

ADB SAFEGATE’S Niclas Svedberg argues that adopting a digital apron will help airports reduce delays and cope with rising traffic demand. We all know how frustrating airport delays can be. Every month some 50,000 flights are cancelled, and more than half a million flights are delayed worldwide, costing airports billions in lost revenue. It’s why […]

FLOOD WARNING!

Vivek Sindhamani and Peter Vorage discuss the growing threat of flooding to airports and how some of the region’s major hubs are planning ahead to increase their resilience to rising water levels. During the past five years, over twenty major, and many more small-island airports, have flooded due to extreme rainfall events or storm surges […]

CARGO VOLUMES UP IN QATAR AS HAMAD PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

Hamad International Airport (HIA) has become the latest gateway to report an upturn in cargo volumes, Qatar’s hub handling 530,000 tonnes of freight (+4.7%) during the first quarter of 2020. The increase in cargo is partly attributed to Qatar Airways’ and HIA’s continued efforts to provide freighter services in response to the increased demand for […]

AVIATION’S CHALLENGE

Leonie Dobbie, aviation consultancy company WSP’s strategic aviation advisor, considers the benefits of embedding sustainability action into airport decision-making. From the 1991 Earth Summit in Rio to the 2015 Paris Agreement, policymakers have attempted 
to come to grips with the science and political-economic implications of climate change. Achieving the Paris Agreement goals requires that we […]

BRISBANE COMPLETES CONSTRUCTION OF NEW RUNWAY

Brisbane Airport (BNE) and construction partner Skyway are today celebrating the practical completion of the gateway’s new runway. Airport CEO, Gert-Jan de Graaff, recognised the milestone event, but noted that while today marked the end of the project, its was just the beginning for BNE and operator, Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC). “In many respects this […]

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

Get to know ACI Asia-Pacific’s new director general, Stefano Baronci, a little better in this Q&A with APA editor, Joe Bates. HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INTO AVIATION?I think, like many, I first got into aviation when I was kid as I fondly remember the excitement of going to Rome-Fiumicino Airport with my parents to […]

ACI APA 2020, ISSUE 01

Issue theme: Sustainable development Airport Report: GMR Airports Limited Special report: Meet the new director general Plus: Digital apron & Industry news Read the online issue: click here View from the top New ACI Asia-Pacific director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on an eventful start to 2020, planning ahead, leadership changes at ACI and the impact of the coronavirus. Regional news […]

INDUSTRY NEWS

News, views and reviews from ACI’s regional and global World Business Partners. HEINEMANN AUSTRALIA EXTENDS SYDNEY AIRPORT CONCESSION Heinemann Australia has celebrated five years at Sydney Airport by extending its Duty Free concession at the gateway until 2029. The news is a major coup for the company, which has operated a Heinemann Tax & Duty […]

LEADING THE WAY

Across Asia-Pacific, airports are responding to increased passenger numbers and environmental pressures with innovative, efficient and sustainable terminal designs, writes Benoy Singapore director, Terence Seah. Asia-Pacific (APAC) is one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world, with passenger numbers more than quadrupling over the last 15 years and both ACI and IATA forecasting that the […]

TESTING TIMES FOR REGION’S AIRPORTS AS TRAFFIC HITS ‘ROCK BOTTOM’

ACI Asia-Pacific believes that passenger numbers across the region have hit “rock bottom” based on new traffic figures that show a 95% decrease in throughput at 18 of the region’s busiest airports. The year-on-year traffic figures are for airports in the major aviation markets of Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. According to ACI Asia-Pacific, initial […]

ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL NEWS

A snapshot of some of the biggest stories from across the region. DXB retains statusas world’s busiest international airport Dubai International Airport (DXB) handled 86.4 million passengers in 2019 to retain its status as the world’s busiest international airport. The total secured its sixth successive year as the world’s busiest international gateway, ahead of long-time […]

GLOBAL AMBITIONS

Asia-Pacific Airports turns the spotlight on the GMR Group and its airport assets in India and across the planet. These are exciting times for India’s GMR group, which continues to develop and expand its airport network both at home and abroad and will shortly welcome a key new investment partner. On home turf in India, GMR […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NAMES YOUNG EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR

Central Japan International Airport’s Masahito Nakashima has joined a select club by being named ACI Asia-Pacific’s Young Executive of the Year. Nakashima, an assistant manager at Central Japan International Airport, is the 2020 winner of the annual award that is designed to encourage the develop of talented airport individuals across the Asia-Pacific region. He narrowly beat […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

The latest news from communications manager, Samantha Solomon, includes an update on ACI Asia-Pacific’s advocacy efforts, new dates for postponed events and a growing list of World Business Partners. ACI EVENTS RESCHEDULED FOLLOWING CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK  The organisers are pleased to announce that the ACI 12th Annual Airport Economics & Finance Conference and Exhibition and pre-conference […]

DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOVES QUICKLY TO HANDLE RAPID RISE IN CARGO

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has moved quickly to facilitate an increase in the number of cargo operations to increase the volume of perishables and pharmaceuticals. During March 2020, the volume of fruit and vegetables handled at DXB increased by 88.5% (18,164 tonnes) year-on-year, while the volume of pharmaceuticals also increased by 49.4% (12,500 tonnes), driven […]

VIEW FROM THE TOP

New ACI Asia-Pacific director general, Stefano Baronci, reflects on an eventful start to 2020, planning ahead, leadership changes at ACI and the impact of the coronavirus.  A number of very different events, some known to me in advance and others coming completely out of the blue, have helped make my first 100 days as the new director […]

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT URGED FOR DUTY FREE AND TRAVEL RETAIL INDUSTRY

The Asia Pacific Travel Retail Association (APTRA) is urging governments across the region to prioritise support packages for the travel retail industry to help many operators survive the coronavirus crisis. APTRA is writing to government policymakers responsible for determining Covid-19 fiscal relief and funding across ministerial offices including aviation, maritime, retail, F&B and tourism industries. […]

ACI CALLS FOR HELP FOR AIRPORTS TO SAVE JOBS AND CONNECTIVITY

ACI Asia-Pacific is urging governments across the Asia-Pacific and Middle East region to swiftly implement relief measures to safeguard airport employment and connectivity. Revised ACI revenue forecasts show the 2020 impact of the pandemic now stands at $23.9 billion for Asia-Pacific and $5.7 billion for the Middle East, impacting airports of all sizes. A prolonged […]

ACI CALLS FOR TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF AIRPORT SLOT REQUIREMENTS

As the COVID-19 outbreak continues to unfold, ACI World has called for the alleviation of airport slot usage requirements. Recognising the ripple effects of pursuing disparate approaches across different countries and airports, ACI World urges a harmonised approach through a global temporary suspension of airport slot usage requirements until June 30, 2020. ACI favours an […]

SIEMENS WINS KUNMING CHANGSHUI CONTRACT

Siemens Logistics has received an order to supply baggage handling and sorting technology for the Terminal 1 extension at Kunming Changshui International Airport in China. The order includes delivery of a highly developed early bag store (EBS) and the latest generation of the VarioTray technology. The latter consists of a tray-based conveyor line, a LineStacker […]

GOVERNMENT TO SUPPORT TAUPŌ AIRPORT UPGRADE

Government support announced today for upgrading and expanding New Zealand’s Taupō Airport has been welcomed as a timely boost that will give regions and businesses confidence in their communities’ abilities to ride out any tough times that may lie ahead. NZ Airports chief executive, Kevin Ward, said the NZ$5.87 million funding ($5m from the Provincial […]

HEINEMANN AUSTRALIA EXTENDS SYDNEY AIRPORT CONCESSION

Heinemann Australia has celebrated five years at Sydney Airport by extending its Duty Free concession at the gateway until 2029. The news is a major coup for the company, which has operated Heinemann Tax & Duty Free store at the airport since 2015. “I’m delighted that we have attained this agreement extension, as it not only […]

DUBAI WORLD CENTRAL ENJOYS BEST YEAR YET

Dubai World Central (DWC) registered its best year to date in 2019, handling a record 1.6 million passengers, although the figures are slightly misleading as the huge 81.5% upturn in traffic owes a lot to the transfer of flights to the airport from Dubai International (DXB) while its southern runway was being revamped. Indeed, DXB’s southern […]

INDUSTRY PARTNERS FORM MRO BLOCKCHAIN ALLIANCE

Key industry partners announced today the launch of the MRO Blockchain Alliance, the air transport’s first industry-wide investigation into the use of blockchain to track, trace and record aircraft parts.  The new alliance comprises leading organisations covering every aspect of the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) chain, from part manufacture and repairs to logistics and […]

FACELIFT AND EXPANSION PLANNED FOR SINGAPORE CHANGI’S TERMINAL 2

Work will commence on the expansion and renovation of Singapore Changi’s Terminal 2 next month as operator, Changi Airport Group (CAG) strives to make the airport bigger and better to cope with growing demand. The work marks the beginning of a multi-year expansion project which will increase T2’s handling capacity, as well as to replace […]

TRAFFIC RISES BY 10% AT CAMBODIA’S AIRPORTS

Cambodia’s airports enjoyed a good 2019, with passenger numbers up by 10.2% at the country’s three main gateways – Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville. A total of 11.6 million passengers passed through the airports last year as Phnom Penh handled a record six million passengers (+11.2%) and Sihanoukville 1.6 million (+158%), although traffic at […]

NEW TECHNOLOGY TO BOOST YANGON’S OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY

Myanmar’s Yangon International Airport has turned to technology in a bid to boost its operational efficiency and passenger handling capability. The airport has introduced SITA’s Airport Management solution, which enables the gateweay and its stakeholders, including airlines and ground handlers, to collaborate around the same real-time information and make fully-informed decisions on resources. According to […]

BIGGER AND BETTER

What next for Hamad International Airport? Joe Bates reviews the gateway’s newly unveiled development plans. Qatar’s Hamad International Airport, one of the world’s newest hubs having only opened in 2014, is to expand its concourses to raise its capacity to 60 million passengers per annum. The expansion project will feature a spectacular 10,000sqm indoor tropical […]

TIME FOR SOME ZZZ’S

Singapore Changi retained its title as the world’s most sleep friendly gateway in Sleeping in Airports’ annual passenger poll, writes Joe Bates. Airports located in ACI’s Asia-Pacific region have once again dominated Sleeping in Airports’ annual survey for the best gateways to use, and take a nap in, in 2019, with Singapore Changi and Incheon […]

GOING GREEN!

Karl Lyndon, global aviation sector leader at integrated engineering consultancy, BuroHappold, explores the growing focus on greening airport terminal buildings. The aviation sector has been attracting a lot of attention recently – and not all of it for the right reasons. The new trend of ‘flight shaming’ in a bid to discourage air travel and […]

INDUSTRY NEWS

News, views and reviews from ACI’s regional and global World Business Partners. MELBOURNE’S NEW CT SECURITY SCREENING TECHNOLOGY Melbourne (MEL) has become the first major Australian airport to permanently adopt Computed Tomography (CT) X-ray screening technology following the installation of new state-of-the-art Smiths Detection equipment at the security checkpoints in Terminal 4. The technology allows […]

TO 2040 AND BEYOND

Joe Bates reports on Wellington Airport’s new master plan, which is designed to ensure that it has the infrastructure to handle the doubling of passenger traffic over the next 20 years. Wellington Airport has unveiled the master plan that it believes will ensure that it is equipped for growth for the next 20 years. With […]

LEADERSHIP CHANGE FOR NORTHERN TERRITORY AIRPORTS IN 2020

Northern Territory Airports (NT Airports) today announced that long-standing CEO, Ian Kew, is to retire in March 2020 and be replaced by Tony Edmondstone. Kew has led the airport operator since it was privatised 19 years ago, helping transform it from a federal government run business into the commercial success it is today. Today over […]

READY FOR TAKE-OFF

It will be all systems go for Indonesia’s new Yogyakarta International Airport in 2020 when it fully opens its facilities, writes Joe Bates. Built to replace the old and outdated Adisutjipto International Airport (JOG), Yogyakarta International Airport (YIA) is Indonesia’s newest gateway, although it won’t really come into its own until its infrastructure fully opens in 2020. […]

OUT TO IMPRESS

New images give travellers a sneak preview of what they can expect from Sydney’s new A$5.3 billion airport when it opens for business in 2026. Zaha Hadid Architects and Cox Architecture have won the international competition to design the new Western Sydney Airport (WSA). The ZHA/COX team, which will now act as master architect for the […]

AUCKLAND UNVEILS NEW E-GATES FOR DEPARTING PASSENGERS

Auckland Airport is enhancing the experience for international travellers with the launch of new automated pre-security gates. From today, travellers will pass through 12 new e-Gates that will scan boarding passes and grant them access to security areas. Developed in partnership with Vision-Box, the e-Gates mark the first phase of a new technology application that […]

VAN DON IN VIETNAM NAMED WORLD’S LEADING NEW AIRPORT

Van Don International Airport in northeast Vietnam has been named ‘World’s Leading New Airport 2019′ at the 26th annual World Travel Awards (WTA).This is only the second year WTA has presented an award for this category, which assesses a new airport’s performance based on the overall design, service quality and passengers’ satisfaction, and how the complete passenger […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

Assistant manager for external affairs, Samantha Solomon, reports on the announcement of a new regional director, a successful Trinity Forum and the latest news from ACI Asia-Pacific. ACI Asia-Pacific Board appoints new director general Stefano Baronci, the current director of economics at ACI World, has been appointed the new director general of ACI Asia-Pacific and […]

THE FUTURE IS NOW

Asia-Pacific Airports takes a closer look at the design and development of China’s new mega hub, Beijing Daxing International Airport. The world’s newest major airport, Beijing Daxing, opened for business in late September as China marked another major milestone in the modernisation and expansion of its aviation infrastructure. The new $12.9 billion gateway is one of […]

ACI APA 2019, ISSUE 04

In the spotlight: Design & Build Airport Report: Erbil Special report: Sleep friendly airports Plus: ACI Asis-Pacific & Industry news Read the online issue: click here View from the top In her final article for Asia-Pacific Airports (APA) magazine, outgoing regional director, Patti Chau, reflects on her legacy at ACI and reports on the organisation’s ongoing regional and global advocacy […]

BACK ON TRACK

How is one of the world’s newest gateways, Erbil International Airport in Iraq, faring nine years after opening? Andrew Jones reports. Erbil International Airport in Iraq is one of the world’s newer gateways and an aviation success story in a country where success, development and progress are rarely found. This year despite a challenging operating […]

GOLD COAST EXTENDS ITS IT PARTNERSHIP WITH SITA

Gold Coast Airport in Australia has extended its partnership for passenger and baggage technology with global IT provider, SITA, until 2024. The new agreement continues the airport’s close relationship with SITA, which has been in place for more than 10 years. Gold Coast Airport uses SITA’s common-use platform, together with self-service bag drop and check-in kiosks.  […]

INDUSTRY NEWS

News, views and reviews from ACI’s regional and global World Business Partners. Tech savvy travellers driving airport strategies The demands of the growing number of tech-savvy travellers will have the biggest impact on the digital plans of airports and airlines over the next six years to 2025, according to industry executives quizzed for SITA’s new […]

RIYADH’S RETAIL REVAMP

Asia-Pacific Airports takes a closer look at plans to enhance the retail offering at Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport in Saudi Arabia. Passenger numbers are rising across the Middle East, and with forecasts predicting that this upward trajectory is set to continue in the long-term, many of the region’s airports are looking to expand their […]

BOTTEGA PROSECCO BAR & CRAFT BEER OUTLET OPENS AT DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

The new Bottega Prosecco Bar has opened in Concourse at Dubai International Airport (DXB), marking the 25th opening of the successful format, five years after its debut. The venue, the brand’s second site in UAE, results from the partnership with global travel restaurateur HMSHost International. Eugene Barry, executive vice president, commercial, at Dubai Airports said: “We […]

ARE YOU BEING SERVED?

What are the prerequisites to delivering exceptional customer experience along all touchpoints of the passenger journey? Redwater Consulting Group’s Kateryna Hess investigates. Customer experience (CX) has become a buzz word in today’s service industries from telecommunications, financial institutions and travel organisations to infrastructure providers. Consumers have become more connected and well informed about prices and […]

LIGHT RELIEF

Smart-tinting glass can have a hugely positive impact on the airport experience for passengers and potentially boost commercial revenues, writes David Yim. Airports are some of the most visited places in the world, and they are expected to become even busier in the years ahead as they evolve into more than just transit hubs. The recently-opened Jewel at […]

NEW SENSATION!

Abu Dhabi Airports CEO, Bryan Thompson, tells us a little more about the type of F&B innovation we can expect to find in Abu Dhabi International Airport’s new Midfield Terminal. The new Midfield Terminal at Abu Dhabi International Airport is the culmination of decades of innovation in aviation. Abu Dhabi Airports has invested heavily in ensuring that the […]

WHAT’S IN STORE?

Joe Bates takes a closer look at the opening of some innovative new retail/F&B outlets across the region. SSP to be key F&B operator at Beijing Daxing SSP Group has secured three contracts to open six food and beverage units at the new Beijing Daxing International Airport. As the key food and beverage operator at […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

ACI Asia-Pacific reports on the latest events, news and developments from across the busy region. ACI has strong presence at 56th DGCA Conference An ACI delegation spearheaded by ACI World director general, Angela Gittens, and ACI Asia-Pacific’s regional director, Patti Chau, and deputy director, Ada Tse, attended ICAO’s recent Conference of Directors General of Civil […]

TODAY’S SPECIAL

Pragma Consulting’s Alex Avery discusses how food and beverage is transforming airport retail. Whilst the challenges of delivering growth in retail are well documented, F&B continues to be the star performer for many airports. Pragma has seen annual growth in spend per passenger of up to 15% in some locations. In our opinion, there are […]

ACI WORLD’S ECONOMICS DIRECTOR TO BE NEW DIRECTOR GENERAL OF ACI ASIA-PACIFIC

Stefano Baronci is to succeed the outgoing Patti Chau as the head of ACI’s Asia-Pacific region. Baronci, the current director of economics at ACI World, will assume the role of director general of ACI Asia-Pacific in December. Chau, who has served as the regional director of ACI Asia-Pacific for the last eight years, is stepping […]

BACK TO BASICS

Concentrating on the basics and keeping things simple can prove the catalyst for improved duty free revenues at airports, writes Paccaya Resource’s Andrew Ford. Like so many of us, I often read articles promoting the virtues of improved retail ideas and increased non-aeronautical revenues, but where are the articles highlighting the real grass roots benefits […]

EXCITING TIMES

Brisbane Airport Corporation CEO, Gert-Jan de Graaff, talks to Joe Bates about the hugely ambitious development plans that tempted him back to the Queensland gateway. It says something about the appeal of Brisbane Airport and its ambitious development plans that CEO, Gert-Jan de Graaff, admits that he knew he would be leaving New York and […]

ACI APA 2019, ISSUE 03

In the spotlight: Retail/F&B Airport Report: Brisbane Special report: Customer service Plus: Regional & Industry news Read the online issue: click here View from the top Regional director, Patti Chau, reflects on ACI Asia-Pacific’s advocacy efforts at ICAO conferences and meetings, the developing Central Asia region, latest traffic trends and upcoming events. Regional News A snapshot of some of the […]

WOLFGANG PUCK’S LATEST AIRPORT RESTAURANT OPENS IN HONG KONG

Celebrity chef, Wolfgang Puck, made a flying visit to Hong Kong yesterday to open his latest airport eatery, the Wolfgang Puck Kitchen Restaurant in the Arrivals Hall of Hong Kong International Airport. Opened in partnership with Lagardère Travel Retail, his new restaurant will deliver promises to deliver a Californian-inspired interpretation of global comfort fare using […]

QUEEN ALIA WELCOMES LAUNCH OF TRANSAVIA FLIGHTS TO AMSTERDAM

Transavia has become the latest new airline to launch services to Jordan’s Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA). The Dutch low-cost carrier will operate three weekly flights between Amman and Amsterdam Schiphol. Its arrival underscores QAIA’s efforts to grow its airline network and offer passengers a wider range of direct routes to popular worldwide destinations. The inaugural flight was […]

CHINA OPENS NEW BEIJING DAXING INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

The world’s newest major airport, Beijing Daxing, opened for business today as China marked another major milestone in the modernisation and expansion of its aviation infrastructure. The new $12.9 billion gateway, designed in the shape of a starfish with five connected concourses, is one of the key developments in the modernisation and expansion of its […]

NEW SELF-SERVICE TECHNOLOGY COMING TO KRABI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Krabi International Airport in Thailand is to install self-service technology provided by SITA in line with its ambitions to become a regional aviation hub. The airport, operated by Thailand’s Department of Airports, is investing in SITA’s common-use passenger processing (CUPPS) platform, along with self-service check-in kiosks at both domestic and international terminals. Airport director, Attaporn Nuang-udom, says: […]

INDUSTRY NEWS

News, views and reviews from ACI’s regional and global World Business Partners. Bahrain’s vision of the future Bahrain International Airport’s new passenger terminal will boast a host of state-of-the-art technologies that include an Automated Border Control (ABC) platform supplied by Vision-Box. The ongoing Airport Modernisation Programme (AMP) is one of the biggest national projects in […]

RISING TO THE CHALLENGE

Taoyuan International Airport was one of the fastest growing cargo hubs in Asia-Pacific in 2018, writes Joe Bates. Having climbed its way into the top five busiest cargo gateways in Asia-Pacific in the last year, Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is determined to stay there by enhancing its services and facilities to ensure the even faster […]

CHALLENGING YEAR CONTINUES FOR ACI ASIA-PACIFIC AIRPORTS

Passenger traffic across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East increased by +2.1% and +8.1% respectively in June. However, in China, the overall passenger growth was negatively impacted by adverse weather conditions in the southern and eastern parts of the country, which caused significant flight cancellations at many airports. And, according to ACI figures, the domestic sector […]

CATHAY PACIFIC: CARGO GIANT

Cathay Pacific has the fleet, network and facilities in Hong Kong to grow its freight business in a challenging year for the cargo industry, writes Joe Bates. One of the top five airlines in the world for freight tonne kilometres, Cathay Pacific is the cargo giant at its Hong Kong home base and a major […]

BIGGER AND BETTER

We pay tribute to the 2018 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) customer experience award winners and talk to some of the CEOs of the successful gateways. It’s official, Beijing Capital, Delhi-Indira Gandhi, Mumbai-Chhatrapati Shivaji, Singapore Changi, Shanghai Pudong and Seoul–Gimpo are some of the best airports in the world for the delivery of customer service. All […]

HANDLE WITH CARE

Perishables are a growing source of cargo revenue in Dubai. Bernd Struck, dnata’s senior vice president for UAE Cargo and DWC airline services, talks to Joe Bates. How important is cargo to the success of dnata? We have continually expanded our global cargo operations in recent years and today provide quality and reliable cargo handling […]

MIXED FORTUNES IN JULY FOR ASIA-PACIFIC AIRLINES

Preliminary traffic figures for July released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed that international air passenger demand continued to grow moderately, supported by business and leisure related travel.However, falling exports and a worsening trade outlook led to further weakness in air cargo markets. The number of international passengers carried by the region’s […]

THE UAE’S STAR PERFORMER

Joe Bates talks to Faisal Al Mulla, director of cargo business management at Dubai Airports, operator of Dubai International Airport (DXB), the biggest cargo gateway in the Gulf and the sixth busiest in the world. How did Dubai International Airport (DXB) fare in 2018 in terms of cargo volumes? Cargo volumes at DXB dipped by […]

LEADING THE WAY

We discover more about Hong Kong International Airport’s plans to ensure that it remains the world’s busiest cargo airport for the foreseeable future. Hong Kong International Airport is quite simply the biggest cargo gateway on the planet, handling 700,000 tonnes more freight per annum that its nearest rival (Memphis) and 1.2 million more than third […]

TOKYO NARITA TO INSTALL AUTO BAG DROP UNITS AHEAD OF 2020 OLYMPICS

Narita International Airport has signed a contract with ICM Airport Technics for the installation of 72 self-service Auto Bag Drop (ABD) units ahead of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. Designed and built by ICM, the Series 7 ABD units will be progressively rolled out across all four terminals of Tokyo Narita. Multi-lingual and descrined as […]

NEW BAKERY AND SPECIALITY PUB OPEN AT CHANGI AIRPORT

Asian high street favourite, Tai Cheong Bakery, and Archipelago Craft Brew are the latest new F&B additions to Singapore Changi Airport. Introduced in partnership with the SSP Group, the new Tai Cheong Bakery is located landside at Changi Airport’s Terminal 3.  Established in 1954, Tai Cheong Bakery is one of Hong Kong’s most popular traditional […]

JEWEL IN THE CROWN

Asia-Pacific Airports finds out more about Singapore’s new mega retail, hospitality and leisure development, Jewel Changi Airport. The highly anticipated opening of Singapore Changi’s mega retail and lifestyle development, Jewel Changi Airport, has arguably taken non-aviation related activities at an airport to a new level and provided one of the world’s biggest hubs with a […]

GOING DIGITAL

Niranjan Navaratnarajah, cargo industry director for Unisys Asia Pacific, argues that real-time data is fundamental to a connected cargo supply chain to reduce idle time and increase visibility, transparency and security. We need to securely modernise today’s mostly manual and fragmented cargo distribution processes by going digital. Let’s face it, most of the cargo industry […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

Senior manager for external relations, Vivian Fung, reports on the latest ACI news, views and developments from the busy Asia-Pacific region and across the world. New additions to ACI Asia-Pacific Board Some familiar faces to ACI Asia-Pacific members will play an even greater role in the development of airports across the region over the next […]

ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL NEWS

A snapshot of some of the biggest stories from across the region. Another milestone for Hong Kong’s SKYCITY Hong Kong International Airport’s vision to transform itself from a city airport to an airport city is a step closer to reality following the handing over of a second key SKYCITY site to developers. Developers Roxy Limited, […]

TRAFFIC BOUNCES BACK AT CHINA’S AIRPORTS

Passenger numbers in China bounced back in May with Shanghai Pudong (+6.7%), Chengdu Shuangliu (+6.7%) and Shenzhen Bao’an (+6%) airports enjoying the biggest upturn in volumes. ACI, which today released the monthly traffic figures for airports across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, attributes the rise in throughput to the start of the holiday season in China. […]

WORLD IN MOTION

The challenges of growth, innovative technology and the customer experience were just a few of the topics on the agenda at this year’s ACI Asia-Pacific/World Annual General Assembly Conference & Exhibition in Hong Kong, writes Joe Bates. Hopes were high that this year’s joint ACI Asia-Pacific/World Annual General Assembly Conference & Exhibition (WAGA) in dynamic […]

PRIORITY PASS LOOKING TO DOUBLE ITS LOUNGE PORTFOLIO IN INDIA

Priority Pass is set to double its lounge portfolio in India over the next three years, building on its suite of 45 airport facilities in 20 cities and global network of more than 1,200 lounges. Collinson’s wholly-owned and operated airport infrastructure business, Airport Lounge Development (ALD), is also working with airports across India to identify […]

HONG KONG LAUNCHES ANNUAL ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT FESTIVAL

Hong Kong International Airport today launched its annual four-month long arts and entertainent festival which is designed to surprise and delight passengers  during one of its busiest times of the year.  According to operator, Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), passengers will be presented with “a vivid journey into local culture” during the four-month festival.  It […]

SECOND KEY SKYCITY SITE HANDED OVER TO DEVELOPERS

Hong Kong International Airport’s vision to transform itself from a city airport to an airport city is a step closer to reality today following the handing over a second key SKYCITY site to developers. Developers Roxy Limited, the wholly owned subsidiary of New World Development Company Limited, will build facilities in line with the airport’s plans to […]

ACI APA 2019, ISSUE 02

Focus on: Cargo In review: ACI Asia-Pacific/World Conference Special report: Jewel Changi Airport Plus: ASQ Winners & Industry news Read the online issue: click here View from the top Regional director, Patti Chau, reflects on her decision to leave her post at the end of the year, ACI Asia-Pacific’s important advocacy role and looks forward to some future events. Regional […]

BEIJING DAXING TO USE XSIGHT SYSTEMS’ FOD DETECTION SOLUTION

Beijing’s soon-to-open Daxing International Airport has selected Xsight Systems’ FOD Detection solution for installation on its East and North runways. The decision follows the Xsight System being awarded a similar contract for Beijing Capital International Airport’s East Runway earlier this year. “We are proud that Xsight’s global reputation as an industry leader is acknowledged by the […]

BRISBANE SET TO BECOME FIRST AUSTRALIAN AIRPORT TO OFFER DIRECT FLIGHTS TO CHICAGO

Brisbane Airport (BNE) is set to become the first Australian gateway to offer direct flights to Chicago when Qantas launches a new four-times weekly service in April 2020.  The new route is subject to the approval of the United States Department of Transportation, and comes at the same time as Qantas revealed plans to launch three-times […]

QUEEN ALIA OPTIMISTIC ABOUT TRAFFIC GROWTH AFTER RISE IN PASSENGER NUMBERS

Jordan’s Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) recorded a healthy 10.6% rise in passenger numbers in April, although its cargo volumes dipped by 5.8%. A total of 804,153 travellers passed through the gateway during the month, meaning that Amman’s gateway to the world welcomed 2.7 million passengers in the first four months of 2019. The year-to-date (YTD) […]

MELBOURNE AIRPORT EXTENDS ITS TECHNOLOGY PARTNERSHIP WITH SITA

Melbourne Airport has chosen to extend its contract with technology partner SITA for flexible and passenger-friendly technology to ready the airport for forecast passenger growth. The technology is part of the airport’s multi-billion dollar pipeline of investment that will see it welcome almost 70 million passengers annually by 2038. According to SITA, the passenger-friendly technologies will […]

PROFITABILITY FALLS IN 2018 BUT AIRLINES CONTINUE TO ADAPT TO DYNAMIC MARKET PLACE

Preliminary financial performance figures released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) revealed that the aggregated net earnings of Asia-Pacific airlines halved in 2018 to a combined $4.7 billion, from the $9.6 billion recorded in the previous year. Continued expansion in the global economy underpinned further growth in air passenger and air cargo […]

HUAWEI CHAIRMAN ADDRESSES CHINA CIVIL AVIATION DEVELOPMENT FORUM

Huawei rotating chairman, Guo Ping, today told the China Civil Aviation Development Forum in Beijing how he believes that 5G and artificial intelligence will enable ‘smart civil aviation’. Over 400 delegates from around the world were in attendance at the event which covered the topic of ‘Intelligent Aviation — High Quality Development in a New Scientific, […]

TURNING TO TECHNOLOGY

Pragma’s Alex Avery takes us through the impact of digitalisation on airport retail and what this potentially means for the future of shopping and dining at the world’s gateways. Technology has transformed our relationship with retail. From convenience, to single-click through to experiential retailing led by augmented reality. At the same time, consumers are demanding […]

MIXED FORTUNES FOR REGION’S AIRPORTS IN FEBRUARY AS TRAFFIC RISES

Passenger traffic across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East recorded moderate growth in February with monthly upturns of 2.7% and 2.5% respectively. China posted a robust growth of around 7%, sustained by solid domestic and leisure travel demand during the Lunar New Year. The top three airports with the most passenger volume increase from last year […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

Senior manager for external affairs, Vivian Fung, reports on the latest ACI news, views and developments from the busy Asia-Pacific region and across the world. ACI’s global climate action initiative continues to grow Airports continue to lead the way in the aviation industry’s efforts to reduce its impact on the environment, the latest figures from […]

FOCUSING ON THE PASSENGER

Sarah Samuel, Amadeus’ head of airport IT for Asia-Pacific, argues that the adoption of a common vision on new passenger-enabling technology will help airports address the challenge of rising demand. Airports across the Asia-Pacific region share a number of common capacity challenges, and if they are to meet them effectively, they must work collaboratively, towards […]

BEATING THE QUEUES

New SITA report confirms that journey smoothing technology makes people happy. Airline passengers are using automated technology for passport checks at double the rate recorded in 2017, according to the latest aviation IT research. Indeed, passengers are happier when technology smooths their way through passport checks and other aspects of their airport journey, reveals SITA’s 2019 […]

DESIGN & BUILD: TIANFU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Chengdu’s $11 billion second airport is set to open early next decade and transform air travel to the region. Sichuan province’s planned new Chengdu Tianfu International Airport is being designed by the China Southwest Architectural Design & Research Institute Corp Ltd (CSWADI) in partnership with ADP Ingénierie. Located 50 kilometres from downtown Chengdu and slated […]

BUY AND FLY

Joe Bates rounds-up some of the latest retail/F&B news, views and reviews from across the busy Asia-Pacific region. Cairns Airport has awarded global restaurateur HMSHost and Australian hospitality powerhouse, Red Rock Australia, concessions to operate a total of 13 new food and beverage outlets when the expansion of Terminal 2 (T2) is completed in 2020. […]

CPI TO HOLD SPECIALIST AIRPORT COMMERCIAL TRAINING COURSE IN SYDNEY

The bi-annual CPI Airport Commercial Development and Management Course for airport managers will be held once again in Sydney, Australia, from July 22-25, 2019, with registrations now open. The popular professional development course, run by leading global airport commercial consultancy Concession Planning International, attracts management from airports across the world who wish to gain a […]

ALWAYS LEARNING

Kevin Riordan, head of airports and checkpoint solutions at Smiths Detection, considers how artificial intelligence can help airport security. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is beginning to permeate every aspect of daily life, from garnering film recommendations on Netflix, through to fraud detection and cognitive robotics, and airport security is no exception. Machine learning is key to […]

BAHRAIN AIRPORT COMPANY REFLECTS ON IMPRESSIVE 2018 PERFORMANCE

Bahrain International Airport operator, Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), today anounced a US$50.9 million net profit in 2018, a significant jump compared to US$34 million the previous year. Commenting on the results, His Excellency the Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, Kamal bin Ahmed Mohammed, said: “These impressive figures are the result of collaborative efforts between BAC and […]

INDUSTRY NEWS – THE WAITING GAME

The waiting game Want to enjoy an easy, relaxed airport experience? It’s all about waiting, writes Christian Carstens, marketing manager at Veovo, BlipTrack. Waiting in line seems to be one of life’s inevitabilities, but what if there was a way to make airport queues move faster and keep the experience more pleasant for those in […]

THREE IS THE MAGIC NUMBER

Van Don International Airport, Vietnam’s impressive new gateway to Halong Bay, was one of three major new pieces of infrastructure to open on the same day in Quang Ninh province, writes Joe Bates. Van Don International Airport has become Vietnam’s first privately developed, constructed and operated commercial gateway after opening for business in the final […]

HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT: IN DEMAND

CEO, Fred Lam, talks to Joe Bates about Hong Kong International Airport’s plans to grow its cargo facilities and services, infrastructure development and coping with rising demand. With a record 74.7 million passengers passing through Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) in 2018, it is easy to forget that it is actually the world’s biggest cargo […]

NEW HOLD BAGGAGE SCREENING MACHINES FOR RIYADH GATEWAY

Egis has been awarded a contract by Riyadh Airports Company to provide it with design and project management consultancy services as it looks to replace the hold baggage screening (HBS) machines in Terminal 5 at King Khaled International Airport. Egis has been supporting development and expansion of Saudi Arabia’s second biggest airport for the last […]

BUSY START TO 2019 FOR ASIA-PACIFIC’S AIRPORTS

Joe Bates reports on the latest news, views and developments from across the busy Asia-Pacific region. Yangon ready for next step in its developmentMyanmar’s Yangon International Airport (YIA) is to be further upgraded to better equip it to accommodate more international traffic. Operator, Yangon Aerodrome Company Limited (YACL), has also revealed that it is stepping […]

ACI APA 2019, ISSUE 01

Focus on: IT innovation In the spotlight: Hong Kong International Airport Design & Build: Van Don & Chengdu Tianfu Plus: Retail/F&B enhancements & Industry news Read the online issue: click here   View from the top Regional director, Patti Chau, reflects on the important advocacy role of ACI and looks ahead to another busy and exciting year for the Asia-Pacific […]

NEWCASTLE AIRPORT WELCOMES NEWS OF SPECIAL ACTIVATION PRECINCT

Newcastle Airport in Australia has welcomed the news that its surrounds would potentially be declared a Special Activation Precinct if the NSW Liberal Party is re-elected. Speaking today, Newcastle Airport CEO, Peter Cock, said the future of Williamtown had the potential to be a great local success story. “There’s no doubt our region will strongly […]

NEW ZEALAND’S INVERCARGILL AIRPORT SET TO GET COUNTRY’S FIRST DIGITAL ATC TOWER

New Zealand’s first remotely operated digital air traffic control tower is a step closer to reality following the award of a contract to global technology provider Frequentis to develop a digital system for Invercargill Airport. It has been awarded the contract by air navigation services provider, Airways. Airways is pursuing digital tower technology as a national […]

QUEENSTOWN AIRPORT CORPORATION REPORTS ‘SOLID’ HALF-YEAR RESULTS

Queenstown Airport Corporation (QAC) has delivered a solid result for the six months ended December 31, 2018, reporting a net profit after tax of NZ$8.3 million. The figure is down 6.3% on same period last year, due to increased interest and depreciation expenses. Interest and depreciation expenses were higher by 14.8% due to major investments […]

ASIA-PACIFIC AIRPORTS RECOGNISED FOR THEIR GREEN INITIATIVES

ACI Asia-Pacific has once again recognised the ‘outstanding’ environmental achievements of nine airports in its annual Green Airports Recongition awards programme. Delhi-Indira Gandhi International Airport received the top ‘Platinum’ award in the Over 45 million passengers per annum category, followed by Mumbai-Chhatrapati Shivaji (Gold) and Hong Kong (Silver). Taoyuan International Airport (Platinum) triumphed in the […]

INDUSTRY NEWS – GROWTH AND INNOVATION

American Samoa mission for Woolpert Woolpert is to evaluate and rehabilitate the primary runway at Pago Pago International Airport (PPG) and rehabilitate, reconstruct and possibly extend the runway at Ofu Airport (Z08) in American Samoa. American Samoa, a territory of the United States, is comprised of a group of seven islands in the South Central […]

BETTER BUYS

Alex Avery looks at how innovation can shape the future of airport retail and enhance the passenger experience. Last year saw the top performing airports introduce pop-ups and experiential stores to encourage passengers to interact more with their retail offer. This has been supported by a big focus on making shopping as efficient and convenient […]

YANGON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT RECOGNISES THE SUPPORT OF ITS AIRLINE PARTNERS

Yangon International Airport (YIA) yesterday held a special reception to thank its airline partners for their support for its plans to enhance its facilities and work more closely together with them to ensure that it can handle the rise in passengers expected by Myanmar’s decision to relax its entry visa requirements. The reception – held […]

GREEN APPROACH

Asia-Pacific Airports turns the spotlight on the region’s ‘green’ leaders, environmental award winners and sustainability trendsetters. Airports continue to do their bit to reduce aviation’s impact on the environment, with ACI recently revealing that a total of 246 gateways across the planet now use its Airport Carbon Accreditation programme to manage and reduce their carbon […]

INTELLIGENT TRAVEL

Airport interest in blockchain technology is growing as the aviation industry invests around $40 billion per annum on IT, according to SITA’s new Air Transport IT Insights study.  Blockchain is fast emerging as the priority technology for future exploration among airport and airline CIOs globally, according to new research released by SITA. The 2018 version of its Air Transport IT […]

CATALYST FOR GROWTH

Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport has celebrated its 10th anniversary by opening a new Interim International Departures Terminal and revealing some bold expansion plans, writes Joe Bates. Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport hasn’t looked back since its opening 10 years ago, the recent inauguration of its Interim International Departures Terminal providing a perfect example of […]

CELEBRATION TIME

Our picture round-up pays tribute to the Asia-Pacific gateways whose outstanding levels of service led to them winning Airport Service Quality (ASQ) customer satisfaction awards. Asia-Pacific airports once again shone in this year’s ACI’s Airport Service Quality (ASQ) customer satisfaction survey, and many were on hand to pick up their prizes during a glittering awards […]

FAST GROWING HONG KONG SETS NEW TRAFFIC RECORDS IN 2018

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) enjoyed a record breaking 2018, handling an all-time high of 74.7 million passengers, 427,725 aircraft movements and 5.1 million tonnes of cargo. The figures represent upturns of 2.5%, 1.7% and 1.5% respectively on 2017. Fred Lam, CEO of Airport Authority Hong Kong, says: “It’s gratifying to see HKIA scale new heights […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

Vivian Fung reports on the latest news, views and developments from across the busy Asia-Pacific region. Big numbers attend Small and Emerging Airports Seminar Over 160 participants from 26 countries and territories across the Asia-Pacific region descended on beautiful Langkawi in October as Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) generously hosted the ACI Asia-Pacific Small and Emerging […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL COMMITTEES

October was a productive month with three ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Committees, with meetings taking place in Seoul, Langkawi and Osaka respectively. The last 2018 meeting of ACI Asia-Pacific’s Regional Operational Safety Committee was kindly hosted by Korea Airports Corporation in Seoul on October 8-10. Members (pictured above) report that it was a productive meeting as […]

MENZIES TO OPEN NEW CARGO FACILITIES AT CAIRNS AND AVALON AIRPORTS

Menzies Aviation is to expand its cargo operations in Australia, with the opening of two new cargo facilities at North Queensland’s Cairns Airport, and Melbourne Avalon Airport in Victoria. Menzies Aviation Cairns is a joint venture between Menzies Aviation and local aviation service provider, AT Group and will be ready for international cargo handling in […]

TIME FOR A NAP

As well as being customer service champions and environmental pioneers, Asia-Pacific airports are also fast developing a reputation for being the most sleep friendly in the world, writes Joe Bates. According to the most recent passenger poll on the website SleepingInAirports.net, the most ‘sleep friendly’ airport in the world is Singapore Changi followed by Incheon, […]

BUSY TIMES

Airport retail and F&B innovation was top of the agenda at the recent Trinity Forum in Shanghai. Asia-Pacific Airports looks back at some of the highlights. ACI World’s last big event of the year, The Trinity Forum, attracted over 500 delegates to Shanghai to address the theme of ‘The changing airport and travel retail commercial eco-system’. […]

THE FUTURE IS GREEN

Asia-Pacific Airports reports on some of the big stories to emerge from the Global Sustainable Aviation Summit in Geneva. Airports continue to do their bit to reduce aviation’s impact on the environment, with ACI revealing that a total of 246 airports now use its Airport Carbon Accreditation programme to manage and reduce their carbon footprint. […]

ACI APA 2018, ISSUE 04

Spotlight on: Award winning airports Featured airport: Hyderabad-Rajiv Gandhi Event review: The Trinity Forum Plus: Innovative retail & Airport IT trends Read the online issue: click here View from the top Regional director, Patti Chau, provides her thoughts on an exciting and productive end to 2018 for ACI Asia-Pacific. Exciting times Airport retail and F&B innovation was top of the […]

ANOTHER RECORD BREAKING YEAR FOR CAMBODIA’S AIRPORTS

Traffic continues to soar in Cambodia, more than 10 million passengers passing through the country’s international airports this year. It is the first time passenger numbers at  Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville international airports have hit the 10 million milestone. To mark the landmark event, festivities were held all day long at the three airports […]

ANDREW BRODIE NAMED AS THE NEW CEO OF SUNSHINE COAST AIRPORT

Australia’s Sunshine Coast Airport has announced the appointment of Andrew Brodie as its new CEO, succeeding veteran, Peter Pallot, who will retire from the role at the end of the year. For the past eight years, Brodie has worked in senior executive positions for Brisbane Airport Corporation, most recently as general manager for airline and […]

BRISBANE AIRPORT TO HOLD SECOND LOST PROPERTY AUCTION

Following the success of Brisbane Airport’s inaugural Online Lost Property Auction in 2017, members of the public will again be given the opportunity to bag a bargain, with thousands of valuables up for auction between 9am on Monday, November 26 and 7pm on Wednesday, December 5. All proceeds from this year’s auction will be donated […]

BAHRAIN DUTY FREE COMPANY AWARDED CONCESSION FOR NEW AIRPORT TERMINAL

Bahrain Duty Free Company has been awarded the concession to operate the retail outlets in the Departures area of Bahrain International Airport’s new passenger terminal. The contract was announed on the final day of the recent Bahrain International Airshow. His Excellency, the Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications and Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) chairman, Kamal bin […]

AUSTRALIAN AIRPORTS ASSOCIATION AWARD FOR SYDNEY AIRPORT

Take a bow Sydney Airport, which has been named as Australia’s top Capital City Airport for the second year running at the Australian Airports Association’s prestigious National Airport Industry Awards. The award recognises the airport’s ongoing commitment to providing a world-class passenger experience, sustainability initiatives, community investment and industry-leading innovation. Sydney Airport also won the […]

NEW SHOPPING CENTRE TO OPEN AT BRISBANE AIRPORT THIS WEEKEND

The brand new A$18 million Skygate Home & Life centre, the latest addition to Brisbane Airport’s thriving Skygate precinct, will celebrate its grand opening this weekend. Following 10 months of construction, the project adds an extra 9,260m² of retail space to the precinct that already boasts DFO Brisbane, Queensland’s only 24/7 Woolworths and more than […]

GROWTH AND INNOVATION

News, views and reviews from ACI’s regional and global World Business Partners. YVR’s new self-bag drop solution to go global Glidepath and Vancouver International Airport’s Innovative Travel Solutions (ITS) team have celebrated the installation of the first CHECKITXPRESS self-bag drop unit at the Canadian gateway. CHECKITXPRESS claims to be the world’s most accessible, efficient and […]

DESIGN AND BUILD

Joe Bates takes a closer look at some of the many development projects going on across the region. ACI’s Asia-Pacific region remains the hottest ticket in town for infrastructure development with a number of new airports being built while existing gateways continue to add new facilities. Indeed, as you may have read in the news […]

AGE CONCERN

With people living longer than ever before, catering to an aging population is now an essential part of the airport design process, writes Corgan’s Jonathan Massey. As airport terminals move beyond being buildings that are simply a necessary part of the mode of transportation to an accommodating and thoughtful experience, we must look closely at […]

ACI APA 2018, ISSUE 03

In the spotlight: Planning & Design Airport report: Honolulu Special report: Catering to the elderly Plus: ACI Asia-Pacific, regional & industry partner news Read the online issue: click here View from the top Regional director, Patti Chau, reflects on the importance of supportive regulation for aviation and one of the busiest ever years for ACI Asia-Pacific and industry events. News A snapshot of some of […]

GREEN HAWAII

Ross Higashi, head of Hawaii’s airports division, talks to Joe Bates about traffic growth, infrastructure development and sustainability initiatives at Honolulu’s Daniel K Inouye International Airport. Honolulu’s Daniel K Inouye International Airport (HNL) is the largest of Hawaii’s 15 airports and effectively the remote US island state’s gateway to the world, handling in excess of […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

Vivian Fung reports on the latest news, views and developments from across the busy Asia-Pacific region. ACI shows supports for Australia’s airports ACI Asia-Pacific’s regional director, Patti Chau, and ACI World director general, Angela Gittens, recently met with Australian MPs and key Australian airports to counter airline accusations that airports were hindering industry growth. Accusation […]

THE SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME

Vietnam’s planned new Long Thanh International Airport promises to be one of the most modern, innovative and exciting gateways in Asia-Pacific, writes Heerim’s Byungkoo Lee. Vietnam’s much-awaited new international airport is set to be built in Long Thanh, Dong Nai Province, around 40 kilometres east of Ho Chi Minh City. Slated to open in 2025, the $16.3 billion airport […]

ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL NEWS

A snapshot of some of the biggest stories from across the region. Sweet success Hong Kong International Airport is now even more colourful and appealing following the opening of an innovative new confectionery outlet containing eight sweet shops. SWEET DREAMS by HEINEMANN covers an 820sqm area in Terminal 1, which the duty free operator says […]

SOLAR PANELS INSTALLED ON THE ROOF OF HONG KONG’S SUPERTERMINAL 1

Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Ltd (Hactl) – Hong Kong International Airport’s largest independent cargo handler – has taken the next step in its ‘Green Terminal’ project, with the installation of 1,300sqm of solar panels on the roof of its SuperTerminal 1. Hactl’s new solar power installation will feature 518 panels with the electricity generation […]

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

With a new runway, terminal, SKYCITY and other airport city projects being developed on the airport site, these are busy and exciting times for Hong Kong International Airport, writes Joe Bates. Like all busy hubs, Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is constantly striving to make best use of its existing facilities while busily planning for […]

KOREAN AIR TO HOST AAPA ASSEMBLY OF PRESIDENTS IN JEJU

Korean Air will host the 62ndAssociation of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) Assembly of Presidents in Jeju, Korea next week. CEOs of 15 AAPA member airlines will gather in Jeju for the first time in 15 years, since Korean Air hosted the 2003 Assembly of Presidents in the island. Nearly 250 industry leaders will attend the […]

BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT UPGRADES ITS INSTRUMENT LANDING SYSTEM

The Instrument Landing System (ILS) at Bahrain International Airport has been upgraded to ensure that the Kingdom’s air navigation system meets ICAO’s standards and requirements. Airport operator, Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), has hailed the upgrade from CATI to CATII as “a significant milestone in the Airport Modernisation Programme, which will help to lessen the number of flights […]

SINGAPORE’S CAI SIGNS MOU WITH HUNAN AIRPORT MANAGEMENT GROUP

Changi Airports International (CAI) is to act as a consultant for China’s Hunan Airport Management Group after signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to co-operate on a number of different projects. According to CAI, the MOU will facilitate collaboration between the parties in the areas of airport planning and design, and operation and management of the […]

GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY RECOGNITION FOR AUCKLAND AIRPORT

Auckland Airport continues to be recognised globally as a sustainable business, with its inclusion in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI), announced yesterday, for the eighth consecutive year. The company is one of only eight organisations included in the DJSI in 2018 in the Asia-Pacific region.The company is one of only eight organisations included in […]

BRISBANE AIRPORT TO ADD NEW ROUTE TO SAMOA

Brisbane Airport (BNE) and Samoa Airways have signed a partnership agreement signalling the commencement of direct services between Brisbane and Samoa. The agreement, signed this morning at BNE by Seiuli Alvin William Tuala, Samoa Airways CEO and Gert-Jan de Graaff, CEO of Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC), outlines the commitment of both parties to explore market […]

‘ENCOURAGING GROWTH’ CONTINUES FOR ASIA-PACIFIC’S AIRLINES

Preliminary traffic figures for the month of July released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed sustained growth in international air passenger markets, whilst air cargo demand remained firm despite moderating expansion in the global services and manufacturing sectors. Boosted by strong leisure travel demand during the holiday season, the region’s airlines […]

APN OUTDOOR WINS NEW ADVERTISING CONTRACT AT SYDNEY AIRPORT

Sydney Airport has signed a five-and-a-half-year agreement with APN Outdoor for advertising rights across the airport terminals and for external signage approaching and within the Sydney Airport precinct. The announcement, which covers T1 International and T2 Domestic as well as T3 Domestic from July 2019, further strengthens the long-standing relationship between Sydney Airport and APN Outdoor. […]

INDUSTRY NEWS

Asia-Pacific Airports reports on the latest industry and World Business Partner news from across the region. Aerotel opens in Guangzhou Baiyun’s new Terminal 2 Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport’s impressive new Terminal 2 boasts its own transit hotel courtesy of Plaza Premium Group’s 57-room Aerotel Guangzhou. The group’s sixth hotel in its network and first in China, […]

EASY COME, EASY GO!

Sumesh Patel, SITA’s Asia Pacific president, argues that biometric technology will play a key role in ensuring faster, more efficient and safer passenger journeys through airports in the future. How do you balance the two most critical aspects of border control? Passengers don’t want to wait, but airports and border authorities need to ensure the […]

EASY DOES IT!

Airbiz managing director, Greg Fordham, tells Asia-Pacific Airports more about the company’s new Express Access Swing intelligent (EASi) Gates concept. Imagine flying without waiting at the departure gate. What if you could browse the shops, have a meal or relax in your airline lounge until it was time to board? What if a self-driving vehicle […]

SYDNEY AIRPORT UNVEILS EYE-CATCHING ‘UNITED NEYTIONS’ ARTWORK

From today, millions of visitors from around the world will be farewelled by a striking work of contemporary art by Kamilaroi artist, Archie Moore, as they depart Australia. Moore’s United Neytions, which consists of 28 large flags that hang dramatically from the 17-metre high ceiling of Sydney Airport’s T1 International Marketplace, was this morning unveiled by […]

PEOPLE PLEASER

Gensler’s Keith Thompson and Terence Young and Heerim’s Byungkoo Lee tell us more about the concepts behind the design of Incheon International Airport’s impressive new Terminal 2. As you would expect from an airport whose name is synonymous with top quality customer service, Incheon International Airport wanted its new Terminal 2 to be something special […]

ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL NEWS

A snapshot of some of the biggest stories from across the region. LCC market growing across the region The LCCs continue to grow strongly and accommodated 31% of all passengers handled across Asia-Pacific in 2017 or 1.2 billion passengers, ACI Asia-Pacific’s regional director, Patti Chau, told delegates at the 10th annual ACI Airport Economics and […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

Seminars, symposiums and the election of a new president  make the headlines this June/July, writes Vivian Fung. Seow Hiang Lee, CEO of Changi Airport Group, was officially elected president of ACI Asia-Pacific during this year’s Annual Assembly in Narita. Lee, who agreed to serve the unexpired term of former president Kerrie Mather after she retired in […]

CAI CONFIRMS THAT IT WILL OPERATE JAPAN’S FUKUOKA AIRPORT FROM APRIL NEXT YEAR

Changi Airports International (CAI), the international investment arm of the Changi Airport Group (CAG), today confirmed that it will add Japan’s Fukuoka Airport to its airport portfolio.  CAI is a key member of Fukuoka International Airport Co Ltd, which today signed a Project Agreement with Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) for […]

BETTER BY DESIGN

Arup associate director and aviation security specialist, Stacey Peel, reflects on the challenges of designing the airport of the future and reveals a new passenger processing concept that could help eliminate queues at airports. As the aviation industry finds ways to draw on the benefits of new technology, such as using blockchain to protect sensitive […]

INVESTING IN JAPAN

Emmanuel Menanteau, Co-CEO of Kansai Airports, tells Joe Bates more about Kansai Airports’ ambitions for Osaka’s airports and the Japanese market. The recent addition of Kobe to its Japanese airport network means that Kansai Airports now operates three of the country’s busiest gateways. Arguably, the jewel in the crown is Osaka’s Kansai International Airport (KIX), which […]

BACK TO THE FUTURE

Joe Bates looks back at April’s ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in Narita and discussions about the future challenges and opportunities facing the region’s airports. A packed conference programme featuring aviation industry leaders from across the globe, a variety of hot topics to discuss and the chance to sample some Japanese culture both modern […]

HAMAD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT WELCOMES 7.8 MILLION PASSENGERS IN Q2 2018

Hamad International Airport (HIA) handled a total of 7.8 million passengers in the second quarter of 2018, according to the gateway’s latest traffic figures. The month of June has particularly been a busy one for Qatar’s airport with year-on-year growth of 12.56% in passenger figures and 8.9% in aircraft movements. Over 540,357 tonnes of cargo […]

VIEW FROM THE TOP

Regional director, Patti Chau, reflects on the latest traffic trends, new airport infrastructure, ACI Asia-Pacific’s growing influence across the region and some past and future events. I am pleased to say that the robust, upward momentum in traffic that Asia-Pacific and the Middle East enjoyed in 2017 continued in the first quarter of 2018, with our […]

A380 FLIGHT MARKS 25 YEARS OF EMIRATES SERVICE TO MUSCAT

An Emirates A380 touched down in Oman earlier today for a one-off, scheduled flight to Muscat International Airport. This special flight marked 25 years of Emirates’ service to Oman, and reaffirms the newly opened airport’s infrastructure readiness for A380 operations.   The Emirates A380, the world’s largest commercial passenger jet, was operated by Omani national, […]

ACI APA 2018, ISSUE 02

In focus: Passenger facilitation Airport profile: Osaka’s airport system Review: ACI Asia-Pacific’s 13th Regional Conference Plus: Industry & World Business Partner news Read the online issue: click here View from the top Regional director, Patti Chau, reflects on the latest traffic trends, new airport infrastructure, ACI Asia-Pacific’s growing influence across the region and some past and future events. News A […]

RECORD BREAKING FINANCIAL YEAR FOR HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) posted a strong performance in the fiscal year ended 31 March 2018, setting new annual records in all three air traffic categories. The airport welcomed 73.6 million passengers and handled 423,390 flight movements, registering year-on-year increases of 4.5% and 3.2%, respectively. Cargo and airmail rose 7.6% to 5.1 million tonnes, […]

SYDNEY AIRPORT RESTAURANT WINS GLOBAL F&B AWARD

Kitchen by Mike at Sydney Airport has been awarded Airport Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year in the 2018 FAB Awards held in Helsinki, Finland. The first to Australian airport concept, headed by internationally renowned Australian chef, Mike McEnearney, features a gourmet menu with seasonal produce by local Australian suppliers. Designed to address the limitations in […]

HYDERABAD-RAJIV GANDHI USING NEW TECHNOLOGY TO RESURFACE ITS MAIN RUNWAY

Hyderabad-Rajiv Gandhi International Airport operator, GIAL, has completed the first phase of the refurbishment of its main runway (09/27) in just 15 days as opposed to the normal timeframe of three months. It says that the use of new Airport Grade Steel Guard (AGSG) technology to apply a special protective coat to the runway designed to preserve […]

INDUSTRY NEWS – GROWTH AND INNOVATION

Asia-Pacific Airports reports on the latest industry and World Business Partner news from across the region’s airports. NEW SMARTGATES INTRODUCED AT DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Dubai International Airport (DXB) has become the latest gateway to introduce Automated Border Control SmartGate technology, which it is confident will offer passengers a state-of-the art border control experience and enhance […]

DESIGN & BUILD: BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Gulf gateway’s eagerly awaited new terminal to open in 2019. KEY facts Location: Kingdom of Bahrain Airport: Bahrain International Airport Project: New terminal and associated infrastructure Price tag: $1.1 billion Delivery date: 2019 Key players: Bahrain Airports Company (BAC), ADP Ingénierie (ADPI), Hill International, Arabtec, TAV Construction, Fraport The key project of its $1.1 billion Airport Modernisation Programme (AMP), the new […]

WOLFGANG PUCK MAKES SURPRISE VISIT TO HIS RESTAURANT AT SINGAPORE CHANGI

Celebrity chef, Wolfgang Puck, has surprised unwitting travellers at Changi Airport with a visit to his restaurant, The Kitchen by Wolfgang Puck. Located in Terminal 3, Wolfgang headed to the premium casual-dining eatery to meet customers, sign cookbooks, sample dishes and even got stuck-in in the kitchen.  Showcasing the restaurant’s ethos of using only the […]

SMART SECURITY

Jerome de Chassey, Smith Detection’s vice president for Asia-Pacific considers how smarter checkpoints can improve security efficiency and the passenger experience. In the face of increasing passenger numbers, new regulations and ever-evolving threats, airports are constantly challenged to maintain operational and security effectiveness whilst striving to improve efficiency and the overall passenger experience. This demands […]

CHRISTIAN DIOR BOUTIQUE OPENS AT SYDNEY AIRPORT

Sydney Airport has unveiled a Maison Christian Dior boutique in its international Terminal 1, a first for an Australian gateway. Exclusive to Sydney Airport in Australia, the new collection features a stunning suite of scented candles, soaps and 22 fragrances and is housed within an elegant pop-up inside Heinemann Tax & Duty Free. Designed to […]

TOWARDS TOKYO 2020

Amadeus IT Group’s Sarah Samuel considers how technology will help Tokyo’s airports cope with demand during the 2020 Olympic Games. The 2020 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo represents a significant opportunity for the city and for Japan. The eyes of the world will turn to Tokyo as athletes from across the globe compete for gold […]

TIME FOR CHANGE?

ACI director general, Angela Gittens, provides her thoughts on the allocation of slots at airports and considers how the system could be improved to ensure the most efficient use of a scarce resource. ACI’s World Airport Traffic Forecasts 2017–2040 projects that global traffic will double by 2031. Traffic demand is growing (4.5% average annual growth […]

ON THE SURFACE

Improving surface access is a commercial and environmental challenge facing airports across the globe, write ICF’s Angus Reid-Kay and Rob Rushmer. To focus on airlines and the development of an airport’s route network would provide only a partial view of a gateway’s connectivity. This is because surface access matters, and failure to meet demand on […]

Q1 ENDS ON A HIGH NOTE FOR JORDAN’S QUEEN ALIA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

A total of 1.8 million passengers passed through Jordan’s Queen Alia International Airport during Q1 of 2018 – a rise of 8.5% on the corresponding period a year ago. Amman’s gateway to the world also witnessed 16,609 aircraft movements and handled 24,690 tons of cargo throughout the first quarter, marking a 1.8% decrease and 8.8% increase, […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

Vivian Fung rounds up the latest news from across Asia-Pacific in what has been a busy start to 2018 for the region. Changi Airport Group’s CEO, Lee Seow Hiang, has agreed to step up from first vice president, and assume the role of ACI Asia-Pacific’s president for the remainder of Kerrie Mather’s term, following her […]

MAKING THE RIGHT CONNECTIONS

ASM’s Nigel Mayes and York Aviation’s James Brass tell us more about the economic and social benefits of route development. Route development is the most important activity an airport can undertake, for without air services, an airport is just a strip of concrete. The key asset of all airports, air services define gateways and bring […]

LOCAL COMMUNITIES INVITED TO HAVE THEIR SAY ON FUTURE OF WANAKA AIRPORT

Members of the Wanaka and broader Upper Clutha communities in New Zealand are being encouraged to join in the conversation on the future of Wanaka Airport later this month, to help inform the airport’s future development. A series of interactive community and stakeholder engagement sessions are being held on May 21 and 22 to bring people together […]

LEADING THE WAY

Indian airports shine as Asia-Pacific airports hold on to the top spots in all the global best airport by size categories in ACI’s Airport Service Quality (ASQ) customer satisfaction awards, writes Joe Bates. A host of first time winners and new names taking the honours in the coveted categories for passengers handling over 40 million passengers […]

ACI APA 2018, ISSUE 01

In focus: Connectivity Airport profile: Tokyo Narita Special report: ASQ winners Plus: Security, Industry news and Bahrain’s new T2 Read the online issue: click here View from the top Regional director, Patti Chau, reflects on 2017 and looks forward to another busy and successful year for ACI Asia-Pacific and the region’s airports. News   A snapshot of some of the […]

TOKYO RISING

NAA’s president and CEO, Makoto Natsume, talks to Joe Bates about Narita International Airport’s growth, development and expansion plans ahead of the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. With passenger traffic reaching an all-time high in 2017, a new 3,500m runway and extended operating hours for flight arrivals and departures recently receiving the green light, and […]

ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL NEWS

A snapshot of some of the biggest stories from across the region. Incheon’s new Terminal 2 opens for business Incheon International Airport’s new, high-tech Terminal 2 opened for business on January 18, just in time to handle athletes and visitors headed to the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang. The 72-gate terminal is the airport’s first […]

HYDERABAD’S CARGO TERMINAL AWARDED WHO’S GOOD STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION CERTIFICATE

GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd. (GHIAL) has announced that its cargo terminal has been certified with the World Health Organisation’s Good Storage and Distribution Practices (WHO-GSDP). Awarded by SGS India, a leader in certifications in pharmaceutical sector, the WHO-GSDP certificate underscores Hyderabad Airport’s commitment to and compliance with Quality management standards and International requirements throughout […]

PLANNING STARTS FOR SINGAPORE CHANGI’S NEW TERMINAL 5

Singapore Changi’s new “mega” Terminal 5 became one step closer to reality today with the the appointment of the Master Building Consultants, comprising three teams, that will provide architectural design and engineering consultancy services for the new complex. Airport operator, Changi Airport Group (CAG), also announced the appointment of the Master Civil Consultants for the T5-related […]

CAMBODIA’S AIRPORTS DEMONSTRATE THEIR ‘GREEN’ CREDENTIALS

Cambodia’s three international airports have renewed their respective Level 1 ‘Mapping’ certification in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. The programme aims to reduce aviation’s greenhouse gas emissions and airport operator, Cambodia Airports, claims that the achievement demonstrates its “strong commitment to coping with the challenges of global climate change”. The programme, independently verified, has four levels of […]

NEW SYSTEMS TO RAPIDLY COOL AIRCRAFT PARKED AT DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT’S CONCOURSE C

Dubai International Airport is installing new Pre-Conditioned Air (PCA) systems – capable of rapidly cooling wide-bodied aircraft up to the size of the A380 even in the hot and humid conditions common to Dubai – as part of the upgrade of Concourse C. Designed by Cavotec, the specially designed PCA systems are expected to enhance passenger comfort […]

CHRISTCHURCH AIRPORT TO BE TESTING GROUND FOR NEW AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE

New Zealand’s first on-road testing of fully autonomous vehicles will change up a gear later this year with the inclusion of the first locally designed and built vehicle, which will be tested at Christchurch Airport. The ohmio LIFT will hit the road in a new phase of the trials on private roads at Christchurch Airport. […]

RECORD JANUARY TRAFFIC FIGURES FOR JORDAN’S QUEEN ALIA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) welcomed 624,207 passengers in January – a healthy 8.2% upturn on the corresponding month a year ago. Jordan’s gateway to the world also handled 8,074 tons of cargo (+14.8%) and 5,672 aircraft movements (-2.5%) during the month. “We are delighted to kick off the year by welcoming more than […]

QUEENSTOWN AIRPORT REPORTS “STRONG” HALF YEAR RESULTS AND PERFORMANCE

Queenstown Airport Corporation (QAC) has continued its upward growth trajectory, reporting a strong half-year result with a net profit after tax of NZ$8.8 million for the first six months of the 2018 financial year. QAC Board chair, Prue Flacks, said the financial performance was underpinned by sustained passenger growth and increased revenue compared to the […]

EMIRATES’ A380 FLEET TO GROW EVEN BIGGER FOLLOWING LATEST ORDER

Emirates yesterday signed a contract for 20 additional A380 aircraft and 16 options, firming up the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that was announced in January. The total agreement for 36 aircraft is valued at $16 billion based on latest list prices. Deliveries are to start as early as 2020. The deal was signed by HH Sheikh […]

NEW FIGURES REVEAL THE ECONOMIC BENEFIT OF NEW CHINESE ROUTES

The value of air routes to China make the news today with Sydney Airport revealing that its new Zhengzhou service will pump A$60 million into the local economy and Heathow claiming that its direct flights to China add £510 million yearly to the UK’s GDP. According to Sydney Airport, Tianjin Airlines’ new service from Zhengzhou […]

F&B OPERATORS SOUGHT FOR NEW TERMINAL AT JEDDAH’S KING ABDULAZIZ INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Changi Airports Saudi Arabia (CASA), operator of Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA), today issued the first tranche of Request for Proposals (RFP) for concession space at the new terminal. To offer guests of the new KAIA a unique passenger experience, CASA reveals that it is designing the retail environment by putting passengers at the […]

HONG KONG REFLECTS ON ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL YEAR AND OUTLINES PLANS FOR 2018

A record 72.9 million passengers and five million tonnes of cargo and airmail passed through Hong Kong International Airport in 2017. The annual totals, which represent rises of 3.3% and 9.4% respectively on 2016, were boosted by a 2.2% increase in aircaft movements. Airmail accounted for 112,000 tonnes of the freight handled at Hong Kong […]

INDUSTRY NEWS – GROWTH AND INNOVATION

Asia-Pacific Airports reports on the latest World Business Partner news from across the region. LOOKING GOOD! Bahrain International Airport has a new advertising partner – French-based JCDecaux. Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) says it awarded the contract to the company following a fiercely competitive bidding process in which several of the world’s largest firms participated. The […]

RETIRING ACI ASIA-PACIFIC PRESIDENT KERRIE MATHER TO LEAVE ON JANUARY 31

Retiring managing director and CEO of Sydney Airport, Kerrie Mather, is to step down as president of ACI Asia-Pacific at the end of the month. Mather, who will leave her post at Sydney Airport at the same time, has served on ACI Asia-Pacific’s Regional Board since September 2011 and was elected president in April 2016 for […]

COMBATTING CYBER CRIME

Andy Wall, technical director of cyber security at Atkins, outlines five steps he believes airports can take to create safe and secure cyber environments. Airports have a long history of dealing with ‘traditional’ threats – terrorism, physical attacks and security scares. But as the physical and digital worlds continue to converge, how do they manage […]

A COMBINED EFFORT

ACI World’s head of security, Nina Brooks, considers the importance of creating a strong security culture. Developing a ‘security culture’ is about engaging all staff at all levels of an organisation to embrace common security-driven values and consider security as a priority in all of their work. The aviation community puts much emphasis on the […]

GVK POWER & INFRASTRUCTURE SIGNS CONCESSION TO OPERATE MUMBAI’S NEW GATEWAY

GVK Power & Infrastructure has signed a concession agreement to operate India’s new international airport in Mumbai. GVK, which spearheads the consortium that runs Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, has agreed a 30 year deal to operate Navi Mumbai International Airport. The gateway, currently under construction on a 1,060 hectare site around 35km from Chhatrapati Shivaji […]

COCKPIT CHALLENGE

Alpha Aviation Group’s Bhanu Choudhrie explains why the industry must act now to prevent the future shortage of pilots across the Asia-Pacific region. It might sound dramatic, but the aviation industry is fast approaching a juncture that will come to define its future, the chronic shortage of pilots. Simply put, it has become a victim […]

ACI APA 2017, ISSUE 04

Focus on: Airport Security Airport report: Oman’s airport system Special report: Asia-Pacific’s pilot shortage Plus: IT trends & Global Sustainable Aviation Summit Read the online issue: click here   View from the top Regional director, Patti Chau, reflects on the launch of ACI’s Airport Excellence (APEX) in Security programme and the need for airports to continually grow and adapt the […]

ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL NEWS

A snapshot of some of the biggest stories from across the region. CHRISTCHURCH UNVEILS ITS LONG-TERM VISION Expanding and “refreshing” the terminal building to focus on the passenger experience and creating greater operational flexibility are key goals of Christchurch Airport’s vision for 2040. The gateway, which underpins NZ$2.1 billion in regional GDP and is responsible […]

AMBITIONS, GOALS AND CHALLENGES

Joe Bates reports on some of the highlights and lessons learned from October’s Global Sustainable Aviation Summit in Geneva. Aviation’s commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and biofuels, which are expected to account for 25% of all jet fuel by 2050, were just a few of the topics discussed during the recent […]

ADP INGÉNIERIE WINS NEW CONTRACTS AT FOUR ASIA-PACIFIC AIRPORTS

Groupe ADP, through subsidiary ADP Ingénierie, has won a series of new contracts in the Asia-Pacific region offering design, study and technical assistance to airports in China, Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam. According to Gratien Maire , CEO of ADP Ingénierie, this series of contracts recognise th company’s “360° of expertise in the airport value chain”. In […]

SHENZHEN AIRLINES BECOMES SEVENTH CHINESE AIRLINE TO SERVE PHNOM PENH

Shenzhen Airlines today launched three weekly services between Shenzhen in China and Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh. Its arrival means that seven Chinese airlines now serve Phnom Penh International Airport. A record one million Chinese passengers flew between China and Cambodia’s three international airports in 2017 – Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Sihanoukville – and the […]

SEEKING SECURITY

As airports search for ways to make the travel experience safer and more convenient, biometrics may just be the answer, writes Tony Chapman. You enter the airport and walk up to the self-service baggage kiosk where your passport is scanned. Then, a facial recognition camera scans your face and compares it to the biometric data […]

RECORD BREAKING YEAR FOR SINGAPORE CHANGI AS TRAFFIC HITS ALL-TIME HIGH

Singapore Changi Airport set another major milestone today, handling more than 60 million passengers in a calendar year for the first time in its history. Operator, Changi Airport Group (CAG), believes that the achievement underpins the gateway’s status as one of the world’s major air hubs. A celebratory event was held in the transit area […]

INVESTING IN TECHNOLOGY

Airports and airlines will spend nearly $33 billion on IT this year as they bid to enhance their operations and put passengers more in control of their journeys. Airports will invest more money on IT than ever before this year and their commitment to spending big on technology is being matched by the airlines, with […]

NEW ARRIVALS HALL OPENS AT CAMBODIA’S PHNOM PENH INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Cambodia’s Phnom Penh International Airport officially opened its new Arrivals Hall and concourse extension today. The facilities were inaugurated by Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister, His Excellency Bin Chhin. Following the completion of a $100-million expansion programme in 2016, this second phase of the investment, totaling $26-million, was initiated to address steadily increasing arrivals and to […]

MUMBAI CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI OPERATOR AWARDED HEALTH AND SAFETY HONOUR

Mumbai–Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport operator, MIAL, has been awarded a prestigious ‘Sword of Honour’ by the British Safety Council for its efforts to mitigate health and safety risks at work. The highly-prized accolade was won by GVK-led MIAL for its commitment towards instilling practices that assure a secure and healthy environment for all its stakeholders. In […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

Vivian Fung rounds up the latest news from across the region and highlights a few global initiatives. Airports Council International (ACI) and HNA Airport Group Co Ltd signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the recent 27th ACI Africa/World Annual General Assembly, Conference & Exhibition in Mauritius that will see enhanced co-operation between both organisations on […]

AUCKLAND AIRPORT WELCOMES PLANS TO INCREASE FLIGHTS BETWEEN SINGAPORE AND NEW ZEALAND

Auckland Airport has welcomed the announcement by Air New Zealand and Singapore Airlines that they will increase flights on the Singapore to Auckland route. Currently, Air New Zealand and Singapore Airlines are in a joint venture on the Singapore to Auckland route, together operating two daily services.  From October 2018 the airlines will increase to […]

AIR ASTANA SET TO BECOME ONE OF THE REGION’S BIGGEST OPERATORS OF A320NEO AIRCRAFT

Air Astana, the flag carrier of Kazakhstan, is destined to become one of the largest A320neo family operators in Central Asia and CIS over the next three years. The airline became the first operator of this type in the region in 2016 and the fleet will grow to 17 aircraft by 2020.  Air Astana will then operate six A320neo, […]

BIGGER AND BETTER

Oman Airports Management Company (OAMC) CEO, Sheikh Aimen Al Hosni, talks to Joe Bates about the growth and development of the country’s airport system. The Gulf is one of the hottest places on earth for airport development and Oman is no exception to the rule, with the country set to follow the unveiling of a […]

SYDNEY AIRPORT IMPROVES CYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN ACCESS TO TERMINAL 1

Sydney Airport has officially opened a new footbridge and cycleway at the T1 International precinct, providing improved safety and easier access into the precinct for active transport users. The new footbridge and cycleway connects the existing Alexandra Canal shared footpath and cycleway with the P7 multi-storey car park, enabling seamless, elevated access for pedestrians and […]

TIGER DEN OPENS IN SINGAPORE CHANGI AIRPORT’S NEW TERMINAL 4

Emirates Leisure Retail (ELR) has officially opened ‘Tiger Den’ at Singapore Changi Airport’s brand new Terminal 4. The dynamic bar, inspired by the energy and excitement of Singapore’s iconic Tiger Beer, invites passengers to uncage their courageous spirit as the Tiger Den serves up this unmistakable beer with ‘bite’. The menu offers a range of tempting […]

FLYDUBAI PLACES HUGE $27 BILLION ORDER FOR 225 NEW BOEING MAX AIRCRAFT

Dubai-based flydubai today announced a commitment to a $27 billion order for 225 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft to support the growth of its fleet. This is the third aircraft order placed by the airline with Boeing in its eight-year history and follows orders placed in 2008 and 2013. It claims that the deal will support […]

READY FOR TAKE-OFF

NACO’s René Marey takes a closer look at plans to create an airport city at Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport, located at the crossroads between the Middle East and Asia. Iran, one of the last untapped emerging markets, is beginning to open up to international trade and investment again after returning to the global economic […]

ACI APA 2017, ISSUE 03

In the spotlight: Commercial development Airport report: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Special report: Global airport operators Plus: Regional & World Business Partner news Read the online issue: click here    View from the top Regional director, Patti Chau, reflects on a host of issues ranging from airport networks to industry efforts to make passenger processing more efficient. News A snapshot of some of the biggest stories from […]

TRAFFIC CONTINUES TO RISE AT DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Passenger traffic at Dubai International Airport (DXB) reached 7.2 million in September, according to a traffic report issued today by operator Dubai Airports. The world’s biggest international passenger traffic welcomed 7,215,182 passengers in September compared to 7,094,738 recorded in the corresponding month last year, an increase of 1.7%. The softening of the growth was mainly due […]

WINNING WAYS

Asia-Pacific Airports discovers that Ever Rich Duty Free plays its part in the customer service success of Taoyuan International Airport. Taoyuan International Airport is fast gaining a reputation for itself as one of the world’s most customer-focused and passenger friendly airports. Indeed, Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) was recently named the best airport in the world […]

QUEENSTOWN AIRPORT APPOINTS NEW COMMERCIAL AND CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE LEADER

Olivia Pierre has joined Queenstown Airport’s senior leadership team as its new general manager for commercial and customer experience. In this new position, Pierre will be responsible for all business activities and relationships related to aeronautical revenue. This includes landing charges and route development, and non-aeronautical revenues ranging from ground leases, parking and ground transport […]

UPWARD TRAJECTORY

Bangkok Suvarnabhumi’s general manager, Sirote Duangratana, talks to Joe Bates about plans to expand the airport after a decade of traffic growth. When Bangkok’s impressive Suvarnabhumi Airport opened just over a decade ago it was envisaged that it would replace the city’s operationally constrained Don Mueang International Airport and have the capacity to cope with […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

Vivian Fung reports on the latest news, views and events from across the Asia-Pacific region. ACI/ICAO Aerodrome Certification Seminar In June, Sydney Airport facilitated the joint ACI-ICAO Aerodrome Certification Seminar, which attracted over 30 delegates representing airports and civil aviation authorities from Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Indonesia, Iran, Kiribati, Myanmar, Nepal, Papa New Guinea, Samoa, […]

GOING GLOBAL

What Asia-Pacific based companies own, operate or have shares in airports across the world? Joe Bates investigates. Changi Airports International (CAI) World Headquarters: Singapore Airports 100% owned and operated: None. Others: The wholly-owned subsidiary of Singapore Changi operator, Changi Airport Group (CAG), CAI has a 40% share in the consortium responsible for operating Rio de Janeiro’s Tom Jobim […]

HACTL TO HANDLE NEW AVIASTAR-TU FREIGHTER SERVICE TO HONG KONG

Moscow-based carrier, Aviastar-Tu, has appointed Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) to handle its new freighter services from eastern Russia to Hong Kong. Aviastar-Tu has commenced operations from Tolmachevo to Hong Kong, utilising a Tupolev Tu-204C freighter aircraft with 28,500kg payload and 14 pallet positions.  It plans to increase services to four-times-weekly by the […]

FUNDS FROM SYDNEY AIRPORT’S LOST & FOUND AUCTION TO BOOST LOCAL CHARITIES

Local charity, 107 Projects, has been named the recipient of a A$100,000 major grant using proceeds of the annual Sydney Airport Lost Property Auction. Sydney Airport’s managing director and CEO, Kerrie Mather, said the announcement followed a partnership with Sydney Community Foundation to deliver the proceeds of next week’s Lost Property Auction. The grant furthered […]

DRIVING INNOVATION

Ivo Favotto reviews a new study that clearly shows that car parking, so important to the bottom line of most airports, is becoming increasingly innovative and dynamic. Let’s be honest, airport car parking has never been considered on the cool side of airport management and probably never will be despite its obvious importance as a […]

ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL NEWS

A snapshot of some of the biggest stories from across the region. Building a dynamic workforce Dubai Airports has launched a pioneering new career development programme aimed at attracting more Emirati women to join its workforce in management roles. It claims that the move reaffirms its commitment to the nation’s female workforce as it wants […]

OUT TO IMPRESS

Due to open any day now, Singapore Changi’s new Terminal 4 promises to be positively surprising with a unique boutique design and host of facilities for passengers to explore. Singapore Changi Airport has set the bar pretty high when it comes to customer service levels and the opening of innovative new facilities, so when it […]

BRISBANE’S ROOFTOP SOLAR ARRAY TO BE TWICE THE SIZE OF MELBOURNE CRICKET GROUND

Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) is investing in a major renewable energy Solar PV project capable of generating more than 9,315,000 kilowatt hours a year. The 6MW system, consisting of 22,000 panels spanning an area of 36,000 meters squared or more than twice the size of the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), will be installed across six […]

SYDNEY AIRPORT REVAMPS ITS OFFICIAL LOOKOUT FOR PLANE SPOTTERS

Sydney Airport officially opened the upgraded Shep’s Mound plane spotters’ lookout today, honouring the memory of aviation enthusiast Bruce Shepherd. The airport’s managing director and CEO, Kerrie Mather, said the upgraded lookout recognised the importance of the growing community of aviation enthusiasts that frequently use the site. “Aviation captures the hearts and minds of many […]

QANTAS TO BASE FOUR DREAMLINERS AT BRISBANE AIRPORT

In a major win for the city and state, Qantas Airways has chosen Brisbane Airport (BNE) as its new base for four Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. Qantas CEO, Alan Joyce, flew into Brisbane this morning to announce the exciting partnership alongside Queensland Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, and Julieanne Alroe, Brisbane Airport Corporation’s CEO and managing director. […]

BEUMER WINS NEW SHANGHAI PUDONG BAGGAGE HANDLING CONTRACT

BEUMER Group is to provide the baggage handling system (BHS) for the giant new Satellite Terminal at Shanghai Pudong International Airport. Set to open in 2019, the complex will be mainland China’s first airport satellite building and one of largest detached terminals in the world, with 83 departure gates and a floor area of 620,000 square metres. BEUMER was […]

WORLD BUSINESS PARTNERS NEWS – APA 2 2017

World Business Partners in the spotlight New biometrics border control solution for Jakarta gateway Soerkarno-Hatta International Airport’s new Terminal 3 boasts an advanced Automated Border Control (ABC) system provided by the Indonesian Direktorat Jenderal Imigrasi PT Jaya Teknik Indonesia and Vision-Box. The Vision-Box state-of-the-art biometric border control solution consists of 32 vb i-match ABC eGates for […]

ALL ABOUT DATA

New technology continues to provide airports with new sources of data about passenger behaviours than can be used to improve operational efficiency and boost revenues, writes Tony Chapman. You’re rushing to the airport to catch a flight when the service you’ve subscribed to sends a text message. It’s letting you know there’s an accident ahead […]

PLANNING FOR SUSTAINABILITY

Embracing sustainable development will help ensure the long-term futures of airports across the globe, writes Landrum & Brown’s managing consultant, Sara Christen-Hassert. What is sustainability? In most sectors, it’s commonly defined as the balance of environmental, financial, and social goals. Sustainable practices can reduce the environmental impact of developed infrastructure while at the same time creating […]

SPOTLIGHT ON KAZAKHSTAN

How are Kazakhstan’s airports faring and what are the plans for their future development? Lufthansa Consulting’s Askhat Torshin answers the big questions. What are the most recent major developments in Kazakhstan’s aviation sector? Kazakhstan has demonstrated its intention to comply with international standards and accepted IATA’s Operational Safety Audit as a compulsory requirement for the maintenance […]

INTELLIGENT SOLUTIONS

What’s the latest in the world of airport IT? Joe Bates reports back from the recent Air Transport IT Summit. First there was ‘virtual reality’, then we were introduced to ‘augmented reality’ and now we could potentially have ‘mixed reality’ at airports if new HoloLens technology currently being trialled by SITA comes to the market. Initial […]

AUCKLAND AIRPORT APPOINTS CONCEPT DESIGN TEAM FOR NEW TERMINAL

Auckland Airport has confirmed that a Mott MacDonald-led consortium will spearhead the design of its new integrated terminal. The consortium, which also includes Grimshaw, Architectus and Holmes Consulting, has been appointed to concept design a combined domestic and international terminal at the New Zealand gateway.  The project forms part of the airport’s Terminal Development Plan, which […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

New resolutions, the election of the ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Board for the next three years and committee news make the headlines, writes Vivian Fung. Members voted to adopt two new resolutions at the 12th ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly, Conference & Exhibition in Qatar, calling for ‘mutual support within the airport community’ for ACI’s safety, security and training programmes and another […]

ON THE RADAR

Sunshine Coast Airport’s general manager, Peter Pallot, talks to Joe Bates about his gateway’s expansion plans, route development, green credentials and new investors. There is a saying that good things come to all those who wait, and after waiting nearly half a century to make an impression in the market, Australia’s Sunshine Coast Airport certainly […]

ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL NEWS

A snapshot of some of the biggest stories from across the region. Private sector boosting airport development The private sector is becoming increasingly involved in the development of airports across ACI’s Asia-Pacific’s region as many look for funding to build new capacity enhancing infrastructure, according to ACI Asia-Pacific’s regional director, Patti Chau. Talking at ACI’s […]

WARMEST OF WELCOMES

Joe Bates looks back at some of the highlights of ACI Asia-Pacific’s Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in Doha. Qatar’s famed hospitality proved as warm as the temperatures outside throughout a memorable 12th ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in Doha. For 400 delegates representing 175 organisations from 54 countries across the globe, the conference […]

ACI APA 2017, ISSUE 02

In the spotlight: Master planning & design Airport report: Sunshine Coast In review: ACI Asia-Pacific’s 12th Regional Conference Plus: IT innovation, regional & WBP news Read the online issue: click here    Making headlines Asia-Pacific Airports editor, Joe Bates, reflects on the fact that there is never a quiet time in the aviation industry. News A snapshot of some of […]

HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT UNVEILS PLANS TO EXPAND AND UPGRADE TERMINAL 1

Hong Kong International Airport today unveiled a series of major enhancements to its existing airport facilities that it claims will increase its handling capacity and “provide a vibrant new experience for passengers”. Airport Authority of Hong Kong (AAHK) CEO, Fred Lam, said: “The enhancement projects for Terminal 1, together with the Three-runway System in 2024, […]

AUCKLAND AIRPORT TO PROVIDE NEW ZEALAND’S FIRST NON-STOP SERVICE TO SOUTH WEST CHINA

Auckland Airport will tonight welcome its first Sichuan Airlines flight direct from Chengdu, China. The new 13-hour direct service provides a seventh direct connection from Auckland Airport to a major Chinese city, and is the first to connect New Zealand directly to south west China. While the Sichuan Province is traditionally famed for its dramatic […]

WELLINGTON AIRPORT’S NEW HOTEL MOVES A STEP CLOSER

Construction on a new NZ$36m hotel at Wellington Airport is now underway following a ground-breaking ceremony. The Honourable Chris Finlayson officially launched the construction of the four-star 134-bed hotel at the northern end of the airport which will be managed by Rydges and include a restaurant, bar and conference facilities. The hotel, which is expected […]

NEW MEDICAL CENTRE OPENS AT AFGHAN GATEWAY

Afghanistan’s Hamid Karzai International Airport has opened its own medical centre.The American Medical Center (AMC), the only non-military medical resource within the airport perimeter, will provide a wide range of healthcare services including primary and acute health consultations and treatments. Operated by Iqarus it will serve contractors from the aviation, catering, engineering and facilities management sectors based in the military segment […]

ASIA-PACIFIC AIRLINES REPORT HEALTHY 5.3% RISE IN PASSENGER NUMBERS DURING BUSY APRIL

Preliminary traffic figures for the month of April, released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA), shows encouraging expansion in both international air passenger demand and international air cargo markets, on the back of sustained growth in the global economy. Collectively, the region’s airlines carried an aggregate total of 25.6 million international passengers […]

LOCAL FLAVOURS

Embracing different cultures and reflecting them in its airport facilities is a key consideration for Plaza Premium Lounge, writes Edward Cheng. With arriving early at airports a prerequisite of modern day travel, facilities that provide comfort and entertainment for passengers before they fly can play a key role in customer satisfaction levels, and lounges are […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

The announcement of ACI Asia-Pacific’s Young Executive of the Year, green initiatives, a new publication and the 2016 traffic figures make headline news, writes Vivian Fung. Surabhi Rana of Mumbai International Airport Pvt Ltd is ACI Asia-Pacific’s Young Executive of the Year for 2017. Rana beat off stiff competition from 15 other candidates to win […]

CATERING TO THE CHINESE

Airports across the globe have introduced a host of different initiatives designed to appeal to Chinese travellers as their passenger numbers continue to rise. Airports across the globe have reacted to rapidly rising passenger numbers from Mainland China by introducing a range of innovative new services just for Chinese travellers. In Europe, Paris CDG recently joined […]

NEW ZEALAND BECOMING A ‘HOT’ DESTINATION FOR BIG SPENDING INDIAN TOURISTS

New Zealand is rapidly becoming a sought after, premium destination for high value free independent travellers (FITs) from India, according to research released today by Auckland Airport.  The report, The Indian FIT and the New Zealand Market, shows the number of Indian visitors arriving in New Zealand has surged 79% over the past five years, […]

ALL HAIL HYDERABAD

Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport has achieved carbon neutral status (Level 3+) in ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. It is the second gateway in the region to achieve the lofty status after Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. SGK Kishore, CEO of GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL), says his gateway’s significant achievement is the result of the […]

INDUSTRY NEWS – LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

Adelaide Airport and Amadeus partner to roll out Australasia’s first fully automated airport management system. With traffic expected to more than double to 18 million passengers annually by 2034, and a vision to become a top tier business centre in Asia Pacific, Adelaide Airport is committed to scaling its airport operations and meeting its growth […]

IN THE MOOD

Is it time for airports to introduce mood managers to ensure the right ambience at airports? Martijn Steur investigates. We are people; we are ruled by the mood we’re in.  When we’re not in a good mood, we are not happy. When we are not happy, we don’t function well. And to make matters worse, […]

DXB ON TARGET TO HANDLE NEARLY 90 MILLION PASSENGERS IN 2017

The world’s busiest international gateway, Dubai International Airport (DXB), continues to grow with a record 22.4 million passengers (+7.4%) passing through its facilities in the first quarter of 2017. The year-to-date total follows a 3.8% rise in passenger numbers in March, the airport handling 7.5 million passengers compared to 7.2 million during the corresponding month a […]

ACI APA 2017, ISSUE 01

In the spotlight: Cultural awareness Airport report: Doha Special report: ASQ Winners Plus: ACI Asia-Pacific news & World Business Partners Read the online issue: click here     View from the top Regional director, Patti Chau, looks forward to ACI Asia-Pacific’s Regional Assembly, Conference & Exhibition in Doha, reflects on some key achievements in 2016 and talks future strategies. News […]

THE NEW DYNAMIC

Outbound travel numbers from Asia-Pacific’s emerging markets will grow twice as fast as those from developed countries over the next five years, according to a new report. China is expected to lead the way as outbound travellers from emerging Asia-Pacific countries outnumber those from the region’s developed nations over the next five years, according to […]

ALL ABOUT RESPECT

Brisbane Airport Corporation’s environment and sustainability manager, Wendy Weir, reflects on its efforts to ensure that it operates a culturally aware gateway. Regardless of how experienced the traveller is or how many air miles they’ve got in the bank, navigating your way around an unfamiliar airport is a stressful experience.  Alleviating passenger stress is a […]

ACI’S AIRPORT CARBON ACCREDITATION PROGRAMME GOING FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH IN ASIA-PACIFIC

ACI Asia-Pacific is confident that the ever growing list of Asia-Pacific airports joining aviation’s airport carbon accreditation programme demonstrates the region’s commitment to the environment.Last week in Doha, Qatar, 11 Asia-Pacific airports received their Airport Carbon Accreditation Certificate at the ceremony held alongside the 12th ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly, Conference & Exhibition. Airports recently accredited or upgraded under the […]

EMBRACING OUR DIFFERENCES

Chris Crampton, chairman of the UK and Ireland Chapter of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), considers the importance of cultural awareness in the Asia-Pacific region. Beyond a basic desire for a beach, travel is a way of broadening the mind and having new experiences. The more we travel, the more we see and, perhaps most […]

THAT WINNING FEELING

Asia-Pacific gateways once again lead the way in ACI’s Airport Service Quality (ASQ) customer satisfaction awards, winning all the global best airport by size categories. There is clearly no stopping Asia-Pacific’s airports which once again demonstrated their customer service credentials by winning a host of awards in ACI’s annual Airport Service Quality (ASQ) passenger satisfaction survey. […]

MAKING AN IMPRESSION

How is Hamad International Airport faring three years after opening? Chief operating officer, Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, brings Joe Bates up to speed. It maybe just three years old but Qatar’s new gateway to the world, Hamad International Airport (HIA), has already made a big impression for its design, state-of-the-art facilities, IT innovation and reputation for delivering top quality […]

ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL NEWS

A snapshot of some of the biggest stories from across the region.  First anniversary for Dubai International’s Concourse D Dubai International Airport (DXB) celebrated the first anniversary of its impressive Concourse D on February 24, with Dubai Airports revealing that it handled 16.6 million passengers during its first year of operations. It represents the final […]

HYDERABAD LAUNCHES NEW CUSTOMER SERVICE PROGRAMME

Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport has unveiled 50 new passenger service associates (PSAs), whose sole task is to assist and help travellers as they journey through the fast growing Indian gateway. The initiative is the first launched under the airport’s new ‘Passenger is Prime’ programme, which aims to further enhance Hyderabad’s already growing reputation for providing […]

TRAFFIC RECORDS KEEP TUMBLING AT DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Passenger traffic at Dubai International Airport (DXB) continued to grow steadily in February rising 8.8% to 6.9 million, according to the monthly traffic report issued by Dubai Airports today. The operator said this brings the total year to date passenger traffic at DXB to close to 15 million, a robust growth of 9.3% compared to […]

SYDNEY AIRPORT PRAISED FOR IMPROVED SERVICE QUALITY RATING

Sydney Airport has welcomed the 2015-16 Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) Airport Monitoring Report, which highlight its increase in its overall quality of service rating and ongoing aeronautical investment during a time of significant passenger growth. Airport managing director and CEO, Kerrie Mather, believes that the results reflect the gateway’s strong collaboration with stakeholders […]

ASIA-PACIFIC AIRPORTS LEAD THE WAY IN ACI’S AIRPORT SERVICE QUALITY (ASQ) AWARDS

There is clearly no stopping Asia-Pacific’s airports which once again demonstrated their customer service credentials by winning a host of awards in ACI’s annual Airport Service Quality (ASQ) passenger satisfaction survey. Bigger and better than ever with more airports participating (318) and more award categories than before, a record-equalling 62 gateways were recognised for their […]

HONG KONG CARGO HANDLER BECOMES FIRST AT AIRPORT TO RECEIVE PHARMA HANDLING CERTIFICATION

Hactl has has become the first cargo handler at Hong Kong International Airport to obtain IATA CEIV Pharma certification. Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) claims that its certification is the result of an initiative sponsored by Hong Kong Airport Authority, in which all relevant industry players at the airport will undergo validation for the IATA […]

SWEET SUCCESS

Asia-Pacific Airports discovers that confectionery remains an important product in airport duty free shops across the globe. A new study by the Tax Free World Association (TFWA) has highlighted the important role that confectionery plays in attracting customers to duty free and travel retail across all categories.  The report, which is part of the TFWA Category […]

INDUSTRY NEWS

A special report from Siemens about its baggage handling contract at Guangzhou Baiyun and Saudi Arabian success for Lagardère Travel Retail. Fast and efficient Guangzhou Baiyun and Incheon are the latest Asia-Pacific hubs to select Siemens to install innovative baggage handling systems. Siemens’ tray technology is in great demand at large transfer hubs across the […]

ENVIRO REPORT

Asia-Pacific Airports finds out more about the pioneering environmental efforts of Brisbane, Delhi–Indira Gandhi, Hong Kong and Sydney airports. Brisbane Airport has issued its first ever sustainabilty report demonstrating how it addresses its responsibilities to customers, partners, shareholders and community in a sustainable manner without adverse environmental or community impacts. The FY16 Sustainability Report, developed under the Global Reporting Initiative […]

FLYING DOCTORS COMING TO DARWIN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Darwin International Airport (DIA) is set to become the home of the 25th aeromedical base for the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS). The RFDS has been evacuating patients from Central Australia and the Kimberley region to Royal Darwin Hospital for almost 80 years, utilising a combination of hangar sub-lease and shared access arrangements with general aviation […]

SPOTLIGHT ON SECURITY

Cameron Mann, Smith Detection’s global markets director for aviation, talks to Asia-Pacific Airports about some of the key security challenges and opportunities facing airports today. Can airports ever be 100% safe from terrorist attack? This implies no risk and this is simply not the case. However, airports are actively taking steps to improve their security […]

IN THE KNOW

ACI World’s head of Airport Service Quality (ASQ), Dimitri Coll, discusses the publication of a new guide designed to help airports better understand passenger profiles and motivations. We have launched an innovative new guide called ACI passenger personas: A new approach to passenger profiling, which is designed to support airports in developing a deeper understanding of the […]

THE TRUTH IS OUT THERE

Brüel & Kjær’s Mike Rikard-Bell discusses how technology is helping keep residents informed of aviation’s noise mitigation efforts and dispel the misconception that ‘annoyance’ is simply about exposure. It’s over 25 years since Canadian mining executive, Jim Cooney, coined the phrase “Social Licence to Operate” that has become a rallying cry for progressive businesses, nowhere more so than […]

ENJOY THE RIDE – HARLEY-DAVIDSON ARRIVES AT MUMBAI-CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Harley-Davidson’s first merchandise-only showroom, Mach-1, has joined the growing list of global brands in Mumbai–Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport’s Terminal 2. According to the airport, the 500sq ft showroom will “give travellers an opportunity to shop for authentic Harley-Davidson merchandise while on-the-go”. The store located at T2 departures is designed with an industrial look, open ceiling, […]

UNIQUELY NEW ZEALAND

Gez Johns provides an update on the ongoing upgrade and expansion of the terminal building at Auckland International Airport. Once considered something of an outlier in the Pacific, Auckland Airport is rapidly becoming an aviation hub – one Airbus predicts will be welcoming over 10,000 long-haul passengers a day by 2030.  In its most recent […]

SYDNEY AIRPORT LAUNCHES REAL-TIME FLIGHT INFO SERVICE FOR PASSENGERS

Sydney Airport has launched an innovative new service offering tailored, real time flight information to passengers via social media to further enhance the customer experience. The airport has partnered with software provider TIC, whose BizTweet platform connects passengers with airports through social media.   Passengers flying to or from Sydney Airport can keep up to […]

THE NEXT STEP

Asia-Pacific Airports finds out more about the blueprint for a pioneering aerotropolis development at Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Malaysia Airports has unveiled plans for what it claims is its “most exciting endeavour” to date, the creation of a huge, national economy boosting aerotropolis at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). Identified as one of the strategic pillars […]

CHINA’S AIRPORTS CONTINUE TO INVEST IN NEW TECHNOLOGY

The latest Airport IT Trends Survey reveals that China’s airports continue to invest in new capacity enhancing technologies.  The world’s airports are expected to invest more than $9 billion on IT this year and with China’s travel boom showing no signs of slowing down, the nation’s gateways are expected to continue to turn to technology […]

OUT TO IMPRESS

With plans for a three runway system, Terminal 4 nearing completion and a seemingly never ending desire to introduce innovative new services, these are exciting times for Singapore Changi Airport, writes Joe Bates. When frequent travellers are asked to name their favourite airports, Singapore Changi invariably gets a mention, and more than 530 awards since its […]

HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT REPORTS STRONG 2016 TRAFFIC GROWTH

Hong Kong International Airport handled an all-time high of 70.5 million passengers (+2.9%), 411,530 aircraft movements (+1.4%) and 4.5 million tonnes of cargo (+3.2%) in 2016.   Fred Lam, CEO of Airport Authority Hong Kong, says: “We are delighted to see another record breaking year of growth, and we must thank our more than 73,000 colleagues […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

It was a busy end to 2016 for ACI Asia-Pacific with a series of events, visits and other initiatives taking place across the region, writes Vivian Fung. October’s ACI Asia-Pacific Small and Emerging Airports Seminar was hosted in Siem Reap by Cambodia Airports and attracted close to 200 aviation executives from across the region. Cambodia’s Secretary […]

ASIA-PACIFIC REGIONAL NEWS

A snapshot of some of the biggest stories from across the region. Shape of things to come in Shenzhen  Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport’s new Satellite Concourse promises to be one of the most memorable in China if this artist’s impression of the future becomes reality. Designed to serve up to 22 million passengers annually, the […]

BACK TO THE FUTURE

Asia-Pacific Airports editor, Joe Bates, reflects on some of the success stories of 2016 and the need for new infrastructure to meet future demand. The end of one year and the start of another is always a good time to reflect on what has happened over the last 12 months and look forward to the challenges […]

NEW CROCS STORE OPENS IN MUMBAI-CHHATRAPATI SHIVAJI’S TERMINAL 2

Crocs has opened its first Indian travel retail store in Mumbai-Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport’s Terminal 2. Following the success of the travel retail store format at other international airports, the brand decided to bring its business to the expansive retail area at the gateway’s iconic new terminal. According to operator MIAL, the outlet is “perfectly located […]

TRENDY NEW F&B OUTLETS OPEN AT PERTH AIRPORT

Emirates Leisure Retail (ELR) is celebrating the opening of two new F&B outlets in Perth Airport’s Terminal 1 forecourt – The Crafty Swan Kitchen and Bar, and Juice Bean Co. It says that the new outlets are key milestones in the airport’s vast, A$1billion redevelopment project. According to ELR, The Crafty Swan and Juice Bean […]

ALICE SPRINGS AIRPORT TO CELEBRATE 25TH ANNIVERARY OF TERMINAL BUILDING TOMORROW

Alice Springs Airport will celebrate the 25th anniversary of the opening of its terminal tomorrow. Opened on December 8, 1991, to much fanfare, the complex is designed to handle up to 1.2 million passengers per year. And with a roof area covering over 13,000 square metres, it is still one of Central Australia’s largest commercial buildings. Tomorrow, […]

WHAT PASSENGERS WANT

Passengers continue to embrace new technology, according to 2016 Passenger IT Trends Survey. It should come as no surprise to learn that we love IT and continue to embrace it in increasing numbers, the findings of SITA’s 2016 Passenger IT Trends Survey revealing that a staggering 92% of today’s passengers use self-service technology to book […]

WORLD BUSINESS PARTNERS NEWS: APA3 2016

World Business Partners in the spotlight. Jacobs to work on Forrestfield Airport Rail Link Jacobs Engineering Group is acting as a client-side technical advisor to the Western Australia Public Transport Authority (PTA) for the A$2 billion Forrestfield Airport Rail Link. The new train line will connect Forrestfield to the city, opening up Perth’s eastern suburbs to […]

ACI APA 2016, ISSUE 04

In the spotlight: Design & Build Airport report: Singapore Changi In focus: Customer service Plus: Confectionery, Enviro report & Industry news Read the online issue: click here     Back to the future Asia-Pacific Airports editor, Joe Bates, reflects on some of the success stories of 2016 and the need for new infrastructure to meet future demand. News A snapshot […]

DESIGN & BUILD: IBRAHIM NASIR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Spotlight on Male’s Ibrahim Nasir International Airport development. KEY facts Airport: Malé, The Maldives Project: New terminal, runway, cargo facilities and fuel farm. Delivery date: 2019 Key players: Beijing Urban Construction Group (BUCG); Saudi Bin Laden Group. Male’s Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, the capital city gateway of the Island nation of the Maldives, has started work on the biggest […]

ROUTE ONE

Joe Bates reviews the 2016 route development success of a handful of the region’s airports. A good route network is the life’s blood of any airport and the successful addition and development of new airlines, services and destinations can be transformational for a gateway in terms of its stature, economic impact and public perception. It is probably not […]

BIGGER AND BETTER

Asia-Pacific Airports magazine turns the spotlight on Hong Kong International Airport’s multi-billion dollar third runway project. Hong Kong International Airport has begun construction work on the new three-runway system (3RS) that it believes will guarantee its long-term success. The airport, which currently has two runways, claims that a third is vital to ensure that it is […]

DUBAI (DXB) ON TARGET TO RETAIN STATUS AS THE WORLD’S BUSIEST INTERNATIONAL HUB

Dubai International Airport (DXB) welcomed 6.4 million passengers (+2.7%) in October, according to the monthly traffic report issued today by operator Dubai Airports. Year to date, passenger numbers at DXB have risen 6.8% to 69.3 million compared to 64.9 million recorded during the first ten months of 2015.  Eastern Europe led the pack again as […]

CULTURE CLUB

Robbie Gill, managing director of The Design Solution, explains why he believes that every airport needs to express a ‘sense of place’. If you want to grab the attention of any busy airport manager, the words ‘non-aeronautical revenue’ will usually do the trick, especially when combined with the promise of new, smarter and more effective […]

NEW SELF SERVICE TECHNOLOGY FOR MANILA’S NINOY AQUINO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport has selected SITA as its key IT partner as it looks to invest in new common use, self-service technology to improve its operational efficiency and support IATA’s Fast Travel programme. Operated by Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), the airport is the main international gateway to the Philippines with more than 37 million […]

STRIVING FOR MORE

Kirsten O’Neill, customer experience research manager at Dubai Airports, talks to ACI World’s Sevda Fevzi about the benefits of the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) benchmarking programme. How and why did your airport join ASQ? Nowadays, more often than not, what identifies an airport in the customer’s mind is the overall airport experience. Indeed, the experience […]

PASSENGER TRAFFIC SOARING AT DUBAI WORLD CENTRAL

Dubai World Central–Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) continues to grow as a gateway, handling 191,950 passengers in the third quarter of 2016 – up 161% on the corresponding period a year ago. The huge upturn, from the admittedly modest Q3 2015 total of 73,466 passengers, makes it one of the fastest growing airports in the […]

BUILDING LOYALTY

What do airport retailers and F&B operators have to do to win over customers and convince them to return again and again? Clare Williams investigates. With duty free and travel retail sales set to top $100 billion by 2023, according to the latest data from Generation Research, it makes sense for airports to make the best of […]

WORLD BUSINESS PARTNERS NEWS: APA4 2015

World Business Partners in the spotlight. Beca spearheads Queenstown upgrade Queenstown Airport has started work on a NZ$17 million series of major airfield infrastructure improvements designed to pave the way for evening flights in winter 2016 and improve the overall safety and efficiency of operations. The airport’s main runway will be widened by 15 metres […]

BEST INTENTIONS

Joe Bates takes a closer look at some of the latest and most innovative customer focused initiatives unveiled at the region’s airports.  From Incheon’s ice rink, Singapore Changi’s ‘Social Tree’ and roaming airport ambassadors in Dubai and Hong Kong, there is no doubting that the region’s airports continue to lead the world when it comes […]

AUSTRALIAN FIRSTS

Kerrie Mather, Sydney Airport’s managing director and CEO and new president of ACI Asia-Pacific, talks to Joe Bates about the growth and development of Australia’s busiest gateway. Like most Australians, Kerrie Mather is used to travelling as, to use her words, “Australia is a big country at the bottom of the world” and to get anywhere […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

Vivian Fung rounds up all the latest news from ACI Asia-Pacific, including a report on its participation at the 53rd ICAO Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation, Asia and Pacific Region. A busy few months for ACI Asia-Pacific culminated in representing the interests of our member airports at the 53rd ICAO Conference of Directors General […]

ASIA-PACIFIC AIRPORTS NEWS

 A snapshot of some of the biggest stories from across the region. Changi’s vision of the future Singapore Changi’s new Terminal 4 will provide passengers with a vision of the future in terms of its implementation of self-service facilities, according to operator, Changi Airport Group (CAG). “Based on current trends, airports of the future will […]

TRANSFORMING THE PASSENGER EXPERIENCE

Recognising the positive impact wayfinding has on passengers can help airports better manage their customer experience and boost revenues, writes James Ackomann. Being able to navigate your way through any building is important. If that building is an airport moving millions of passengers through often-unfamiliar environments, processes, procedures and languages, the need for good wayfinding […]

GUCCI TO JOIN THE LIST OF NEW HIGH-END BRANDS IN SYDNEY’S REVAMPED TERMINAL 1

Sydney Airport has announced that Italian luxury brand Gucci will join the airport’s newly transformed T1 International fashion precinct in early 2017 in an Australian airport first. Established in Florence in 1921 and now one of the world’s most distinguished fashion brands, Gucci will join a premium collection of 13 new brands at Sydney Airport, […]

HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT FURTHER REDUCES CARBON FOOTPRINT

Hong Kong International Airport is today celebrating another major environmental milestone – reducing its carbon intensity by 25.6% per passenger or 100kg of cargo in 2015, compared with 2008 levels. This achievement surpassed the original target of reducing carbon intensity by 25%, set in 2010.  Operator Airport Authority Hong Kong and its business partners have […]

ACI APA 2016, ISSUE 03

In the spotlight: Customer service Airport report: Sydney Future build: Hong Kong and the Maldives Plus: Route development and World Business Partners Read the online issue: click here   View from the top ACI Asia-Pacific regional director, Patti Chau, reflects on the organisation’s growing membership, activities and recent initiatives. News A snapshot of some of the biggest stories from across […]

VIETNAM’S AIRPORT AMBITIONS HELPED BY MOU WITH DUTCH COMPANIES

Vietnam’s ambition to become a regional hub for passenger and cargo traffic has been boosted by a Dutch-Vietnamese government programme to co-operate on aviation and airport development across the country. Earier today a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) director, Lai Xuan Thanh, and Royal HaskoningDHV’s director and […]

DUBAI AIRPORTS TO BUILD WORLD’S FIRST TIER III MODULAR DATA CENTRE COMPLEX

Dubai Airports will partner with Huawei to design and build the world’s first Tier III certified Modular Data Centre Complex (MDCC) at Dubai International Airport (DXB). The new facility will serve the world’s busiest international airport. On average, almost 230,000 passengers pass through DXB per day and growing towards 325,000 per day by 2023, making […]

ASIA-PACIFIC’S AIRLINES WELCOME ICAO’S DECISION FOR A GLOBAL CARBON OFFSETTING SCHEME FOR AVIATION

The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) has welcomed ICAO’s decision to put in place the world’s first carbon offsetting scheme for any global sector. “The aviation sector has committed to ambitious environmental targets, and has been successfully pursuing a four pillar strategy including technology, operations and infrastructure improvements,” says AAPA director general, Andrew Herdman.  “This landmark […]

NEW F&B OUTLET OPENS IN ‘CHILL OUT ZONE’ AT HYDERABAD

Hyderabad–Rajiv Gandhi International Airport has unveiled a new ‘chill-out zone’ for passengers based around its new Island Café & Bar. According to operator, GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL), its addition offers international departing passengers with an “exciting options of food and beverages in an innovatively carved out ambience making their visit at Hyderabad Airport worth cherishing”. […]

EVERYONE’S A WINNER!

Australia’s spectacular Gold Coast was the venue for this year’s Airport Service Quality (ASQ) awards ceremony for the world’s most customer friendly airports. ACI’s Airport Service Quality (ASQ) customer satisfaction benchmarking programme is 10 years old this year and it marked the occasion with a record number of awards. Indeed, it was a case of […]

NEWS

Vivian Fung provides an update on ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme, which is now so popular in Asia-Pacific that a quarter of all passengers pass through a certified gateway. Maldives milestone The construction contract for the new $800 million terminal at Ibrahim Nasir International Airport in the Maldives has been awarded to the Saudi Binladin […]

SHOPPING FOR CANDY AT BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Bahrain International Airport looks a little more colourful today following the opening of a Candy Cloud outlet. Unveiled by Bahrain Duty Free, the 60sqm store is located on the main passenger walkway of the departures retail area and, according to its operator, is home to “top toy and confectionery brands, and the range is aimed at […]

GOING FOR GOLD

Agility and collaboration were predominant themes at the 11th ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly, Conference & Exhibition held on Australia’s sun-drenched Gold Coast, with panels around technology, passenger experience, security and sustainability emerging as major topics. The prevailing themes were robustly discussed in three days of presentations and panels to 610 delegates from 52 countries and vividly demonstrated […]

ZHENGZHOU TAKES OFF

John Kasarda tells us more about the exciting plans to create a dynamic economic zone around Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport in China’s Henan Province. China’s mushrooming air traffic has led to an airport construction boom that in the last five years alone has led to more than $43 billion being invested in modernising and expanding […]

PASSENGER TRAFFIC CONTINUES UPWARD TRAJECTORY AT DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Passenger traffic at Dubai International has exceeded all previous records in July surging to an historic high of 7.6 million, according to the monthly traffic report issued by operator Dubai Airports today. Passenger numbers in July totalled 7,616,792 compared to the 6,682,676 handled in July 2015, a significant increase of 14%.  During the first seven […]

ACI APA 2016, ISSUE 02

In the spotlight: India’s airport system Highlights of the Regional Assembly, Conference & Exhibition Winning feeling: The ASQ awards ceremony Plus: Zhengzhou’s aerotropolis & South East Asia’s LCCs Read the online issue: click here   Never ending challenges Asia-Pacific Airports editor, Joe Bates, reflects on the strength of the aviation industry to overcome adversity and previews this India focused […]

WORK BEGINS ON HONG KONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT’S NEW THREE RUNWAY SYSTEM

Construction of the new Three-Runway System (3RS) at Hong Kong International Airport started today. The eight-year construction of 3RS is expected to be completed in 2024, with the commissioning of the new runway in 2022. Jack So Chak-kwong, chairman of the Airport Authority of Hong Kong; professor Anthony Cheung Bing-leung, Hong Kong’s Secretary for Transport […]

WORLD BUSINESS PARTNERS NEWS

World Business Partners in the spotlight Room with a view Plaza Premium Group has opened the only airport transit hotel in the world to be equipped with an outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi and pool side bar at Singapore Changi. Called Aerotel and located close to Gate 41 on Level 3 of Terminal 1, it is […]

BUILDING BONDS

Joe Bates finds out more about the rapidly growing trend of ‘sister airport agreements’ between Asia-Pacific gateways and their counterparts across the globe. While ‘sister’ agreements between airports are not exactly a new phenomenon, the movement appears to have gained traction across the region in the first quarter of the year with a number of […]

WINNING HEARTS AND MINDS

Harnessing the power of aviation’s information age to improve the passenger experience is key to customer satisfaction, writes Rockwell Collins’ Andrew Seow. According to IATA, 2015 witnessed the strongest surge in air travel demand in five years with international passenger traffic across the globe rising by 6.5% and by a healthy 8.2% in Asia-Pacific. Indeed, […]

EXPANSION PROJECT STARTS AT IBRAHIM NASIR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT IN THE MALDIVES

Maldives Airports Company Ltd (MACL) ia celebrating the start of the expansion project at Ibrahim Nasir International Airport. The expansion programme, being carried out in collaboration with the the Beijing Urban Construction Group (BUCG), will add a 3,400m runway, new 12,000 tons per annum capacity cargo complex and new fuel farm. The fuel farm will have a storage […]

CONNECTING AUSTRALIA

Australian Airports Association’s policy manager, Simon Bourke, considers the national importance of aviation and some of the opportunities and challenges faced by the country’s gateways. Australia’s network of airports spread across major urban centres and regions form an integral part of the national economic infrastructure and are critical to connecting communities and enhancing broader economic […]

DESIGN & BUILD – MACTAN-CEBU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Work is underway on the new Terminal 2 at Mactan-Cebu International Airport. KEY facts Airport: Mactan-Cebu International Airport Project: New Terminal 2 Key players: GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation (GMCAC), Integrated Design Association (IDA), Budji Layug + Royal Pineda Design Architects, Kenneth Cobonpue Asia Completion: February 2018 A concrete pouring ceremony earlier this year marked the start of the construction of the […]

SPOTLIGHT ON MYANMAR AND VIETNAM

Asia-Pacific Airport’s editor, Joe Bates, reviews some of the exciting capital investment projects planned for airports in Myanmar and Vietnam. With traffic across Asia-Pacific rising by 8% to 2.67 billion passengers in 2015, there is little doubt that the region remains one of the global hotspots for traffic growth and is likely to remain so for the […]

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

Joe Bates catches up with new Queensland Airports Limited CEO, Chris Mills, to find out how he has fared in his first six months in the role and learn more about some ambitious development plans. It is still early days in the role for new Queensland Airports Limited boss, Chris Mills, who in many ways […]

ACI ASIA-PACIFIC NEWS

Vivian Fung reports on the latest news and events from across the Asia-Pacific region. Macau International Airport’s marketing department director, Eric Fong, and chairman of the executive committee, Dr Deng Jun, joined ACI Asia-Pacific’s regional director, Patti Chau, and CAPA executive chairman, Peter Harbison, at the Opening Ceremony of the 2015 ACI Small and Emerging Airports […]

HAPPY TALK!

Pacific Asia Travel Association’s regional director-Pacific, Chris Flynn, reflects on the changing dynamics of Asia-Pacific tourism. It’s a well known fact that travel to, from, and within the Asia-Pacific region has undergone a huge surge in recent times. Changes in airline operating models, the establishment of new carriers, improved infrastructure and increased investment have all […]

A LOOK BACK AT 50 YEARS OF OPERATIONS AT AUCKLAND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Auckland International Airport is 50 years old this year, and as our historic old photos show, it has always been popular with the locals. Talking earlier this year about the gateway reaching its half century, chief executive, Adrian Littlewood, enthused: “Fifty years is a long time and an important milestone worthy of celebration. “New Zealand […]

DUBAI WORLD CENTRAL (DWC) WELCOMES GIANT ANTONOV 225 FREIGHTER

The world’s largest aircraft, the giant Antonov 225, has made a flying visit to Dubai World Central–Al Maktoum International Airport. The aircraft, named Mriya – which means Dream in Ukrainian – made stops in Australia, Turkey and Malaysia before touching down in Dubai yesterday. It left for Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport in Italy this morning. […]

WELCOME ABOARD!

Asia-Pacific Airports takes a closer look at what’s in store for passengers using Dubai International Airport’s new $1.2 billion Concourse D. After months of intensive testing and a successful operational trial involving 2,000 members of the public, Dubai International Airport (DXB) celebrated another milestone moment on February 24 with the official opening of its new Concourse D. […]

KERRIE MATHER ELECTED AS NEW PRESIDENT OF ACI ASIA-PACIFIC

Sydney Airport’s CEO, Kerrie Mather, is the new president of ACI Asia-Pacific with immediate effect, succeeding the retiring Dennis Chant. Mather was elected president at ACI Asia-Pacific’s annual Regional Assembly, Conference & Exhibition, which this year is taking place in the Australian glitter strip of the Gold Coast. Commenting on her new role, Mather said: […]

ROLL OF HONOUR

The introduction of new categories and the results in others being too tight to call means that a record-breaking 62 airports won awards in ACI’s Airport Service Quality (ASQ) customer satisfaction survey for 2015, with Asia-Pacific airports once again dominating the global sections. Indeed, the region’s airports won all of the global by size categories, […]

ACI APA 2016, ISSUE 01

Focus on: The importance of Aviation In the spotlight: Queensland Airports Limited Special report: ASQ Winners Plus: Game changing IT and New infrastructure Read the online issue: click here   View from the top Regional director, Patti Chau, reflects on some achievements, goals and milestones ahead of ACI Asia-Pacific’s Regional Assembly, Conference & Exhibition in the Gold Coast. News A […]

GOOD TIMES

I Prabhakara Rao, CEO of Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, talks to Joe Bates about the impact of Terminal 3, customer service and the importance of being environmentally friendly. In many ways Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport hasn’t looked back since the 2010 opening of its award-winning Terminal 3. Indeed, the airport has enjoyed the […]

BOLD AMBITIONS

Joe Bates reports on the continued growth and development of Dubai’s airport system, which includes plans to make Al Maktoum International–Dubai World Central (DWC) one of the most high-tech gateways on the planet. The region’s newest gateway, Al Maktoum International–Dubai World Central (DWC) continues to grow and evolve, in late October welcoming the launch of […]

THE HEAT IS ON

Asia-Pacific Airports takes a closer look at how some of the Gulf region’s other airports are faring in terms of traffic growth and infrastructure development. When we wrote about the massive amount of investment taking place in the Gulf region in 2010, we said that it was one of the hottest places on earth for […]

THE X FACTOR

What does Abu Dhabi International Airport’s new Midfield Terminal Building have in store for passengers? Joe Bates investigates. There is a saying that the best things in life are worth waiting for, and in the case of Abu Dhabi International Airport’s new Midfield Terminal Building (MTB) this is certainly true, as it will transform the […]

THE BIG IT SPEND

Joe Bates discovers that China’s airports continue to invest in new service and capacity enhancing technology. China’s progress towards an airport experience for passengers that rivals other major airports around the world is starting to take shape on the back of increasing investment in technology, according to the latest Airport IT Trends Survey. For although […]

HIGH-FLYER

Air Astana’s president and CEO, Peter Foster, reveals the secrets of his airline’s success and reflects on 10 years in the hot seat. What is the secret formula behind Air Astana’s profitability? We concentrate on three areas. The first is cost control, based on high fleet utilisation and low fixed cost, including some flexible labour contracts […]

DESIGN & BUILD: CHENGDU, HONG KONG, SHANGHAI IN CHINA AND JEJU IN SOUTH KOREA

Spotlight on ADPI’s projects in China and South Korea. Winning the contract to design the new 100mppa capacity Beijing Daxing International Airport appears to be just the start for ADP Ingénierie  (ADPI) in China, which continues to expand its business interests across the country. Indeed, in addition to Bejing Daxing, ADPI – a wholly-owned subsidiary […]

ALL SYSTEMS GO!

The next phase in the growth of Hong Kong International Airport is now cleared for take-off following approval of a major redevelopment based around a third runway, writes Peta Tomlinson. Landmass-wise, Hong Kong is one of the smallest world cities, but it has always had a big vision. Nowhere is this more evident than in […]

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT

The region’s first ten years have set a strong foundation for the future, writes ACI Asia-Pacific president, Dennis Chant. At this year’s annual Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition at the Dead Sea, Jordan, the ACI Asia-Pacific region celebrated the 10th anniversary of the amalgamation of ACI’s former Asia and Pacific regions.  It was a wonderful opportunity […]

CELEBRATING GOOD TIMES

Asia-Pacific Airports editor, Joe Bates, takes an historic look back at the first decade of the ACI Asia-Pacific region. Some thought it couldn’t be done and a few even questioned the wisdom of it, but ten years down the road nobody is doubting the decision to unite ACI’s former Asia and Pacific regions because it […]

ALL CHANGE

New passenger dynamics and incredible passenger growth ensure that the region’s airports operate in a very different market today than 10 years ago, says former ACI Asia-Pacific president, Tan Sri Bashir Ahmad. Increased competition, coping with traffic growth, changing airline business models, more demanding customers and the need to embrace social media are just some […]

THE OPENING CHAPTER

Max Moore-Wilton looks back with fond memories at the first 10 years of ACI Asia-Pacific region. When Max Moore-Wilton speaks people generally listen because in terms of his career in business and politics – he was Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet in his native Australia – he is a true […]

MAKING MILESTONES

ACI World chairman, Fredrick Piccolo, joins other aviation leaders in congratulating ACI Asia-Pacific on turning ten. It’s no exaggeration to say that this region has produced some of the world’s most impressive and inspiring aviation stories over the years.  A large part of ACI’s remit is to communicate the economic benefits that airports and aviation […]

LEARNING FROM OTHERS

Dubai Civil Aviation Authority director general, Mohammed Ahli, provides his recollections of the creation of ACI Asia-Pacific and thoughts on its progress over the past decade. What was the initial reaction to the proposed merger of ACI’s Asia and Pacific regions? There were reservations by some at first, but after serious consideration by all involved […]

TEN AND COUNTING!

Heads of trade associations and industry organisations across the region congratulate ACI Asia-Pacific on its 10th anniversary. The International Civil Aviation Organization Asia and Pacific Regional Office considers Airports Council International as an important partner in the global civil aviation community.  It also acknowledges the significant contribution of ACI to International Civil Aviation to promote […]

GOING GREEN

ACI World’s senior manager environment, Xavier Oh, reflects on ten years of environmental stewardship in the Asia-Pacific region.  ACI’s Asia and Pacific regions merged to form the largest and fastest growing region shortly after I joined ACI in Montréal ten years ago.   At that time, there were a couple of airports active on the […]

WINNING COMBINATION

Former NAA president, Toru Nakamura, reflects on the creation of ACI’s Asia-Pacific region, the key role he played in it and on the possible challenges ahead. I take this opportunity to offer my sincere congratulations on the 10th anniversary of the merger of the ACI Asia and Pacific regions, and to express my deepest respects to […]

LEADING THE WAY

World Business Partners that have helped make ACI Asia-Pacific a success offer their thoughts on the anniversary. Some of ACI Asia-Pacific’s biggest supporters pay their own personal tributes to the Regional Office. SITA’s vice president, Catherine Mayer, said: “The coming together of airport and World Business Partner (WBP) members from throughout the Pacific and Asia […]

GROWING TOGETHER

The final word on the region’s 10th anniversary. Over the past decade, ACI has played a fundamental role in bringing together the wider aviation community and promoting quality and excellence in airport management and operations. In doing so, ACI has also facilitated greater connectivity and co-operation between airports in Asia and the Middle East, and […]

THE POWER OF IT

New technology is driving change for good across the air transport industry, argues SITA CEO, Francesco Violante. Just ten years ago, we could never have envisioned the impact technology would have on the air transport environment.  From mobile booking to self-service check-in kiosks, automated boarding gates and automated passport kiosks complete with advanced biometrics, technology […]

LOOKING TO ASIA

Hawaiian Airlines president and CEO, Mark Dunkerley, talks about business strategies and the importance of the Asian market to his airline. What are your thoughts on the airline’s performance in 2014? Last year was a great one for the company and we’re looking forward to an even better 2015. The strategy we’ve employed since 2010 […]

WORLD BUSINESS PARTNERS NEWS: APA3 2015

World Business Partners in the spotlight. Expansion on the menu It has been a good few months for SSP Asia Pacific, which has won a $A90 million contract to run five new restaurants and cafes at Hobart International Airport, a $A68 million deal to operate three outlets in Sydney Airport’s Domestic Terminal and been chosen […]

WHAT A SHOW!

Joe Bates looks back at some of the highlights of ACI Asia-Pacific’s 2015 Regional Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in Jordan. Believe in Jordan is the name of Queen Alia International Airport’s sleek new promotional video, and it is a sentiment now shared by  all 350 delegates who attended a truly memorable ACI Asia-Pacific Regional Assembly, […]

LEAP OF FAITH

Zhang Xiuzhi, CEO of Chinese low-cost carrier, Spring Airlines, tells Graham Newton that thinking big comes easily. Spring Airlines was founded in 2004 as part of a partial liberalisation of the civil aviation sector in China and commenced flights in July 2005.  By 2008, many of the new airlines that emerged during this time had […]

SPOTLIGHT ON INDIA

Nigel Mayes, ASM’s senior vice president consulting and product development, asks whether India can finally fulfil its potential? There is renewed optimism for the recovery of the Indian economy, the largest democracy on the planet. But is there the same optimism for the Indian aviation industry? The only constant in the Indian aviation industry is […]

ARABIAN FLIGHTS

Graham Newton talks to Oman Air CEO, Paul Gregorowitsch, about the airline’s strategy and its role in the wider economy.  Tell us about your strategy for the airline, including the expansion and the efficiency programme? Oman Air is guided by a development plan that was endorsed by the board of directors in 2013. This sees […]

FIT FOR PURPOSE

Airspace in the Middle East must have the flexibility to deal with the region’s rapid aviation growth. Aviation in the Middle East supports two million jobs and $116 billion in GDP according to a report compiled by the Air Transport Action Group.  Over the next 20 years, air traffic in the region will grow at […]

DESIGN & BUILD: INCHEON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

When Incheon promises to do something it generally does, so it should come as no surprise to anyone to learn that its giant new Terminal 2 is on schedule for completion in September 2017 as planned.  The timing, to ensure an early 2018 opening, will actually be perfect as at the current growth rate Incheon’s existing passenger […]

WORLD BUSINESS PARTNERS NEWS: APA2 2015

World Business Partners in the spotlight. Bengaluru boost for Nuance and SITA  Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport has opened a new duty free store and invested in new passenger processing technology designed to boost its operational efficiency. According to Nuance, its new 900sqm duty free store treats passengers to a walk of nostalgia and rich South […]

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!

New Zealand has much to offer beyond the movie industry spotlight. Relatively small, in a remote corner of the world, New Zealand still manages to exert a major pull on airlines and tourists alike. Not surprisingly, allowing the unassuming to thrive seems to be a trademark of the country. Tucked away in the Wellington suburb […]

MAKING THE RIGHT HEADLINES

Peta Tomlinson and Joe Bates find out more about how Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) is faring after a difficult 16 months for the country’s airlines and travel industry. If managing director, Datuk Badlisham Ghazali, has any doubts about the future success and prosperity of Malaysia’s airport system he is doing a good job of […]

FRIENDLY AND EFFICIENT

Asia-Pacific airports once again lead the way in ACI’s annual Airport Service Quality (ASQ) customer satisfaction survey, writes Joe Bates.  Queen Alia International Airport in Jordan (Best in Middle East) and Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (Best in the 25-40mppa category) were a few of the new Asia-Pacific based gateways to be honoured in this […]

BUILD AND GROW

Airport International Group CEO, Kjeld Binger, talks to Joe Bates about the ongoing transformation of Amman’s Queen Alia International Airport. When Kjeld Binger looked out of the windows of his airport office earlier this year he could be forgiven for thinking he was back in his native Denmark, as on ground outside was something that […]

BACK ON THE RADAR

Joe Bates discovers more about the ambitions and growth plans of arguably the Gulf state’s first gateway to make a global impression on the world – Bahrain International Airport. Mohamed Yousif Al-Binfalah, CEO of Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), has no doubts about the impact the planned new terminal will make to Bahrain International Airport. “Our […]

BOOM TIME!

Air traffic in Indonesia is growing at such a pace that the nation’s airports are struggling to cope, writes Justin Burns. According to IATA, Indonesia will be among the top five fastest growing aviation markets over the next 20 years. Already the world’s fourth most populated country with more than 238 million people, Indonesia is […]

COMMON GOAL

New common-use technology will help enhance the operational efficiency of 13 Indonesian gateways, writes Anthony Phillips. The ongoing upgrade of Indonesia’s airports by PT Angkasa Pura 1 (Persero) has included the installation of SITA’s common-use passenger technology (AirportConnect  Open) at its 13 airports in central and eastern Indonesia.  The new technology ensures that the airports […]

THE BUYING GAME

Joe Bates takes a closer look at the growing airport portfolios of a handful of the region’s biggest airport operators. The Asia-Pacific region arguably boasts some of the best and most successful airport operators on the planet, and an increasing number of them are now looking overseas to expand their portfolios. While the list of […]

DESIGN & BUILD: NEWCASTLE AIRPORT

In September 2013, Newcastle Airport received long-awaited news – its application to the New South Wales (NSW) government for an A$11.1 million grant to fund the expansion of its terminal had been successful. Fast-forward 14 months and construction of the 2,600sqm extension is well underway as part of a A$14.5 million project that will also involve […]

BETTER BUYS

Are you making the most of your travel retail opportunities? Rosemary Chegwyn considers some of the retail dilemmas faced by Asia-Pacific’s gateways. An age old question is what do people do to pass the time while waiting at the airport to board their flight?  The answer depends on many different things, of course, perhaps most […]

THE REAL DEAL

A host of new contracts and record sales figures for 2014 make these exciting times for travel retail and duty free operators, writes Joe Bates. Duo to transform Auckland duty free offering Auckland Airport has announced that its duty free offering will be provided by LS travel retail Pacific and Aer Rianta International from July, […]

WORLD BUSINESS PARTNERS NEWS: APA1 2015

World Business Partners in the spotlight. Growing places Plaza Premium Lounge has opened its upgraded lounge at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). The lounge, one of four Plaza Premium Lounge spaces at YVR, is located in the airport’s new A-B Connector on Level 3 Departures of the Domestic Terminal. According to the company, the 6,390-square foot […]