The shortlists for the FTE Global Pioneer Awards 2024 have been unveiled. The FTE Global Airline Pioneer Awards and FTE Global Airport Operators Pioneer Awards shine a light on the 20 airlines and airports across world that are pushing the boundaries of innovation, enhancing the customer experience, and playing a vital role in advancing the air transport industry.
Six of the 20 nominees will be presented with an ‘Outstanding Achievement’ trophy, and six others will be ‘Highly Commended’ during the presentation ceremony in Los Angeles. The ceremony will take place during the FTE Global 2024 Networking Party on Tuesday 29 October, with the FTE Global Pioneer Awards sponsored by Assaia, providing the perfect opportunity to honour global innovators among industry friends and colleagues. Congratulations to all of the airlines and airport operators that have been nominated.
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FTE Global Airline Pioneer Awards 2024 nominees:
International Airlines Group
International Airlines Group (IAG), whose member airlines include British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, Vueling and LEVEL, is shortlisted for its impressive transformation journey – not only of its own operations, but also how our industry operates. IAG – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub and a Partner of the FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group – is collaborating with its airport partners on a wide range of trials, covering robotics and automation, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning, biometrics and digital identity, personalisation, collaboration with startups, sustainability, private networks and the Internet of Things, and much more across the ramp, lounges and accessibility.
IAG is, for example, collaborating with Pittsburgh International Airport to test and deploy new technologies to drive strategic innovation in five different categories: passenger experience, employee experience, partner experience, sustainability, and safety & security. Current collaboration encompasses autonomous wheelchairs; camera-based, AI-enabled event detection; above-wing data and autonomous service solutions; and below-wing data and ground servicing solutions.
IAG has a vision to enable a fully automated airport experience. This vision sees customers empowered via their mobile device to create a seamless experience, as well as fully automated below-wing operations utilising automation & robotics.
The overarching technology underpinning IAG’s innovation activities is AI and its efforts in this space are undoubtedly among the most impressive FTE has seen. The recently-created IAG.ai has received significant investment, with a lab in London and plans to open another in Barcelona, as well as further locations to accelerate innovation.
Sustainability is also a priority for IAG and one of the pillars on which it bases its strategy and transformation. It is, for example, working intensely on securing its future Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) needs. IAG was the first airline group in the world to commit to net zero emissions by 2050. In addition, it was the first European group to set the goal of covering its fuel needs with at least 10% of SAF by 2030.
Hear more from International Airlines Group (IAG) at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” – taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. Keith Walters, Group Transformation Lead, IAG, is participating in the ‘FTE Robotics & Autonomous Vehicles Symposium’ and Vanisha Khatwa, Vice President London Heathrow, IAG, is speaking in the ‘FTE Accessibility Symposium’.
Meanwhile, William Rumsey, Head of Product – Airport & Customer Ops, British Airways, and Sarah Bennett, Head of Heathrow Safety and Security, British Airways, are participating in a session focused on ‘How do we leverage technology, innovation and new approaches to create Smart Ramp operations around the world?’ with a presentation titled ‘IAG are making extensive efforts to drive automated operations across their network as fast as they can and the ramp is a particular area of focus. What have been the key learnings from this effort so far, and what does it want to see from industry stakeholders going forward to help accelerate progress?’
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Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub and a Partner of the FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group – aims to rank among the top 3 global airlines for digital passenger experience by 2033. It is shortlisted for a progressive strategy, driven together with Turkish Technology – the airline’s innovation hub – which includes fintech, Artificial Intelligence (AI), biometrics, and an all-encompassing digital experience for passengers. A key focus on this journey for Turkish Airlines is building resilience into its 24/7 operation to support the growth and transformation of the airline, as well as its low-cost carrier AJet, with a different tech approach being taken for the new airline brand. Turkish Airlines’ digital strategy is exemplified by the recent launch of TK Wallet, a feature within the airline’s app and website that simplifies payment and refund processes for Miles&Smiles loyalty members.
Turkish Technology, the airline’s IT subsidiary, is crucial in its digital transformation. The focus is on providing advanced IT services, leading research and development in AI, analytics, fintech, and cybersecurity with a truly collaborative approach. This is demonstrated by the recent joint development of an advanced Air Cargo Revenue Management System with ICRON and Invent.
Meanwhile, Turkish Airlines is investing in biometrics to create a seamless and contactless passenger journey. Trials with the Star Alliance Biometrics system and IATA’s One ID reflect the airline’s commitment to passenger-centric innovation.
Hear more from Turkish Airlines in the Premium Conference at FTE APEX Asia Expo, taking place in Singapore on 19-20 November 2024. Koray Ergün, Airline Operations Solutions Director, Turkish Technology, is participating in the ‘Airline Innovation Summit’ with a presentation titled ‘How Turkish Airlines is enhancing efficiency with a bespoke AI-based turnaround management solution, plus an insight into its future digital vision’.
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Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines – a Partner of the FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group – is shortlisted for a range of pioneering initiatives, including its exploration of robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI). The airline is preparing for what it calls the ‘Proactive Era’, where robotics and AI enable its operations to detect and prevent irregular operations, where Virtual Travel Assistants guide guests every step of the way, and customer service becomes ‘super-charged’ with insights delivered to agents through Augmented Reality (AR)-enabled wearables. Another element is the new Alaska Inspires destination discovery tool – the world’s first Generative AI flight search launched by an airline, which draws from Alaska Airlines’ rich customer data to make destination recommendations that are synthesised and hyper-personalised.
Alaska Airlines is also blazing a path into a sub 5-minute lobby experience across its airport network. The new terminal at Portland International Airport recently became the first location with the airline’s proprietary and innovative technology and processes, including custom iPad-powered bag tag stations that print tags with just the scan of a mobile boarding pass.
Indeed, innovating with new technologies is in Alaska Airlines’ DNA and it has partnered with UP.Labs, a first-of-its-kind venture lab unlocking the future of transportation and mobility, to establish the Airline Venture Lab. The aim is to build startups that solve core strategic challenges for Alaska Airlines and the future of aviation.
Meanwhile, Alaska Airlines recently announced an investment in JetZero, a pioneering company developing a new blended-wing body (BWB) aircraft that will provide up to 50% less fuel burn and lower emissions. The investment reflects Alaska’s commitment to advance new technology, including those that enable the airline’s path to net zero carbon emissions.
Hear more from Alaska Airlines at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” – taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. Natalie Bowman, Managing Director, Product & Digital Experience, Alaska Airlines, is speaking in the ‘FTE AI Symposium’ with a case study titled ‘How will Alaska Airlines use AI to increase productivity, transform customer experiences, streamline operations, remove manual toll and drive revenues, and what can it learn from those efforts?’
Meanwhile, Kristin Olsen, Director of Product Management, Travel Experience Guest Digital Technology, Alaska Airlines, is joining the ‘Digital Identity & Biometrics Symposium – building compelling business cases for a global industry roll-out’.
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Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways is shortlisted for the ground-breaking capabilities of Sama 2.0, the world’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) flight attendant, and QVerse – the airline’s virtual travel experience platform. These innovations are redefining what passengers can expect from the pre-travel phase, significantly enhancing convenience and engagement through personalised, tech-driven interactions.
Sama 2.0, as the digital face of Qatar Airways’ AI interfaces, currently enhances its pre-travel customer service by providing reliable, immediate answers to a wide range of enquiries. Looking ahead, Sama 2.0 is set to evolve into offering personalised assistance, aiming to tailor interactions based on individual passenger preferences and history. This progression will further transform the pre-travel experience, making each interaction more relevant and engaging for customers. QVerse offers a detailed, immersive virtual environment where customers can explore various aspects of their upcoming travel. This includes virtual tours of aircraft interiors, lounges, and even previewing the look and feel of seats. By using QVerse, passengers can make informed decisions about their travel options, enhancing satisfaction and excitement for their upcoming journey.
Qatar Airways’ foundational work with AI and Virtual Reality is setting the stage for further innovations in Augmented Reality and the Internet of Things. The airline believes that these emerging technologies can leverage the robust base it has established, driving it forward to new heights.
The airline recently unveiled the new, ultra-modern ‘Qsuite Next Gen’, aiming to redefine luxury and innovation, while further elevating the business class experience. Qsuite Next Gen’s new and enhanced features include fully customisable Quad Suites, Companion Suites in window aisles, 4K OLED manoeuvrable inflight entertainment (IFE) screens, and increased space and privacy in each suite.
Qatar Airways is also equipping cabin crew with new digital tools and has introduced an in-house application that enables them to deliver personalised experiences to passengers. In its initial phase, the application offers real-time insights on flight information, and customer and service information.
Meanwhile, earlier this year, Qatar Airways became the first leading airline in the MENA region to introduce complimentary Starlink WiFi to elevate the onboard passenger experience, with plans to progressively extend the SpaceX-powered technology across its entire fleet within the next two years.
Hear more from Qatar Airways in the Premium Conference at FTE APEX Asia Expo, taking place in Singapore on 19-20 November 2024. Babar Rahman, Senior Vice President of Global Marketing & Corporate Communications, Qatar Airways, is participating in the ‘Airline Innovation Summit’ with a presentation titled ‘How Qatar Airways’ Sama 2.0 – the world’s first AI flight attendant – and the revolutionary QVerse have redefined the pre-travel experience’.
Meanwhile, Xia Cai, Senior Vice President of the Product Development & Design Division, Qatar Airways, is participating in a session focused on ‘Inflight Innovation – elevating the onboard experience through cutting-edge cabin, IFEC and service advancements’.
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Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub and a Partner of the FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group – is shortlisted for its approach to robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI), which it believes offer immense potential to revolutionise the airline industry. Southwest is strategically harnessing both traditional AI and Generative AI (Gen AI). An example of an application of traditional AI involves predicting flight risks and furnishing actionable insights and alerts for the airline’s Operations team. This empowers them to effectively manage and recover from operational disruptions. In December 2022, Winter Storm Elliot created extreme weather conditions that impacted the entire industry. Southwest responded with the development of the Leading Indicator Alert Tool, which combines existing data with AI and Machine Learning to create predictive models that allow the airline to proactively address potential issues, enhancing both operational efficiency and customer experience.
Southwest is on a transformative journey from traditional AI and robotics process automation to a more versatile AI architecture, integrating traditional AI initially and now in combination with Gen AI, leveraging AI for smoother operations, and identifying friction points for optimisation. This journey showcases the evolution towards an adaptable AI structure, fostering innovation and efficiency across the airline.
The airline also has a strong focus on startup engagement and has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Archer Aviation to develop operational plans for electric air taxi networks utilising eVTOL aircraft at California airports where Southwest operates.
Meanwhile, Southwest’s updated sustainability strategy – ‘Nonstop to Net Zero’ – outlines its path to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The airline is focused on several innovative fuel and operational efficiency initiatives, most notably with the incorporation of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) into the operation. It has set a goal to replace 10% of total jet fuel consumption with SAF by 2030.
Hear more from Southwest Airlines at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. Kevin Kleist, Head of Emerging Trends, Southwest Airlines, is participating in the ‘FTE AI Symposium’, delivering a joint presentation with Christiaan Hen, CEO, Assaia, titled ‘Southwest Airlines is leveraging computer vision technology to improve turnaround performance at the gate. How successful has this effort been, and how might it further leverage the technology going forward?’ Meanwhile, Kleist is also participating in a session titled ‘No hands on bags – is this the future of baggage handling?’
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Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines – a Partner of the FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group – is shortlisted for a range of initiatives to deliver a seamless, elevated and personalised inflight experience. The airline last year launched ‘Delta Sync Exclusives’ – a first-of-its-kind platform to curate the onboard experience for passengers with exclusive content, access and offers – which has now been introduced on more than 330 aircraft for a personalised experience that makes the airline’s seatback screens feel more like a smart TV. Allied to that is evolution of the SkyMiles loyalty programme, offering a host of day-of-travel tools for members designed to streamline their travel journey, including partnerships with brands such as Starbucks to provide customers with more rewards.
The biggest-ever upgrade of the Fly Delta app was recently launched as a cornerstone of its CX initiatives. Fly Delta 6.0 is packed with improvements designed to help customers save time, explore new destinations and manage their travel. The latest app update includes new features, functionality and experiences that reimagine how customers can engage with Delta. This includes an all-new Help Center view, always-available access to boarding information, and connectivity to Delta’s Virtual Assistant. Customers are also able to utilise their Delta SkyMiles credentials from their Fly Delta app to seamlessly connect to Delta Sync Wi-Fi onboard. Meanwhile, Delta customers at LAX, LGA and JFK now have a quicker way to move through the airport – Delta Digital ID provides a seamless, hands-free way to navigate the airport, using biometric facial matching to move through bag drop and security checkpoints.
Lufthansa
Lufthansa – a Partner of the FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group – is shortlisted for its innovative use of the Metaverse and Mixed Reality. Last year’s launch of Allegris – the airline’s new long-haul travel experience – was the biggest use of the technology in the industry to-date. The Allegris launch blended the physical and digital, with the airline’s new Metaverse event location having a key role.
Lufthansa is now building on its pioneering use of the Metaverse and Mixed Reality to further enhance the customer experience. It has partnered with Meta, the parent company of Facebook, to offer Meta Quest 3 Mixed Reality headsets to passengers flying in its newly-introduced Allegris Business Class. This marks the first time an airline will offer access to Quest 3 headsets in a commercial inflight setting. Passengers can now enjoy a variety of immersive activities such as 3D movies, virtual sightseeing tours, virtual meditation retreats, travel podcasts, and multiplayer games – all from the comfort of their seats. This significantly enhances the inflight experience by offering personalised entertainment and relaxation options.
The Lufthansa Group has already been using Extended Reality in training and marketing for some time – and now it is a first mover for this innovative entertainment offering. Through the cooperation with Meta, Lufthansa says two innovative market leaders can open the next chapter of inflight entertainment and offer guests completely new experiences.
Lufthansa is also recognised for the partnership launched in July 2024 with Munich Airport and Miles & More – a unique cooperation between an airport, an airline and a loyalty program. This collaborative approach is perfectly aligned with the objectives of the FTE World Ancillary & Retailing Working Group. FTE firmly believes that by working collaboratively as a sector and leveraging technology, innovative approaches, and new business models, we can create a significantly larger revenue pie for everyone to share, and this unique cooperation between Lufthansa, Munich Airport and Miles & More is the most concrete example we have seen yet of this in action.
Meanwhile, Lufthansa is strongly committed to making air transport more sustainable and to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. This includes investments in continuous fleet modernisation and a strong commitment to Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF).
Hear more from Lufthansa at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” – taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. Dr Björn Becker, Head of Future Intercontinental Experience Program, Lufthansa, will deliver a joint presentation alongside Bastian Schutz, Global Lead, Virtual & Mixed Reality Strategy & Partnerships, Meta, and Camillo Stark, Deputy Managing Director, MSM Digital, titled ‘Lufthansa and Meta have partnered to offer Mixed Reality (MR) headsets to the carrier’s business class passengers flying in its newly-introduced Allegris Business Class creating unparalleled experiences for travellers, spanning entertainment, travel, wellness, and gaming to usher in a new era of inflight entertainment and passenger experiences onboard. What is the business case for this effort, and what have been the learnings from its roll-out?’
Meanwhile, Stuart Holdstock, Head of Projects and Processes – Operations, Lufthansa, is participating in a session focused on ‘How do we leverage technology, innovation and new approaches to create Smart Ramp operations around the world?’ with a presentation titled ‘What progress has Lufthansa made working with its German airport partners, and key suppliers, to accelerate their efforts to automate more of their activities on the ramp?’
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United Airlines
United Airlines – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – is nominated for its commitment to relentlessly championing innovation and technology to deliver a best-in-class customer experience.
The airline recently signed the industry’s largest agreement of its kind with SpaceX to bring Starlink’s fast, reliable WiFi service to its mainline and regional aircraft fleet, for free. The new, gate-to-gate connectivity will unlock game-changing experiences at scale, such as access to live TV and streaming services, social media, shopping, gaming and more, on seatback screens and personal devices simultaneously.
Migration to the cloud, in partnership with Amazon Web Services, is supporting innovation using Machine Learning and Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities. Recently, as part of efforts to communicate to customers in real-time, United started using Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to send travellers information about their trip – the teams now use Generative AI tools to assist in giving travellers real-time updates during flight delays. Meanwhile, last year, United became the first U.S. airline to support ‘Live Activities’ for iPhone, giving customers real-time access to their boarding pass, gate and seat number, and countdown clock to departure time on their lock screen or while unlocked in the ‘Dynamic Island’, all without opening the United app. The airline is also now making it easier for passengers to sit in their favourite seat type, even if their preferred seat isn’t available during booking. Travellers can find the new feature in the United mobile app, request their preferred seat and automatically get moved if one opens up.
United is also exploring robotics solutions that have the potential to transform the way bags are moved in the airline industry.
Meanwhile, the airline is embracing Urban Air Mobility and, together with Archer Aviation, plans to launch the first air taxi route in Chicago, between O’Hare International Airport and Vertiport Chicago. The aim is to provide a safe, sustainable, low noise, and cost-competitive alternative to ground transportation beginning in 2025.
Finally, sustainability is a strong focus area and United has a goal of reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, without relying on voluntary carbon offsets. O’Hare recently became the fifth airport where United has purchased Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for operational use.
Hear more from United Airlines at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” – taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. Kristen Berndt, Senior Manager, Customer Strategy & Innovation, United Airlines; Sagi Varghese, Managing Director, Airport Operations & CSD Technology, United Airlines; and Stanley Tran, Corporate Development – United Airlines Ventures, United Airlines, are among the inspirational speakers.
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Singapore Airlines
Singapore Airlines – a Headline Partner of FTE APEX Asia Expo, taking place in Singapore on 19-20 November 2024 – is taking a collaborative approach to ensuring it remains at the forefront of technological advancements and customer-centric innovation. This approach is multifaceted, collaborating with other airlines, industry stakeholders, technology partners, research and development institutions, as well as open innovation ecosystem partners to exchange knowledge, co-develop solutions and drive innovation in the travel and aviation sector.
The airline works closely with open innovation communities, startups and entrepreneurs through its Digital Innovation Lab, KrisLab, to explore and experiment with new, emerging and innovative technologies and solutions – whether they are from the travel and aviation space or other verticals. An example is Singapore Airlines’ partnership with a startup to develop a crew language competency app that leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI) and speech recognition technology. This offers crew a platform to enhance their delivery of onboard announcements through asynchronous learning, enabling them to enhance their language skills and improve their enunciation.
Singapore Airlines is also embracing Generative AI (Gen AI) and has developed a blueprint for its implementation across the organisation. The blueprint is a strategic plan aimed at identifying impactful Gen AI use cases, exemplifying the airline’s commitment to leverage emerging technologies to improve operations and enhance customer experiences.
Meanwhile, as part of its comprehensive sustainability strategy, Singapore Airlines is on a journey to have a minimum of 5% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in its total fuel uplift by 2030. Close collaboration with partners and stakeholders, both in Singapore and globally, is playing a critical role in the airline’s long-term decarbonisation goals. Earlier this year, Singapore Airlines signed an agreement with Neste to purchase 1,000 tonnes of neat Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel.
Emirates
Emirates is nominated for its efforts to pioneer innovation via the dedicated innovation space, the Innovation Majlis, at its Dubai headquarters. The space is designed as a platform to foster deeper research and development, and greater exchange of cutting-edge ideas, showcasing the latest in robotics, hyper-reality, holograms, 3D printers and other advanced technologies. It serves as the social space to co-create proof of concepts (POCs) that will benefit customers, communities and the aviation industry.
Technologies being explored at the Innovation Majlis include robotics and automation, and Artificial Intelligence (AI), such as an autonomous mobile manipulator developed for order deliveries, as well as picking and placing objects from shelves, bins and table-tops. Other tech includes AI-enabled wearable glasses for Augmented Reality experiences to transform interactions with people, products or services. Meanwhile, haptic gloves for natural Extended Reality interactions enable touch interaction in Virtual Reality to feel the weight, vibrations and resistance of virtual objects.
Additionally, a 3D holographic display with Generative AI elevates the experience of interacting with digital signage by providing advanced conversational capability through natural language processing.
Tech to enhance sustainability is another focus area at the Innovation Majlis – for example, next-generation water filtration that turns any tap water into mineralised water.
FTE Global Airport Operators Pioneer Awards 2024 nominees:
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Royal Schiphol Group – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub and an Airport Lab Network Partner of the FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group – is shortlisted for its pioneering approach to robotics and automation. Schiphol is a driving force behind the groundbreaking BOOST initiative designed to transform the future of baggage handling through robotics and automation, which has been developed in partnership with Future Travel Experience via the Baggage Innovation Working Group. Each airport partner in BOOST will tackle a specific technical challenge in automating the baggage process – Schiphol is investigating the most effective automated loading solutions. The airport is currently operating six cobots to load carts and is working on enhancing this technology. While further developing the current loading solution, it is also introducing the ‘Eltonomous’ as an alternative robotic loading solution for comparison.
Schiphol Group has laid out a future-looking vision to create fully autonomous airside operations by 2050. This programme will see all airside vehicles be replaced by an interconnected fleet of autonomous, emission-free vehicles and all associated processes will be automated.
Meanwhile, after a successful trial period in 2023, Schiphol is continuing to test autonomous mobility vehicles. As of September 2024, 10 innovative wheelchairs supplied by WHILL Autonomous Mobility – an exhibitor at FTE Global, the “CES of Aviation” taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024 – will be deployed at the airport for one year. The aim of the trial is to discover how autonomous mobility vehicles can make travelling as easy as possible for people with reduced mobility.
Hear more from Royal Schiphol Group at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. Zahra Merchant, Chapter Lead Robotics, Royal Schiphol Group, is participating in the ‘FTE Robotics & Autonomous Vehicles Symposium’.
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Aeroporti di Roma
Aeroporti di Roma (ADR) – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – is shortlisted for its Innovation Program, which is transforming travel experiences with technology, sustainability, customer-focused solutions and startup acceleration, with the help of its Innovation Cabin Crew.
This year’s third ‘Call4Startups’ as part of its ‘Runway to the Future Acceleration Program’ is empowering the next generation of disruptors with the opportunity to embark on an eight-month journey to develop a proof of concept (POC), testing their solution within the ADR Innovation Hub at Rome Fiumicino Airport. The third edition received more than 700 applications and it is now developing POCs with the successful applicants.
Indeed, the Innovation Program is delivering tangible results. In the initial two editions of the ‘Call4Startups’, ADR successfully identified and collaborated with several innovative startups. The notable successes include engaging with over 600 startups in the last two years, achieving an impressive 50% conversion rate from POCs to implementation, and testing 23 POCs.
Through its Innovation Program, ADR has made improvements by accelerating startups in areas including Artificial Intelligence (AI), automation and autonomous vehicles, and innovative biometrics, transforming operational efficiency, customer experience, commercial performance, and sustainability.
Hear more from Aeroporti di Roma at FTE APEX Asia Expo, taking place in Singapore on 19-20 November 2024. Giulio Ranucci, Head of Innovation, Digital & CVC, Aeroporti di Roma, is participating in the ‘Airport Innovation Summit’ with a presentation titled ‘How a unique innovation culture and mindset has helped to establish Aeroporti di Roma as one of the innovation leaders in the global airport industry’.
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Changi Airport Group
Changi Airport Group – a Headline Partner of FTE APEX Asia Expo, Singapore, 19-20 November 2024 – is nominated for its efforts in the robotics and automation space. It has been conducting extensive trials on the use of autonomous vehicles at the airside to augment its airside workers in the transporting, loading and unloading of baggage containers. As part of this, Changi has agreed to bring in a fleet of four autonomous baggage handling vehicles to pilot underwing operations at the airport, developed by Aurrigo. The recently-concluded Phase 2A of the trial tested the Auto-DollyTug at Changi Airport, showcasing its resilience in different conditions, including wet weather, heat, humidity, alignment to airport equipment, automated transfer of baggage containers and close quarter operations to aircraft on stand. Over the course of the past two years, the Auto-DollyTug has demonstrated its ability to manoeuvre on the apron while interacting with traditional ground service equipment (GSE). Looking ahead, Phase 2B will focus on testing the Auto-DollyTug’s fleet communication through Aurrigo’s Auto-Connect platform, enabling them to be scheduled and monitored to support the turnaround of a wide-body flight.
Meanwhile, on robotics, Changi has deployed the use of cleaning robots to clean the vast terminal floor areas, as well as grass cutting robots to help maintain the turf at the airside. The airport sees that the use of robotics and autonomous vehicles can help to fulfil routine, rule-based tasks, which improves overall productivity by augmenting the existing workforce. Leveraging these ‘intelligent tools’ is a key enabler in ensuring operations can continue to run smoothly, facilitating a seamless experience for all travellers.
Hear more from Changi Airport Group in the Premium Conference at FTE APEX Asia Expo, taking place in Singapore on 19-20 November 2024. Jayson Goh, Executive Vice President, Airport Management, Changi Airport Group, is participating in the ‘Aviation Leaders Keynote Panel – identifying opportunities, overcoming challenges and embracing innovation to support future growth across Asia and beyond’.
Meanwhile, Chua Ching Hock, General Manager – Seletar Airport, Changi Airport Group, is speaking in the ‘Airport Innovation Summit’ with a presentation titled ‘Innovation in smaller airports – the Seletar Airport journey’.
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Pittsburgh International Airport
Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) – located in the ‘Robotics Capital of the World’ – is a pioneer in the robotics and automation space and hosted the second FTE Aviation & Robotics Summit in May 2024.
PIT – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – has completed several trials of various autonomous and autonomy-enabling technologies over the past two years. These trials have been confined to the terminal, parking lots, and other passenger-facing areas and it is now moving towards testing autonomous technologies on the airfield, prioritising below-wing functions and support. The airport is also actively pursuing trials of ecosystems of autonomous technologies working together. While functional technologies that do one thing really well are relatively prevalent, PIT is exploring integrating these technologies to work together in a controlled environment.
As part of its collaborative approach to innovation, PIT last year launched a partnership with International Airlines Group (IAG) to explore exciting new solutions with the robotics and tech community. This has already seen them deploy Synaptic Aviation’s computer vision, opening up a wealth of new data. The cutting-edge technology uses Artificial Intelligence models for computer vision to monitor ramp operations via cameras stationed at a gate. They record everything that happens and feed it back to a workstation that can synthesise the data almost instantly into actionable information.
Hear more from Pittsburgh International Airport at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. Christina Cassotis, CEO, Pittsburgh International Airport, is participating in a session titled ‘Next Generation Leadership Strategies for tomorrow’s airports’. Meanwhile, Cole Wolfson, Director, xBridge, Pittsburgh International Airport, is Captaining the FTE Robotics & Autonomous Vehicles Symposium, including an FTE Exclusive – The ‘FTE Robotics Think Tank Live’ – building on the workshop brainstorming at the 2nd FTE Aviation & Robotics Summit in Pittsburgh this May.
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iGA Istanbul Airport
iGA Istanbul Airport is shortlisted for its ‘Digital Companions’, which integrate physical interactions and digital steps, including the world-first ‘Accessible Route’ for visually and hearing-impaired travellers.
Positioning the latest technologies, such as Machine Learning and Virtual Reality at the centre of its digital mindset has made it easier for iGA Istanbul Airport’s customers to access and receive information regardless of time and place. Using Conversational AI technology, the airport has developed a digital assistant system to respond to customer enquiries 24/7. The innovative and technological functions were determined by combining common pain-points on experience maps and the expectations of travellers for individual steps such as car park and transportation, wayfinding in the terminal, travel requirements and boarding.
Accessible travel is possible for everyone at iGA Istanbul Airport. Passengers with special needs are supported with the airport’s ‘Accessible Companion’ via WhatsApp and its mobile app, while experiencing an independent travel experience with the ‘My Route’ function along with services for all their needs. The menus, scenarios and service channels, supported with Artificial Intelligence (AI) have been implemented for the first time in the aviation sector. iGA Istanbul Airport makes use of the ‘Digital Companions’ to encompass almost each and every contact point.
Fraport
Fraport – an Airport Lab Network Partner of the FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group – is recognised for its focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and positioning itself at the forefront of digital transformation via the AI@FRA initiative.
The airport operator is utilising AI to make processes more efficient and redesign work environments. The overarching goal is to make Fraport fit for the future, while increasing the satisfaction of airlines and passengers and innovatively supporting employees. AI@FRA is organised in various core areas, each dedicated to strengthening the group’s digital competencies.
As a fundamental component of the ‘Fraport.2030’ strategy, AI@FRA demonstrates the group’s commitment to ensuring world-class performance in terms of operational efficiency and customer experience. This initiative is driving innovative solutions by focusing on AI and integrating it worldwide in Fraport’s multifaceted processes. In this way, the group is paving the way for intelligently networked airport operations in the future.
Fraport is also notable for the biggest biometrics implementation in the world. From enrolment at a kiosk or counter, to pre-security automated gates and self-boarding gates, passengers can use biometric technology to seamlessly pass through each stage of the journey by simply scanning their face. Meanwhile, Fraport has successfully licensed and implemented a Private 5G Network at Frankfurt Airport, enabling it to accelerate innovative projects, such as autonomous driving on the apron.
Hear more from Fraport at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” – taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. Rolf Felkel, Senior Vice President Applications and Partner Management, Fraport, is participating in the ‘FTE AI Symposium’ with a presentation titled ‘What exactly does the AI@FRA programme look like and what business cases and learnings can be shared from the effort so far?’
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Dallas Fort Worth International Airport
Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – is recognised for embracing innovation in areas such autonomous mobility, connectivity, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning. Among DFW’s myriad digital transformation initiatives are its ground-breaking digital twin project for the maintenance and operations of its renovated Runway 18R/36L and Terminal D, enabling the airport to make proactive, data-led decisions in real-time to meet its sustainability, efficiency and resiliency goals.
DFW recently partnered with Dallas-based AT&T to provide the airport with a comprehensive wireless platform that will enhance connectivity and critical infrastructure. The $10 million worth of upgrades to modernise and expand the network covering the airport will support airport operations and advance free public WiFi in the terminals. A private 5G network for the airport’s internal use will meet the rising demand for Internet of Things use cases and the digitisation of airport operations.
Meanwhile, DFW has trialled a 15-person autonomous shuttle for passengers and subsequently initiated the ‘Roadmap to Autonomy’ initiative, a comprehensive research study to help bring light to the broad complexities on the path to a future with full autonomy. The study is part of efforts to explore potential pathways to a fully autonomous ecosystem.
Hear more from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. Paul Puopolo, Executive Vice President of Innovation, DFW, will deliver an FTE exclusive presentation titled ‘DFW International Airport has established a reputation for embracing innovation and celebrates its 50-year anniversary in 2024, so what are its plans for the next 50 years and does it believe it needs to embrace radical transformation or steady evolution?’
Meanwhile, Mike Youngs, Vice President Information Technology, DFW, is participating in two sessions – the ‘Symposium on establishing and leveraging Private Networks at the airport’ and a session titled ‘Upgrading from traditional FIDS and legacy digital signage? Why content strategy is vital when it’s time to invest in a digital ecosystem’.
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Hamad International Airport
Hamad International Airport – an Airport Lab Network Partner of the FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group – is leveraging innovative technologies to enhance the customer experience and operational efficiency. Its aim is to set new industry benchmarks through digital transformation.
An important element of this is Hamad International Airport’s Digital Twin, which is pioneering the future of airport management and tackling longstanding issues of sub-optimal decision-making, due to insufficient information. It is also accelerating the adoption of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence to make complex data analysis into simple recommendations, ushering in a new era of efficiency. The programme also incorporates data from ground handlers and airlines into the airport Digital Twin, which is a breakthrough in aviation stakeholders working together to drive benefits for all parties.
A central pillar of the airport’s digital strategy is the launch of a next-generation Wi-Fi service, which is designed to fit well within its strategy of seamless travel and strengthen its commitment to being “the leading global digital airport”. The high-performance Wi-Fi 6 connectivity across the entirety of the airport lays the foundation for enhanced operations with better insights to provide an enhanced passenger experience.
Hamad International Airport has further elevated its passengers’ experience with the introduction of innovative digital wayfinding. QR codes are leveraged to provide an easy to use wayfinding solution through different digital touchpoints located across the terminal.
Miami International Airport
From curb to gate, Miami International Airport – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – has been introducing cutting-edge technologies at each customer touchpoint, simplifying and streamlining the passenger journey. Its strategic vision has successfully culminated in the integration of new technology in the opening of the new South and North terminals at Miami International Airport, as well as new system implementations such as biometrics, virtual queuing and other new innovating technologies.
Miami International Airport also sees vast potential in new digital identity approaches leveraging biometrics and how the sector can best utilise those opportunities. In addition to biometrics, the airport has trialled several innovations to enhance the passenger experience, including virtual queuing with the vision of full implementation, smart restroom trials, video analytics and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors for conveyances.
The airport has also made significant strides in establishing a Private Wireless Network (PWN) to enhance operational efficiency and the employee experience. The PWN will enable various innovative applications, such as Internet of Things devices for asset tracking, support for mobile kiosks and self-service devices, and high-bandwidth connectivity for video analytics. Miami International Airport plans to continue expanding the network’s capabilities and coverage to modernise its operations and support our modernisation initiatives.
Meanwhile, efforts to build a smarter, more inclusive airport experience include creating innovative wayfinding solutions that cater to everyone together with Mapsted, Route Me, and Signapse.
Hear more from Miami International Airport (DFW) at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” taking place in Los Angeles on 28-30 October 2024. Maurice Jenkins, Chief Innovation Officer, Miami International Airport, is moderating the ‘Digital Identity & Biometrics Symposium – Building compelling business cases for a global industry roll-out’.
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VINCI Airports
Innovation forms a major part of VINCI Airports’ strategy to improve airport infrastructure and management across its network of 70+ airports in 13 countries across Europe, Asia and the Americas.
VINCI Airports – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – has three Centres of Excellence for Innovation at London Gatwick, Lyon-Saint Exupéry and Lisbon airports. Its key focus areas include Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics and automation, and a commitment to enhancing the passenger experience, taking learnings and scaling those across the VINCI Airports network.
Lisbon Airport is an Innovation Centre of Excellence for smart terminal operations and technology, and is working to reduce or even remove queuing and to improve all forms of flows of people, vehicles and baggage in terminals, without compromising safety or security. Biometric and single token travel is a priority for the Lisbon Centre of Innovation Excellence and it was announced this year that a new biometric experience is being launched at ANA Aeroportos de Portugal’s five biggest airports (Lisbon, Porto, Faro, Funchal and Ponta Delgada).
London Gatwick is an Innovation Centre of Excellence for airfield operations and sustainability. The airport leads VINCI Airports’ innovation efforts to further improve capacity and performance. There is also a dedicated focus on sustainability – for example, VINCI Airports is acting to develop the use of hydrogen at airports. To accelerate that, London Gatwick, Airbus, easyJet and Air Products – one of the world’s largest hydrogen producers – have formed the London Gatwick Hydrogen Hub.
Meanwhile, Lyon-Saint Exupéry is an Innovation Centre of Excellence for customer engagement and experience. In Lyon, VINCI Airports works on how to improve passengers’ overall travel experience. Among the many initiatives at Lyon-Saint Exupéry, VINCI Airports has launched Mona, a travel companion based on facial recognition.
