Airports Around the World are Investing in New Technology to Improve the Passenger Experience

Decision-makers at airports across 10 countries are planning to make significant investments in technology over the next year, including stepping up the use of biometrics.

A newly released report from Amadeus titled Travel Technology Investment Trends shows that 94 percent of airport IT decision-makers are planning at least moderate investment in technology over the next 12 months, while 44 percent are planning aggressive investment.

The report also found that 36 percent of the surveyed airports are focused on adding new technology for improved airport operations, while 33 percent are seeking to move passenger processing to the cloud in order to be able to offer travelers more flexible services.

The study involved tapping 50 senior leaders from airports in 10 countries about their travel technology investment plans and drivers for 2024 and beyond.

As part of the study, airport leaders were asked to identify the technologies that will make the biggest impact on airport operations over the next 12 months. The incorporation of more digital payment capabilities led the way at 48 percent, followed by increased use of data analytics at 44 percent and additional integration of biometrics tools at 34 percent.

The report notes that airports are working to deliver a better passenger experience overall while also tackling a challenging operating environment.

Holger Mattig, senior vice president, product management, Airport & Airline Operations, Amadeus, told Breaking Travel News that the study responses indicate that airports and airlines face common challenges and share common objectives.

“Whether it’s transforming the end-to-end passenger experience with biometrics, reducing baggage delay issues or better managing day-to-day operations with more collaborative technology…everyone wants the same outcomes,” Mattig told the news outlet.

The survey was conducted during December 2023.

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