NewsairportHo Airport To Get An Aviation Training Academy
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Feb 12, 2025Ho Airport To Get An Aviation Training Academy
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Aviation Week
Bosnia And Herzegovina Wind Project Surpasses 100 Million KwhEmployees celebrate the project's power generation achievement.
As of March 12, the Ivovik Wind Power Project in Bosnia and Herzegovina, undertaken by POWERCHINA, has exceeded 100 million kilowatt-hours in cumulative power generation, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 90,000 metric tons.
This milestone signifies the project's significant role in developing green energy and transforming the energy structure in Bosnia and Herzegovina, providing solid support for the region's sustainable economic and social development.
The project is the country's largest wind farm in terms of single-unit and total installed capacity, with a capacity of 84 megawatts. The project has installed 20 China-made 4.2 MW wind turbines, built a 110-kilovolt step-up substation, four 35 kV collection lines, and a 1.65-kilometer 110 kV transmission line connecting to the national grid. The project is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 240,000 tons annually.
POWERCHINA has ensured the proper maintenance of the equipment and thoroughly tested the control system's response performance to ensure compatibility between the turbines and the grid. Any defects are promptly analyzed, maintained, and repaired to ensure each turbine's safe and reliable operation.airport
17 March 2025
Airport Improvement
New Solo Art Exhibits Take Flight At Nashville International AirportTennessee Artists Shine in Renowned Rotating Display at BNA
Nashville, Tenn. (March 17, 2025) – The Spring/Summer installment of the Flying Solo series at Nashville International Airport® (BNA®) has officially debuted, welcoming travelers to partake in an immersive artistic journey. These new exhibits will be on display through June 27, 2025, showcasing the works of talented Tennessee artists including James Allen, William Arthur, Sean Coffey, Mark Flake, Dalia Garcia, and Blaine Steiner.
The Flying Solo series is a respected, rotating art exhibit that offers art organizations and gifted artists an opportunity to exhibit their work at BNA each season. The artwork on display covers a wide spectrum, ranging from striking paintings and thought-provoking photographs to intricate blown glass pieces. These artistic expressions are carefully curated to provide travelers with a genuine taste of Nashville’s thriving arts scene.
Created in 1988, BNA’s Arts at the Airport is an ever-growing, ever-changing showcase of cultural diversity and creative talent in Tennessee. The terminal and surrounding facilities were designed to incorporate rotating public art exhibits, permanent acquisitions, and opportunities for live entertainment performances throughout the airport.
A brief biography of the featured artists and their work is as follows:
James Allen
“Time Travellers”
Location: Concourse D, near Gates D2, D3 and D4
@james.allen.studio
jamesallenstudio.com
James Allen is a visionary artist whose unique approach to “book excavations” transforms found books into captivating relief sculptures. By meticulously carving through the pages, Allen reveals hidden content, and with the pages he removes, he crafts intricate multi-media collages. His artwork serves as windows through which viewers can explore the relationship between time and travel. His creations bring the past into the present while inviting contemplation of the future in a new light as we prepare for the next leg of our journey.
Allen’s work has been exhibited in museums and galleries nationwide and is part of esteemed collections at institutions such as Middle Tennessee State University, University of California, Los Angeles, Johns Hopkins University, and Ringling College of Art and Design. Currently based in Nashville, Allen continues to create and inspire.
William Arthur
‘the end is in the beginning’ T.S. Eliot
Location: IAF Exit Waiting Area, Level 1
https://williamarthurart.com/
William Arthur’s artistic journey began after rediscovering his passion for academics and printmaking, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) from Miami University and a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from the University of Georgia. While at Georgia, he restored a letterpress, incorporating text into his lithography, and produced a graduate thesis featuring original poems and prints.
In 1983, Arthur began teaching at The Ensworth School, where he taught art, coached sports, and led 33 wilderness canoe trips to Quetico Provincial Park over 23 years. These trips provided students with challenging and transformative experiences in nature.
As a teacher, Arthur emphasized meaningful, original art rooted in technique and history. Since retiring in 2015, he has continued his passion for woodblock printing, creating work inspired by a connection to the elemental and sublime.
Sean Coffey
Untitled
Location: A/B Exit Waiting Area, near the Tennessee Tribune
www.coffey-shop.com
@mycoffeyshop
Sean Coffey is a Memphis-based artist and owner of The Coffey Shop, a creative studio specializing in murals, fine arts, sculpture, and interactive space design. His work blends elements of street art with nature-inspired themes using metal and paint
Coffey’s artistic journey began in 2005 when he moved from Chambersburg, PA, to Pittsburgh to earn a bachelor’s degree in industrial design. After working as an architectural product engineer for seven years, he opened The Coffey Shop in 2012. In 2023, he relocated his studio to Memphis. His recent projects include murals with the Steel City Arts Foundation and a sculpture for the Underwater Museum of Florida.
His work reflects a deep appreciation for nature and explores the interaction between urban and natural environments. By combining traditional metalworking with modern spray paint techniques, he creates bold, textured pieces that highlight the relationship between humans and nature. Coffey’s artistic practice is constantly evolving, driven by a desire to push boundaries and tell stories through his art.
Mark Flake
“Fables”
Location: IAF Exit Waiting Area, Level 1
https://www.markflake.com/
Originally from Memphis, Tennessee, Mark Flake is a painter, composer, and filmmaker. He earned a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from East Tennessee State University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) from the University of Memphis.
Compared stylistically to the German Expressionists and Surrealists, his paintings feature rich impasto and muted colors, often black, white, and earth tones. Flake’s surreal and expressionistic oil paintings have been exhibited across the United States. His graphic art graces album and compact disc covers in the U.S., Europe, and Australia.
Flake’s sculptural works are primarily found object pieces reminiscent of Marcel Duchamp’s style and temporary installations inspired by the Fluxus movement. His early art explored finding beauty and hidden meaning in the mundane. Since 2010, his work has become more monochromatic, with impasto combined with transparent washes and unpainted spaces.
Dalia Garcia
“The Duality of Colors-Reflection”
Location: Concourse D, near Gates D2, D3 and D4
https://daliagarciaartist.com/
@daliagarciaartist
Dalia Garcia is an American painter and bilingual singer/songwriter based in Nashville. Born into a U.S. military family, her upbringing took her across Europe, Central America and the U.S., including seven years in Madrid, Spain. Garcia, a University of South Carolina graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art, has followed an unconventional artistic path. Her passions for art and music are intertwined, one influencing the other. Her work has garnered attention for its emotional and bold use of color.
Her series, “The Duality of Colors-Reflection,” showcases her quieter side. With a growing portfolio of commissioned pieces and a continuously evolving artistic vision, Garcia eagerly anticipates her next chapter, always ready to embrace new opportunities for growth as an artist and storyteller.
Blaine Steiner
Untitled
Location: Concourse A, Near Gate A2
www.samfspees.com
@blaineooo
Blaine Steiner, who earned a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) from Tulane University in New Orleans, specializes in large-scale cast glass sculpture. She often laughs when asked about being a glass artist, as she considers herself a sculptor who appreciates glass for its contradictions. Steiner finds self-reflection in glass, a medium she believes is underestimated for its strength and versatility. Her work embraces these contradictions and challenges traditional expectations of glass as a fine art material.
Steiner has collaborated with various artists and worked at studios across the country, including the Pittsburgh Glass Center and the Corning Museum of Glass. Recently, she and her partner, Sam Spees, have been working to open a studio in Nashville, aiming to bring glass art to the city. They operate their businesses, Spees Studios and Pontus Design Co., from their space in Berry Hill.
About Arts at the Airport
The Arts at the Airport (AaA) program showcases the region’s visual and performing arts. AaA is governed by a 15-member Arts at the Airport Foundation board, is funded primarily by the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority, and receives some funding from the Tennessee Arts Commission. The award-winning Arts at the Airport program reviews and presents works by local, regional, and national artists for the enjoyment and enrichment of BNA’s passengers and visitors. In addition to visual art, Arts at the Airport includes live music performances on stages throughout BNA’s passenger terminal.
About Nashville International Airport®
As infrastructure is critical to the region’s growth and prosperity, BNA is a vital asset for Middle Tennessee and serves as a gateway to Music City and beyond. According to a recent State of Tennessee study, in 2019 alone, BNA generated more than $9.9 billion in total economic impact. BNA supported more than 76,000 jobs in the region and produced more than $443 million in state, local and federal taxes. BNA receives no local tax dollars. For more information, visit flynashville.com. Follow us on Facebook: @NashvilleInternationalAirport, X:@Fly_Nashville, and Instagram: @FlyNashville. Learn more about New Horizon, our growth and expansion plan for the airport, at https://BNANewHorizon.com/
About John C. Tune Airport®
Located in West Nashville, only eight miles from downtown Nashville, John C. Tune Airport, also known as JWN®, is the busiest general aviation airport in Tennessee. It serves the needs of regional, corporate, and private aircraft and is a reliever airport for Nashville International Airport (BNA). JWN has generated $92 million in economic impact and is owned and managed by the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority. JWN receives no local tax dollars. For more information, visit flynashville.com/nashville-airport-authority/john-c-tune.airport
17 March 2025
Airport Improvement
Dbia’S 2025 Student Competition Showcases Progressive Design-Build In Airport Expansion ChallengeRegistration open for university teams to compete in DBIA’s premier design-build competition, culminating at the 2025 Design-Build Conference & Expo
WASHINGTON — The Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) has officially opened registration for the 2025 National Design-Build Student Competition, offering students nationwide the opportunity to showcase their design-build expertise in a fast-paced, real-world challenge. This annual competition, a cornerstone of DBIA’s student engagement efforts, prepares future industry leaders by providing hands-on experience with design-build best practices.
Teams of university students will compete in two phases, beginning with a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process judged at the regional level. Regional winners will then advance to Phase Two, where they will respond to a Request for Proposals (RFP) and the top three judged teams will present their final submissions in front of a national judging panel at DBIA’s Design-Build Conference & Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada, on Nov. 6, 2025.
This year’s competition expands on last year’s challenge, which focused on the initial Phase One procurement of a major airport expansion, including a new main terminal and airside expansion with an automated people mover (APM). That project was delivered using a fixed-fee, variable scope design-build approach. The 2025 competition takes the next step, challenging student teams to complete the terminal by adding additional gates and concessions on each side of the new main terminal building using Progressive Design-Build (PDB).
The competition has been a launchpad for future design-build leaders, with past winners earning national recognition and career-building opportunities. Last year’s champions from the University of Arizona impressed judges with their innovative and collaborative approach, earning national media coverage, including a feature in Construction Dive. Their victory also underscored the growing role of women in the AEC industry, as highlighted in a Design-Build Delivers blog post and a Design-Build Delivers Podcast episode.
“The competition was fierce. Every team had a strong showing and some truly innovative approaches that made the decision incredibly tough,” said DBIA’s Student/Academia Engagement Liaison William G. “Bill” Hasbrook, Jr., MEMS, TCFM, FDBIA. “However, the University of Arizona team definitely thought outside the box, and with last year’s new project and delivery approach, there was no box to begin with, making their win even more impressive.”
The competition is open to all university teams, regardless of whether their school has a DBIA Student Chapter. Teams must register by Aug. 27, 2025, and faculty advisors must submit a Letter of Intent by Aug. 28, 2025. The competition officially kicks off with the issuance of the RFQ on Sept. 2, 2025.
The National Student Competition provides a platform for emerging design-build talent and serves as a launching pad for students seeking to connect with industry leaders and advance their careers. Winners will be announced during the Design-Build Conference & Expo on Nov. 7, 2025.
For more information on the competition and registration details, visit DBIA’s Student Competition webpage.airport
17 March 2025
Airport Improvement
Ontario International Airport Passenger Count Increased In February As Cargo Tonnage Continues Upward TrendAirport poised to welcome new domestic and international services in Spring
(Ontario, California – March 17, 2025) – Ontario International Airport (ONT) saw a slight increase in passengers in February compared with the same month in the prior year, despite one fewer day due to Leap Year in 2024. Adjusting for the shorter month in 2025, ONT passenger volume was 3.6% higher than February 2024.
According to ONT officials, 450,093 air travelers chose the Southern California gateway last month versus 449,893 last year. Ontario’s domestic passenger count totaled 414,286, a 0.2% increase, while international volume decreased by 1.8% to 35,807.
Over the first two months of the year, ONT passenger traffic was 0.6% higher, with domestic volume up 1.3% while the number of international travelers was lower by 6.6%
“We continue to prove that we are the aviation gateway Southern California deserves. Even with a shorter month, we saw growth, an achievement that speaks to our resilience, strong demand, and the trust travelers and airlines place in us. With new service launching to Chicago and Baltimore/Washington as well as four international destinations in Mexico and Asia, ONT is not just keeping up; we are setting the stage for even greater success in 2025 and beyond,” said Atif Elkadi, chief executive officer of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA).
Totals
Feb
2025
Feb
2024
Change
YTD
2025
YTD
2024
Change
414,286
413,413
0.2%
849,205
837,990
1.3%
35,807
36,480
-1.8%
76,127
81,492
-6.6%
450,093
449,893
0.0%
925,332
919,482
0.6%
The air carriers with the greatest passenger shares in February were:
Air cargo increased by 6.8% in February, driven by shipments of mail which grew by more than 276%. Freight shipments for the month decreased 6.1%. For the year, freight and mail combined rose by 6.7%.
(tonnage)
Feb
2025
Feb
2024
Change
YTD
2025
YTD
2024
Change
50,606
53,922
-6.1%
103,029
110,691
-6.9%
9,727
2,583
276.5%
20,630
5,244
293.4%
60,333
56,505
6.8%
123,659
115,935
6.7%
“Ontario prides itself on first rate cargo facilities and operational excellence which makes our Inland Empire airport a hub of choice for cargo shippers,” Elkadi said.airport
17 March 2025
Airport Information
Vinh International Airport To Close For Expansion WorksNot availableairport
17 March 2025
Airport Improvement
Jsx Secures Approval For Relocation At John Wayne Airport, Enhancing Service To Orange CountySANTA ANA, Calif., March 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Award-winning air carrier JSX today announced that the Orange County Board of Supervisors has unanimously approved its relocation at John Wayne Airport (JWA) in Orange County, California. This approval paves the way for JSX to transition its operations from ACI Jet’s leasehold on the east side of the airport to Jay’s Aircraft Maintenance leasehold on the west side, with flight operations set to commence on/about March 25, 2025.
The relocation, necessitated by JWA’s Taxiway A, D, and E Reconstruction Project beginning this spring, will see JSX operate from a new base at 3000 Airway Avenue. This move not only ensures continuity of service but also increases JSX’s annual Customer allocation on the airfield, providing expanded access to the air carrier’s hassle-free public charter flights to destinations across the West Coast and beyond – all operated with the quietest jet aircraft at JWA.
“Today’s approval marks a significant milestone for JSX and for Orange County,” says JSX CEO Alex Wilcox. “Our new home at John Wayne Airport is a testament to the collaborative spirit of our partners at JWA, the County of Orange, and local stakeholders who value our model of joyful, simple air travel. I am deeply grateful for the leadership of Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley and JWA Airport Director Charlene Reynolds, who worked tirelessly to make this come to fruition. We look forward to continuing to serve as a responsible and innovative member of the Orange County aviation community, providing more travelers with access to our seamless public charter flights on low-noise aircraft.”
JSX utilizes Embraer 135/145 aircraft which are the quietest passenger jets operating at JWA. This relocation underscores JSX’s commitment to minimizing environmental impact while maximizing community benefit.
“This partnership allows JSX to continue operating at John Wayne Airport and demonstrates our commitment to supporting operators who follow the County’s curfew and passenger limits, and fly quieter aircraft,” says Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley. “As the County embarks on its $700 million in capital improvements, we remain committed to offering the best options for our millions of customers while protecting what we love about our airport, including our local pilots who call John Wayne Airport home.”
Founded in 2016, JSX provides up to 120 public charter flights daily to 25 business and leisure destinations across Arizona, California, Colorado, Mexico, Florida, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, and Texas. JSX currently operates 46 ERJ family aircraft and employs over 1,000 crewmembers.
For more information or to book flights, visit www.jsx.com.
VISUAL ASSETS: B-roll footage and hi-res imagery are available for your use, and we kindly ask that you refer to JSX as an “air carrier” or “public charter jet service” and not an “airline”.
ABOUT JSX
Founded in 2016, JSX is a ‘hop-on’ public charter jet service that’s faster on the ground, more comfortable in the air, and is competitively priced. JSX has operated safely and securely since its inception, with class- leading safety and security technologies and programs.
The award-winning air carrier has been recognized by Travel + Leisure as the ‘Number 1 Domestic Airline’ in the 2024 World’s Best Awards, Inc Magazine’s 2024 ‘Best in Business’, awarded by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) as the world’s only ‘2025 ‘Five-Star Regional Airline’ for eight years, the ‘2020 “Best Overall Air Carrier in North America’, and honored as one of the top 5 “Most Innovative Companies for 2020” by Fast Company in the travel category.
JSX is dramatically improving air travel for thousands of travelers every day by offering the hassle-free, crowd-free experience of flying between private terminals on 30-seat Embraer aircraft, and has amassed a reputation for joyful, simple, and reliable air travel by offering a category of flying it calls ‘hop-on jet service’ for all, providing an accessible public charter jet travel experience once reserved for corporate leaders and the ultra-wealthy to all.
JSX operates up to 120 public charter flights daily to 25 business and leisure destinations across Arizona, California, Colorado, Mexico, Florida, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, and Texas. JSX currently operates 46 ERJ family aircraft and employs over 1,000 crewmembers.
JSX offers many industry-leading features including:
JSX flights may be booked directly through www.jsx.com, the JSX mobile app, or through partners JetBlue and United. JSX Customers can accrue toward United MileagePlus and JetBlue TrueBlue loyalty programs. JSX’s 30-seat jets may be chartered for group trips, corporate events, or other travel needs. For a charter quote, please email charter@jsx.com.
For more information, please contact:
press@jsx.comairport
17 March 2025
AIRPORTS INTERNATIONAL
Australian Government Invests In Regional AirportsFunded under Round 4 of the Regional Airports Programme, these essential upgrades will include runway resurfacing and sealing, line marking and lighting upgrades.
In Port Augusta, A$842,500 will support targeted runway pavement strengthening. The works will strengthen sections of the runway to improve its surface, extend its lifespan and improve safety.
This will support the Royal Flying Doctor Service's (RFDS) 24-hour operations based at the airport, as well as passenger, charter and general aviation.
Other works to be funded under Round 4 in South Australia are: A$550,000 for the District Council of Grant to upgrade the taxiway and apron to accommodate larger aircraft and air tankers for firefighting at the Mt Gambier Airport, and A$106,767 for Naracoorte Lucindale Council to reseal and line mark the Naracoorte Aerodrome runway, to extend its lifespan and support access for the RFDS and emergency services, including for firefighting.
The government is also providing A$121,400 for the Copper Coast Council to purchase and install a runway lighting system to enhance safety and accessibility at the Copper Triangle Aerodrome and support all-weather access for the RFDS. It will give A$61,701 for the Northern Areas Council to upgrade the lighting system at the Sir Hubert Wilkins Aerodrome and A$49,422 for the Clare Valley Flying Group Incorporated to support construction of a dedicated area for helicopter operations at the Clare Valley Aerodrome.
Today's announcement builds on the nearly A$100m that has already been delivered to support 194 projects under the first three rounds of the programme.
Australia’s RFDS will benefit from the government-funded airport improvementsairport
17 March 2025
Airport world
New Retail Concession Programme For San José Mineta International AirportSan José City Council has approved the selection of two partners, Hudson and Paradies Lagardère, to manage a new retail concession programme at San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) that will support 50+ local retailers.
The collective minimum capital investment of $16.9 million will support a high-quality build-out featuring fresh new looks and integrate new technologies that the airport believes will enhance the passenger experience, increase speed of service and drive sales.
Consisting of 12 retail concepts throughout Terminals A and B, the new partners will bring an updated product mix and a refreshed look and feel to the airport’s retail concessions, with new retail outlets opening as early as this year.
The new programme features a diverse mix of travel essentials, cafés and specialty retail, prioritising high-quality products, local merchandise, technology and exceptional customer service. To ensure product freshness, all grab-and-go food will be locally sourced from within Santa Clara County.
SJC’s new retail concession programme is expected to generate a minimum of $4.8 million in revenue annually to support airport operations.
Prioritising a keen sense of place – focusing on innovation, local flavours, small businesses and a curated product selection – the new programme will include diverse offerings featuring established brands and local businesses, including an almost 50% increase in participation by Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprises.
Both retail partners committed to support a high-quality buildout with new technology components that are designed to delight customers and drive incremental revenue.
“Beyond enhancing revenues that are critical to support airport infrastructure and operations, this new retail programme will bring some of the best of San José and our region into our terminals,” said SJC Director of Aviation Mookie Patel.
“Having two industry-leading concession operators will improve customer service through healthy competition, lower prices, improved product quality and added choice.”airport
14 March 2025
Airport Improvement
Airport Baggage Industry Organization Honors Three At 2025 Annual Bhs Summit In DfwThe International Association of Baggage System Companies (IABSC) has announced the honorees for the organization’s 2024 Lifetime Achievement, Innovation and Outstanding Young Professional Awards. This recognition is awarded to those who have distinguished themselves for their technical contributions to the airport baggage systems industry as well as their thought leadership in this highly specialized industry.
Lifetime Achievement
The 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Chris Norton, owner, CEO and President of VTC, a respected leader in the design and implementation of integrated airport security solutions. These include baggage handling systems (BHS), Checked Baggage Inspection Systems (CBIS) and Security Screening Checkpoint (SSCP) systems.
A long-time fixture in the industry, Ms. Norton started with the Vic Thompson Company (VTC) as a BHS design consultant in the wake of the attack on the World Trade Center. She was instrumental in the development of baggage security screening technology that followed the birth of the Air Transportation Safety Act (ATSA) in November, 2001. She has been a guiding force in the growth and development of the IABSC, where as past Board Chairperson she helped shape the organization’s direction and promoted best practices in the industry.
She is a member of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), Airports Consultants Council (ACC) and the Florida Airports Council (FAC).
The first Lifetime Achievement Award, launched in 2021, went to two industry leaders who had the vision to start an industry trade group for airport baggage system companies. The late Danny Bearden, an executive with Forbo Siegling, and Bruce McMickle, a senior executive with several large BHS companies, were recognized for their lifetime commitment to the BHS industry and their leadership in the creation of the IABSC.
In 2022, the award went to Michael Benedetti, who made his mark in the industry over 30 years as a controls engineer and later as a technical consultant to the TSA. His contributions include concept, development and maintenance of the PGDS, the oversight of the TSA’s System Integration Facility (TSIF) test loop, the TSA Interface Requirements Document, and numerous other technical requirements documents that govern implementation of CBIS systems at airports.
In 2023, the award went to Jay Bouton for his lifetime of prominence in sales and marketing for the industry. One of the most recognizable faces on the road, he started his career at Portec, and served in posts at Stearns Airport Equipment, BAE Automated Systems, CAGE, Ameribridge, Dew-Bridge, Cognex, Siemens, and as a board member of the IABSC. He has been a well-loved fixture for five decades.
Innovation Award
The IABSC Innovation Award went to two brothers who, more than seven decades ago, were asked by Continental Airlines to develop a baggage conveyor that could navigate curves and corners. Charlie and Ed Fry, owners of Fry and Company, responded by creating the world’s first powered curved belt conveyor designed to transport air passenger baggage. That novel idea is now an essential component in airport baggage systems, as well as food and beverage plants, parcel sort systems, meat packing facilities, and numerous other industries.
Ed Fry was the engineer in the duo, while Charlie was the marketing force of the Victor, CO company. With their success with the powered curve conveyor, the company moved to Canon City CO, where it was later sold to Portec Inc. Over the years, Portec expanded the reach of the brothers’ chain-driven power turn which remains an essential component in airport baggage systems. Portec is now part of the Interroll portfolio.
Past Innovation Award honorees include the team of industry thought leaders who in the wake of 9/11 studied the physical, operational and system parameters and challenges required to create the first checked baggage inspection systems. Many of those design principles formed the foundation of the Transportation Security Agency’s (TSA) baggage security screening system Planning Guidelines and Design Standards (PGDS) which define performance standards to this day. They were the first to receive Innovation Award in 2021.
The four people who were recognized for their effort on this were Mike Golden, a Southwest Airlines employee on loan to the TSA, Vic Thompson, owner of VTC, Chris Norton of VTC, and Southwest Airlines.
In 2022, this award went to the late Joel Staehs, inventor and patent-holder of the BAE Automated Systems “Pusher” which served as the standard in baggage systems for more than 20 years. Over 3000 BAE Pushers were incorporated into BHS in the U.S., Canada, Australia and UK.
In 2023, the award went to Todd Alderman for his invention of the TSA Mobile Inspection Table while at Jervis B. Webb. The tables have been the standard deployed in Checked Baggage Reconciliation Areas (CBRA) rooms at airports. Alderman has a long history of leadership in the industry and currently serves as the president of Daifuku.
Outstanding Young Professional
The Outstanding Young Professional Award made its debut in 2024 as part of the organization’s focus on a new generation of BHS leadership. The recipient of this new award was Skyeler Smith, the Growth Director for Pattern Labs. Ms. Smith was recognized for her ability to recruit, engage and inspire her peers while serving the past two years as co-chair of the Young Professionals Committee. There were no previous winners of this award.
The IABSC is the only US trade organization devoted to the engineering design, development, and delivery of complex automated baggage handling systems at airports. The annual Summit is held in January each year in Grapevine, TX, and draws participants from every facet of the industry, including design engineering firms, BHS suppliers, airlines, airports, general contractors, government and regulatory officials.airport
14 March 2025
INTERNATIONAL Airport REVIEW
Katowice Airport Launches Major Infrastructure Expansion Programme With Enhanced Parking And New TerminalsPosted: 14 March 2025 | | No comments yet
Katowice Airport’s PLN 1.5 billion expansion includes new parking, a central terminal, cargo facilities, and a multimodal hub to boost regional connectivity.
Credit: Katowice Wojciech Korfanty International Airport
The Upper Silesian Aviation Group (Górnośląskie Towarzystwo Lotnicze S.A. – GTL S.A.), responsible for Katowice Wojciech Korfanty International Airport (KTW) in Pyrzowice, Poland, has launched an extensive infrastructure expansion programme for 2024-2032. The first phase of this project includes the completion of Car Park P5, located in the airport’s south-eastern section near the aircraft maintenance area. This new parking facility, which adds 863 spaces, increases the airport’s overall parking capacity to around 6.7K spaces. Car Park P5 is fully illuminated and equipped with advanced monitoring and parking systems. It is also connected to Car Park P4, which was expanded earlier in 2024. Passengers can use a free shuttle service to access both car parks and the terminal.
The ongoing investment plan focuses on enhancing the airport’s parking infrastructure. The expansion of Car Park P1 is currently in progress, with an additional 400 spaces planned. The second stage of Car Park P4’s expansion, which began in January 2025, will add 496 more spaces. By early 2026, Car Park P5 will be further expanded, contributing 1,000 additional spaces. GTL S.A. aims to develop not just outdoor parking options but also a multi-storey car park near the central terminal. By 2032, the airport intends to offer around 13,000 parking spaces.
The airport’s expansion is not limited to parking. The most significant project is the construction of a new central passenger terminal, which will be accompanied by supporting infrastructure. In addition, a second cargo terminal will be built, along with a new base for the Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting unit. Work on hangar H4 and a new base for airport maintenance departments is also underway.
A key element of the investment programme is the creation of a new, multimodal goods and fuel delivery hub in the south-eastern part of the airport. This hub, which includes a railway siding connection, is co-funded by the European Union as part of the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) 2021-2027 Military Mobility initiative. The project is expected to improve the efficiency of cargo and fuel operations at the airport.
The total estimated cost of the KTW investment programme for 2024-2032 is approximately PLN 1.5 billion, positioning the airport as a critical hub for passenger, cargo, and fuel logistics in the region.
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Airport construction and design, Airport development, Airside operations, Capacity, Economy, Innovation, Operational efficiency, Passenger experience and seamless travel, Terminal operations, Workforce
Katowice Wojciech Korfanty International Airport (KTW)
European Union, Upper Silesian Aviation Group
Artur Tomasikairport
14 March 2025Airport Improvement
Dino-Mite Display To Greet Spring Break Travelers At The Indy Airport In Celebration Of The Children’S Museum’S 100Th BirthdayNEWS RELEASE FROM The Children’s Museum
Indianapolis, IN
March 12, 2025
In celebration of The Children’s Museum’s 100thbirthday—and just in time for spring break—Bucky the T. rex was unveiled on March 12 at the Indianapolis International Airport (IND). The massive 33-foot-long fossil will stand in Civic Plaza, the airport’s community gathering area, greeting travelers as they arrive in Indianapolis. The collaboration between The Children’s Museum and IND, two nationally recognized and award-winning institutions, shines a spotlight on 100 years of rich arts and culture in the city.
“We look forward to having Bucky help us welcome travelers to Central Indiana,” said Mario Rodriguez, IAA executive director. “Bucky will wow and intrigue visitors, educate them and provide a massive presence that speaks to the rich prominence of Indianapolis’ arts and culture opportunities.”
“Partnerships like this are vital in highlighting the unique offerings of our city and ensuring that travelers feel welcome when they arrive in Indianapolis,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett. “The City looks forward to the continued celebration of The Children’s Museum’s centennial year and how its mission helps empower children and their families to learn and grow.”
Visitors can see the real Bucky T. rexfossil on permanent display at The Children’s Museum. The museum continues to be a pioneer as one of the only children’s museums to actively dig for, prepare, and display unique and one-of-a-kind dinosaur fossils. In the past three years, the museum has uncovered more than 300 dinosaur fossils!
In addition to favorite exhibits like Dinosphere, The Children’s Museum has an exciting line-up of exhibits and events to celebrate its Centennial year, including the opening of the Centennial Ferris wheel on March 15. The 110-foot-tall Ferris wheel boasts incredible views of the museum campus, the downtown skyline, and surrounding areas. Museum admission or membership is required, plus an additional ticket purchase of $6/member or $8/non-member and Access Pass cardholder. The Ferris wheel is presented by Indiana Fever and Indiana Pacers.
“We can’t think of a better way to celebrate our 100th birthday than by having a presence at the Indy airport, where thousands of visitors pass through daily,” said Jennifer Pace Robinson, President and CEO of The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. “We want to encourage families to visit The Children’s Museum to experience the magic and wonder of our Centennial year.”
The museum’s Centennial celebration is presented by Purdue University.
About The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
The Children’s Museum ignites joy, wonder, and curiosity by creating powerful learning experiences for children and adults. For more information about The Children’s Museum, visit www.childrensmuseum.org and follow us on social media @childrensmuseum.airport
14 March 2025Airport Improvement
New Store “Shop The Town” Opens At Oakland AirportOakland, Calif. – March 13, 2025: Shop the Town is the newest retail experience offered at Oakland Airport (OAK). One of 16 new retail locations coming to the airport, the store is operated by retail concessionaire Paradies Lagardère. The location offers a wide assortment of local products, including gourmet snacks, regional wines, gifts, jewelry, artisanal goods, and apparel as well as licensed sports team apparel, convenience items, travel accessories and more. The store is located in OAK’s Terminal 2, near gate 24, and is open every day from 4:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
“We are progressing quickly on our new retail program here at OAK, and we’re pleased to introduce the second new location with the opening of Shop the Town,” said Port of Oakland Director of Aviation Craig Simon. “Passengers can enjoy a wide selection of items available at the new store. We’re especially excited about the inclusion of locally made items from Bay Area businesses!”
Shop the Town shares an exciting journey through East Bay roots and Oakland’s culture that inspires travelers to shop local. The main attraction of Shop the Town is the celebration of local designers, artisans, chefs, and businesses, whose stories are highlighted by Paradies Lagardère’s “Meet the Artisan” program. Local offerings include businesses such as Oakland’s Own, Doodles.Ink, Old Salt Merchants, Bicycle Coffee Co., and Wooden Table Baking Co. The store also features a mural created by local artist Paulette Nichols.
Several other new retail locations are currently under construction at OAK and are expected to be rolled out throughout the year.
Click here to view and download photos and video footage of Shop the Town.
About Paradies Lagardère
Paradies Lagardère is a travel retailer and restaurateur that handles $1.6 billion in annual sales from more than 700 stores, restaurants and bars in more than 90 airports across North America. Specializing in three airport concessions areas – Travel Essentials, Specialty Retail and Dining with expertise in international, national, and local brands – Paradies Lagardère’s commitment to exceptional customer service, superior design and award-winning retail and restaurant operations has earned the company numerous accolades, including Best Airport Retailer for 27 consecutive years and Best Brand Restaurateur by Airport Experience News. For more information, visit www.paradieslagardere.com.
About OAK Airport
OAK Airport is the main airport for the greater East Bay, the most populated area in the metropolitan San Francisco Bay area. It is the closest airport to most Bay Area employers. By roadway and BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) air-rail, OAK enables excellent access to all the region’s business, entertainment, and tourism venues. The vision of OAK is to be the airport of choice for San Francisco Bay Area residents and visitors alike. OAK is operated by the Port of Oakland, which also oversees the Oakland seaport and 20 miles of East Bay waterfront. Together with its business partners, the Port supports more than 98,000 jobs in the region with more than a $174 billion economic impact.
Updates about current departure and arrival information, airport maps, and details about on-airport parking, shopping and dining and more, can be found at www.iflyoak.com. Follow us on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.airport
14 March 2025Airport Improvement
San José Mineta International Airport Announces New Generation Of Airport Retail ConcessionsSan José City Council approves proposals for $16.9 million in capital investment that will bring 12 new retail concession opportunities to Terminals A and B, engage 50+ local retailers
Plaza de San José rendering
March 13, 2025
Media Contact:
SJC Media | 408-392-1199 | sjcmedia@sjc.org
San José, Calif. – Following a comprehensive Request for Proposal (RFP) process, San José City Council has approved the selection of two partners, Hudson and Paradies Lagardère, to manage a new retail concession program at San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) that will support 50+ local retailers. The collective minimum capital investment of $16.9 million will support a high-quality build-out featuring fresh new looks and integrate new technologies that will enhance the passenger experience, increase speed of service and drive sales.
Consisting of 12 retail concepts throughout Terminals A and B, the new partners will bring an updated product mix and a refreshed look and feel to the Airport’s retail concessions, with new retail outlets opening as early as this year. The new program features a diverse mix of travel essentials, cafés and specialty retail, prioritizing high-quality products, local merchandise, technology and exceptional customer service. To ensure product freshness, all grab-and-go food will be locally sourced from within Santa Clara County.
The Airport’s new retail concession program is expected to generate a minimum of $4,843,025 in revenue annually to support airport operations. This is approximately a 20% increase in the minimum annual guarantee (MAG) revenue compared to Fiscal Year 2024-2025. The collective total minimum revenue guaranteed over the 12-year term of the program is $48,430,250. SJC is a self‐supporting enterprise owned and operated by the City of San José.
Prioritizing a keen sense of place—focusing on innovation, local flavors, small businesses and a curated product selection—the new program will include diverse offerings featuring established brands and local businesses, including an almost 50% increase in participation by Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprises. Both retail partners committed to support a high-quality buildout with new technology components that are designed to delight customers and drive incremental revenue.
“With thousands of visitors expected to pass through SJC for the Super Bowl, NCAA Men’s Basketball, and World Cup games in 2026, now is the perfect time to enhance our airport’s shops, cafes, and overall customer experience,” said San José Mayor Matt Mahan. “By putting the spotlight on small businesses and local foods, we ensure that travelers from around the world experience the unique identity of San José from the moment they arrive.”
“Thank you to the City Council for investing in the Airport and creating new opportunities for passengers and Airport users to enjoy. SJC’s new retail program will create a distinctive San José and Silicon Valley experience by offering visually appealing and welcoming concessions that capture the region’s spirit and cultural richness,” said San José City Manager Jennifer Maguire.
“Beyond enhancing revenues that are critical to support airport infrastructure and operations, this new retail program will bring some of the best of San José and our region into our terminals,” said SJC Director of Aviation Mookie Patel. “Having two industry-leading concession operators will improve customer service through healthy competition, lower prices, improved product quality and added choice.”
“We are thrilled to partner with San José Mineta International Airport and support their commitment to a culture of innovation by delivering a world-class retail showcase worthy of Silicon Valley,” said Gregg Paradies, President and CEO of Paradies Lagardère. “Our dynamic mix of iconic local and national brands, combined with our industry-leading customer service, will engage and delight travelers with innovative store designs, enhanced retail offerings, and cutting-edge, customer-focused experiences that draw inspiration from the region’s unique identity.”
Hudson’s program will showcase a diverse selection of local goods, including wines from renowned vineyards such as Eden Rift Vineyards (Hollister) and J. Lohr (San José); artisanal gifts from esteemed local makers including Alice Frost Designs and Lola x Kenneth Collaboration (San José) and culinary delights from local purveyors such as Mike & Niki’s Honey Company (Campbell), Sweetdragon Baking Company (San José), Garlic World (Gilroy) and Lala’s Jam Bar (Sonoma County), among many others.
Tech enthusiasts will be captivated by a unique Google shop-in-shop featuring cutting-edge electronics and the newest and most trendy products in an experiential display where travelers can try and play before buying, along with merchandise available only at SJC. SJC will be among the first airports in the nation to feature merchandise directly from Google. Additionally, Hudson will carry a curated selection of best-in-class global electronics brands, including Apple, Bose, Sony and other sought-after technology.
Hudson’s program will also include San José-based Nirvana Soul Café and all grab-and-go food products will be sourced locally from Eataly Silicon Valley. The overall concepts showcase the rich heritage of the San José region, drawing inspiration from iconic local names such as Santana Row and Willow Glen Market.
Paradies Lagardère’s program will also reflect the unique character of the San José region by featuring an array of locally sourced goods, showcasing the work of artisans and makers such as Gooseberry Designs (Los Gatos) and The Capsmith (San José). Local gourmet offerings will include delectables from Nokki Farm (San José), Alice Stick Cookies (Los Altos), Ginger Lab (Santa Clara), Daybreak Coffee (San José) and Greenlee’s Bakery (San José), among many others.
A highlight of the program will be a selection of licensed sports apparel for men, women and children, featuring teams such as the San Jose Sharks, San Jose Earthquakes, San Francisco 49ers, San Francisco Giants and college teams from Stanford, UC Berkeley and San José State University. Paradies Lagardère’s stores will draw inspiration from iconic local landmarks such as San Pedro Square, Plaza de San José (a nod to the historic Mayfair neighborhood) and the Garden Marketplace (inspired by San José’s historic Rose Garden).
Both Hudson and Paradies Lagardère have committed to actively participating in the Airport’s bi-annual outreach events. These events will facilitate valuable interactions between local businesses and the operators, fostering opportunities for local businesses to showcase their products and explore potential partnerships for inclusion within SJC’s retail program.
About San José Mineta International Airport (SJC): Fly Simple
Fueled by a culture of innovation, San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) is the Bay Area’s easiest and most dependable Airport due to its medium size, simple layout, temperate climate and location. SJC is located just minutes from downtown San José – the Bay Area’s largest city and the Capital of Silicon Valley. SJC is a self‐supporting enterprise owned and operated by the City of San José. In 2024, SJC welcomed nearly 12 million passengers and was rated California’s top-performing airport for on-time departures by Cirium. SJC currently offers nonstop service to more than 40 domestic and international destinations. The Airport’s two fixed-base operators, as well as several corporate aviation tenants, serve the business aviation needs of Silicon Valley; corporate and general aviation traffic represents more than a quarter of aircraft operations at SJC. In 2024, SJC celebrated 75 years of connecting the Bay Area with the world. For more information and to connect with SJC on social media, visit flysanjose.com.
About Hudson
Hudson, part of Avolta AG (SIX: AVOL), is a travel experience company turning the world of travel into a world of opportunity by being the Traveler’s Best Friend in more than 1,000 stores in airports, commuter hubs, landmarks, and tourist locations across North America. Our team members care for travelers as friends at our travel convenience, specialty retail, duty free, and food and beverage destinations. At the intersection of travel and retail, we partner with landlords and vendors, and take innovative, commercial approaches to deliver exceptional value.
Visit HudsonGroup.com for more information and connect with Hudson on LinkedIn and Instagram.
About Paradies Lagardère
Paradies Lagardère is a travel retailer and restaurateur that handles $1.6 billion in annual sales from more than 700 stores, restaurants and bars in more than 90 airports across North America. Specializing in three airport concessions areas – Travel Essentials, Specialty Retail and Dining with expertise in international, national, and local brands – Paradies Lagardère’s commitment to exceptional customer service, superior design and award-winning retail and restaurant operations has earned the company numerous accolades, including Best Airport Retailer for 27 consecutive years and Best Brand Restaurateur by Airport Experience News. For more information, visit www.paradieslagardere.com.airport
14 March 2025Airport Improvement
Msp Airport Accelerates To Next Phase Of Concourse G ExpansionProject will expand gate areas, add restrooms, improve sustainable operations
The expansion of MSP’s Concourse G will feature a new light-filled atrium near gate G8. Conceptual rendering courtesy of
the Metropolitan Airports Commission
MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL, Minn. — The next phase of expansion on Concourse G at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is moving into high gear to improve operations and advance sustainability initiatives while greatly enhancing the passenger experience in Terminal 1.
The first Concourse G expansion phase was completed in 2022 — adding 50,000 square feet between gates G17 and G22. This next phase will add 157,000 square feet of new public space between gates G8 and G13. The project will build up and out from both sides of the terminal, including the infill of space between two gate pods. This will allow for a wider central corridor, a 52% increase in gate seating, and a two-story square atrium featuring high-level windows for more natural lighting. The expanded space also provides more restrooms and concessions venues. Additionally, international arrivals access will be extended to 13 gates from the current 10, with other improvements to Customs and Border Protection passenger processing spaces. The expansion is scheduled to be completed in 2028.
“The expansion will improve gate utilization and overall operations for our airlines to accommodate more passengers, larger aircraft, and more flights from our growing network of international destinations,” said Brian Ryks, CEO of the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), which owns and operates MSP. “Beyond an expanded footprint that supports more spacious gate seating, restrooms and concessions, the project mirrors other recent interior renovations in Terminal 1 that include terrazzo flooring, modern finishes, and improved amenities inside and outside the gate areas.”
The $305 million project began with utility and foundation improvements in advance of this concourse expansion, which will include relocating non-public tenant spaces below and above the main public level of the concourse along with numerous building system upgrades that improve efficiencies and maintenance for all users. The project is focused on integrating sustainable technologies and processes into the building.
“The MAC is pursuing LEED Gold certification for this project as we drive for more sustainable infrastructure,” said Bridget Rief, MAC vice president of planning and development. “From using responsibly sourced and low-emitting building materials to expanding water reclamation and adopting enhanced refrigeration management, the MAC is incorporating new designs, systems and best practices to strategically reduce our operational impact within these spaces.”
The project’s inclusive design will also feature a unique space that furthers MSP’s expanding accessibility program. A new sensory space will provide a calm area that reduces the stress and sensory overload that sometimes accompanies travel, ensuring a more positive experience for those who need it. The MAC is partnering with Minnesota-based nonprofit Fraser and its naming partner, Central Roofing Company, to design the sensory room in Concourse G and another location in Terminal 2.
An expansion of art spaces will offer another enhancement to the passenger experience. The Arts@MSP program will curate installations of permanent translucent glass murals at the entrances of the new restrooms, and more art cases will be added to the Concourse G Colonnade Gallery for rotating exhibits.
MSP is ranked #1 in customer satisfaction among mega airports by J.D. Power. It is the 18th busiest U.S. airport by total passengers, serving 37.2 million travelers in 2024.
About The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC)
The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) owns and operates one of the nation’s largest airport systems, including Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) and six general aviation airports. The MAC’s airports connect the region to the world and showcase Minnesota’s extraordinary culture to millions of passengers from around the globe who arrive or depart through MAC airports each year. Though a public corporation of the state of Minnesota, the organization is not funded by income or property taxes. Instead, the MAC’s operations are funded by rents and fees generated by users of its airports. For more information, visit www.metroairports.org.airport
13 March 2025Airport Industry News
The Highest Rated Airports For Passenger ExperienceAirports Council International (ACI) World and Amadeus have announced the winners of the 2024 ASQ Airport Experience Awards. These awards, regarded as the industry benchmark for excellence in customer experience, are determined by direct passenger feedback.
The ASQ Awards are based on a comprehensive airport experience measurement programme, gathering real-time feedback through live surveys at airports worldwide. The methodology ensures a broad representation of passenger experiences, enabling fair comparisons across airports of varying sizes and regions.
In 2024, nearly 700,000 surveys were completed. A record-breaking 181 awards were presented to 95 airports globally, highlighting their commitment to customer service excellence.
The award categories include:
Several airports were recognised for their consistent performance across all five departure categories:
Africa: Dakar Blaise Diagne International Airport
Asia-Pacific: Beijing Daxing International Airport, Singapore Changi Airport, Sultan Aji Muhammad Sulaiman International Airport, Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport
Europe: Milas-Bodrum Airport, Rome Fiumicino Airport
Latin America: Chihuahua International Airport, Mazatlán International Airport, Monterrey International Airport
Middle East: Salalah Airport
North America: Gerald R. Ford International Airport, Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport
The ACI World Director General’s Roll of Excellence recognises airports with consistently high service ratings over the past decade. Ten airports were inducted in 2024:
In today’s fast-evolving world, where passenger expectations are higher than ever, airports must continually push the boundaries of service to stay ahead. The 2024 ASQ Awards honor airports that create memorable, seamless experiences that transform the entire passenger journey and help shape the future of air travel.
The full list of winners can be found on the ACI World website.
The 2024 ASQ Awards Ceremony will be held during the ACI World Airport Experience Summit in Guangzhou, China, from 8-11 September 2025. The event will bring together industry leaders to discuss innovations in customer and employee experience.
The aviation industry is on the cusp of radical improvements to the passenger experience. Changes to underlying airline systems and technology standards provide the flexibility to rethink decades-old processes and truly transform travel. Imagine a future where you no longer need to check-in for a flight, with visa checks happening digitally before travel. In this vision, airport terminals can be re-focused around the passenger, with the need for fixed desks and associated queues greatly reduced. We envision greater personalisation, roaming agents and a greatly simplified passenger experience. I’m excited to see how these changes are received by airports and travellers.airport
13 March 2025Airport Information
Katowice Airport New Hangar Construction ProjectNot availableairport
13 March 2025INTERNATIONAL Airport REVIEW
European Airports Surpass Pre-Covid Passenger Numbers, But Finland’S Recovery Remains SlowPosted: 13 March 2025 | Gabriel Higgins | No comments yet
European airports exceeded pre-COVID passenger volumes in 2024, with Finland’s recovery lagging due to geopolitical challenges and slower domestic growth.
Credit: Finavia
In 2024, European airports surpassed pre-COVID-19 passenger levels for the first time, with a 7.4% increase in air travel compared to the previous year. Overall, passenger volumes in Europe were 1.8% higher than in 2019, with many airports, especially in Turkey, Italy, and Spain, experiencing significant growth. However, Finland’s recovery has been slower. Passenger volumes in Finland remain 25% below 2019 levels, and the country is lagging behind its Nordic counterparts, where Norway’s airports saw 95% of 2019’s numbers, and Sweden’s were at 81%.
Finavia’s 20 airports served 19.6 million passengers in 2024, with Helsinki Airport accounting for 16.3 million of that total. Despite an overall increase in European passenger traffic, Finland’s air traffic recovery is hindered by the closure of Russian airspace, which affects both Asian flights and transfer passengers. Petri Vuori, Finavia’s Senior Vice President, noted that Finland’s air traffic recovery has been particularly slow, impacted by geopolitical factors.
International traffic in Finland saw growth of 8.8% in 2024, while domestic travel rose only 2.5%, remaining 6.3% below pre-pandemic levels. The growth in international traffic reflects a broader trend, with international routes expected to drive stronger growth in the future, both globally and in Europe. Globally, ACI World expects passenger numbers to grow significantly, reaching 17.7 billion by 2043 and 22.3 billion by 2053—almost 2.4 times the number of passengers in 2024.
Leisure travel has been a significant factor driving air traffic growth. European airports, particularly in tourism-driven destinations like Malta, Croatia, Italy, and Greece, saw a rise in passenger numbers. In Finland, leisure travel, particularly to Lapland, has been a key driver. Rovaniemi’s passenger numbers grew by 29% in 2024, with strong increases at other Lapland airports like Ivalo (+12.8%) and Kittilä (+9.9%). This shift toward leisure travel is evident in Finland, where Christmas season passenger numbers in Lapland airports are up 50–65% compared to 2019, while business travel is recovering slower, reaching only 50–60% of pre-pandemic levels.
The top five airports in Europe by passenger numbers in 2024 were London Heathrow (83.9 million), Istanbul (80.1 million), Paris Charles de Gaulle (70.3 million), Amsterdam (66.8 million), and Madrid (66.1 million). In Finland, the top five airports were Helsinki (16.3 million), Rovaniemi (948,000), Oulu (580,000), Kittilä (412,000), and Turku (255,000).
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Airport development, COVID-19, Operational efficiency, Passenger experience and seamless travel, Passenger volumes, Route development, Social responsibility, Sustainability, Terminal operations, Tourism, Workforce
Adolfo Suarez Madrid – Barajas (MAD), Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), Helsinki Airport (HEL), iGA Istanbul Airport (IST), Kittilä Airport (KTT), London Heathrow Airport (LHR), Oulu Airport (OUL), Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), Rovaniemi Airport (RVN), Turku Airport (TKU)
ACI Europe, ACI World, Finavia
Petri Vuoriairport
13 March 2025INTERNATIONAL Airport REVIEW
Seven Adani Airports Reach Over 6.8 Million Digiyatra Transactions Since Launch In August 2023Posted: 13 March 2025 | Gabriel Higgins | No comments yet
Adani Airports Holdings Limited expands DigiYatra to Mangaluru and Thiruvananthapuram, boosting seamless travel and biometric verification at seven airports.
Credit: Adani Airports Holdings Limited (AAHL)
Adani Airports Holdings Limited (AAHL) has announced the integration of Mangaluru and Thiruvananthapuram International Airports into the DigiYatra initiative, bringing the total number of AAHL airports offering DigiYatra to seven. This move aligns with AAHL’s commitment to enhancing passenger experience through seamless, contactless travel. DigiYatra, launched on 15 August 2023, was first introduced at Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, and Guwahati airports. Now, passengers at all seven AAHL airports can benefit from the convenience and security of this initiative.
Jeet Adani, Director of AAHL, commented, “Offering DigiYatra at Mangaluru and Thiruvananthapuram Airports underscores AAHL’s dedication to adopting innovative technologies that enhance passenger convenience and security. We have seen a significant rise in DigiYatra adoption, with some airports showing up to 37% daily utilisation.”
DigiYatra, which uses facial recognition technology, aims to provide passengers with a paperless, hassle-free travel experience. By eliminating the need for physical documents and streamlining airport entry through biometric verification, DigiYatra improves security while reducing wait times at checkpoints. The initiative also supports AAHL’s goal of transforming the aviation sector through cutting-edge technology.
Since its rollout, DigiYatra has experienced consistent growth, with an average month-on-month increase of 14% in transactions over the past nine months. Utilisation at AAHL airports ranges from 25% to 30%, with the highest single-day usage reaching 37.1% at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport on 20 January 2025. This marks a significant milestone in the adoption of digital technologies in Indian aviation.
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Airport development, Data, Digital transformation, ePassports, Innovation, New technologies, Operational efficiency, Passenger experience and seamless travel, Safety, Security, Social responsibility, Terminal operations, Workforce
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), Mangaluru International Airport, Thiruvananthapuram International Airport
Adani Airports Holdings Limited (AAHL), Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA)
Central and South Asia
Jeet Adaniairport
13 March 2025Airport Information
Noida Airport To Open In June 2025Not availableairport
12 March 2025INTERNATIONAL Airport REVIEW
Malta International Airport Becomes First Eu Airport To Achieve Iso 45003 Certification For Workforce WellbeingPosted: 12 March 2025 | Gabriel Higgins | No comments yet
Malta International Airport has achieved ISO 45003 certification, becoming a pioneer in safeguarding the physical and mental wellbeing of its workforce.
Credit: Malta International Airport
Malta International Airport (MIA) has become the first EU airport to achieve ISO 45003 certification, recognising its efforts to safeguard both the physical and psychosocial wellbeing of its workforce. ISO 45003 offers guidelines for managing psychological risks in the workplace, making the airport a pioneer among its peers. The airport has also attained ISO 45001 certification, which focuses on health and safety, including mental and emotional support for employees, particularly during major projects.
“Both ISO certifications stand as a testament to Malta International Airport’s unwavering commitment to health and safety excellence. Beyond simply reflecting the high standards that our company upholds, this achievement underscores our commitment to cultivating a workplace where employees and stakeholders feel valued and supported, which ultimately contributes to a safer, more seamless journey for every passenger,” said Lead Health and Safety Officer Daniela Borg.
Peter Cain, Country Manager of Bureau Veritas Malta, praised the management’s commitment to employee wellbeing. With ongoing infrastructure projects, the airport ensures risk assessments, protocols, and continuous staff training.
Alexia Aquilina, Head of People and Culture, emphasised that safety, wellbeing, and professional growth are deeply connected, fostering a positive work environment that attracts and retains talent. “When employees feel that their wellbeing is valued, they are more engaged, motivated, and committed to their work,” Aquilina said.
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Airport development, Safety, Social responsibility, Sustainable development, Terminal operations, Workforce
Malta International Airport (MIA)
Bureau Veritas Malta
Europe
Alexia Aquilina, Daniela Borg, Peter Cainairport
12 March 2025