Middle East airports look to a ‘smart’ future

ALKESH SHARMA / Emirates Business

Huge investments in aviation sector in the region, especially in the UAE, will steer the Middle East smart airports market to surpass $850 million within the next three years. Revolutionary concept of smart airport, driven by latest marvels of technology and applications, is all set to enhance traveller’s experience in a big way.
The latest technologies and innovations that are expected to change the way of future travel will be showcased at the upcoming 16th edition of the Airport Show in Dubai, to be held from May 9-11.
“Airports are more active than ever in adopting new and smart technologies and they are reaping benefits in enhancing efficiencies, passenger experience as well as in reducing costs,” said Daniyal Qureshi, Group Exhibition Director at Reed Exhibitions Middle East, the organisers of the Airport Show.
According to SITA IT Airport Survey, with 81 percent of airports investing in beacons and other sensors over the next three years, passengers can look forward to a more comfortable and predictable journey through the airports.
“With global passenger numbers expected to rise to 7.3 billion by 2034, airports need to ensure they are able to cope with the rising numbers, and, at the same time, offer seamless travel experience. Smart technologies can greatly help in delivering a hassle-free passenger experience that can put an airport ahead of its competitors,” added Qureshi.
Gauging the benefits of current investments in the sector of smart airports, more number of airports has started allocating higher budgets in their pursuit to adopt the latest smart technologies.
Top corporates are exhibiting their cutting-edge technology during the Airport Show. Global technology leader Honeywell will showcase smart technologies that help increase safety, security, efficiency, and productivity at more than 500 airports worldwide.
“The Airport Show 2016 is a great platform for us to be able to talk to our customers about the depth and breadth of our technologies, which are currently used in more than 500 airports worldwide,” said Sonja Strand, general manager for Honeywell’s global airports business.
“With more than 100 years’ experience in aviation and airports, Honeywell is a trusted name in the industry, and we are keen to share our technology vision for the airport of the future in addition to our integrated building management solutions which are widely used to make airports smarter.”
Airport Show will host a dedicated matchmaking programme providing pre- scheduled meetings for exhibitors with selected visitors looking to source products, services and technologies at the event.
There would be a strong international presence in Airport Show as it will feature seven dedicated country pavilions. Germany to have the largest pavilion, with 40 exhibitors
Germany will have the largest participation with more than 40 exhibitors showcasing in the exclusive Germany pavilion. Besides there would be six other global pavilions dedicated to aviation players from France, Switzerland, UK, China, Italy and North America. Exhibitors from more than 30 countries are participating in Airport Show 2016.