Airports tap tech to reshape travel and boost commercial potential

As travel, both domestic and outbound, continues to remain steadfast, airports are rapidly evolving into technology-driven hubs and reshaping the travel experience while unlocking commercial potential.

  A new research that surveyed over 12,000 travellers from 21 countries, including 1,001 from India, highlights how digital innovation is transforming traveller behaviour, spending, and engagement at airports worldwide.

  The global airport automation market size is projected to surge to $85.12 billion by 2033 from $5.05 billion currently, fuelled by rising passenger exp­­ec­tations and investment in digital infrastructure. 

Among the surveyed Indian travellers, 82 per cent identified fast-track security and 85 per cent cited digital boarding passes as the most impactful technologies, while automated baggage drops and advanced scanners are both highly valued by 80 per cent of respondents. 

 

  “With travel volumes continuing to rise, airports are looking to technology to help enhance the curb-to-gate journey whilst also increasing traveller spends. Automation is freeing up valuable time, lowering stress levels, and providing better information to the traveller in real time. When the experience delivers, travellers are more inclined to explore places to relax, sample dining options or retail stores,” said Christopher Evans, CEO at Collinson International.  

Taking off

 

83% India travellers say airports are adopting AI and technology at the right pace

 

88% Indian travellers spend more when automation smoothes their journey, led by millennials (93%) and Gen Z (91%); significantly higher than the global (60%) and APAC (68%) average 

 

45% travellers say they gained an extra 10- 30 minutes at the airport, while 

 

27% up to an hour due to technology 

 

56% dine or have a drink, 57% go shopping, 56% visit an airport lounge when they have extra time 

 

At 59%, lounge interest is highest in Indonesia at market level, followed by India (56%), and the UAE (47%)  Source: Priority Pass (Collinson Group)