1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

Fuel sampling is a daily occurrence on jet fuel systems across the world in aviation. The method of testing this jet fuel is a trained human and using the human eye, which can be subjective depending on experience and/or ambient conditions as well as the human factor. The FuelSCAN Analyzer is the only product that can provide accurate sampling results without any subjectivity on the output, a clear 'yes' or 'no' report. Through the use of a camera and AI, the sample is the 'human eye' checking for particles and discoloration of the fuel historically performed by a trained person.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

It has improved operations and efficiency by automating the sampling process and providing reports automatically, without the need for human intervention, providing a safer fuel sample before entering the aircraft.

3. Does it tackle aviation challenges & redefine airport operations as a transformative innovation?

Yes, it removes the need for having trained personnel in contact with jet fuel, accuracy of fuel samples and automated reporting features.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes, it is designed in accordance with the international requirements for sampling jet fuel.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

A real world application.

A one-time award celebrating long-term influence and contribution to the airport industry.

Proven impact across multiple inter airport Europe editions or decades,Contribution to industry evolution, innovation, or excellence,Enduring relationships with the airport community,Supporting narrative or recognition from peers/partners

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

The Concretum solution is considered unique and groundbreaking in the airport industry due to its use of Concretum® Q-FLASH 2/20, a rapid-hardening concrete. This technology allows for crucial runway repairs and renovations to be completed in a matter of hours, typically overnight, which minimizes disruption to air traffic.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Thanks to its Rapid Strength Development, the concrete achieves the necessary strength (e.g., 20 N/mm² within 2 hours) to be load-bearing, allowing flight operations to resume on time.

The technology offers the following advantages:

Reduced Disruption: Unlike conventional concrete, which can take days to cure, the Concretum solution enables airports to carry out maintenance during short overnight closures, preventing extended shutdowns. At 5 am, when the main airport operations resume, the concrete surfaces repaired with Concretum's rapid-hardening concrete can already be reopened to air traffic, limiting any negative impact on airport operations, such as the closure of runways or taxiways.

Durability: The concrete's properties, such as low shrinkage and freeze-thaw resistance, help to reduce the risk of cracking, which in turn guarantees a long lifespan for the new surfaces, reducing maintenance costs, greenhouse gas emissions and airport operation disruptions.

3. Does it tackle aviation challenges & redefine airport operations as a transformative innovation?

Concretum's rapid-hardening concrete directly addresses critical challenges in the airport industry and redefines maintenance operations.

The solution tackles the primary challenge of airport maintenance: the need to perform repairs without causing significant disruptions to flight schedules. By using a concrete that can be applied and becomes fully load-bearing in a matter of hours, Concretum enables airports to complete repairs and resurfacing projects during short overnight windows. This avoids the costly and complex process of shutting down runways for days or weeks at a time.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Concretum's rapid-hardening concrete has already been successfully implemented at several international airports. 

The product is designed to be produced, transported, and processed similarly to conventional concrete, making it compatible with existing construction practices and equipment. This ease of use facilitates its adoption by different construction companies and airport operators worldwide.

The cement used in the product, is certified under the ASTM C1157 and C1600 standard (key standard in the American construction industry and globally recognized).

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

The solution has already been successfully implemented at several international airports, including Zurich (ZRH), Paris (CDG & ORY), Istanbul (SAW) and Melbourne (MEL). This demonstrates that it is not a niche or experimental product but a proven solution being used for large-scale, critical infrastructure projects.

A one-time award celebrating long-term influence and contribution to the airport industry.

Proven impact across multiple inter airport Europe editions or decades,Contribution to industry evolution, innovation, or excellence,Enduring relationships with the airport community,Supporting narrative or recognition from peers/partners

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

The GPCS is groundbreaking because it transforms traditional ground power management into a smart, connected system. It offers:

- Real-time monitoring of Ground Power Units (GPUs) via cloud-based analytics.

- Dynamic resource allocation using intelligent algorithms.

- Predictive maintenance that prevents breakdowns and delays.

- Integration with mobile and desktop platforms, giving engineers instant access to critical data.

This level of connectivity and automation sets a new benchmark for operational control and sustainability in aviation

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

The GPCS delivers measurable improvements across multiple dimensions:

- Operations: Reduces stand downtime and prevents delays caused by GPU reset issues.

- Efficiency: Cuts costs by minimizing unnecessary callouts and emergency maintenance.

- Sustainability: Reduces reliance on fossil-fuel-powered APUs, lowering emissions and fuel consumption.

- Passenger Experience: Ensures smoother ground operations, helping flights depart on time and reducing disruptions

3. Does it tackle aviation challenges & redefine airport operations as a transformative innovation?

Yes—it directly addresses key aviation challenges:

- Environmental pressure: Helps airports meet carbon reduction goals.

- Operational bottlenecks: Solves GPU reset delays and inefficient power usage.

- Data visibility: Offers fleet-wide insights for smarter decision-making.

By combining IoT, cloud analytics, and proactive maintenance, GPCS redefines how airports manage ground power—making it a truly transformative innovation

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Absolutely. The GPCS is designed as a scalable, end-to-end solution:

- Already installed at multiple UK airports in 2025.

- Compatible with existing GPU infrastructure.

- Customisable to meet the needs of airports of varying sizes and traffic volumes.

Its modular design and cloud-based architecture make it ideal for industry-wide deployment

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

It’s a real-world application. The GPCS has already been successfully deployed across several UK airports, with live operational data and positive feedback from airport operators. It’s not a concept—it’s actively transforming ground operations today

A one-time award celebrating long-term influence and contribution to the airport industry.

Proven impact across multiple inter airport Europe editions or decades,Contribution to industry evolution, innovation, or excellence,Enduring relationships with the airport community,Supporting narrative or recognition from peers/partners

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

Ladies and gentlemen, meet Eezeetag — a revolutionary, zero-waste self-baggage tag that passengers print and attach themselves and that can be embedded with an RFID chip for full tracking.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

faster throughput at check-in, fewer mishandles, a smaller environmental footprint, and measurable operational savings.

3. Does it tackle aviation challenges & redefine airport operations as a transformative innovation?

Eezeetag cuts passenger processing time, reduces bag loss, and creates a scalable platform for RFID baggage tracking — without adding complexity to the operations.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Standards-compliant: Built to IATA 740 and Resolution 753 guidelines (barcodes, RFID, baggage tracking standards).

Vendor-neutral: Works with all common DCS platforms and SBD kiosks (Amadeus, SITA, etc.) — no lock-in.

Passenger familiar: Self-service flow is the same across airports → reduces training and support needs.

Operationally scalable: Already deployed with multiple airlines/handlers → evidence of adaptability.

Sustainability advantage: Zero-waste design scales better than disposable tags — every airport faces pressure to reduce single-use waste.

Future-ready: RFID optionality means airports can activate tracking when ready, without changing the tag itself.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

Eezeetag is already in real-world use — not just a pilot. Airports, airlines, and ground handlers are actively using it for self-check-in today. We’ve moved beyond pilot testing: we have proven deployments, live operational data, and satisfied passengers. That means we can show not only that it works, but also that it scales in real environments

Eezeetags® are used by > 100 million passengers annually and still growing, to name a few of our main Airport customers:

London Heathrow, JFK T4, Dubai International, Berlin Brandenburg, Milan Malpensa, London Gatwick and many more, big or small serving both legacy and low cost carriers. 

We are used out of all major SBD suppliers kit, including Easier(IER).

A one-time award celebrating long-term influence and contribution to the airport industry.

Contribution to industry evolution, innovation, or excellence,Enduring relationships with the airport community,Supporting narrative or recognition from peers/partners

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

Airside 4.0® is a groundbreaking strategy that redefines airside operations by harmonizing complex processes through advanced digitalization. Unlike traditional systems that operate in silos, Airside 4.0® approach integrates IoT, AI, edge computing, and advanced analytics into a unified eco-system. This integration allows airports to shift from reactive, manual processes to proactive, automated operations.

Key differentiators include:

• Predictive Maintenance: Leveraging IoT-enabled devices like AXON EQ intelligent airfield lights to predict maintenance needs, reducing downtime and costs.
• Adaptive Automation: Systems like "Follow the Greens" optimize aircraft taxiing routes, reducing congestion, energy consumption, and CO2 emissions.
• Real-Time Data Insights: Cloud-based analytics transform raw data into actionable insights, enabling faster, more accurate decision-making.

This holistic approach makes Airside 4.0® not just an improvement but a leap forward in airside management, setting new benchmarks for efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the aviation industry.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience? Include measurable results where possible.

Airside 4.0® has delivered measurable improvements across key operational areas:

Operational Efficiency:

• Reduced downtime and faster maintenance responses through predictive analytics, cutting maintenance costs by up to 59%.
• Optimized use of infrastructure, ensuring better airside availability.

Sustainability:

• Reduced energy consumption by up to 51% through adaptive lighting systems.
• Lowered CO2 emissions via optimized taxiing routes and reduced aircraft idle times.

Safety:

• Enhanced situational awareness with AI-powered systems like Runway Incursion Alerting Systems (RIAS) to minimize risks during aircraft and ground operations.

Passenger Experience:

• Faster turnarounds and improved on-time performance lead to smoother travel experiences.

3. Does it tackle aviation challenges & redefine airport operations as a transformative innovation?

Yes, Airside 4.0® directly addresses critical challenges in aviation, including rising air traffic, workforce constraints, stricter sustainability targets, and safety requirements. It redefines airport operations by:

• Moving away from traditional, reactive systems to proactive, data-driven solutions.
• Harmonizing previously siloed processes such as docking, lighting, and taxiway management into a single, integrated platform.
• Using leapfrog technologies like IoT and AI to enable predictive maintenance, adaptive lighting, and "Follow the Greens" capabilities, which reduce congestion and environmental impact.

By enabling smarter, safer, and more sustainable airside operations, Airside 4.0® empowers airports to meet both present and future challenges, transforming how airports operate from touchdown to take-off.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Absolutely. Airside 4.0® is designed for scalability and adaptability, making it suitable for deployment across airports of all sizes and operational environments. The platform's modular architecture allows airports to implement solutions tailored to their specific needs, whether they are small regional hubs or large international airports.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

Airside 4.0® has transitioned from pilot programs to real-world applications, demonstrating its effectiveness in live airport environments. Early pilot programs were conducted to validate its capabilities.

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

TKH Airport Solutions represents a unique consolidation of industry-leading expertise, bringing together four pioneering companies under one roof. This integration combines Induperm's 55+ years of AGL leadership in Northern Europe since 1969, HELLA's achievement as the first company to launch a complete LED AGL portfolio back in 2009, USE System Engineering's revolutionary CEDD connectivity technology, and JCAI's North American market leadership in deicing management solutions. This merger of complementary technologies and decades of specialized knowledge creates an entity capable of delivering comprehensive smart airfield ground lighting solutions.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

The consolidated expertise has enabled airports worldwide to benefit from integrated solutions that improve multiple operational aspects simultaneously. Our combined technologies deliver enhanced safety through proven AGL systems, improved operational efficiency via smart connectivity, and reduced environmental impact through LED technology and optimized deicing operations. As the preferred AGL partner for numerous airports globally such as Copenhagen, Vancouver, Dubai and Delhi, we've facilitated smoother operations, reduced maintenance requirements, and provided future-ready infrastructure that adapts to evolving airport needs.

3. Does it tackle aviation challenges & redefine airport operations as a transformative innovation?

Yes, TKH Airport Solutions addresses fundamental aviation challenges by transforming fragmented lighting and ground support solutions into an integrated ecosystem. We've redefined airport operations by moving from siloed systems to smart, interconnected infrastructure that can adapt in real-time to operational demands. This transformation addresses critical challenges including energy efficiency, operational flexibility, safety enhancement, and future scalability.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Absolutely. Our solutions are designed for global deployment and have been successfully implemented across diverse airport environments worldwide. The modular nature of our integrated technologies allows for scalable implementation from small regional airports to major international hubs, adapting to local requirements while maintaining consistent performance standards.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

This is a real-world application with decades of proven performance. Our constituent companies have collectively participated in numerous Inter Airport Europe editions and have established long-term partnerships with airports worldwide. The integration represents the evolution of proven technologies into a comprehensive solution platform.

A one-time award celebrating long-term influence and contribution to the airport industry.

Proven impact across multiple inter airport Europe editions or decades,Contribution to industry evolution, innovation, or excellence,Enduring relationships with the airport community,Supporting narrative or recognition from peers/partners

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

NACO's Runway Condition Reporting Tool - RCR Tool© , was developed using a combination of water depth modeling based on real-time weather data which is recognized by ICAO as the most accurate means of ensuring compliance with its Global Reporting Format on Runway Condition. The wider industry has also recognized the product's groundbreaking performance and selected it as finalist for Airport Council International 'Best available innovation at an airport' award at ACI Airports Innovate awards this coming November 2025.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

RCR-Tool© delivers real-time, precise insights, ensuring reliable data to help pilots make informed decisions on safe landing procedures, without an inspector having to physically inspect the runway. This prevents unwarranted runway-closures for inspections and consequential loss of throughput-capacity & earnings for the airport.

3. Does it tackle aviation challenges & redefine airport operations as a transformative innovation?

The fact that the water depth modeling based on real-time weather data is automated and recognized as the most accurate in even heavy downpours, has the RCR Tool© address two of the aviation industry's major challenges at the moment: 1) Increase of erratic heavy rainfall events due to Climate Change & 2) Global manpower crunch. Given the fact that these two challenges will continue to increase in intensity over the next few decades, makes this innovative product exact long-term influence and contribution to the aviation industry.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

RCR-Tool© has successfully been deployed at both small, medium and large hub airports across geographies and climate zones. One client testimony: 'Under difficult circumstances, NACO provided a solution with their RCR-Tool© that sets a benchmark for runway condition reporting under the GRF format. Today, we can act quickly in the face of changeable conditions, and report accurately resulting in increased runway safety for airport personnel, passengers, and aircrews.'

Onno De Jong, COO - Bonaire International Airport

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

In 2025 RCR-Tool© has truly matured beyond its initial pilot-phase to a real-world application that is currently in operation at hub airports like IGA and MUC, as well as small-to-medium airports across the Americas and Europe.

A one-time award celebrating long-term influence and contribution to the airport industry.

Proven impact across multiple inter airport Europe editions or decades,Contribution to industry evolution, innovation, or excellence,Enduring relationships with the airport community,Supporting narrative or recognition from peers/partners

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

To70 has developed a groundbreaking approach to airport Master Planning, created with ENAC as part of Italy’s new National Airport Plan. Our methodology integrates environmental sustainability, digitalization, social and economic responsibility, and intermodality—ensuring airports are not just efficient hubs but smart, resilient infrastructures that serve communities and future generations.

At its core lies a new paradigm: the link between capacity and quality. Growth is no longer measured only in passengers or vehicles, but also in the quality of service and sustainability delivered across airside, landside, and forecourt systems. This shift ensures that expansion is financially viable, environmentally responsible, and socially inclusive.

By aligning capacity with quality, and embedding this vision in Italy’s national plan with ENAC, To70 is setting a new benchmark for future airports worldwide—airports that are not just bigger, but smarter, greener, and more human-centered.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Our holistic Master Planning approach delivers improvements across every dimension of airport performance. By aligning capacity with quality, operations become smoother, with infrastructure designed to handle flows efficiently rather than just grow. This leads to reduced bottlenecks, more reliable processes, and greater resilience.

On sustainability, integrating environmental and social criteria from the outset ensures measurable reductions in energy demand, emissions, and noise, while creating positive impacts for communities—such as better connectivity, jobs, and quality of life.

For passengers, the focus on quality means shorter waits, seamless intermodality, and a more comfortable journey, ensuring airports are not just transit points but high-value public spaces.

Finally, the holistic vision ensures that all benefits—direct and indirect, economic and social—are connected and measurable, securing not only financial viability but also lasting value for the territory they serve.

3. Does it tackle aviation challenges & redefine airport operations as a transformative innovation?

Developed with ENAC within Italy’s National Airport Plan, our Master Planning approach tackles aviation’s core challenges and redefines airport operations. It addresses Europe’s capacity crunch by aligning capacity with quality, unlocking throughput within existing footprints, reducing bottlenecks, and harmonising investments to avoid overbuilding. Sustainability is built in from the start—measurable cuts in energy, emissions, and noise—while digitalisation and intermodality lift reliability and resilience. Passengers gain shorter waits and smoother door-to-gate journeys. Territories gain jobs, connectivity, and enduring value. We capture and reapply lessons across airports, ensuring every euro improves performance, experience, and sustainability—turning growth into a truly transformative innovation.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Our approach is designed to be replicable across the entire airport industry. Because it integrates universal principles—capacity matched with quality, sustainability, digitalisation, intermodality, and social value—it can be applied to airports of all sizes and contexts. The methodology is especially powerful for European airports, where the capacity crunch, environmental targets, and community expectations require smarter, not just larger, infrastructure. Developed with ENAC for Italy’s National Airport Plan, it provides a model that can be scaled and tailored internationally, ensuring airports everywhere achieve sustainable growth, enhanced passenger experience, and lasting territorial benefits.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

The solution began as a pilot initiative developed with ENAC within the Italian National Airport Plan. Following its success, it has been applied in multiple Master Planning and pre-planning studies across a diverse range of airports — from regional gateways to medium-sized platforms and major hubs. This progression proves its scalability and adaptability: the same principles deliver measurable value regardless of airport size or context. What started as an innovation test has now become a real-world methodology, shaping strategic decisions and ensuring airports grow in ways that are sustainable, efficient, and resilient.

A one-time award celebrating long-term influence and contribution to the airport industry.

Proven impact across multiple inter airport Europe editions or decades,Contribution to industry evolution, innovation, or excellence,Enduring relationships with the airport community,Supporting narrative or recognition from peers/partners

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

Our solution introduces Spatial AI as a new way for airports to understand and manage passenger flows. Using 3D data from LiDAR sensors, it creates a real-time, anonymous digital twin of how people and vehicles move across the airport, from curb to gate. 

A unique strength of this approach is the ability to capture flows with great precision and consistency at scale (>50 000 pax simultaneously in specific Terminal), regardless of lighting or crowd density (>3 pax/m2), while protecting privacy by design, as no image or personal data is ever captured. 

Outsight’s Spatial Intelligence solution creates a Motional Digital Twin of the terminal, offering continuous actionable insights instead of fragmented snapshots of single checkpoints. This gives operators a clear and continuous view of bottlenecks and movement patterns and makes it possible to bring real-time 3D intelligence into daily airport operations at unprecedented scale.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Airports using our technology report smoother flows and faster response times. Staff can see queues forming early and open lanes before passengers become frustrated. Managers can replay past events to understand what caused delays and adjust staffing or layouts accordingly. 

What makes the difference is that the system does not only capture what happens a single checkpoint. It gives a full view of the entire passenger journey: Authorized users can both Zoom in to a specific individual (anonymous ID tracking) and Zoom Out to understand aggregated KPIs based on the physical flow of people & vehicles. 

This broader picture reduces wasted time, improves resource allocation, and helps meet service-level targets. 

Also, because the system processes data efficiently on CPUs rather than energy-hungry GPUs, it also lowers the environmental footprint of advanced AI adoption at scale. 

For passengers, the impact is a calmer, more predictable journey and a safer environment. By optimizing flows c

3. Does it tackle aviation challenges & redefine airport operations as a transformative innovation?

Yes. Airports face increasing passenger volumes, higher service-level expectations, and pressure to operate more sustainably. Our technology helps on all three fronts. It tackles congestion by showing bottlenecks before they grow. 

It redefines how airports plan and manage operations by turning reactive firefighting into proactive action. 

And it makes AI adoption compatible with privacy and energy goals. This is not just another tool; it represents a shift in how airports can operate: data-driven, sustainable, and more respectful of passengers. 

Privacy concerns are also reshaping technology choices, and our non-intrusive approach fits that new reality.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes. The platform is already in use at international airports on four continents, which shows that it can adapt to different layouts and regulatory contexts. 

It is LiDAR-vendor agnostic and works with all relevant manufacturers and models. Airports and partners can also connect to it through our APIs, so the insights can be added to existing dashboards and workflows.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

It is a real-world application. The technology is live today in operational airports and actively supports teams in their daily work. 

This is not a prototype or a limited trial, it is proven at scale and continues to expand worldwide.

A one-time award celebrating long-term influence and contribution to the airport industry.

Contribution to industry evolution, innovation, or excellence,Enduring relationships with the airport community,Supporting narrative or recognition from peers/partners

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

S4GA’s Solar CAT I Airfield Ground Lighting is the world’s first high-intensity airfield lighting system for CAT I airports that is fully powered by solar energy and fully compliant with ICAO requirements.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Among many benefits, three stand out for airports: the system is off-grid, making it ideal for remote locations; it requires minimal maintenance, which is crucial for airports with limited technical staff; and because it runs entirely on solar power, it fully supports airports’ sustainability goals and aligns with local green regulations.

Cost Savings. Solar CAT I delivers up to 40% lower CAPEX by eliminating trenching, cabling, CCRs, and power substations, and up to 80% lower OPEX thanks to zero electricity consumption, no fuel use, no CCR overhauls, and no cable testing. It also removes unplanned downtime costs entirely: no emergency repairs, no runway outages, and proactive issue detection via ALCMS. If we make rough estimations, a Solar CAT I AGL system can save up to €2.8 million for an airport (based on a 3000 m runway with single-ended CAT I approach, 2× PAPI, and a small taxiway) after 15 years of operation.

3. Does it tackle aviation challenges & redefine airport operations as a transformative innovation?

Yes. Solar CAT I redefines how airports approach airfield lighting by completely removing their dependence on fossil-fuel-based grids, heavy infrastructure, and high energy consumption. It addresses major industry challenges — from power blackouts and rising energy costs to staff shortages and strict environmental regulations — with a self-sufficient, low-maintenance, and zero-emission design. This transforms airfield lighting from a high-cost, resource-intensive utility into a sustainable, flexible, and future-proof infrastructure solution.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes. Solar CAT I can be used at civil and military airports of any size. It can operate as a standalone system where no infrastructure exists or be seamlessly integrated into existing airfield lighting networks.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

Both. The solar AGL technology itself is already proven in real-world use, with hundreds of airports worldwide operating on it. What’s new is the Solar CAT I configuration — introducing this proven solar technology into the CAT I airport segment for the first time.

A one-time award celebrating long-term influence and contribution to the airport industry.

Proven impact across multiple inter airport Europe editions or decades,Contribution to industry evolution, innovation, or excellence,Enduring relationships with the airport community,Supporting narrative or recognition from peers/partners

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

Fuel sampling is a daily occurrence on jet fuel systems across the world in aviation. The method of testing this jet fuel is a trained human and using the human eye, which can be subjective depending on experience and/or ambient conditions as well as the human factor. The FuelSCAN Analyzer is the only product that can provide accurate sampling results without any subjectivity on the output, a clear 'yes' or 'no' report. Through the use of a camera and AI, the sample is the 'human eye' checking for particles and discoloration of the fuel historically performed by a trained person.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

It has improved operations and efficiency by automating the sampling process and providing reports automatically, without the need for human intervention, providing a safer fuel sample before entering the aircraft.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

As the world moves towards more automation, it's future proofing the fuelling systems, which have not innovated for over 40 years. The FuelSCAN Analyzer is the latest technology in fuel sampling, providing reliable and accurate sampling results through automation.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes, it is designed in accordance with the international requirements for sampling jet fuel.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

A real world application.

Celebrates innovative equipment, systems, or services improving ground handling or airside performance.

Safety or operational efficiency improvements,Innovation in GSE design, automation, or integration

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

TMS Training provide an independent opportunity for Aeronautical Ground Lighting professionals to receive training, onsite or in centre provided by ICAO qualified instructors on safe maintenance of AGL systems. A unique method of marking theory examinations also allows attitude to be assessed, allowing additional feedback to be given to both delegates and employers

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

The courses, being fully CBTA and inline with ICAO guidelines and requirements allow AGL personnel to maintain compliance of AGL systems with their safety in mind. The courses, if held onsite, are adapted to be product specific to that airfield. Practical assessment is given a unique importance with all practical exercises being fully assessed.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

The courses, being updated as necessary, with new regulations, products and technologies ensure that delegates are up to date with information, and the refresher programme ensures that those who have attended previous courses are also aware of changes.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

TMS Training offer their training support on a Worldwide basis

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

The initial plan was for UK training however interest from EASA based airports, where courses have been run and booked and also from other continents and aviation authorities have resulted in a controlled growth programme being put into action.

Celebrates innovative equipment, systems, or services improving ground handling or airside performance.

Safety or operational efficiency improvements

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

The LIOL DB is a new Low-Intensity Obstacle Light designed specifically for airport ground vehicles. To enhance airside safety, we have integrated a movement sensor that enables automatic mode switching from amber flashing to steady red light based on vehicle deceleration and stop . This is a groundbreaking feature, as previously, this process relied on the driver manually pressing a button, which introduced the risk of human error. Our innovation automates this critical safety function, ensuring that the vehicle's status (moving or stationary) is always correctly and visibly communicated to other ground vehicles and aircraft. This removes a significant point of failure and makes the system proactive rather than reactive.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

This improvement primarily enhances operational safety and efficiency. It eliminates the risk of an operator forgetting to switch the light mode, which could lead to confusion and potential incidents. By automating the process, it allows the driver to focus on their primary task of navigating the busy airfield, thereby improving overall efficiency. While we don't have specific measurable results yet, the reduction in potential human error directly translates to a lower risk of ground-air incidents, which is a key metric for airport safety.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

It directly addresses the persistent challenge of human factors in airport ground operations. The airfield is a complex and dynamic environment where miscommunication can have severe consequences. Our solution mitigates this risk by providing a clear, unambiguous, and automated visual signal of a vehicle's status. As airport traffic continues to grow, and automation becomes more prevalent, ensuring seamless and safe communication between vehicles and aircraft is paramount. This product aligns with the industry's push towards greater automation and enhanced safety protocols.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes, absolutely. The solution is highly scalable and universally applicable. Its magnetic mount and intuitive design make it suitable for a wide variety of Ground Support Equipment (GSE) and other airport vehicles. It adheres to ICAO Annex 14 standards, making it ready for use in airports worldwide.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

This is an upgrade to an existing, real-world product (the Luxsolar LIOL-CD). The previous version is already in active use in airport environments, and this new feature is a direct improvement based on real-world operational feedback and the desire to further enhance safety.

Celebrates innovative equipment, systems, or services improving ground handling or airside performance.

Innovation in GSE design, automation, or integration

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

MAX Automate is the first system in the airport industry to enable full remote operation and centralized monitoring of Passenger Boarding Bridges (PBBs). It transforms traditional apron operations by replacing manual, on-site control with a digital, centralized interface. This innovation allows operators to manage multiple bridges from a single location, improving coordination, safety, and scalability. MAX Automate is not just a product, it represents a paradigm shift in how airports approach turnaround management and airside efficiency.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

MAX Automate has significantly improved operational efficiency by reducing turnaround times and minimizing human error. In Madrid-Barajas Airport, where the system is fully deployed, remote operation has led to a 72% increase of the operator's capacity based on the average number of operations executed by an operator in a certain day in MAD Airport (comparing manual vs remote operation). The centralized control also reduces the need for staff movement across the apron, contributing to lower emissions and improved safety. By ensuring faster and more reliable aircraft boarding, MAX Automate indirectly enhances the passenger experience through reduced delays and smoother gate operations.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Airports face increasing pressure to optimize resources, improve safety, and adapt to fluctuating traffic volumes. MAX Automate addresses these challenges by enabling scalable, remote operations that reduce dependency on physical presence and manual processes. It supports workforce flexibility, enhances situational awareness, and prepares airports for future integration with smart systems and predictive analytics. As air traffic grows and staffing becomes more complex, MAX Automate offers a resilient and future-ready solution.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes. MAX Automate is designed to be compatible with a wide range of PBB models and airport infrastructures. It has already been successfully tested in airports across Europe, North America and Asia. Its modular architecture allows for easy integration with existing systems such as A-VDGS, FIDS, and BHS, making it suitable for both new installations and retrofit projects. The system is scalable and adaptable to airports of all sizes.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

MAX Automate is a real-world application with proven results. It has moved beyond the pilot phase and is currently in full operation at several international airports. Madrid-Barajas Airport is the first in the world to operate all its PBBs remotely using MAX Automate, demonstrating the system’s reliability, scalability and impact in live airport environments.

Celebrates innovative equipment, systems, or services improving ground handling or airside performance.

Safety or operational efficiency improvements,Emission reduction or energy optimisation,Innovation in GSE design, automation, or integration,Active use or proven results in airport environments

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

i6 has redefined ground fueling operations for leading global operators including Menzies Aviation, British Airways, Shell/Topaz, and American Airlines. By replacing outdated paper tickets and manual dispatching with fully digital, real-time workflows, our solutions set a new benchmark for efficiency, safety, and sustainability on the ramp.

Our core platforms—Fusion6 for into-plane management and eHandshake® for paperless pilot–refueler interaction—integrate live flight data, vehicle telemetry, and automated task allocation into one seamless workflow. This “digital thread” ensures that every fueling operation is precise, traceable, and optimised. Unlike legacy systems, i6 connects airlines, ground handlers, and fuel suppliers in a single ecosystem, deli

What sets our solution apart is its ability to provide a single digital thread across all stakeholders—airlines, ground handlers, and into-plane providers—delivering unprecedented visibility, accuracy, and sustainability on the ramp.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

The world’s biggest airlines and ground service providers are already seeing measurable impact from i6 technology.

At Manchester, North Air (part of the Menzies Aviation group) achieved a 92% reduction in fueling delays by deploying Fusion6 and eHandshake®, improving on-time performance and safety for crews and passengers.

At Heathrow, American Airlines eliminated all fuel-related delays by using Perspective6 to gain full visibility of multiple fuel providers and proactively manage turnarounds.

British Airways has reduced over-fueling by an average of 65kg per flight, saving up to 201kg CO₂ per flight through eHandshake®, directly improving sustainability performance.

In Ireland, Shell/Topaz’s Fingal Aviation digitised operations at Dublin and Cork, reducing paperwork, enhancing resource allocation, and modernising crew workflows.

These results show how i6 improves safety and efficiency for ground teams, reduces emissions for airlines, and delivers a more reliable experience for

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

i6 is helping global operators like American Airlines, British Airways, Menzies, and Shell/Topaz tackle the challenges shaping the future of aviation.

On-Time Performance: By automating dispatch and reconciliation, i6 eliminates apron delays, a critical need for airlines like American Airlines and ground handlers such as Menzies Aviation.

Workforce Pressures: In high-turnover environments, Fusion6’s intuitive workflows reduce training demands and error rates, enabling companies like Fingal Aviation to improve safety and consistency.

Sustainability Goals: With British Airways and others, i6 is cutting fuel wastage and emissions while producing verifiable data that supports compliance with ICAO, IATA, and CORSIA requirements.

Futureproofing Operations: i6 technology supports Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) management and integrates seamlessly with airport systems, ensuring operators such as Shell/Topaz are ready for long-term decarbonisation.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes — i6 solutions are already trusted by leading global brands across more than 200 airports worldwide. From Menzies Aviation’s into-plane operations, to British Airways’ sustainability programmes, to American Airlines’ ground handling visibility, and Shell/Topaz’s regional deployments, our technology has proven its value across airlines, suppliers, and service providers alike.

The platform is fully compatible with existing airport systems (ERP, FIDS, GSAP) and can be scaled from a single-airport operation to a global network rollout. This flexibility makes i6 not only deployable across the industry but capable of becoming the new digital standard for ground support operations.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

This is not a pilot — it is a proven, real-world solution at scale. Our platforms are embedded in daily operations at global hubs and regional airports across Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific.

American Airlines now relies on i6 at Heathrow to remove fuel delays entirely.

British Airways uses eHandshake® to deliver measurable CO₂ savings.

Menzies Aviation and its subsidiary North Air have transformed their into-plane operations with Fusion6.

Shell/Topaz (Fingal Aviation) has modernised fueling operations across multiple Irish airports.

These deployments demonstrate not just adoption, but long-term reliance on i6 technology by some of the industry’s biggest players — proving its impact, scalability, and readiness to set a new benchmark for ground support innovation.

Celebrates innovative equipment, systems, or services improving ground handling or airside performance.

Safety or operational efficiency improvements,Emission reduction or energy optimisation,Innovation in GSE design, automation, or integration,Active use or proven results in airport environments

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

JCAI's Icelink and SmartPad software suites, now part of TKH Airport Solutions, represent a shift in deicing and traffic management. This integrated approach combines advanced software analytics with smart messaging boards and intelligent airfield ground lighting to create the industry's most comprehensive deicing management ecosystem. The system's ability to integrate real-time weather data, aircraft scheduling, and ground operations into a single intelligent platform is unprecedented in the industry.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

The integrated deicing management solution delivers significant operational improvements through optimized resource allocation, reduced aircraft turnaround times, and enhanced safety protocols. This was demonstrated at Chicago O'Hare International Airport - home to the world's busiest sustained winter operations processing over 1,200 flights daily. Key results include:

• 75% reduction in radio traffic between flight crews, deicers, and control centers, creating a less stressful work environment

• Increased processing speeds without compromising safety through automated aircraft guidance and real-time coordination

• Enhanced operational efficiency through centralized control of all deicing resources with instantaneous data for real-time decision-making

• Improved gate utilization by easing terminal congestion during winter operations

• Reduced flight delays through precise aircraft metering and efficient taxi flows, particularly benefiting connecting passengers

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders? 

Yes, our solutions directly address one of aviation's most challenging operational scenarios - winter weather operations. By integrating deicing management with smart airfield lighting and messaging systems, we're redefining how airports manage complex winter operations, moving from reactive to proactive management.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

The solution is designed for industry-wide deployment and can be scaled to airports of all sizes. The modular software architecture allows for customization based on specific airport requirements, climate conditions, and operational volumes while maintaining core functionality across all installations.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

This is a proven real-world application. TKH Airport Solutions / JCAII has established itself as the North American market leader through successful deployments across various airports. The solution has demonstrated consistent performance in challenging winter conditions and continues to evolve based on operational feedback and technological advances.

Celebrates innovative equipment, systems, or services improving ground handling or airside performance.

Safety or operational efficiency improvements,Emission reduction or energy optimisation,Innovation in GSE design, automation, or integration,Active use or proven results in airport environments

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

The Safedock X Advanced Visual Docking Guidance System (A-VDGS) is groundbreaking in its integration of advanced radar technology, setting it apart from traditional docking systems that rely solely on lidar or cameras. This innovation overcomes the limitations of low-reflectivity surfaces, adverse weather conditions, and visibility challenges, ensuring comprehensive object detection and uninterrupted operations. By combining real-time radar monitoring with optimized lidar usage, Safedock X delivers enhanced safety, improved equipment longevity, shorter turnarounds and reduced environmental impact. Its ability to autonomously handle docking events, even under challenging conditions, makes it a transformative leap in apron operations and a cornerstone of sustainable airport evolution.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

The Safedock X has demonstrated remarkable improvements across operational, efficiency, and environmental metrics, as evidenced during a three-month trial at a major airport:

• Operational Efficiency: Reduced docking disruptions by 50%, with radar filtering out over 200 disturbances per unit during the trial. This minimizes aircraft idle times, on time performance and gate availability during peak hours.

• Autonomy & Efficiency: Only a few % of docking events required human intervention, reflecting a significant improvement in autonomous handling and reducing reliance on ground staff.

• Sustainability: By reducing lidar runtime by 1,200 hours per unit annually, Safedock X extends equipment lifespan by 60% over 10 years, minimizing electronic waste and maintenance needs. Additionally, streamlined docking processes reduce aircraft fuel consumption and emissions.

• Passenger Experience: Faster turnarounds and improved gate efficiency translate to fewer delays.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Safedock X directly addresses and resolves critical aviation challenges, redefining airport operations:

• Weather & Visibility Resilience: Traditional systems fail in low visibility or adverse weather; Safedock X’s radar technology ensures reliability under all conditions, mitigating risks and preventing operational disruptions.

• Safety Redefined: Comprehensive object detection, even for low-reflectivity surfaces and unsolid objects, eliminates blind spots and enhances safety for both aircraft and ground personnel.

• Sustainability Focus: With reduced equipment wear-and-tear and lower emissions, Safedock X supports airports’ environmental stewardship goals.

• Transformative Docking Efficiency: By autonomously managing the absolute majority of docking events and effectively filtering out nonsolid objects, the system ensures higher operational availability and minimizes disruptions, setting a new industry benchmark for docking systems.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Absolutely. The Safedock X is designed to be universally adaptable to airports of all sizes and geographies:

• Scalability: Its modular design allows for seamless integration into existing airport infrastructure.

• Global Compatibility: The system is optimized for diverse operational conditions, from snow-covered aprons in northern climates to high-traffic hubs in warmer regions and everything in between.

• Future-Proof: Built to align with the aviation industry’s shift toward automation and sustainability, Safedock X is a long-term solution that can evolve alongside technological advancements.

• Ease of Deployment: Its radar-based technology minimizes the need for additional sensors or backup systems, reducing both installation complexity and operational costs.

• Backwards compatibility: The Safedock X is compatible with old infrastructure and systems and can even be mixed with older docking systems.

Safedock X’s versatile capabilities make it an industry-wide solution.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

A real-world application. It has been successfully deployed across multiple countries, including Australia, Germany, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Qatar, Sweden, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the United Kingdom. It is available in production with standard lead times.

Celebrates innovative equipment, systems, or services improving ground handling or airside performance.

Safety or operational efficiency improvements,Emission reduction or energy optimisation,Innovation in GSE design, automation, or integration,Active use or proven results in airport environments

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

Our PCA system is based on modular architecture, combined with a Smart BMS platform for predictive maintenance and ready to be a scalable solutions for airports ground operation.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Our PCA solutions has reduced by 20% energy consumption compared to previous setup.

It gives better load balancing and excess energy now powers EV chargers for ground vehicles.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

This innovative solution helps airports achieve the NetZero Carbon 2030 goal by reducing CO2 emissions during ground operations and optimizing excess energy by recharging ground stations.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Of course, our solution is modular and scalable. The innovation lies precisely in the replicability of the project with the common goal of reducing emissions.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

This innovative solution has already been implemented at Venice Marco Polo Airport, with data collected based on actual field data collection.

Celebrates innovative equipment, systems, or services improving ground handling or airside performance.

Emission reduction or energy optimisation,Active use or proven results in airport environments

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

NDX Inspections is the first digital, mobile-first Fuel QC inspection tool built specifically for improving JIG 1,2,4 compliance.

As for the integrations criteria below - NDX has also integrated with QT Technologies to offer our Fuel QC Inspections software on their best-in-class Honeywell devices.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

NDX Inspections' business logic streamlines Fuel QC Inspections making the inspection process both more accurate and more efficient. The resulting raised level of compliance also contributes to a safer passenger experience. 

The accompanying compliance dashboard also provides the first real-time JIG compliance oversight data platform for management.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Fuel QC is absolutely critical: any lapse can cause serious safety, regulatory, financial, or reputational harm.

Like many aspects of aviation, fuel QC operations have also been slow to adopt current technology.

NDX Inspections is redefining operational accuracy, accountability, and efficiency in the fuel QC space with digital recordkeeping. 

NDX's real-time fuel QC compliance reporting benefits the farm consortiums, the ITP fueling agents, the airlines and airport authorities as well as the independent auditors.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes, as a SaaS product, it is infinitely scalable. It is also applicable for both business aviation and commercial aviation.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

NDX Inspections for JIG 1, 2, 4 compliance is a real-world application borne out of NDX's flagship product - Inspections for ATA103 Inspections (#1 Digital Fuel QC program in the U.S.).

Celebrates innovative equipment, systems, or services improving ground handling or airside performance.

Safety or operational efficiency improvements,Innovation in GSE design, automation, or integration,Active use or proven results in airport environments

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

Fuel sampling is a daily occurrence on jet fuel systems across the world in aviation. The method of testing this jet fuel is a trained human and using the human eye, which can be subjective depending on experience and/or ambient conditions as well as the human factor. The FuelSCAN Analyzer is the only product that can provide accurate sampling results without any subjectivity on the output, a clear 'yes' or 'no' report. Through the use of a camera and AI, the sample is the 'human eye' checking for particles and discoloration of the fuel historically performed by a trained person.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

It has improved operations and efficiency by automating the sampling process and providing reports automatically, without the need for human intervention, providing a safer fuel sample before entering the aircraft.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

As the world moves towards more automation, it's future proofing the fuelling systems, which have not innovated for over 40 years. The FuelSCAN Analyzer is the latest technology in fuel sampling, providing reliable and accurate sampling results through automation.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes, it is designed in accordance with the international requirements for sampling jet fuel.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

A real world application.

New Product Launch of the Year

Spotlights a new-to-market product or solution launched in 2025.

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

The Q-PAPI system is a next-generation Precision Approach Path Indicator that combines full-LED, redundant optical technology with RS485 communication and built-in angular monitoring. Unlike traditional PAPI units, it offers low power consumption (65–92 W), anti-fogging glass, heater and active fan control, and IP66 offshore-certified housing. This ensures reliable performance even in extreme climates, reducing downtime and maintenance while meeting full ICAO and FAA compliance.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

• Operational reliability: Redundant LED optics ensure continuous safe operation, even in case of partial failure.

• Efficiency: Power consumption is significantly lower than legacy halogen systems (approx. 40% energy savings), with 100,000+ hours life expectancy, reducing replacement intervals.

• Sustainability: Lower energy usage and long LED life reduce both operational costs and environmental footprint.

• Passenger experience: By improving approach accuracy and reducing go-arounds or delays due to poor visibility, passengers benefit from smoother, safer operations.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

• Climate resilience: With IP66 offshore housing, anti-fogging glass, and heating/fan control, Q-PAPI performs reliably in harsh coastal, desert, or icy conditions.

• Digital monitoring: Built-in angular sensors and RS485 communication enable predictive maintenance and remote health monitoring—aligning with digitalization trends in aviation.

• Sustainability mandates: Lower energy consumption and longer lifespan support airports’ decarbonization strategies.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes. The Q-PAPI system is fully compliant with ICAO Annex 14 and FAA L-880/881 standards, ensuring global interoperability. Its modular design and certification by TÜV (3rd party) mean it can be deployed at commercial airports, regional airfields, offshore heliports, and military installations.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

This is a real-world application. The system has been engineered, certified, and tested for operational deployment at airports and heliports worldwide.

New Product Launch of the Year

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

Hyperion, the Innovative Parallel-Controlled Airport Lighting System.

The proposed airport lighting system represents a paradigm shift in how airfield lighting infrastructure is designed, operated, and maintained. Developed with a clear focus on simplicity, safety, scalability, and cost-efficiency, this system introduces several groundbreaking innovations that set it apart from conventional solutions in the aviation industry.

This system redefines airport lighting by combining engineering elegance, operational intelligence, and economic viability. It is a benchmark for next-generation airfield infrastructure, and a deserving candidate for recognition in innovation and excellence.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

1. Simplification of Infrastructure

Unlike traditional systems that rely on complex serial circuits with high-voltage distribution, this concept uses low-voltage parallel wiring with autonomous field units (FU). This drastically reduces installation complexity, material costs, and safety risks for maintenance personnel. (30-50% Cost savings in infrastructure)

2. Smart LED Topology with Self-Diagnosis

The system employs a LED-Configuration that enables passive fault detection via voltage monitoring—eliminating the need for embedded sensors in each light. This allows for real-time diagnostics without compromising robustness or increasing component count. (50% lower down time of lights)

3. Passenger Experience

Enhanced reliability: Continuous lighting even during partial failures ensures safe aircraft movement and minimizes delays.

Improved safety: Real-time monitoring and fail-safe mechanisms reduce the risk of lighting outages during critical operations.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Hyperion directly supports the aviation industry's urgent goal of becoming climate neutral, by addressing one of the energy-intensive and infrastructure-heavy components of airport operations: airfield lighting.

Massive Power Savings through Low-Current LED Technology

The system replaces traditional high-current-based series circuits with low-current-controlled Lights.

Each light is powered by a dedicated, high-efficiency power module (up to 96% efficiency), drastically reducing energy losses in distribution.

The use of parallel wiring eliminates the need for energy-wasting transformers and long high-voltage loops.

Due to the low current operation of airfield ground lighting we can achieve more than 80% energy savings compared to conventional series circuits.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

This system is not only high innovative — it’s ready for global rollout. It offers a cost-effective, sustainable, and future-ready solution that can be adopted by airports of all sizes to meet both current operational needs and future climate targets.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

The system was developed as a prototype which was presented to all major airport in Germany last weeks with a gigantic positive feedback.

The first system to get in operation in a German airport is in preparation and will be rolled out end of October.

New Product Launch of the Year

Product launch date (must be in 2025 or at the event),Unique features or innovations compared to market alternatives,Relevance to current airport needs and challenges

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

SmartPAD is an innovative enhancement to the ProPassage Gen 3 automated tray return system (ATRS). This is the only three-stage divestment management solution that automates the tray infeed, providing seamless hands-free sequencing of passenger trays from start to finish. It also provides a natural step from manual lanes to automatic tray return systems. SmartPAD maximizes efficiency and increases throughput, providing operators more time to work on other critical security tasks.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

One UK airport, operating their standard configuration in both parallel divest and SmartPAD ATRS systems, has experienced a 33% increase in passenger throughput in the SmartPAD lane. This improvement has enhanced the passenger experience as the automated divest stations run simultaneously, including for passengers needing more than one tray to divest personal items, thus reducing unnecessary delays and bottlenecks. In addition, the familiar ergonomic design ensures the divest station is easy to use.

Airports that have deployed SmartPAD have seen efficiency potentials through configuration changes and hands-free sequencing, which has enabled them to reduce the number of security staff required at the divest station. One airport is also currently trialling in-queue divest instruction through video screens.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Airports see passenger numbers increase each year, & while there’s been investment into more efficient checkpoints, airports strive to lower operation costs without compromising security or passenger experience. SmartPAD’s automated tray sequencing eliminates the need for operators to manually manage tray flow, allowing them to be re-directed to other security tasks. 

Airports continue to look for more automated options to streamline the check-in process. Passenger self-screening at security checkpoints is of interest & SmartPAD’s hands-free sequencing is ideal to support this.

Another key focus is health & safety, in particular reducing staff injuries. With SmartPAD, operators no longer need to manually handle or stretch to trays, which is required with current parallel divest lanes. Due to the EDS CB C3 deployment, trays have increased in weight as liquids & electronics now stay in cabin baggage rather than being distributed into two trays, making hands-free even more beneficial.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

SmartPAD can be deployed at airports globally, with shorter lane configurations still achieving high throughput. The system offers flexible configuration options to meet the needs of both passenger and employee screening lanes.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

SmartPAD is a real-world application to provide a solution for passengers to divest two trays simultaneously. With parallel divest, passengers can only achieve simultaneous divest of two trays if two divest stations happen to be available side by side. Otherwise, they must wait for the tray in front of them to be moved before divesting the rest of their belongings in another tray, which slows the divest time. SmartPAD helps solve this challenge by enabling faster divesting through automated tray sequencing.

New Product Launch of the Year

Product launch date (must be in 2025 or at the event),Unique features or innovations compared to market alternatives,Relevance to current airport needs and challenges,Visuals, demos, or testimonials to support impact

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

The Hybrid solution for light monitoring is unique in cutting down the infrastructure budget allocation, increasing safety and capacity with real time optic fiber data and alarm communication.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

The optic fiber hybrid solution does not just enter in the domain of light control, but also in runway incursion prevention: keeps the highest possible airport capacity in Low Visibility Procedures and during traffic peaks, with safety always at the first place. 0,7 seconds to control or monitor lights on more than 2.500 lights is far beyond regulation requirements and gives the idea of the efficiency the airport can reach. Our hashtag will be #muchmore with a movie production launched for Interairport: there is 'much more' behind a passenger experience: a whole aviation industry and synergic efforts to make a flight definitely more than simply a means of transport!

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

It will be fundamental to support airports in managing visual aids at the highest performance, considering the EASA recent direction toward the continuous use of stop bars, so as not to compromise efficiency on the ground and airport profits.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes, the concept is an infrastructure and engineering enhancement that will turn the deployment into actually a reduction of disruption on the field for installation and maintenance.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

The hybrid solution is a real-world application born from our experience and understanding of the importance in limiting the construction site impact on operations. The applicability is the highest possible considering: AGL compatibility and already separate circuits for monitored Visual Aids such as stop bars.

New Product Launch of the Year

Product launch date (must be in 2025 or at the event),Unique features or innovations compared to market alternatives,Relevance to current airport needs and challenges,Visuals, demos, or testimonials to support impact

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

The DHM 090 integrates advanced battery design, solid-state technology, and high-efficiency fuel cells to deliver reliable 400 Hz and 28 VDC power. Hydrogen is converted into electricity through an electrochemical process, with water as the only byproduct, ensuring zero emissions.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

With the DHM 090, we offer an emission-free, highly efficient solution that can be quickly and easily refueled even at remote stands. The high energy storage capacity of the H-GPU allows for 7-9 turnarounds a day over 2-3 days before refueling is required.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

With this development, we are setting a benchmark for sustainability and a shared, better, and greener future in the aviation business.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes, our DHM can be used anywhere where a hydrogen supply is available.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

This is a real device that is currently undergoing testing.

New Product Launch of the Year

Unique features or innovations compared to market alternatives

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

The AiPRON FOD Detection System is a groundbreaking innovation that redefines Foreign Object Debris (FOD) management on the apron by leveraging advanced AI-powered detection & real-time monitoring. Unlike traditional manual inspections, which are time-consuming and prone to human error, AiPRON FOD introduces automation and intelligence to ensure safety, efficiency, & compliance.

Key points of differentiation:

• Unmatched Precision: The system detects debris as small as 2x2x2 cm in the full safety envelope, covering a wide range of potential risks.

• AI-Powered Differentiation: It distinguishes between vehicles, wildlife, people & FOD, ensuring accurate identification and minimizing false alarms.

• Real-Time Alerts: Provides immediate notifications with precise data, including timestamps, object size, location, & type, enabling swift responses.

• Integration & Scalability: Fully integrates with apron management systems for seamless operation & adapts to the unique layouts of airports.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

The AiPRON FOD Detection System delivers significant improvements across operational, financial, & passenger-related metrics:

Operational Efficiency

Reduces reliance on manual inspections, saving valuable time for ground crews, avoiding delays & improving on-time performance.

Minimizes delays caused by FOD-related incidents or staff not in place, ensuring consistent apron operations & faster aircraft turnarounds.

o Real-time alerts allow immediate action, reducing disruptions to apron workflows.

Cost Savings

o Prevents damage to aircraft and ground support equipment, avoiding costly repairs & downtime.

o Reduces labor costs associated with manual inspections, freeing personnel for other critical tasks.

Passenger Experience

o Faster turnarounds and fewer delays improve on-time performance, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Safety & Compliance

o Ensures compliance with ICAO and FAA safety standards for FOD management, reinforcing passenger and stakeholder confidence.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

The AiPRON FOD Detection System addresses the most pressing safety, operational, & financial challenges faced by airports:

Current Challenges

FOD Management: AiPRON FOD provides real-time monitoring and alerts, significantly reducing the likelihood of incidents that could damage aircraft, equipment, or personnel.

Operational Bottlenecks: By automating the inspection process, AiPRON FOD streamlines apron operations and reduces delays.

Safety Compliance: Ensures alignment with ICAO and FAA standards, helping airports meet regulatory requirements with consistent, automated monitoring.

Future Challenges

Rising Traffic Volumes: AiPRON FOD’s scalable design ensures that airports can handle growing operational demands without compromising safety.

Cost Pressures: The system’s automation minimizes the need for manual inspections and mitigates the risks of costly repairs caused by FOD.

Technological Evolution: AiPRON FOD integrates seamlessly with digital apron management systems and IoT tech.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Absolutely. The AiPRON FOD Detection System is designed with scalability and adaptability at its core, making it deployable across the aviation industry:

• Customizable Layouts: The system can be tailored to the unique apron configurations of airports, ensuring effective coverage regardless of size or complexity.

• Integration Capabilities: It integrates seamlessly with existing apron management systems, making it easy to incorporate into diverse operational environments.

• Global Standards Compliance: By aligning with ICAO and FAA FOD management standards, AiPRON FOD is ready for deployment at airports worldwide.

Its modular design ensures that airports can scale the solution incrementally as their needs evolve, making it a practical and future-ready investment for the entire industry.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

The AiPRON FOD Detection System has progressed beyond the pilot stage and is being implemented in real-world applications at airports. Trials at Gatwick, UK, as well as at 2 other airports, have demonstrated the system’s ability to deliver real-time safety enhancements and operational efficiency. The system is released and available for deliveries.

New Product Launch of the Year

Product launch date (must be in 2025 or at the event),Unique features or innovations compared to market alternatives,Relevance to current airport needs and challenges,Visuals, demos, or testimonials to support impact

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

NDX Inspections is the first digital, mobile-first Fuel QC inspection tool built specifically for improving JIG 1,2,4 compliance.

Our JIG 1,2,4 Inspections program was launched in June 2025. It is already being utilized at 10 international airports. 

NDX is also the first company to offer NFC/QC chips which are scanned/tapped to start the inspection. This proximity verification component combats pencil whipping by Line Service Technicians (LSTs). The NFC/QR chips indicate to the Ops Director / Safety Director that the LST is physically present doing the required Fuel QC inspections.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

NDX Inspections' business logic streamlines Fuel QC Inspections making the inspection process both more accurate and more efficient. 

The accompanying compliance dashboard also provides real-time compliance oversight data for management.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Fuel QC is absolutely critical: any lapse can cause serious safety, regulatory, financial, or reputational harm.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes, as a SaaS product, it is infinitely scalable. It is also applicable for both business aviation and commercial aviation.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

NDX Inspections for JIG 1, 2, 4 compliance is a real-world application borne out of NDX's flagship product - NDX Inspections for ATA103 compliance in the U.S.

New Product Launch of the Year

Product launch date (must be in 2025 or at the event),Unique features or innovations compared to market alternatives,Relevance to current airport needs and challenges,Visuals, demos, or testimonials to support impact

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

The Smart Digital Assistant (SDA) is groundbreaking because it transforms refuellers from passive tools into intelligent, operator-centric systems. Unlike conventional equipment, SDA integrates real-time operator support, AI-driven optimization, predictive maintenance, open-architecture flexibility, and retrofit capability into a single embedded solution.

At its core, SDA leverages JM Control - an integration backbone built on proven, industry-standard hardware and certified components. Rather than being a property 'black box', JM Control ensures SDA runs on trusted technologies from leading suppliers, delivering the reliability of industrial-grade systems with the intelligence of advanced data analytics and AI. This future-proof approach redefines how fuelling operations can be digitally enabled in the aviation sector.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Operations & Efficiency: SDA actively assists operators through interactive vehicle-mounted displays, providing real-time guidance and alerts. This reduces workload, increases safety and streamline of refuelling - resulting in faster turnaround times for Aircraft.

Real-time Tracking: Beyond the vehicle, a connected web dashboard allows dispatchers, supervisors, and authorised staff to track fleet activity, access KPIs, and export operational data for analytics and reporting.

Maintenance & Lifecycle Management: Predictive maintenance minimizes downtime and extends equipment lifespan, improving fleet reliability. 

Sustainability: By enabling the retrofit of existing refuellers, SDA reduces the need for fleet replacement, lowering material waste and carbon emissions. Optimised fuel handling further reduces environmental impact. Embedded sensors also lower the risk of spills or accidents, while KPI monitoring highlights opportunities to reduce fuel consumption.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Safety & Compliance: SDA ensures safer fuelling operations with proactive risk detection and real-time operator support.

Efficiency Demands: With increasing air traffic, SDA helps airline, airports, and fuelling companies optimize resources and improve turnaround efficiency. 

Cost pressure: Through predictive maintenance, SDA lower operating costs and reduces capital expenditure on fleet renewal.

Sustainability & ESG Goals: SDA directly supports sustainability targets by reducing emissions, extending asset life, and enabling greener operations. 

Future-Proofing: Its open architecture ensures stakeholders can adapt to future technologies (AI, digital twins, cloud platforms) and integrated third party solutions seamlessly. 

Customer Confidence: SDA's openness and cutting-edge technology build trust and adoption, ensuring stakeholders feel empowered. 

Field-proven hardware platforms: JM Control is a robust field-proven hardware platform while SDA provides intelligence and flexibility.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes. The SDA has been designed with an open architecture, which means it is not limited to new builds but is also ideal for retrofitting existing fleets. It can communicate with intelligent devices onboard, proximity sensors, and remotely (cloud and fleet systems), making the solution accessible and scalable across the industry. The timing is especially relevant: with migration from diesel-driven to electrically-driven refuellers, airports and operators are already modernizing fleets. The SDA enables them to digitalize the fuelling system in parallel, allowing them to benefit from real-time operator support, predictive maintenance, and data-driven optimization - all while aligning with sustainability goals.

This dual deployment path (new built + retrofit) ensures broad adoption potential, making SDA a true industry-wide enabler of digital transformation.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

The SDA is beyond concept stage, the prototype has been extensively tested in the factory and on test stands with fuel (wet testing), but not yet underwing the aircraft. 

These tests validated system performance, operator interaction, and seamless integration with existing refuelling processes.

It is now progressing into real-world deployment at European airports. The first live pilot is being presented at InterAirport (Booth B6-854), integrated into the newest generation Volvo electrical chassis with a 45KL tank. This unit is already reserved by a customer, while four other candidates have expressed interest in test pilot roles, which is a strong indication that factory tests were convincing enough to attract commercial commitment early on.

In parallel, manufacturers of complementary intelligent systems, such as Isoil and QT technologies have confirmed their satisfaction with SDA's ease of connectivity, communication, and data exchange.

New Product Launch of the Year

Product launch date (must be in 2025 or at the event),Unique features or innovations compared to market alternatives,Relevance to current airport needs and challenges

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

S4GA’s Solar CAT I Airfield Ground Lighting is the world’s first high-intensity airfield lighting system for CAT I airports that is fully powered by solar energy and fully compliant with ICAO requirements.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Among many benefits, three stand out for airports: the system is off-grid, making it ideal for remote locations; it requires minimal maintenance, which is crucial for airports with limited technical staff; and because it runs entirely on solar power, it fully supports airports’ sustainability goals and aligns with local green regulations.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

One of today’s global challenges is increasing vulnerability — from power blackouts to cyberattacks, regional conflicts, and physical attacks on airports. Solar CAT I is designed to withstand these risks in two key ways.

First, its decentralized power supply makes it completely independent from external power failures, as each light has its own power source.

Second, it features fail-safe wireless control, meaning communication between lights and the tower does not rely on CCRs and cables. This removes the risk of losing control due to damaged electrical infrastructure, which is a major weakness of conventional systems.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes. Solar CAT I Airfield Ground Lighting can be used at civil and military airports of any size. It can operate as a standalone system where no infrastructure exists or be seamlessly integrated into existing airfield lighting networks.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

Both. The solar AGL technology itself is already proven in real-world use, with hundreds of airports worldwide operating on it. What’s new is the Solar CAT I configuration — introducing this proven solar technology into the CAT I airport segment for the first time.

New Product Launch of the Year

Product launch date (must be in 2025 or at the event),Unique features or innovations compared to market alternatives,Relevance to current airport needs and challenges,Visuals, demos, or testimonials to support impact

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

We have developed a unique technology that allows airports to monetize from their WiFi connection while also improving their retail offering and passenger engagement.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Airports earn real revenue from us e.g., Rome airport has earned over 100k from us in 2025

Duty free sales of Aperol have increased 3%

ASQ WiFi score has improved by 2pts

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Currently, airports do not monetize from their WiFi. By working with us they can monetize and reinvest into improving either the WiFi infrastructure or improving other airports services

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

It can be deployed across every airport globally.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

It is a real world application currently deployed across 7 airports in Italy.

New Product Launch of the Year

Product launch date (must be in 2025 or at the event),Unique features or innovations compared to market alternatives,Relevance to current airport needs and challenges,Visuals, demos, or testimonials to support impact

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

Fuel sampling is a daily occurrence on jet fuel systems across the world in aviation. The method of testing this jet fuel is a trained human and using the human eye, which can be subjective depending on experience and/or ambient conditions as well as the human factor. The FuelSCAN Analyzer is the only product that can provide accurate sampling results without any subjectivity on the output, a clear 'yes' or 'no' report. Through the use of a camera and AI, the sample is the 'human eye' checking for particles and discoloration of the fuel historically performed by a trained person.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

N/A

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

As the world moves towards more automation, it's future proofing the fuelling systems, which have not innovated for over 40 years. The FuelSCAN Analyzer is the latest technology in fuel sampling, providing reliable and accurate sampling results through automation.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes, it is designed in accordance with the international requirements for sampling jet fuel.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

A real world application.

Recognises a solution that uses AI, machine learning, robotics, or data to optimise airport performance, improve decision-making, or transform operations.

Application of AI or predictive analytics to improve efficiency, safety, or passenger flow,Integration of smart systems across terminal or airside operations,Use of data to drive real-time decision-making or measurable outcomes

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

We offer a smart locker solution that is both possible to install indoor as outdoor and is scalable and flexible to different use cases such as luggage lockers, parcel lockers, retail lockers, temporary storage...all under one administrative cloud platform for optimal operations and reporting.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Post-covid travel and the surge in short city-trips have enhanced the need for automated luggage storage. Offering a 24/7 autonomous solution at airports f.e. frees up valuable staff members and generates passive income due to our 'no investment needed' business model. Mobile Locker takes on all of the financial and operational responsibilities and profit share with the location in question.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

We have currently airports in our portfolio reaching from Tahiti to continental Europe and beyond.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

It is a real-world application with a substantial customer base of airports such as Brussels Airport and NMBS train stations, Deutsche Bahn train stations, etc...

Recognises a solution that uses AI, machine learning, robotics, or data to optimise airport performance, improve decision-making, or transform operations."

Integration of smart systems across terminal or airside operations,Real-world implementation examples with clear performance impact

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

The Face2Fly system is an advanced biometric solution designed to simplify the passenger travel experience. It works very simply: passengers register their biometric data before departure using their smartphone or one of the kiosks at the entrance to the airport. After completing the registration, it will no longer be necessary to use a passport or boarding pass. Facial biometrics will be used to validate every step of the journey: check-in, baggage drop-off, security check, boarding and access to VIP lounges.

The Face2Fly system can be integrated with Border Control processes for greater operational efficiency. The Mobile App allows the easy and intuitive creation of the passenger’s digital identity through an enrolment process and the association of one or more boarding passes. Alternatively, the passenger can use the Welcome Kiosk at the entrance to the airport. The passenger is in control of their data thanks to a validated digital wallet that stores digital travel credentials.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Modern, fast and safe registration and boarding

process;

Smooth and completely touchless experience;

User friendly and intuitive devices;

Reduction of queues, waiting times and dangerous

situations

Reduction of manual operations

Guaranteed data protection

Increased quality of services

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Face2Fly addresses key challenges in the aviation sector by streamlining passenger flow, reducing wait times, and improving operational efficiency through facial biometric automation. It enhances security via integration with Border Control systems, while offering a seamless, contactless passenger experience. The solution supports digital transformation and is fully compliant with data privacy regulations, giving travelers full control over their digital identity. Face2Fly is adaptable, scalable, and designed to meet both current and future needs of airports and aviation stakeholders.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

YES

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

Yes, the system is currently being tested at two major Italian airports: Bergamo Orio al Serio - Milan and Catania Fontanarossa

Recognises a solution that uses AI, machine learning, robotics, or data to optimise airport performance, improve decision-making, or transform operations.

Application of AI or predictive analytics to improve efficiency, safety, or passenger flow,Integration of smart systems across terminal or airside operations,Demonstrated ability to enhance airport and passenger security through intelligent technologies,Real-world implementation examples with clear performance impact

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

Bag Check-AI, the morphological analyzer of baggages, introduces predictable Artificial Intelligence into the core of the automated Baggage Handling System (BHS). Unlike conventional vision tools, it is not just an add-on but a fully integrated component that interacts with PLCs, operator interfaces, diagnostics, and maintenance systems. This ensures consistent, reliable, and scalable conveyability assessment, protecting both infrastructure and passenger property. The uniqueness lies in moving from “AI as a support” to AI as critical automation, with uniform results across all sites and 24/7 continuous operation.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

The system reduces sorting times and maintenance costs by automatically preventing unsuitable baggage from entering standard systems. It minimizes baggage damage, directly improving passenger satisfaction and trust. By providing detailed statistics, diagnostics, and configurable thresholds, it enables better operational decisions and reduces downtime. Its consistency across deployments improves resource efficiency, while 24/7 operation ensures sustainable performance with lower energy and lifecycle costs compared to manual checks or less efficient solutions.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Airports face increasing pressure to process more baggage faster, more reliably, and with fewer resources. Our solution directly addresses these challenges by enabling automation of a critical yet previously manual or inconsistent process: conveyability assessment. It improves reliability, scalability, and compliance while reducing damage and costs. Looking ahead, the system’s adaptability and configurability allow it to support future baggage types, stricter operational standards, and evolving passenger expectations, making it a long-term, future-proof solution.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes. The solution is designed for scalability and integration across different airports and BHS architectures. It can be configured to local requirements while ensuring uniform, predictable performance worldwide. Its modular design, easy expandability, and upgrade capabilities make it applicable to both new installations and retrofits. This ensures airports of different sizes can adopt it without disrupting ongoing operations, enabling industry-wide benefits.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

The system has been developed for real-world airport environments. It has been engineered with full consideration of operational integration: PLC connectivity, operator feedback, configuration parameters, diagnostics, maintenance interface, and continuous logging. Rigorous testing ensures reliability under real conditions, making it not a laboratory prototype or pilot, but a deployable, operations-ready solution that meets the high standards of critical airport automation.

Recognises a solution that uses AI, machine learning, robotics, or data to optimise airport performance, improve decision-making, or transform operations.

Application of AI or predictive analytics to improve efficiency, safety, or passenger flow,Integration of smart systems across terminal or airside operations

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

Airside 4.0® is a groundbreaking strategy that redefines airside operations by harmonizing complex processes through advanced digitalization. Unlike traditional systems that operate in silos, Airside 4.0® approach integrates IoT, AI, edge computing, and advanced analytics into a unified eco-system. This integration allows airports to shift from reactive, manual processes to proactive, automated operations.

Key differentiators include:

• Predictive Maintenance: Leveraging IoT-enabled devices like AXON EQ intelligent airfield lights to predict maintenance needs, reducing downtime and costs.
• Adaptive Automation: Systems like "Follow the Greens" optimize aircraft taxiing routes, reducing congestion, energy consumption, and CO2 emissions.
• Real-Time Data Insights: Cloud-based analytics transform raw data into actionable insights, enabling faster, more accurate decision-making.

This holistic approach makes Airside 4.0® not just an improvement but a leap forward in airside management, setting new benchmarks for efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the aviation industry.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience? Include measurable results where possible.

Airside 4.0® has delivered measurable improvements across key operational areas:

Operational Efficiency:

• Reduced downtime and faster maintenance responses through predictive analytics, cutting maintenance costs by up to 59%.
• Optimized use of infrastructure, ensuring better airside availability.

Sustainability:

• Reduced energy consumption by up to 51% through adaptive lighting systems.
• Lowered CO2 emissions via optimized taxiing routes and reduced aircraft idle times.

Safety:

• Enhanced situational awareness with AI-powered systems like Runway Incursion Alerting Systems (RIAS) to minimize risks during aircraft and ground operations.

Passenger Experience:

• Faster turnarounds and improved on-time performance lead to smoother travel experiences.

3. Does it tackle aviation challenges & redefine airport operations as a transformative innovation?

Yes, Airside 4.0® directly addresses critical challenges in aviation, including rising air traffic, workforce constraints, stricter sustainability targets, and safety requirements. It redefines airport operations by:

• Moving away from traditional, reactive systems to proactive, data-driven solutions.
• Harmonizing previously siloed processes such as docking, lighting, and taxiway management into a single, integrated platform.
• Using leapfrog technologies like IoT and AI to enable predictive maintenance, adaptive lighting, and "Follow the Greens" capabilities, which reduce congestion and environmental impact.

By enabling smarter, safer, and more sustainable airside operations, Airside 4.0® empowers airports to meet both present and future challenges, transforming how airports operate from touchdown to take-off.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Absolutely. Airside 4.0® is designed for scalability and adaptability, making it suitable for deployment across airports of all sizes and operational environments. The platform's modular architecture allows airports to implement solutions tailored to their specific needs, whether they are small regional hubs or large international airports.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

Airside 4.0® has transitioned from pilot programs to real-world applications, demonstrating its effectiveness in live airport environments. Early pilot programs were conducted to validate its capabilities.

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

Our solution introduces Spatial AI as a new way for airports to understand and manage passenger flows. Using 3D data from LiDAR sensors, it creates a real-time, anonymous digital twin of how people and vehicles move across the airport, from curb to gate. 

A unique strength of this approach is the ability to capture flows with great precision and consistency at scale (>50 000 pax simultaneously in specific Terminal), regardless of lighting or crowd density (>3 pax/m2), while protecting privacy by design, as no image or personal data is ever captured. 

Outsight’s Spatial Intelligence solution creates a Motional Digital Twin of the terminal, offering continuous actionable insights instead of fragmented snapshots of single checkpoints. This gives operators a clear and continuous view of bottlenecks and movement patterns and makes it possible to bring real-time 3D intelligence into daily airport operations at unprecedented scale.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Airports using our technology report smoother flows and faster response times. Staff can see queues forming early and open lanes before passengers become frustrated. Managers can replay past events to understand what caused delays and adjust staffing or layouts accordingly. 

What makes the difference is that the system does not only capture what happens a single checkpoint. It gives a full view of the entire passenger journey: Authorized users can both Zoom in to a specific individual (anonymous ID tracking) and Zoom Out to understand aggregated KPIs based on the physical flow of people & vehicles. 

This broader picture reduces wasted time, improves resource allocation, and helps meet service-level targets. 

Also, because the system processes data efficiently on CPUs rather than energy-hungry GPUs, it also lowers the environmental footprint of advanced AI adoption at scale. 

For passengers, the impact is a calmer, more predictable journey and a safer environment. By optimizing flows c

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Today’s airports are under pressure from rising traffic, staff shortages, and stricter service requirements. 

Our solution tackles these issues head-on by making operations proactive instead of reactive. In the future, as volumes grow and expectations rise, the system’s ability to provide predictive insights will help airports stay ahead of congestion and resource bottlenecks. It also addresses privacy concerns by being anonymous by design, which makes it fit for a future where security and personal rights must coexist.

With most airports nearing full capacity and new infrastructure unlikely to be built in time to meet growing demand, operators must optimize operations and enhance passenger flow within existing facilities through precise monitoring and actionable insights.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes. The system is already live in several countries, and it scales because it supports all relevant LiDAR models and manufacturers. It also offers APIs for integration, so airports can connect the insights to their existing systems. Airports can keep their preferred operational dashboards and bring our real-time insights into them. The focus is LiDAR rather than cameras or Wi-Fi, which makes deployments predictable and privacy-preserving.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

It is a real-world application. The technology is live today in operational airports and actively supports teams in their daily work. 

This is not a prototype or a limited trial, it is proven at scale and continues to expand worldwide.

Recognises a solution that uses AI, machine learning, robotics, or data to optimise airport performance, improve decision-making, or transform operations.

Application of AI or predictive analytics to improve efficiency, safety, or passenger flow,Integration of smart systems across terminal or airside operations,Use of data to drive real-time decision-making or measurable outcomes,Demonstrated ability to enhance airport and passenger security through intelligent technologies,Real-world implementation examples with clear performance impact

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

NDX Inspections is the first digital, mobile-first Fuel QC inspection tool built specifically for improving JIG 1,2,4 compliance.

NDX is also the only company to offer NFC/QC chips which are scanned/tapped to start the fuel QC inspections. This proximity verification component combats pencil whipping by Line Service Technicians (LSTs). The NFC/QR chips indicate to the Ops Director / Safety Director that the LST is physically present doing the required Fuel QC inspections.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

NDX Inspections' business logic streamlines Fuel QC Inspections making the inspection process both more accurate and more efficient. 

The accompanying compliance dashboard also provides first-of-its-kind real-time JIG compliance oversight data for management.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Fuel QC is absolutely critical: any lapse can cause serious safety, regulatory, financial, or reputational harm.

Like many aspects of aviation, fuel QC inspections have also been slow to adopt current technology.

NDX Inspections is redefining operational accuracy, accountability, and efficiency in the fuel QC space. 

NDX's real-time fuel QC compliance reporting benefits the farm consortiums, the ITP fueling agents, the airlines and airport authorities as well as the independent auditors.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes, as a SaaS product, it is infinitely scalable. It is also applicable for both business aviation and commercial aviation.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

NDX Inspections for JIG 1, 2, 4 compliance is a real-world application borne out of NDX's flagship product - Inspections for ATA103 Inspections (#1 Digital Fuel QC program in the U.S.). 

Our JIG 1,2,4 Inspections program was launched in June 2025. It is already being utilized at 10 international airports.

Recognises a solution that uses AI, machine learning, robotics, or data to optimise airport performance, improve decision-making, or transform operations.

Application of AI or predictive analytics to improve efficiency, safety, or passenger flow,Integration of smart systems across terminal or airside operations,Use of data to drive real-time decision-making or measurable outcomes,Real-world implementation examples with clear performance impact

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

QT Technologies has developed a comprehensive flight Fuel digitalization platform that creates a seamless digital thread from ground operations to cockpit. What makes our solution truly groundbreaking is its complete end-to-end digitalization of fuel flight operations, connecting intoplane information directly to the cockpit with reliable, real-time data. Our system automatically audits every transaction against each airline's integrated Operations Manual, ensuring compliance while streamlining processes. The solution's scalability is unprecedented - successfully deployed across over 300 airports ranging from major hubs like Atlanta, Chicago, and Denver (handling over 800 flights per day each) to smaller regional airports with just a few flights per day, proving its adaptability to any operational scale and complexity.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Our solution delivers significant measurable improvements across multiple operational areas:

Operational Scale: Successfully processing over 20,000 flights per day with complete digitalization

Major Hub Performance: Handling 800+ daily flights at major airports including Atlanta, Chicago, and Denver

Turnaround Time Reduction: Documented savings of several minutes per turnaround, directly preventing delays and improving on-time performance

Fuel Efficiency: Demonstrable cost savings through improved over-fueling monitoring and control

Network Coverage: Deployed across 300+ airports, handling over 4,000 additional flights for Southwest Airlines alone

Data Reliability: 100% digital audit trail ensuring compliance with airline operations manuals

Operational Efficiency: Elimination of paper-based processes and manual data entry errors across all airport sizes

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Our solution directly addresses critical industry challenges:

High-Volume Operations: Proven capability at major hubs like Atlanta, Chicago, and Denver with 800+ daily flights demonstrates readiness for the industry's busiest airports

Digital Transformation: Eliminates paper-based operations and manual processes that create bottlenecks at any scale

Delay Prevention: Reduces turnaround times, directly addressing one of aviation's most costly operational challenges

Fuel Cost Management: Addresses rising fuel costs through precise monitoring and prevention of over-fueling

Compliance Automation: Ensures adherence to complex operational manuals without manual oversight, critical for high-volume operations

Scalability: Adapts seamlessly from major international hubs to regional airports

Real-time Operations: Provides instant connectivity between ground and flight operations, essential for managing high-frequency flight schedules

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes, absolutely. Our solution's industry-wide deployability is already proven at the highest operational levels from airline, into plane companies and airport autorities to mawimize ontime performence:

Proven at Scale: Successfully operating at major hubs including Atlanta, Chicago, and Denver with 800+ daily flights each

Universal Scalability: Successfully operating in 300+ airports of varying sizes and operational complexities

Multi-Airline Capability: Integrated operations manuals for multiple airlines demonstrate adaptability to different operational procedures

High-Volume Validation: Processing 20,000+ flights daily, including the industry's busiest airports, proves enterprise-scale readiness

Flexible Architecture: Seamlessly handles everything from major international hubs to regional airports

Standardized Integration: Works with existing airport and airline systems without requiring complete infrastructure overhaul

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

This is a full-scale, real-world commercial application operating at the highest levels of the aviation industry. The solution moved beyond pilot phase and is now operationally deployed across Southwest Airlines' entire network of 300+ airports, including major hubs like Atlanta, Chicago, and Denver that handle over 800 flights per day each. With over 20,000 flights per day being processed and 4,000+ additional flights digitalized for Southwest Airlines alone, this represents one of the largest commercial deployments of integrated flight operations digitalization in the industry. The solution is in active, daily operational use across the full spectrum of airport environments, from the busiest international hubs to smaller regional facilities, proving its commercial viability and operational reliability at enterprise scale.

Recognises a solution that uses AI, machine learning, robotics, or data to optimise airport performance, improve decision-making, or transform operations.

Integration of smart systems across terminal or airside operations,Use of data to drive real-time decision-making or measurable outcomes,Real-world implementation examples with clear performance impact

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

Using modern (transport) technology like the Fliegl Thermo ASW you can avoid premature road damage already during the asphalt installation process - Protecting the environment through lower CO2 emissions and saving the resources through lower power consumption. Usually, three major problems occur in asphalt paving: mechanical, thermal and binder segregation. The push-off technology provides a solution to meet the requirements in asphalt paving. If the asphalt is pushed off, instead of dumped, there is a continuous mixing of the grain structure and temperature during the entire unloading process. The asphalt is unloaded “bit by bit” into the paver due to the push-off mechanism. Thus, both, cool and hot asphalt and coarser and finer grain sizes are evenly paved.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

The push-off technology provides a solution to meet the requirements in asphalt paving. If the asphalt is pushed off, instead of dumped, there is a continuous mixing of the grain structure and temperature during the entire unloading process. The asphalt is unloaded “bit by bit” into the paver due to the push-off mechanism. Thus, both, cool and hot asphalt and coarser and finer grain sizes are evenly paved. Benefits for the thermal bodies with push-off technology: Use push-off technology to avoid stop and go and Continuous asphalt installation. The push-off technology offers maximum tilt stability. The dangers during unloading are minimal .

For this purpose, some studies and practical tests were also conducted.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Sustainability, through improved asphalt quality, makes it more durable. Even large areas can be paved with consistent quality.

The push-off technology provides a solution to meet the requirements in asphalt paving. If the asphalt is pushed off, instead of dumped, there is a continuous mixing of the grain structure and temperature during the entire unloading process. The asphalt is unloaded “bit by bit” into the paver due to the push-off mechanism. Thus, both, cool and hot asphalt and coarser and finer grain sizes are evenly paved.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

It is a real-world application and is already being used at airports. For example, in Belgrade.

Honours outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability in airport operations.

Measurable environmental benefit (e.g. CO₂ savings, waste reduction, energy efficiency),Innovation or leadership in sustainable design, materials, or practices,Supporting data, case studies, or pilot results

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

The Holaras FOD Sweeper introduces a sustainable, mechanical alternative to traditional sweeping vehicles. It captures FOD of all sizes and materials efficiently, with low noise, zero fuel use, and minimal maintenance. The Sweeper can be attached to standard ground vehicles, including electric ones, making it both future-proof and environmentally friendly.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

The Sweeper enables fast, safe, and cost-effective clearing of runways and taxiways. All collected debris is stored in an easy-to-open hopper, making it simple to empty and analyze for safety insights. Operable by a single person, it is highly efficient even during staff shortages, while reducing emissions and noise for smoother operations and a better passenger experience.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Airports face growing pressure to combine operational safety with sustainability and efficiency. The Holaras FOD Sweeper tackles all three: ensuring reliable FOD removal, lowering emissions, and simplifying ground handling. Its ease of use and scalability help airports adapt to stricter environmental regulations, staff limitations, and increasing traffic in the years ahead.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes. The Sweeper connects to standard airport ground vehicles, including electric ones, requiring no special equipment investment. Its modular design makes it suitable for both small regional airports and large international hubs, ready for deployment worldwide.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

This is a proven, real-world solution already in operational use. Airports benefit immediately from its safety, sustainability, and efficiency gains, making it a ready-to-scale innovation for the global aviation industry.

Honours outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability in airport operations.

Measurable environmental benefit (e.g. CO₂ savings, waste reduction, energy efficiency),Scalability and/or integration into existing airport systems,Innovation or leadership in sustainable design, materials, or practices,Supporting data, case studies, or pilot results

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

The Rosenbauer PANTHER electric is the world’s first fully electric ARFF vehicle, redefining airport firefighting with enhanced performance. It delivers faster acceleration, powerful firefighting systems, and intelligent energy management – all with zero local emissions. Developed in close collaboration with airport experts, it not only meets but exceeds the operational standards of conventional vehicles, making it a true game-changer for future-ready airports.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Operations

Faster acceleration - quicker emergency response

Energy Backup System - uninterrupted readiness

Rapid charging

Efficiency

Lower operating costs

Optimized power usage

Less maintenance

Sustainability

Zero local emissions

Low noise levels - quieter operations

Supports net-zero goals - future-proof infrastructure

Passenger Experience

Visible commitment to sustainability, Positive public image for the airport

Improved safety response - faster and cleaner interventions

Firefighters

Low noise levels - better communication during operations

Reduced emissions - healthier working environment

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Zero-emission operation - supports net-zero targets

Reduced CO₂ footprint - aligns with ICAO and ACI climate strategies

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes, the PANTHER electric is ready for industry-wide deployment. It meets global standards, works in various climates, supports fast charging, and fits both large and regional airports.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

The PANTHER electric is transitioning from pilot to real-world application. After concept presentations and prototype testing, the first vehicles are being delivered in 2026. Dallas Love Field Airport will be the first to integrate it into daily operations, making it a real-world application with direct feedback from firefighters and airport teams.

Honours outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability in airport operations.

Measurable environmental benefit (e.g. CO₂ savings, waste reduction, energy efficiency),Scalability and/or integration into existing airport systems,Innovation or leadership in sustainable design, materials, or practices,Supporting data, case studies, or pilot results

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

i6 has pioneered digital fuel management technology that replaces paper-based, manual fueling processes with fully digitized workflows across airlines, airports, fuel suppliers, and into-plane operators. Our suite of solutions—including Fusion6, Reconcile6, Perspective6, and eHandshake®—creates a connected digital thread from refinery to wingtip.

What makes this unique is our ability to integrate the entire aviation fuel supply chain in real time, ensuring accuracy, traceability, and sustainability. Unlike legacy systems, i6 technology captures every drop of fuel digitally, enabling measurable reductions in CO₂ emissions, fuel wastage, and operational delays. With over 200 airports deployed and more than 35 million tonnes of fuel optimized globally, i6 is transforming fuel management for smarter, greener operations.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Our solutions deliver measurable operational and environmental benefits:

CO₂ Reduction: Up to 201kg CO₂ saved per flight through reduced over-fueling, paperless workflows, and more efficient ground operations.

Fuel Savings: On average, airlines reduce erroneous uplift by 65kg per flight, cutting unnecessary fuel burn and costs.

Operational Efficiency: Case studies demonstrate tangible impact—for example, North Air achieved a 92% reduction in fueling delays with Fusion6 and eHandshake®, significantly improving on-time performance.

Passenger Experience: American Airlines eliminated all fuel-related delays at Heathrow by adopting Perspective6, ensuring smoother flight operations and enhanced customer confidence.

Resource Optimization: IndianOil Skytanking and Fingal Aviation improved data accuracy, resource allocation, and reduced paperwork, helping staff operate more safely and efficiently.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

The aviation sector faces increasing regulatory pressure, rising costs, and sustainability targets (such as IATA’s net-zero 2050 goal). i6 directly addresses these challenges by:

Enabling Decarbonization: Through data-driven fuel efficiency, we help airlines and airports reduce unnecessary fuel burn and associated emissions.

Futureproofing Operations: Our digital systems can integrate Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), ensuring accurate tracking and reconciliation across mixed fuel types.

Enhancing Compliance: Automated audit trails and real-time reporting reduce the risk of non-compliance with environmental and safety regulations.

Building Resilience: Cloud-based architecture, offline functionality, and 24/7 global support ensure reliability in mission-critical airport environments.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes. i6’s solutions are designed for scalable, global deployment. They are already in use across Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific and can integrate seamlessly with existing airport and airline systems (e.g., ERP, FIDS, GSAP).

We support both single-airport pilots and multi-airport rollouts, with proven success at international hubs and regional airfields alike. Our technology works across stakeholders—fuel farms, into-plane operators, fuel suppliers, and airlines—creating a standard for sustainable fueling operations.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

This is a real-world, production-scale solution with widespread adoption. Our technology supports global airlines, leading fuel suppliers, and major airports daily, not as a trial but as a core operational system.

Examples include:

North Air (UK): 92% fewer fueling delays, significant CO₂ reduction.

American Airlines (Heathrow): Eliminated fuel-related delays.

IndianOil Skytanking (India): Digitalized operations at Bangalore Airport with plans to expand nationwide.

Fingal Aviation (Ireland): Streamlined operations and reduced paperwork at Dublin and Cork Airports.

Honours outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability in airport operations.

Measurable environmental benefit (e.g. CO₂ savings, waste reduction, energy efficiency),Scalability and/or integration into existing airport systems,Innovation or leadership in sustainable design, materials, or practices,Supporting data, case studies, or pilot results

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

The DHM 090 integrates advanced battery design, solid-state technology, and high-efficiency fuel cells to deliver reliable 400 Hz and 28 VDC power. Hydrogen is converted into electricity through an electrochemical process, with water as the only byproduct, ensuring zero emissions.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

With the DHM 090, we offer an emission-free, highly efficient solution that can be quickly and easily refueled even at remote stands. The high energy storage capacity of the H-GPU allows for 7-9 turnarounds a day over 2-3 days before refueling is required

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

With our solution, we want to contribute to a better and greener aviation industry for everyone.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

With the DHM 090, we are leading the transformation of airport operations towards a zero-emission future, actively contributing to a more sustainable aviation industry.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

This is a real device that is currently undergoing testing.

Honours outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability in airport operations.

Scalability and/or integration into existing airport systems,Innovation or leadership in sustainable design, materials, or practices

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

Rhinophalt Asphalt Preservation extends pavement life by up to 5 years, or much longer with repeat applications, deferring the need for expensive, disruptive and resource-intensive asphalt resurfacing, with no adverse effect on surface texture and skid resistance. 

Rhinophalt works by penetrating into the asphalt to strengthen and waterproof the surface. The preservative significantly slows down the rate of ageing caused by asphalt oxidation and protect against environmental and operational wear – including reducing the risk FOD caused by broken pavement.

Rhinophalt is applied quickly and efficiently, often overnight, requiring minimal closures and allowing airports to maintain maximum operational availability. Enables rapid, large-scale treatment with rapid curing. It supports sustainability objectives by reducing the frequency of resurfacing cycles, lowering maintenance carbon emissions and conserving raw materials. https://asisolutions.co.uk/airfields/

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Operational Efficiency:

Rhinophalt can be applied during short night-time closures, allowing full return to service by morning. Up to 60,000m2 of asphalt surface can be treated in a single shift using just one applicator vehicle on site. 

Maintenance Efficiency:

The proactive nature of Rhinophalt means fewer emergency repairs and unplanned interventions, which streamlines maintenance planning and lowers total lifecycle costs. This predictability is especially valuable in the tightly scheduled, safety-critical airport environment. 

Sustainability:

By preserving existing asphalt rather than replacing it, Rhinophalt supports sustainable asset management. Rhinophalt reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 95% compared to asphalt resurfacing and it reduces the demand for new materials and energy-intensive resurfacing operations.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

1. Ageing Infrastructure & Budget Constraints

At around 10% the cost of resurfacing, each Rhinophalt application offers a cost-effective solution for preventative maintenance, with inspections offering confidence. 

2. Minimizing Disruption in a 24/7 Operational Environment

Rhinophalt's quick application helps maintain full operations, minimize delays and sustain service levels during maintenance.

3. Sustainability & Environmental Mandates

Rhinophalt offers a low carbon solution that conserves materials, reduces waste and eliminates energy-intensive processes like asphalt resurfacing.

4. Futureproofing Through Preventative Maintenance

Rhinophalt futureproofs airport runways by providing preventative maintenance that slows pavement deterioration, extends asset life and reduces long-term repair costs.

5. Enhanced Safety and Compliance

Rhinophalt helps airports preserve runway integrity, reduce FOD and improve safety by supporting ICAO and FAA compliance through proactive maintenance.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Regulatory Acceptance:

Rhinophalt has been successfully used on over 75 airports worldwide, demonstrating compliance with stringent aviation standards.

Adaptability:

Rhinophalt has been proven effective under diverse climatic conditions. This makes it suitable for deployment at airports worldwide, including those in extreme or variable weather zones.

Minimal Equipment & Local Deployment:

Application is easy to deploy through approved applicators. The process can be scaled up or down depending on the size and operational capacity of the airport.

Operational Fit:

Its quick application and fast return-to-service mean that even high-traffic airports can integrate Rhinophalt into their maintenance schedules without causing disruption to flight operations.

Proven Track Record:

Rhinophalt has already been used successfully at many major airports globally, demonstrating its viability at scale and delivering long-term performance benefits in all aviation sectors.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

Rhinophalt is a real-world solution.

Used at Major International Airports:

Rhinophalt has been applied on runways and taxiways at high-traffic international airports, where performance, safety and reliability are non-negotiable.

Military and Defence Airfields:

It has also been adopted by military and defence organizations for preserving critical airside infrastructure, proving its durability under extreme operational conditions.

Repeat Applications and Network-Wide Adoption:

Several airports have incorporated Rhinophalt into their routine pavement maintenance strategies, applying it across their entire airside network over many years, extending their pavement life.

Verified Performance:

The effectiveness of Rhinophalt has been validated through pavement condition monitoring, FOD reduction and extended maintenance cycles, with documented improvements in asset life and operational availability. Case Studies available: https://asisolutions.co.uk/area/airfields/

Honours outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability in airport operations.

Measurable environmental benefit (e.g. CO₂ savings, waste reduction, energy efficiency),Scalability and/or integration into existing airport systems,Innovation or leadership in sustainable design, materials, or practices,Supporting data, case studies, or pilot results

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

CEDD (Contactless Energy and Data Distribution) AGL technology is a unique and patented connectivity technology for Airfield Ground Lighting. It combines energy and data transport in a single cable, with lights receiving power and data through induction, eliminating the need for transformers and connectors in the field.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

CEDD delivers exceptional sustainability improvements. An Airfield Ground Lighting system based on CEDD technology consumes up to 70% less energy than a traditional 6.6A LED AGL system. This is mainly because of the lack of transformers and connectors, which are typical sources of energy loss. 

CEDD AGL lights are individually addressable out-of-the-box, without the need for extra modules. This enables dynamic lighting control and enhanced flexibility, and it also makes them highly suitable for the implementation of floating Follow-the-Greens systems, whereby aircraft are guided over the airfield by following a path of green lights in front of them. 

Follow-the-Greens Implementation Results: 

• 50-80% reduction in aircraft stops during taxi operations

• 30% reduction in fuel burn

• 30% reduction in CO₂, HCs, and NOx emissions

• 50% reduction in CO emissions

(figures from SESAR European Airport Consortium)

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Yes, CEDD addresses critical aviation challenges including energy consumption, operational efficiency, and environmental impact. By enabling Follow-the-Greens applications, it transforms how aircraft move on the ground, significantly reducing emissions and improving traffic flow. This represents a fundamental shift from static to dynamic, intelligent lighting systems.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

CEDD technology is highly scalable and can be integrated into existing airport systems. Its modular design and compatibility with standard infrastructure make it suitable for both new installations and retrofit projects across airports of all sizes.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

CEDD is a real-world application with active installations at multiple airports in Europe (e.g. Geneva, Istanbul, Lelystad, Vienna) and North America (Memphis, Tijuana, Morelia) demonstrating proven performance.

Honours outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability in airport operations.

Measurable environmental benefit (e.g. CO₂ savings, waste reduction, energy efficiency),Scalability and/or integration into existing airport systems,Innovation or leadership in sustainable design, materials, or practices,Supporting data, case studies, or pilot results

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

The Solar+ Aircraft Ground Power Solution, introduced by AEME GSE, is a sustainable innovation in green airport development and global decarbonization. As airports transition from fuel-powered to electric ground systems, electricity demand has surged, creating challenges for energy efficiency, emission reduction, and the development of green airports.

To address these challenges, we developed a hybrid solar-storage-ground power system. Leveraging airports’ suitability for PV installation, the system optimizes on-site renewable energy use, intelligently managing solar energy and aircraft ground power units to maximize efficiency and minimize emissions. It delivers a high-efficiency solution that supports airports on their path to a green, zero-carbon future.

This is the first green energy solution adopted by Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, a major hub serving over 40 million passengers annually.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Since January 2017, the solution deployed at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport has accumulated approximately 175,000 operating hours as of May 2024. Over this period, it has achieved the following results:

Jet fuel saved: 20,100 tons 

CO₂ emissions reduced: 63,000 tons

CO and NOₓ emissions reduced: 700.5 tons

Cost savings for airlines: Approx. USD 1.84 million

This is the direct result of the AEME solution design, which integrates PV facilities, Power Conversion System (PCS), DC microgrids, distributed ESS, along with ground power units and energy management system (EMS).

The EMS coordinates power dispatch, prioritizing solar energy for ground supply. When solar generation is insufficient, grid power is converted to 115V/400Hz electricity, while excess solar energy is stored in batteries to ensure uninterrupted power. This design enhances both reliability and green energy efficiency.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

As ground facilities are increasingly electrified, airports face a range of challenges. Power supply issues include limited capacity at remote stands and insufficient or non-uninterruptible power at gates, while renewable sources such as solar and wind remain intermittent. By combining the strengths of both PV and ground power systems, we provide a reliable new source of power and improve the utilization of renewable energy at airports.

Our solution leverages these advantages by supporting PV integration to maximize solar energy use, enhancing power supply at older remote stands, incorporating anti-blackout functionality to ensure reliability, and using energy storage to balance loads and reduce costs. It creates an efficient, zero-emission system and provides a multifunctional combined power supply solution, dedicated to enabling green, zero-carbon airports.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

The Solar+ Aircraft Ground Power Solution was first put into operation at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport. It has since become a benchmark project in the civil aviation sector for energy saving, emission reduction, and technological innovation. As a leading GSE equipment supplier in the Asia-Pacific region, AEME GSE possesses the capabilities to manufacture and operate the solution’s core products, as well as to provide customized system designs tailored to the specific needs and operational requirements of individual airports. The solution is now successfully deployed and operating at major airports, including Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport and Dalian International Airport.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

The Solar+ Aircraft Ground Power Solution is a real-world system. It is now successfully deployed at multiple major airports and demonstrates its effectiveness in saving energy, reducing emissions, and supporting green airport initiatives.

Honours outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability in airport operations.

Measurable environmental benefit (e.g. CO₂ savings, waste reduction, energy efficiency),Scalability and/or integration into existing airport systems,Innovation or leadership in sustainable design, materials, or practices,Supporting data, case studies, or pilot results

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

ADB SAFEGATE’s sustainability-driven solutions—such as Airside 4.0®, AXON High-Intensity Elevated Lighting, and Safedock A-VDGS—stand out for their innovative approach to reducing aviation’s environmental impact. These solutions combine cutting-edge technologies like IoT, AI, and modular design principles to address some of the industry’s most pressing sustainability challenges.

What makes them groundbreaking:

• Energy Savings: The AXON lighting series achieves up to 80% energy savings compared to halogen systems and 30% savings over traditional LEDs, setting a new benchmark for energy efficiency.
• CO₂ Reduction: Safedock A-VDGS significantly reduces aircraft idle times, cutting fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by thousands of tons annually.
• Circular Economy Design: AXON products are modular and upgradable, minimizing waste and extending product lifecycles.
• Proactive Maintenance: PAPI Connect introduces IoT-enabled predictive maintenance, reducing unnecessary trips and operational emissions.

These solutions not only address sustainability goals but also improve operational efficiency, demonstrating that environmental innovation can deliver both ecological and economic benefits.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience? Include measurable results where possible.

Our sustainability-focused solutions deliver measurable improvements in multiple areas:

Operational Efficiency:

• Safedock A-VDGS automates docking and apron management, reducing turnaround times and improving apron safety. This ensures smoother operations and faster passenger processing.

Environmental Impact:

• AXON Lighting Systems reduce energy consumption by up to 80%, resulting in significant cost savings and lower CO₂ emissions.
• In a single test case, Safedock A-VDGS reduced 2,389 tons of CO₂ emissions annually and saved 756 tons of fuel, demonstrating its potential for large-scale environmental impact.
• PAPI Connect minimizes on-site maintenance visits, reducing emissions from maintenance vehicles.

Passenger Experience:

• Smoother and faster aircraft turnarounds lead to improved punctuality and a better experience for travelers.

These measurable results showcase how ADB SAFEGATE is addressing the triple bottom line of sustainability: environmental, operational, and customer-focused improvements.

3. Does it tackle aviation challenges & redefine airport operations as a transformative innovation?

Yes, our solutions directly address major sustainability challenges in aviation while redefining airport operations:

• Energy and Emissions: Airports are energy-intensive, and their operations generate significant emissions. The AXON lighting system and Safedock A-VDGS reduce energy consumption and CO₂ emissions, helping airports meet aggressive sustainability targets like carbon neutrality.
• Operational Efficiency: Airports face increasing traffic while working to reduce their environmental footprint. Our Airside 4.0® platform integrates IoT, AI, and cloud analytics, optimizing airside processes to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
• Infrastructure Longevity: By applying circular economy principles, solutions like AXON lighting extend the lifecycle of airport infrastructure, reducing resource consumption and waste.

These innovations empower airports to transition to smarter, greener operations, demonstrating how transformative technology can address both immediate and long-term sustainability goals.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Absolutely. ADB SAFEGATE’s sustainability solutions are designed for scalability and adaptability, making them suitable for airports of all sizes and operational contexts:

• AXON Lighting Systems: Modular and upgradable, these systems can be implemented at both small regional airports and large international hubs.
• Safedock A-VDGS: This solution has already been deployed at major airports worldwide, proving its adaptability to diverse operational needs.
• PAPI Connect: Compatible with existing infrastructure, PAPI Connect simplifies the adoption of proactive, data-driven maintenance, reducing barriers to implementation.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

Our solutions have been implemented in real-world applications, delivering tangible results.

These implementations highlight the scalability and effectiveness of our solutions in addressing real-world sustainability challenges.

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

To70’s Net Zero Roadmap (NZR) tool helps airports design tailored emission reduction pathways by modelling different scenarios aligned with each airport’s growth, infrastructure, and operations. It integrates international best practices and stakeholder input to select measures across Scope 1 and 2 (such as fleet electrification, renewable energy sourcing, or HVAC upgrades), forecasting impacts over time. This flexibility allows airports to compare strategies, adapt plans as conditions evolve, and turn Net Zero commitments into actionable, data-driven roadmaps. The tool has been developed and applied with airports across Europe, the Middle East, and within ACI World’s “Net Zero Roadmap – Decarbonise Your Airport Programme.”

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Operational efficiency: Standardises the process of developing roadmaps, reducing analysis and reporting time.

Sustainability: Provides airports with quantified emissions forecasts up to 2050, ensuring clear alignment with ICAO’s LTAG (Long-Term Aspirational Goal) and ACI’s Net Zero by 2050 targets, Paris Agreement, CAESP, United Nations SDG’s.

Measurable results:

• Bergamo (BGY): Pilot version of the tool was used to identify different pathways to achieve net zero before 2050. The NZR was published on the ACI website.

• Doha (HIA): Identified a pathway reducing Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 99.9% by 2050 through electrification and renewable energy sourcing.

• Riyadh (RUH): Identified and compared different pathways for achieving Net Zero in 2050, implementing various measures for reducing emissions.

• Olbia (OLB): Pathways show the possibility of achieving Net Zero earlier (by year 2040), by reducing 99% of emissions from Scope 1 and 2.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

The aviation industry faces a triple challenge: decarbonising operations, maintaining growth, and adapting to future uncertainties. Our solution tackles fragmented sustainability efforts by offering a scalable, replicable model that supports regulatory compliance, stakeholder engagement, and long-term climate resilience. It also helps airports navigate evolving ESG expectations and funding criteria. To70’s strategy is defined as follow:

• Aligning with global standards: Directly supports ICAO’s LTAG, ACI Net Zero 2050, and regional targets (e.g., ACI Europe resolution, Saudi Vision 2030).

• Facing future uncertainty: By creating multiple emission reduction pathways, airports can stress-test strategies against future traffic growth, technological advances, or energy market shifts.

• Pursuing sustainable growth: Ensures expansion projects (e.g., RUH’s growth to 185M passengers by 2050) are integrated with carbon reduction, avoiding unchecked emissions increases.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

The tool’s flexibility has been proven across different airport scales and contexts:

• Regional airport (<5M pax/year): OLB (3.3M passengers, tourism-driven) – achieved Scope 2 elimination and charted multiple Scope 1 reduction pathways.

• Medium hub (5-25M pax/year): BGY – optimised its roadmap while balancing traffic growth with efficient resource allocation.

• Large hubs (>25M pax/year): RUH and HIA – integrated within the ACI Net Zero Programme, demonstrating the tool’s ability to scale to hub-airports with complex operational demands.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

This is a fully operational, real-world solution. It has been applied in developing official NZR strategies for multiple airports, including within the ACI APAC & MID programme for Riyadh and Doha.

Honours outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability in airport operations.

Measurable environmental benefit (e.g. CO₂ savings, waste reduction, energy efficiency),Scalability and/or integration into existing airport systems,Innovation or leadership in sustainable design, materials, or practices,Supporting data, case studies, or pilot results

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

S4GA’s Solar CAT I Airfield Lighting System is the first-ever ICAO-compliant CAT I airfield lighting system fully powered by solar energy. It eliminates the need for underground cables, CCRs, and power substations — the most energy- and material-intensive components of conventional systems. This innovation provides high-intensity lighting with virtually zero operational emissions.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Solar CAT I delivers up to 40% lower CAPEX by eliminating trenching, cabling, CCRs, and power substations, and up to 80% lower OPEX thanks to zero electricity consumption, no fuel use, no CCR overhauls, and no cable testing. It also removes unplanned downtime costs entirely: no emergency repairs, no runway outages, and proactive issue detection via ALCMS. If we make rough estimations, a Solar CAT I AGL system can save an airport up to €2.8 million after 15 years of operation (based on a 3000 m runway with a single-ended CAT I approach, 2× PAPI, and a small taxiway). This drastically cuts environmental impact while ensuring predictable, long-term operation with minimal maintenance.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

The system enables airports to reach sustainability targets without compromising safety. Its decentralized solar design removes dependence on fossil-fuel-based grids, while its ultra-low maintenance requirements reduce the need for technical staff. This makes Solar CAT I especially valuable for airports facing staff shortages, rising energy costs, and strict environmental regulations.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes. Solar CAT I is designed for global scalability. It can operate as a standalone system at remote airports or integrate seamlessly into existing airfield lighting networks at busy hubs. Its modular design and ICAO compliance make it ready for adoption across civil and military airports worldwide.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

Both. The solar AGL technology itself is already proven in real-world use, with hundreds of airports worldwide operating on it. What’s new is the Solar CAT I configuration — introducing this proven solar technology into the CAT I airport segment for the first time.

Honours outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability in airport operations.

Measurable environmental benefit (e.g. CO₂ savings, waste reduction, energy efficiency),Scalability and/or integration into existing airport systems,Innovation or leadership in sustainable design, materials, or practices,Supporting data, case studies, or pilot results

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

The QPS Walk2000 represents a significant advancement in security technology as the world's first walk-through millimeter wave scanner approved for passenger screening by the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC). This certification confirms that the scanner adheres to stringent aviation security standards, but is also applicable in various areas, including loss prevention and critical infrastructure protection. The automatic detection function utilizes AI algorithms to identify a wide range of materials, including metals, liquids, plastics, powders, and organic substances with strongly reduced need for divestment. In the event of an alarm, anomalies are indicated on a neutral avatar, minimizing manual rechecks and enhancing privacy protection. Security personnel can focus on the specific indicated area, thereby streamlining the screening process and minimizing unnecessary interventions.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Most important for operational improvement is that the passengers won’t need to stop or take any specific posture. Walking naturally through a security scanner is the key element of a seamless travel experience. Rohde & Schwarz is committed to continuously improve detection capabilities and reduce the alarm rate, both factors beyond regulatory requirements. This will finally lead to smoother and faster security processes where passengers but also screeners will benefit from.

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Growing passenger numbers, limited space in security areas and high expectations from passengers into their travel experience are the key challenges. The use of technologies that meet the highest security requirements while significantly improving processing times and reducing the need for additional technology and personnel helps to effectively address these challenges.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes, since the ECAC qualification the QPS Walk2000 can be used for passenger checkpoints in Europe and other countries globally that follow the European qualification process. Further it can also be used for employee screening worldwide and is in use across various other industries such as loss prevention, critical infrastructure, and event security.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

It started as a pilot but the clear target from the beginning was the real-world scenario. By achieving ECAC approval and the very stringent German national certification this real-life operation was made possible. Thanks to an open and very progressive partnership with Fraport, both parties were able to immediately translate insights and observations into successful adjustments. This process is ongoing and will definitely take several months. But continuous improvement is as much a part of R&S's DNA as the strong ambitions of the world's leading airports.

Recognises solutions that significantly improve terminal operations or the passenger experience.

Operational efficiency gains (e.g. faster processing, staff optimisation),Enhanced passenger comfort, accessibility, safety or experience,Innovation in design, construction, or terminal flow,Real-world deployment or successful pilot results

1. What makes your solution or project unique or groundbreaking in the airport industry?

Our solution introduces Spatial AI as a new way for airports to understand and manage passenger flows. Using 3D data from LiDAR sensors, it creates a real-time, anonymous digital twin of how people and vehicles move across the airport, from curb to gate. 

A unique strength of this approach is the ability to capture flows with great precision and consistency at scale (>50 000 pax simultaneously in specific Terminal), regardless of lighting or crowd density (>3 pax/m2), while protecting privacy by design, as no image or personal data is ever captured. 

Outsight’s Spatial Intelligence solution creates a Motional Digital Twin of the terminal, offering continuous actionable insights instead of fragmented snapshots of single checkpoints. This gives operators a clear and continuous view of bottlenecks and movement patterns and makes it possible to bring real-time 3D intelligence into daily airport operations at unprecedented scale.

2. How has it improved operations, efficiency, sustainability, or passenger experience?

Airports using our technology report smoother flows and faster response times. Staff can see queues forming early and open lanes before passengers become frustrated. Managers can replay past events to understand what caused delays and adjust staffing or layouts accordingly. 

What makes the difference is that the system does not only capture what happens a single checkpoint. It gives a full view of the entire passenger journey: Authorized users can both Zoom in to a specific individual (anonymous ID tracking) and Zoom Out to understand aggregated KPIs based on the physical flow of people & vehicles. 

This broader picture reduces wasted time, improves resource allocation, and helps meet service-level targets. 

Also, because the system processes data efficiently on CPUs rather than energy-hungry GPUs, it also lowers the environmental footprint of advanced AI adoption at scale. 

For passengers, the impact is a calmer, more predictable journey and a safer environment. By optimizing flows c

3. How does it address current or future challenges faced by airports and aviation stakeholders?

Today’s airports are under pressure from rising traffic, staff shortages, and stricter service requirements. 

Our solution tackles these issues head-on by making operations proactive instead of reactive. In the future, as volumes grow and expectations rise, the system’s ability to provide predictive insights will help airports stay ahead of congestion and resource bottlenecks. It also addresses privacy concerns by being anonymous by design, which makes it fit for a future where security and personal rights must coexist.

With most airports nearing full capacity and new infrastructure unlikely to be built in time to meet growing demand, operators must optimize operations and enhance passenger flow within existing facilities through precise monitoring and actionable insights.

4. Can it be deployed across the industry?

Yes. The platform is already in use at international airports on four continents, which shows that it can adapt to different layouts and regulatory contexts. 

It is LiDAR-vendor agnostic and works with all relevant manufacturers and models. Airports and partners can also connect to it through our APIs, so the insights can be added to existing dashboards and workflows.

5. Was the solution a pilot or real-world application?

It is a real-world application. The technology is live today in operational airports and actively supports teams in their daily work. 

This is not a prototype or a limited trial, it is proven at scale and continues to expand worldwide

Recognises solutions that significantly improve terminal operations or the passenger experience.

Operational efficiency gains (e.g. faster processing, staff optimisation),Enhanced passenger comfort, accessibility, safety or experience,Innovation in design, construction, or terminal flow,Real-world deployment or successful pilot results