Leaders Honored at 2025 ATI Aerospace Technology Awards

Why The McDonnell Douglas MD-11’s Main Landing Gear Needs 12 Tires The introduction of the Boeing 747 in the late 1960s marked a pivotal moment in commercial aviation, inaugurating the era of widebody aircraft that revolutionized global air travel with enhanced payload capacity and extended range. Alongside the 747, aircraft such as the McDonnell Douglas DC-10 and Lockheed L-1011 played crucial roles in enabling airlines to transport greater numbers of passengers and larger volumes of cargo over longer distances. These developments fundamentally reshaped international connectivity and altered the economic landscape of both passenger and freight air operations. By the 1980s, intensifying competition in the widebody market prompted McDonnell Douglas to develop the MD-11, an advanced evolution of the DC-10. Entering service in 1990, the MD-11 incorporated significant aerodynamic refinements, state-of-the-art avionics, more efficient engines, and an extended operational range. Although its tenure as a commercial passenger aircraft was relatively short-lived, the MD-11 established itself as a reliable and capable workhorse within the global air cargo sector, prized for its capacity and dependability. A Unique Landing Gear Design A defining engineering characteristic of the MD-11 is its main landing gear configuration, which employs a total of 12 tires. This design was essential to accommodate the aircraft’s increased maximum takeoff weight and to ensure the distribution of its substantial load across airport runways and taxiways in a manner that minimizes surface stress. The trijet’s landing gear arrangement not only enhances operational safety during critical phases of takeoff and landing but also mitigates wear and tear on airport infrastructure, a vital consideration for a heavy, long-range freighter operating in diverse environments. Development and Service History The MD-11’s development began in the mid-1970s as McDonnell Douglas sought to build upon the success of the DC-10 amid declining sales and an aging fleet. After several pauses in development, the company officially launched the MD-11 program in December 1986. The aircraft quickly garnered orders from prominent international airlines including Swissair, Korean Air, Thai Airways, and Alitalia, as well as from major cargo operators such as FedEx Express. Designed and engineered at McDonnell Douglas’s Long Beach, California facility, the MD-11 retained the DC-10’s distinctive trijet layout but incorporated extensive aerodynamic enhancements and upgraded systems. The first MD-11 was unveiled in September 1989, with its maiden flight occurring in January 1990. Initial deliveries included cargo variants tailored for FedEx, featuring large side cargo doors to facilitate freight operations. The aircraft received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) type certification in November 1990, followed by European certification in October 1991. Recent Developments and Industry Impact Despite production ceasing in 1998 after just 200 units were built, the MD-11 continues to serve as a vital asset for major cargo carriers worldwide. However, the aircraft’s operational future has recently come under scrutiny following a crash in Louisville. In response, both UPS and FedEx have temporarily grounded their MD-11 fleets as a precautionary measure. These aircraft constitute approximately 9% of UPS’s air fleet and 4% of FedEx’s, highlighting their significant role within global logistics networks that support major retailers and businesses. The grounding, prompted by safety concerns and the necessity for thorough inspections, may have far-reaching consequences for the air cargo industry. As the sector awaits the results of these investigations, the MD-11’s enduring legacy as a dependable freighter—and its distinctive 12-tire main landing gear configuration—remains a focal point of discussion within aviation circles.

Latvian Aircraft Leasing Company with Malta Office Ceases Operations SmartLynx Airlines Latvia, a prominent Latvian aircraft leasing and charter company with an operational office in Malta, has announced the cessation of its activities after three decades in the aviation industry. This decision follows a period marked by escalating financial difficulties, which intensified after the company was divested by its parent firm, Avia Solutions Group, last month. Company History and Operational Challenges Established 30 years ago, SmartLynx initially operated Russian-built aircraft before transitioning to a modern fleet comprising Airbus and Boeing models. Throughout its history, the company leased aircraft to various airlines, including Air Malta, and experienced multiple ownership changes. In 2019, SmartLynx expanded its presence by opening an office in Malta and launching a subsidiary, SmartLynx Malta, after securing an Air Operator Certificate from Maltese authorities. The Malta office became a central hub for administrative, operational, and maintenance functions, employing approximately 60 staff members and supporting the airline’s fleet of around 70 aircraft. Despite this growth, the company faced persistent operational and maintenance challenges, compounded by a downturn in the cargo sector. These issues became insurmountable following the sale of SmartLynx by Avia Solutions Group to a Dutch investment fund. Notably, SmartLynx Airlines Malta and another subsidiary, SmartLynx Airlines Estonia, were reportedly excluded from the sale, with plans for their merger and rebranding currently underway. Financial Impact and Industry Context In an official statement, SmartLynx Latvia cited a comprehensive assessment of its financial position and long-term prospects as the basis for its decision to cease operations. Employees have expressed concerns on social media, reporting unpaid wages for several weeks and instances of staff stranded abroad. The closure of SmartLynx Latvia occurs amid broader turbulence within the aviation sector. Finnair’s CEO recently highlighted the North Atlantic market as a significant challenge, while regional competitor Air Baltic has maintained an optimistic outlook following a return to profitability. Across the industry, airlines continue to prioritize fleet modernization and strategic adjustments in response to evolving market conditions. SmartLynx’s shutdown highlights the ongoing volatility in the aviation market, as companies contend with operational disruptions and shifting economic pressures.

China Airlines Approves Major Widebody Fleet Renewal and Plans Retirement of 747-400 Freighters China Airlines has announced a substantial fleet renewal initiative, approving the acquisition of up to 18 new widebody aircraft from Airbus and Boeing while planning to retire four Boeing 747-400 freighters. This decision, revealed in a filing with the Taiwan Stock Exchange, represents one of the airline’s most significant combined passenger and cargo fleet actions in recent years. Details of the Fleet Renewal Plan The airline’s board has authorized the purchase of five Airbus A350-1000s, five Boeing 777-9s, four 777-8 freighters, and two 777 freighters, with the total investment capped at $7.85 billion. These new aircraft are intended to support China Airlines’ strategy for passenger growth and to address long-term freighter replacement needs. Specific delivery schedules and engine selections have yet to be finalized. The addition of A350-1000s will expand the airline’s long-haul passenger operations, complementing its existing A350 fleet. The Boeing 777-9s are expected to replace older widebody aircraft and increase capacity on high-demand routes. On the cargo front, the introduction of 777-8F and 777F models reflects a broader industry trend toward more fuel-efficient, twin-engine freighters, as airlines phase out legacy four-engine types that incur higher operating costs. Retirement of 747-400 Freighters and Operational Challenges As part of this modernization effort, China Airlines will retire four 747-400 freighters, a model that has been central to its cargo operations for decades. The gradual reduction of the four-engine fleet aligns with rising maintenance and fuel costs and mirrors global trends in fleet renewal. Integrating the new aircraft will present operational challenges, including managing transition costs and ensuring compliance with increasingly stringent environmental regulations. The airline will also need to address the complexities of incorporating advanced aircraft into its existing operations, which may affect scheduling and crew training. Market Implications and Competitive Landscape The fleet overhaul is expected to have significant market implications, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region where demand for widebody aircraft is growing rapidly. This move may intensify competition in the cargo sector as regional carriers accelerate fleet modernization to capture expanding international demand. Competitors are already responding; Malaysia Airlines is anticipated to decide on a new long-haul widebody replacement by early 2026, while FlyDubai continues to expand its fleet with new Boeing and Airbus narrowbody aircraft. Additionally, strong demand for widebodies in the Middle East could influence China Airlines’ strategic positioning as it seeks to maintain a competitive edge. This latest fleet plan follows an earlier disclosure in 2025, when China Airlines indicated intentions to acquire up to 13 additional aircraft—including five A350-900s and eight A321neos—in a proposed expansion valued at approximately $2 billion. The newly approved widebody acquisitions represent a considerably larger investment and a decisive step in renewing both the long-haul passenger and dedicated freighter fleets. China Airlines currently operates a diverse long-haul fleet comprising A350-900s, 777-300ERs, and the soon-to-be-retired 747-400 freighters. The airline emphasized that all new aircraft purchases remain subject to contract negotiations with Airbus and Boeing. As international travel and air cargo demand continue to recover, China Airlines’ fleet renewal positions the carrier for future growth amid a rapidly evolving competitive environment.

NTSB Declines to Investigate Amazon Drone Incident in Texas FAA Investigates After Amazon Drone Clips Internet Cable The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating an incident involving an Amazon Prime Air MK30 delivery drone in Waco, Texas, after the aircraft struck an overhead internet cable during liftoff. Despite the FAA’s involvement, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has decided not to open a formal investigation, classifying the event as a “non-action event,” according to an agency spokesperson. The incident occurred at approximately 12:45 p.m. CST on November 18 and was captured on video obtained by CNBC. Following a backyard delivery, the MK30 drone collided with an internet cable but managed to execute what Amazon described as a “safe contingent landing.” Although the drone’s propellers sustained damage, there were no injuries or disruptions to internet service. Prime Air spokesperson Terrence Clark confirmed that Amazon self-reported the incident, covered the cost of the customer’s cable repair, and issued an apology. Amazon’s Expanding Drone Operations and Safety Protocols Amazon recently commenced commercial drone deliveries in Waco, marking an expansion of its Prime Air operations that began last November in Tolleson, Arizona, and College Station, Texas, after receiving FAA approval. The MK30, Amazon’s flagship delivery drone, is capable of carrying payloads up to five pounds at speeds reaching 73 miles per hour, with a service radius of 7.5 miles and a maximum altitude of 400 feet. The drone is engineered to perform a safe contingent landing by transitioning from forward to vertical flight and scanning for a clear landing area when confronted with unexpected obstacles, adverse weather, or system malfunctions. Following such events, a recovery team retrieves the drone for thorough inspection. Regulatory Implications and Industry Concerns While the FAA continues its investigation, the NTSB’s decision to abstain from involvement has sparked discussion regarding the regulatory framework governing commercial drone operations. This development comes amid increased scrutiny of Amazon’s drone safety record, particularly after two MK30 drones collided with a crane boom in Tolleson, Arizona, in October. Those collisions caused significant drone damage and battery fires, leading to a temporary suspension of operations in Arizona and an ongoing NTSB review. The limited role of the NTSB in the Waco incident raises broader questions about oversight as drone deliveries become more prevalent. Industry experts emphasize the importance of regulatory clarity to safeguard public safety and maintain investor confidence. The incident may heighten market concerns about potential regulatory challenges and operational disruptions for Amazon, while competitors might leverage the situation to highlight their own safety and compliance measures. This episode also occurs amid growing national security concerns related to drone activity. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and Senator Tom Cotton have recently underscored escalating aerial security risks, emphasizing the necessity for stringent oversight as drones increasingly integrate into commercial and civilian airspace. Amazon continues to enhance its drone safety systems by simulating failures and unexpected scenarios during testing. As commercial drone operations expand, regulators and industry leaders face mounting pressure to uphold safety standards, ensure compliance, and maintain public trust.

Boeing Confirms 777X Deliveries Will Not Prioritize Oldest Planes Boeing has announced that the delivery sequence for its long-delayed 777X aircraft will not adhere to the order in which the planes were originally built. This decision reflects the company’s efforts to adapt to evolving certification requirements and shifting market demands. The first 777X is now slated for delivery to Lufthansa in 2027, a significant delay from the initial target of 2020 after years of setbacks. Production and Certification Challenges At the Dubai Airshow 2025, Darren Hulst, Boeing’s Vice President of Commercial Marketing, clarified that although several 777X aircraft have already been constructed, the earliest-built planes will not be the first to enter service. Hulst explained that some of the aircraft currently under production will be delivered first because they conform to the updated production standards. Earlier models, built to initial specifications, will require modifications to meet the latest certification and delivery criteria before they can be handed over to customers. This strategy is a response to ongoing certification delays that have not only postponed the program’s first delivery but have also incurred approximately $5 billion in penalties for Boeing. By prioritizing aircraft built to the newest production standards, the company aims to streamline the certification process and ensure full compliance with current regulatory requirements. Market Impact and Future Outlook The delays have produced mixed effects on Boeing’s financial performance. While the company reported increased aircraft deliveries and a growing order backlog in its recent third-quarter results, the persistent 777X setbacks have tempered investor confidence. Nevertheless, demand for the 777X remains strong. Emirates, in particular, continues to place substantial orders, underscoring the aircraft’s strategic importance for major carriers operating in challenging environments. Hulst also shed light on the market dynamics influencing 777X deliveries. In the Middle East, approximately half of the deliveries will support fleet expansion, while the other half will replace aging aircraft. This replacement ratio is notably higher than that of other Boeing models such as the 787 and 737, which are more focused on growth. Furthermore, two-thirds of all 777X orders come from airlines operating in harsh environments, including the Dubai desert, highlighting the aircraft’s suitability for extreme operational conditions. Looking ahead, Boeing plans to increase 777X production once certification is secured. Initial delivery rates are expected to reach three to five aircraft per month, with potential for further acceleration as the program stabilizes. While competitor reactions to Boeing’s revised delivery approach remain unclear, the company’s emphasis on delivering aircraft that meet the latest standards reflects the complexity of modern certification processes and the evolving needs of its airline customers. As the 777X program approaches its long-awaited entry into service, Boeing’s strategy underscores a commitment to safety, regulatory compliance, and market relevance amid ongoing industry challenges.

Riyadh Air Show Highlights Emerging Aviation Technologies The Sand and Fun General Aviation Airshow commenced at Thumamah Airport in Riyadh, running through November 29, and has become a prominent platform showcasing the rapid advancements within Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector. The event presents a diverse array of innovations, from state-of-the-art air ambulances to urban air mobility vehicles, reflecting the industry’s dual emphasis on enhancing emergency response capabilities and pioneering the future of urban transportation. This year’s exhibition underscores aviation’s growing significance in improving quality of life and supporting the Kingdom’s broader economic transformation. Advancements in Air Medical Evacuation While the aerial demonstrations captivate attendees, the ground exhibits offer equally compelling insights into the sector’s progress. At the Alpha Star Aviation Services pavilion, the company’s sophisticated approach to air medical evacuation is prominently featured. Abdullah Alshammari, general manager of medical evacuation, highlighted Alpha Star’s dedication to delivering safe and high-quality services throughout Saudi Arabia. He emphasized that their operations extend beyond domestic patient transport to include international medical evacuation flights. The company ensures that all medical crews undergo rigorous training to manage in-flight emergencies, strictly adhering to the standards set by the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation. Strategic collaborations with the Saudi Red Crescent Authority and the Ministry of Health further enhance the effectiveness of their services. Alpha Star’s fleet includes fully equipped Airbus A320 aircraft that function as airborne intensive care units, alongside smaller planes capable of accessing remote airports. Alshammari described these aircraft as “flying ICUs,” underscoring their advanced medical capabilities. Flight Paramedic Khalid Al-Ghamdi detailed the team’s rapid response times, with average deployment intervals of less than three hours from emergency call to takeoff. The crews are equipped to install specialized equipment such as neonatal incubators within this timeframe and are trained to handle a broad spectrum of medical emergencies. Al-Ghamdi remarked, “We transport hope, not just patients,” highlighting the company’s role in positioning Saudi Arabia as a regional and global healthcare hub. Innovations in Urban Air Mobility The airshow also casts a spotlight on the future of urban mobility. FlyNow Arabia is presenting its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, the eCopter, which is designed as a practical and cost-effective alternative to conventional “flying car” concepts. CEO Yvonne Winter described the eCopter as a “workhorse” engineered for real-world applications. Its modular design and lightweight carbon fiber construction contribute to reduced manufacturing costs and enhanced operational efficiency. Additionally, the aircraft’s low noise output—measured at just 55 decibels—makes it particularly suitable for deployment in urban environments. A Strategic Moment for Regional Aviation The Riyadh Air Show arrives at a critical juncture for the Middle East’s aviation industry, which faces increasing competition from established events such as the Dubai Airshow. The latter recently garnered attention with significant military aircraft acquisitions and eVTOL flight demonstrations. Concurrently, market dynamics are evolving as Delta Air Lines inaugurated the first-ever direct flights from the United States to Riyadh, signaling heightened international interest in Saudi Arabia as a burgeoning global aviation hub. In response, airlines and aviation companies are strategically positioning themselves to leverage the emerging technologies and opportunities highlighted at the Riyadh event. As the airshow progresses, it not only showcases Saudi Arabia’s ambitions in aviation innovation but also signals the Kingdom’s determination to compete on the global stage by harnessing new technologies to drive economic growth and enhance quality of life.

Hartzell Engine Tech Secures FAA Approval for PowerUp S-1200 Magnetos Hartzell Engine Tech has achieved a significant regulatory milestone with the Federal Aviation Administration’s Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) for its PowerUp S-1200 Series aircraft magnetos. This approval enables the company to expand its footprint within the general aviation market by offering direct replacement magnetos compatible with a broad range of 4- and 6-cylinder engines. The PowerUp S-1200 series is available in both impulse-coupled and “Shower of Sparks” configurations, incorporating enhanced components such as an improved flange, timing cam, fasteners, and access plugs, which collectively contribute to its elevated performance and reliability. Following the FAA’s endorsement, Hartzell Engine Tech has commenced accepting distribution orders and projects global availability of the PowerUp S-1200 magnetos by the end of the first quarter of 2026. Industry Context and Market Implications The FAA approval arrives amid a period of shifting dynamics and intensifying competition within the aviation sector. Notably, the recent collaboration between Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) and Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) to produce SJ-100 jets is poised to reshape the regional aviation landscape, potentially increasing competitive pressures on component manufacturers. In this environment, rival suppliers are likely to expedite their own FAA certification processes to maintain market relevance, as evidenced by the FAA’s recent proposal mandating V2500 compressor blade replacements. Market responses to new product certifications such as the PowerUp S-1200 are further influenced by sustained demand for engine maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. This trend is reflected in recent positive assessments from financial analysts, including S&P Global Ratings’ upgrade of FTAI Aviation and Moody’s favorable outlook on ITP’s growth prospects, underscoring the sector’s resilience and ongoing expansion. For further details on the PowerUp S-1200 Series magnetos, visit Hartzell.aero.

3D-Printed Materials Enhance Efficiency in Aircraft Maintenance For every hour a U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) aircraft spends in flight, approximately twelve hours are dedicated to maintenance. Figure Engineering aims to transform this maintenance paradigm through the development of a novel 3D-printable resin material specifically designed for masking and tooling in the electroplating process. This innovation promises to streamline traditionally labor-intensive operations such as abrasive blasting, painting, plating, and coating. The resulting efficiencies could yield significant savings in maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO) costs for the Air Force, Navy, Army, and commercial airlines alike. Addressing Critical but Overlooked Maintenance Tasks The DoD engaged Figure Engineering to tackle maintenance activities often referred to as the "three Ds": dirty, dull, and dangerous jobs. Although these tasks receive less attention than major overhauls or aerodynamic upgrades, they are vital to aircraft performance and safety. Inefficiencies in these processes can delay aircraft readiness, increase operational costs, and expose maintenance personnel to hazardous chemicals. Electroplating, particularly for large components such as landing gear, represents one of the most demanding MRO challenges. The process requires immersion in aggressive chemical baths and extensive manual labor to mask areas that should not be plated. Traditionally, this masking has been accomplished using hand-applied lacquers or tape. Jonathon McDaniels, co-founder of Figure Engineering, highlighted the urgency conveyed by the Air Force: “They can’t get this plane out fast enough and we are generating a lot of waste.” Innovation Through 3D Printing Early efforts to develop durable, reusable masks revealed a significant gap in available materials. The masks needed to withstand the harsh chemical environment of electroplating while also exhibiting toughness and impact resistance, as they are frequently dropped or struck during handling. Figure Engineering selected stereolithography (SLA) technology for its capacity to produce dense, non-porous parts and formulated a custom resin now in use at an Air Force MRO depot. The adoption of 3D-printed masks has markedly reduced preparation time for electroplating. Operators spend less time in proximity to hazardous chemicals, enhancing both efficiency and workplace safety. The cost benefits are substantial: a hand-made metal bolt mask typically costs around $250, whereas a 3D-printed counterpart with integrated screw threading costs approximately $5 and can be reused up to twenty times. In contrast, conventional lacquers and tapes are single-use consumables, with plating shops incurring millions of dollars in annual expenses. Furthermore, digital mask designs can be easily shared across departments and military branches, facilitating scalability and standardization. Challenges and Industry Response Despite these advantages, integrating 3D-printed materials into aircraft maintenance presents challenges. Ensuring material compatibility and maintaining structural integrity remain critical concerns as the technology is adopted more broadly. Initial skepticism from traditional manufacturers and suppliers has given way to a growing recognition of the efficiency gains and cost reductions enabled by 3D printing. This shift is prompting competitors to accelerate investments in additive manufacturing and to forge new partnerships aimed at strengthening material supply chains, exemplified by recent collaborations such as that between Gameco and Satair for expendable materials. As 3D printing technology continues to evolve, its role in aircraft maintenance is expected to expand, offering the potential for faster, safer, and more cost-effective operations across both military and commercial aviation sectors.

EHang Conducts First Pilotless Urban eVTOL Flight in Bangkok China’s EHang Holdings has achieved a landmark in urban air mobility by successfully completing the first fully autonomous passenger electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) flight in Bangkok. The demonstration took place on November 24, 2025, featuring EHang’s two-seat EH216-S air taxi operating without a pilot onboard. This event was part of the AAM Sandbox Initiative, a collaborative effort involving the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and local partners, and was held at the headquarters of Siam Commercial Bank in Bangkok’s central business district. A Milestone for Thailand’s Urban Air Mobility Ambitions The flight attracted nearly 100 attendees, including business leaders, media representatives, and senior Thai officials. Among them was Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon, Director General of CAAT, who became the first civil aviation authority chief worldwide to personally experience a pilotless urban eVTOL flight. His participation underscored Thailand’s strategic ambition to become a leader in commercial eVTOL operations. Conor Yang, EHang’s Chief Financial Officer, emphasized the significance of the regulatory framework supporting this initiative, stating that Thailand is poised to achieve the world’s first commercial eVTOL operations through an innovative “sandbox” regulatory approach. This model aims to serve as a demonstration for Southeast Asia and beyond. During the demonstration, the EH216-S executed multiple takeoffs, landings, and route flights, reportedly operating smoothly over the city’s central business district. EHang highlighted that these flights represent a critical step toward establishing commercial eVTOL services in Thailand, with plans to expand operations to popular destinations such as Pattaya, Phuket, and Koh Samui. Industry Challenges and Competitive Landscape Despite this achievement, EHang and the broader eVTOL sector continue to face significant challenges. Regulatory scrutiny and safety concerns remain paramount as authorities worldwide evaluate the deployment of autonomous passenger aircraft. Market responses have been cautious, reflecting the slow pace of progress and the high capital expenditure characteristic of the electric VTOL industry. Competitors such as XPeng’s Aridge and Embraer’s Eve are adapting by diversifying their strategies, shifting focus toward logistics, drone operations, and the development of new aircraft models like Aridge’s A868 and Eve’s next-generation platforms. The path to widespread commercial passenger service remains uncertain, with no company yet achieving full-scale deployment. EHang’s pilotless flight in Bangkok stands as a notable milestone in the development of autonomous passenger air taxis, even as crewed eVTOL flights have already been conducted elsewhere. For instance, on November 16, 2025, Joby Aviation completed the first crewed electric aerial taxi flight between two locations in the United Arab Emirates. As competition intensifies in the race to commercialize urban air mobility, EHang’s demonstration highlights both the potential and the ongoing challenges confronting the future of autonomous air transport.

ACI World and Amadeus Announce the World’s Most Innovative Airports Airports Council International (ACI) World, in collaboration with Amadeus, has unveiled the recipients of the 2025 Technology Innovation Awards, recognizing airports that are leading the way in digital transformation, data-driven operations, biometric self-service, and sustainable terminal design. The awards were presented during the Airports Innovate 2025 Gala Dinner held in Busan, Republic of Korea, as the aviation sector prepares for a period of unprecedented expansion. Innovation Amidst Rapid Growth Global air travel is expected to reach 9.8 billion passengers in 2025 and surge to 17.2 billion by 2043. This dramatic increase is compelling airports worldwide to accelerate their adoption of advanced technologies, automation, and data-centric operations. These innovations are critical to expanding capacity, enhancing operational resilience, and meeting the evolving expectations of passengers, all while advancing sustainability objectives. The 2025 Technology Innovation Awards highlighted several exemplary achievements. Kempegowda International Airport was recognized for its biometric-enabled self-service baggage drop under the category of Best Innovation in Airport Passenger Related Processes. Queen Alia International Airport received the award for Best Innovation in Airport Operations and Installations Management for its Smart Cleaning System, which redefines facility management through technological innovation. Pablo Lopez Loeches, Head of Ideation & Entrepreneurship at Aena, was honored as the Best Airport Innovation Leader. Additionally, Roland Garros Airport earned the Best Innovation: Airport on the Rise award for its bioclimatic airport building, a notable achievement for airports handling five million passengers or fewer. Justin Erbacci, Director General of ACI World, emphasized the practical impact of these innovations, stating, “The 2025 Technology Innovation Awards winners are about successful innovation implementation—solutions that run every day, in real airports, under real pressure. This year’s winners spotlight measurable advances in digital transformation, data-driven operations, identity-enabled self-service, and sustainable, climate-smart terminals. These are the types of innovations airports need now—meeting today’s passenger expectations while keeping pace with rapid growth in air travel.” Rudy Daniello, Executive Vice President of Air Operations at Amadeus, added that the industry is on the brink of significant change. He noted, “Our industry stands on the cusp of huge change as airports across the world digitally transform to offer a seamless travel experience. Now mature technologies like digital identity and biometrics are proven to drastically improve the experience of travel, the door is open to even greater levels of innovation across the sector.” Challenges and Competitive Pressures Despite these advancements, airports face considerable challenges. Airports Council International-North America reports that $174 billion in infrastructure investment will be required over the next five years to accommodate future growth. This pressing need has intensified competition among airports striving for innovation leadership. Facilities such as Salt Lake City International Airport and Singapore Changi Airport have introduced new terminals and services to maintain their competitive edge. In response, other airports are increasing investments in technology and infrastructure, as demonstrated by Groupe ADP’s proposed airport fee increases and Birmingham Airport’s £300 million investment plan. The Airports Innovate 2025 event, hosted by Korea Airports Corporation and jointly organized by ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, ACI Europe, and ACI World, convened global industry leaders to showcase the technologies and strategies shaping the future of airport travel. The award winners exemplify the vital role of innovation in preparing airports for the next phase of growth, where operational efficiency, biometric identity solutions, automation, and sustainable terminal design will be key determinants of success.