Airports in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions are preparing for a sharp rise in air travel. Experts predict nearly 7% annual growth in passenger traffic over the next 25 years. To meet this growing demand, airport leaders have agreed to expand and improve infrastructure both on the ground and in the air.
The decision came during the 2nd ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East Regional Assembly of Airport Members, held recently in New Delhi. A resolution was passed during the event to support the optimisation of existing facilities and the construction of new infrastructure. The goal is to ensure long-term, sustainable development in the aviation sector.
Asia-Pacific and the Middle East currently make up 58% of the global aviation market. These regions also include 9 of the 10 fastest-growing aviation markets in the world. Recognising the key role of airports in driving economic growth, industry leaders have pledged to make major upgrades.
The resolution covers several critical areas:
- Better use of existing capacity: This includes updating airport slot allocation systems to reflect current market needs.
- Improved air traffic management: The industry will promote the adoption of Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM) and better cross-border coordination of Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM). These tools help reduce delays, cut emissions, and improve efficiency.
- Expansion of airport facilities: Leaders have agreed to support the construction of new terminals, runways, and the adoption of modern digital technologies.
- New financing models: Airports will explore diverse funding sources, such as public-private partnerships (PPPs) and investments from institutions, to support long-term development.
- Regulatory reform: Governments are being urged to introduce flexible policies that support investment and balance the needs of the aviation industry with those of consumers.
- Focus on sustainability and innovation: Future projects will aim to include environmental goals, smart technology, and climate resilience. There will also be a push to increase the availability of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and green energy.
- Stronger stakeholder engagement: Airports are being encouraged to work more closely with airlines and other key players in the industry.
- Alignment with global best practices: The resolution calls for closer cooperation with global aviation bodies to promote high standards.
ACI Leadership Voices Support
Mr. SGK Kishore, President of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, welcomed the resolution. He said, “I’m proud of our members’ commitment to infrastructure development. As this region leads the world in air travel growth, we must invest in modern, efficient, and green airports. These facilities are not just transportation hubs—they are engines of economic growth. But infrastructure alone isn’t enough. We also need the right policies, funding models, innovation, and modern slot management.”
Mr. Stefano Baronci, Director General of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, added, “Asia-Pacific and the Middle East need major investment to keep up with the fast pace of growth. We must take a comprehensive approach—building new facilities, modernising air traffic systems, and fixing outdated slot management rules. This will help us grow responsibly and reduce our environmental impact.”
The resolution signals a united effort by the airport industry in these regions to meet future demand while keeping sustainability and innovation at the heart of their plans.
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