The ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, a prominent trade group for airports, has recently shared valuable insights from their extensive market research on airport concession business models and non-aeronautical revenues.
This announcement was made during The Trinity Forum 2023, the world’s premier conference focusing on airport commercial revenues, where ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East played a significant role as one of the co-organisers, alongside The Moodie Davitt Report and ACI World.
The comprehensive survey conducted among various airport operators has shed light on the current and future states of the industry, revealing a pressing need for innovative business models. These models aim to adapt to market fluctuations and share risks, ensuring a more resilient airport industry.
A key finding of the survey is the urgent need for the adoption of digital and contactless solutions. Post-pandemic, a significant number of airports have observed the positive impact of these technologies on operations, highlighting a swift transition towards technological integration. This shift is not just about enhancing safety; it’s also about improving efficiency across the board.
The research also underscored the importance of robust data analytics. Airports are now focusing on leveraging demographic information, travel patterns, and purchase history to create optimized, customer-centric strategies and services. This data-driven approach is crucial for enhancing the passenger experience and boosting non-aeronautical revenues.
Key Highlights of the Research:
Cultural Diversification and Commercial Expansion: Airports are increasingly incorporating local vendors and cultural elements, enriching the passenger experience and contributing significantly to non-aeronautical revenues.
Green Operations as the New Norm: The industry is prioritizing its ecological footprint, with a focus on adopting ESG considerations in decision-making, waste management, and renewable energy initiatives.
Diversification of Commercial Offerings: Airports are adapting to evolving traveler needs by expanding retail and F&B options, and incorporating technology and accessibility features.
Embracing Digital Transformation: Technology, including AI-powered shopping platforms and digital advertising, is revolutionizing airport operations and optimizing non-aeronautical revenue streams.
Data-Driven Decision-Making: Utilizing collected data for strategic decision-making is crucial for creating tailored and seamless passenger experiences.
Mr. Stefano Baronci, Director General of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, commented on the findings, emphasizing the critical role of commercial revenues in the aviation sector. He highlighted that these revenues are not just supplementary but are a vital lifeline for the industry, helping it navigate through the complexities of global economics and market trends.
