Our Bureau
New Delhi
India and Hong Kong were recognized for their pioneering work in artificial intelligence (AI) at airports during the prestigious ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East 2025 Awards, held in New Delhi this week. The annual event, organized by Airports Council International (ACI), spotlighted significant advancements in AI-driven airport operations and customer experience, underscoring the region’s growing influence in aviation technology.
The highlight for India came as Naga Satyanarayana Vattipalli of Bangalore International Airport Limited received the ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East Young Executive Award 2025. Vattipalli’s research paper explored how AI can transform airports, addressing opportunities and challenges in passenger experience, regulatory and ethical considerations, and environmental sustainability. His work was lauded by industry leaders for offering a forward-looking vision of AI’s potential to revolutionize airport operations.
Hong Kong also earned distinction, with Patrick Su from Airport Authority Hong Kong receiving an Honourable Mention for his research on the impact of AI on airports and passenger experiences. Both winners were selected by a panel of prominent aviation executives and experts, reflecting the high standards and competitive nature of the awards.
In addition to individual honors, Kempegowda International Airport (Bangalore) was awarded the Gold Award at the inaugural ACI Safety Recognition Awards 2025, further cementing India’s reputation for innovation and safety in aviation. Dubai International Airport and Narita International Airport in Japan received the Diamond and Silver Awards, respectively, for their exemplary safety cultures and innovative approaches to aerodrome safety.
Stefano Baronci, Director General of ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, praised the winners, stating, “With the rapid development of technologies, AI is being applied to provide innovation throughout the entire airport experience. These exceptional research papers and safety initiatives bring new visions into the role of AI in aviation and its potential in enhancing airport operations and passenger experience at large”.
The ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East Awards continue to encourage innovation, recognizing airports and individuals who are shaping the future of air travel in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.
