Airports Council International World (ACI-World) this week launched a new series of guidance material dedicated to helping airports strengthen their non-aeronautical revenue to improve the traveler experience and contribute to the recovery of the sector as travel begins to increase.
The first set of available guidance focuses on airport ground access and includes the “Optimal Integration of Airport Ground Access Services Handbook,” and the “Sustainable Airport Ground Access Policy Paper.”
In announcing the new guidance material, ACI-World noted that significant trends, such as the potential impact from COVID-19, increasing automation and technological connectivity, and the decarbonization of industries, are resulting in the quick evolution of passenger expectations.
In addition, the economic impact of the pandemic on the financial health of airports has highlighted the importance of non-aeronautical revenue in the recovery of the airport business and the long-term sustainability of the entire aviation ecosystem, ACI-World said.
“As transportation options evolve and the preferences of customers change, airports must respond to meet the needs of their primary customers—both passengers and employees,” said Luis Felipe de Oliveira, ACI World director general. “This requires airports to improve operating procedures, offer enhanced technologies, and upgrade infrastructure—particularly as travel picks up with the easing of travel restrictions.”
He added that when managed correctly, airports can enhance the customer experience and revenue by effectively working with their service providers while striving to provide an exceptional customer experience.
“I encourage airports to leverage the Optimal Integration of Airport Ground Access Services Handbook, and the Sustainable Airport Ground Access Policy Paper, as well as the upcoming guidance in support of non-aeronautical activities and revenues, to improve the traveler experience and contribute to the sector’s recovery,” de Oliveira said.
The rest of the series will include the launch of timely guidance in the areas of concession agreements, duty free, digital transformation, and food and beverage.
The publications are being developed by ACI World’s new Sub-Committee on Airports’ Non-Aeronautical Revenues and Activities (ANARA), which is linked to the ACI World Economics Standing Committee.
