Airport News and Aviation Updates

PhocusWire's in-depth coverage of airports, featuring news, analysis, interviews, research and more on airport facilities, their use of technology, passenger experience and relationships with airlines.

Airports are evolving into high-tech travel ecosystems, integrating smarter infrastructure, touchless technology, and advanced operations to enhance efficiency and the passenger experience. PhocusWire brings you the latest airport news and aviation updates, tracking how global hubs are responding to the demands of modern travel and future growth.

Airport operations, infrastructure developments, and global hubs

Our coverage highlights airport modernization efforts, sustainability strategies, and digital transformation initiatives taking place at key aviation hubs around the world. From biometric screening and baggage automation to terminal redesigns and mobility partnerships, we explore the innovations redefining airport functionality and service delivery.

Travelport posts final full-year results ahead of sale to private equity
News / Distribution
Travelport posts final full-year results ahead of sale to private equity
By Kevin May | February 22, 2019
Travelport passed the $2.5 billion annual revenue mark for the first time in its history during 2018. But it will soon head back to the land of private equity ownership. Read More
Seamless and secure cross-border travel - the tech is here, collaboration needed next
Opinion / Technology
Seamless and secure cross-border travel - the tech is here, collaboration needed next
By Liselotte de Maar and Rajeev Kaul - Accenture | February 22, 2019
Using biometrics and cryptography, KTDI enables the creation of unique, verifiable and secure digital identities for travelers that will provide them with nearly hassle-free travel. Now it needs... Read More
Will consumer demand for convenience transform the checked baggage experience?
Opinion / Online
Will consumer demand for convenience transform the checked baggage experience?
By LugLess | February 19, 2019
Just as the taxi business was slow to make changes with the proliferation of the on-demand economy, airlines' lack of innovation in the baggage handling area may be setting themselves up for the same... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: Refundit automates VAT refund for travelers, retailers and governments
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Refundit automates VAT refund for travelers, retailers and governments
By Mitra Sorrells | February 15, 2019
Refundit automates the VAT, or value-added tax, refund process for tourists visiting the European Union. Read More
airbnb-transportation-fred-reid
News / Online
Airbnb hires airline veteran Fred Reid to oversee "transportation", but rules out obvious options
By Kevin May | February 7, 2019
The seasoned airline exec - Virgin America, Lufthansa, American Airlines and Delta - becomes the company's global head of transportation. Read More
What should the travel industry understand about China in the Year of the Pig?
News / Online
What should the travel industry understand about China in the Year of the Pig?
By Kieron Branagan - OpenJaw Technologies | February 5, 2019
Take a deeper look at what’s going on away from the geopolitical headlines, and marketers will understand how trends in China are going to eventually affect us all. Read More
China series part 1 overview
News / Online
China, part 1: The big (and getting bigger) picture
By Mitra Sorrells | February 4, 2019
Travel brands and suppliers need to be aware that the Chinese travel market is not only growing - it is also changing. Read More
Up in the clouds: Tech upgrades can bring much-needed innovation to airlines
Opinion / Technology
Up in the clouds: Tech upgrades can bring much-needed innovation to airlines
By Krishna Mohan - TCS | January 31, 2019
Keeping track of an airline's data, let alone gaining insights from it, is beyond the means of any one carrier's I.T. department - so other methods are now vital. Read More
What's next for intent data in the travel industry?
Opinion / Technology
What's next for intent data in the travel industry?
By John Ardis - Conversant | January 21, 2019
As the booking process has been simplified and personalized, the travel industry hasn't been nearly as fast to harness technology for people-based marketing.  Read More
VIDEO: Kiwi.com - Launch pitch at Phocuswright 2018
Interview / Distribution
VIDEO: Kiwi.com - Launch pitch at Phocuswright 2018
By Kevin May | January 11, 2019
Harnessing the power of virtual interlining, Kiwi.com has gone further and made a suite of travel technology platforms available to travel agents and third parties. Read More
Myths about being the "Amazon Of Travel" (and other retail challenges)
Opinion / Distribution
Myths about being the "Amazon Of Travel" (and other retail challenges)
By Kieron Branagan - OpenJaw Technologies | January 10, 2019
I have found that there are a set of common themes and common challenges that come through during conversations with airlines. Read More
facial recognition survey
News / Technology
Facial-recognition technology gains support to expedite airport security
By Mitra Sorrells | January 8, 2019
It appears Americans are becoming more comfortable with facial-recognition technology, particularly if it is used to expedite travel or improve public safety.   Read More
VIDEO: TripStack - Summit pitch at Phocuswright 2018
Interview / Startups
VIDEO: TripStack - Summit pitch at Phocuswright 2018
By Kevin May | January 8, 2019
A simple and cost-effective API provides the best LCC fares and virtual interlining to OTAs and traditional travel agencies. Read More
How are companies really facing personalization in the travel industry?
From Our Partners / Online
How are companies really facing personalization in the travel industry?
By Íñigo Valenzuela - Smartvel | January 6, 2019
The discussions revolving around the future of the travel industry are endless. Every article, podcast and webinar out there try to unravel the best strategies and trends companies must follow in order... Read More
VIDEO: OAG on adding tech to intelligence
From Our Partners / Technology
VIDEO: OAG on adding tech to intelligence
By Kevin May | December 19, 2018
The combination of innovation and technology in aviation has never been as strong and, most importantly, crucial to running a successful airline. Read More
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