Dubai Airports is considering the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) at Al Maktoum International Airport to optimize gate allocation, reducing walking distances and aiding passengers in navigating the expansive facility, according to the CEO.
Paul Griffiths highlighted that innovative technology will enable future capabilities at the airport that aren’t available today.
“There’s a belief that AI will replace jobs, leading to interactions with bots. However, people crave human connection. The goal of this technology is to eliminate the undesirable aspects of airports while enhancing what we enjoy, like lounges and hospitality,” Griffiths stated at the Dubai City Briefing, hosted by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.
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“Our current approach will dramatically change the airport experience. The technology can accomplish tasks beyond our current capabilities,” he added.
Dynamic Gate Allocation
He explained that currently, aircraft are assigned fixed gates. “With AI, we can dynamically reassign gates for arriving flights, reducing walking and transfer times, which will improve customer service and address the vastness of new airports.”
The Dubai government announced plans to move all Dubai International Airport operations to Al Maktoum International by 2032, making it the largest international airport globally, serving over 260 million passengers annually upon full completion.
Dubai Airports aims to incorporate state-of-the-art technology across all checkpoints before Al Maktoum International opens, enhancing passenger and aircraft handling and expediting flight turnaround.
Covering 70 square kilometers, Al Maktoum Airport will feature five parallel runways and over 400 aircraft gates, demonstrating its grandeur.
The shift to Al Maktoum is due to Dubai International (DXB) nearing capacity, with expectations to reach 100 million passengers within 18 months. With the expansion of Emirates and flydubai fleets, Dubai requires a larger airport.
Enhanced Hospitality
Paul Griffiths emphasized the rapid advancement of technology and the aim to prioritize customer experience in airports and airlines.
“The challenge is maintaining growth at DXB, as the initial growth is easy, but the final stages are difficult,” he noted, aiming to remove unpleasant airport processes.
“By removing check-in, baggage, security, and immigration from the forefront, customers can immediately experience a hospitality environment upon arrival. This benefits both customer experience and business,” he added.
“New technology will elevate DWC (Dubai World Central), making it a source of pride for the industry, city, and community,” he concluded.
