Aviation leaders gather in Guangzhou for ACI summit

The ACI (Airports Council International) World's Airport Experience Summit opened on Wednesday in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, marking the first time the global event has been held in China.

The summit brings together aviation leaders and airport managers from around the world to discuss how technology and design can reshape the passenger journey. This year's theme, "Reimagining a People Experience", highlights the use of artificial intelligence, biometrics, and human-centered design to improve efficiency and comfort.

Justin Erbacci, director general of ACI World, said the summit is intended to turn new ideas into practical change. "This is where we turn terminals into stories, technology into meaningful connections, and sustainability into everyday action," he told participants at the opening ceremony.

China's aviation market provides a fitting backdrop. Passenger traffic through Chinese airports is expected to more than double, from 1.4 billion in 2024 to over 3 billion by 2042, according to ACI forecasts.

Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, the host of this year's summit, has seen rapid growth in recent years. Wang Xiaoyong, the airport's chairman, said Baiyun has been an early adopter of AI tools, streamlining services from check-in to boarding. "By combining technological innovation with human-centered care, we believe the industry can shape a brighter future," he said.

Organizers said the summit is designed to showcase China's achievements and to provide a platform for dialogue and cooperation with the global aviation community.