Airports for Innovation (A4I) – united to innovate
Airports for Innovation (A4I) is a global alliance of 10 leading airports worldwide, co-founded by Aena and Aeroporti di Roma, that share a common goal: to foster collaboration to improve passenger experience and airport operations, always with a more sustainable and innovative approach. We seek to promote joint innovative solutions that could be standardized and extended to other airports and adopted in the long term by the industry at large. For the first time ever, leading airports worldwide join forces to launch an international call for startups, where projects will have to be developed between several airports of the network.
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Panel discussion: Innovation beyond technology
This panel will explore non-technology-driven innovation—creative approaches that transform operations, improve passenger experiences, and drive resilience in an evolving industry. From enhancing customer service and streamlining processes to fostering stronger partnerships and empowering teams, our panelists will share real-world examples of how airports and airlines are leading meaningful change without relying solely on tech. We’ll dive into topics like operational excellence, sustainability initiatives, redefined business models, and community engagement, showcasing the power of human-centered solutions.
Panel discussion: AI, automation and robotics – the airport is coming alive!
Aeroporti di Roma – integrated autonomous solutions
At Aeroporti di Roma, we've integrated several autonomous solutions to improve operations and passenger experience. WHILL, an autonomous wheelchair, has provided over 52.5 hours of service with a 90% satisfaction rate for passengers with reduced mobility. The Guimu robot inspects runways and taxiways, offering insights and maintenance recommendations. Ottonomy delivers food and beverages autonomously, ensuring a contactless and comfortable dining experience. In 2025, we'll begin testing Hivebotics, an autonomous restroom-cleaning robot. These innovations reflect our commitment to safety, efficiency and passenger comfort.
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ADR’s runway to the future: transforming the airport of the future
The smart city environment of Fiumicino Airport allows us to co-create and test solutions with startups in a real-world environment, ensuring that every innovation is practical, scalable and directly beneficial to passengers and operations. Three years ago, ADR launched the Runway to the Future startup program, which supports startups in developing their solutions within our airport over a period of eight months, guided by business mentors. This program is uniquely designed to nurture startups that address the specific operational and sustainability challenges faced by airports. Our accelerator program and Startups PoC highlight ADR's commitment to enhancing the passenger experience, improving operational efficiency, and autonomous operations.
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