The Future of Smart Airports in Southeast Asia

Airports have always been crucial as transportation hubs and portals to the world. However, with the emergence of more innovative technology and changing socioeconomic conditions, airports are now under pressure to embrace digitalisation to keep up with the changing times. 

Case in point—the COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated the trend towards smart airports, as more air travel hubs explore long-term solutions to manage outbreaks better. Digital processes and contactless technologies have become the new industry standard when it comes to airport development in Southeast Asia.

This publication explores how airports across Southeast Asia’s ASEAN-6 countries (Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand) have adopted digital solutions to enhance the passenger journey, improve operational efficiency, and ensure a more robust experience for all airport stakeholders.

The Growth of Smart Airport Infrastructure in Southeast Asia

A decade ago, the check-in process for air travel involved lengthy queues and numerous airport staff assisting passengers across various touchpoints throughout the passenger journey. However, the introduction of smart airport technologies has reduced the need for human labour and increased the adoption of streamlined, touch-free experiences.

The aviation market in Southeast Asia is experiencing rapid growth, with passenger numbers expected to triple by 2037. To cater to this increase, investing in smart airport technology can enhance a country's growth potential and provide a competitive edge by attracting more investors, passengers, and businesses. Key investment and adoption opportunities exist in areas such as cybersecurity, public-private sector partnerships, 5G infrastructure, renewable energy, and other sub-areas.

To gain deeper insights into the growth of smart airport technology in Southeast Asia, including the drivers and barriers for adoption and expansion, download the white paper for free.