HKIA Technovation Conference Explores Data Analytics and Intelligence Applications in Efficient Airport Operations

(HONG KONG, 2 November 2017)  –  Airport Authority Hong Kong (AA) today held its third annual Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) Technovation Conference and Exhibition, welcoming more than 650 participants from the airport community, government, and technology and innovation industries along with representatives of the airports of Frankfurt, London and Toronto to explore the theme of "Data Analytics and Intelligence Applications". The opening ceremony of the conference was officiated by Fred Lam, Chief Executive Officer of the AA, and Cheuk Wing-hing, HKSAR Permanent Secretary for Innovation and Technology.

Fast developing data analytics technologies and intelligence applications are increasingly useful for unveiling patterns and tracking and predicting development trends, all of which contribute to effective decision-making and service improvement. Today’s HKIA Technovation Conference and Exhibition examined the trends and possibilities of such applications in airport operations, inviting participants to brainstorm new ideas and stimulate new thinking for improving both work processes and the passenger experience.

Addressing the ceremony, Mr Lam said, “HKIA strives to provide a pleasant travel journey for our passengers from curb to gate through the application of new technology. Recent examples include augmented reality to allow passengers to easily navigate the airport; and through location technologies like iBeacon, we can seamlessly deliver tailored messages and promotional offers for individual travellers. Behind-the-scenes, video and data analytics enable us to deploy manpower and other resources more effectively and efficiently round the clock.”

"Beginning next year, we will be building real-time capabilities in passenger analytics and customer relationship management,” added Mr Lam. “We will also be using data analytics to improve our predictive capability for some of our systems, such as the ‘Automated People Mover’ rail shuttle and the Baggage Handling systems. Today’s conference serves as a shared platform to exchange ideas and learn from the successes of our peers."

Local and international airport partners, airline representatives and technologists delivered keynote presentations at the conference and participated in panel discussions on topics including airport technology roadmap as well as the application of big data and intelligence to various aspects of airport operations.

Approximately 30 companies also exhibited their latest innovations and shared how they have been applying data analytics and intelligence technology to develop smart solutions. Demonstrations included the application of virtual reality and augmented reality in building design and airport maintenance. Exhibitors also showcased wearable devices and robots that can assist or improve airport operations.