Edition 2 - Article 5

Airports of the future

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AMP Capital

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Airports are quietly undergoing an evolution worldwide. Here we explore where the modern airport experience could land in the future.

For many, the modern airport experience leaves much to be desired. Endless queues, heavy luggage, and repeated security checks are among the least-favourite airport experiences of travellers worldwide.

However, the sector is quietly undergoing a revolution. Artificial intelligence, biometric technology and autonomous vehicles are transforming the airport experience, changing everything from check-in to touchdown for the better.

“Air travel is one of the sectors most significantly impacted by technology,” says Boe Pahari, AMP Capital’s global head of infrastructure.

“Everything from passport control to the digitisation of luggage handling to online parking is changing the nature of the airport experience.”

AMP Capital has long been a fan of the airport sector.

In 2018, the global fund manager bought a 49 per cent stake in the UK’s London Luton Airport for investors in its global infrastructure equity strategy.

In 2017, AMP Capital bought 100 per cent of Leeds Bradford Airport in the north of England, and it has long held stakes in other airports including Newcastle in the UK and Melbourne and Launceston in Australia.

Part of the attraction is the potential for technology to transform the airport experience.

Already, flyers are benefiting from self-check in on their mobile phones, automated bag drop counters and fast facial recognition at passport control.

But the technological revolution is only just getting started.

AMP Capital sees a future where every aspect of the airport experience is touched by technology, reducing wait times and eliminating queues.

The potential is there for a very different airport experience.

Important Notes: While every care has been taken in the preparation of these articles, AMP Capital Investors Limited (ABN 59 001 777 591, AFSL 232497) makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of any statement in them including, without limitation, any forecasts. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Performance goals are merely goals. There is no guarantee that the strategy will achieve that level of performance. The information in this document contains statements that are the author’s beliefs and/or opinions. Any beliefs and/or opinions shared are as at the date shown and are subject to change without notice. These articles have been prepared for the purpose of providing general information, without taking account of any particular investor’s objectives, financial situation or needs. They should not be construed as investment advice or investment recommendations. An investor should, before making any investment decisions, consider the appropriateness of the information in this document, and seek professional advice, having regard to the investor’s objectives, financial situation and needs. This document is solely for the use of the party to whom it is provided and must not be provided to any other person or entity without the express written consent of AMP Capital.

Airports of the future

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