Globetrotter

Airport Intelligence Series Heathrow Streamlines Security Screening February 2026    London Heathrow Airport has completed a £1 billion upgrade of its security infrastructure by fully rolling out next-generation computed tomography (CT) scanners across all four passenger terminals. This makes Heathrow the largest airport in the world to complete adoption of the technology, which is designed to improve processing efficiency at security checkpoints. The new CT scanners produce high-resolution 3-D images of carry-on luggage, enabling security officers to inspect items virtually without passengers having to remove liquids, laptops, tablets, and other large electronics from their bags. Depending on regulatory rules at departure, passengers can now carry liquid containers up to two litres, ending the long-standing 100 ml restriction that had been in place since 2006. By eliminating the need for routine unpacking at the security lane, Heathrow expects faster throughput and shorter queues, particularly during busy travel periods. The system’s detailed imaging and advanced threat detection improve operational reliability while reducing preparation time for passengers and lowering incidences of manual re-screening caused by incorrect packing. Heathrow’s completion of the CT scanner rollout aligns with broader industry trends toward automation and efficiency at major airports, where similar systems are being introduced to streamline security processing while maintaining high safety standards. Share Share Share

Airport Intelligence Series January 2026 Bengaluru Airport Debuts Interactive Gen-Z Lounge   Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru has launched Gate Z, a Gen-Z-inspired social lounge located adjacent to the 080 International Lounge in Terminal 2. The space is designed with interactive zones and integrated AI-led features aimed at enhancing passenger convenience and navigation within the lounge environment. The lounge is divided into four distinct areas: Bubble and Brew, a café serving beverages and casual seating. The Sipping Lounge, a relaxed area for conversation or unwinding. Subway Diner, a retro-themed eatery with live food counters. The Amphizone, a modern amphitheatre for screenings, pop-ups, and social events. AI-led systems are embedded to provide intuitive navigation and personalised assistance, helping passengers find services and amenities more efficiently. Gate Z incorporates a vibrant colour palette, theme lighting, and contemporary décor to evoke a lifestyle-oriented experience rather than the traditional quiet lounge environment. In terms of amenity access, Gate Z operates as a premium social lounge. Access is available to travellers with qualifying premium cards, including American Express Platinum and Corporate cards, Mastercard Airport Experiences (LoungeKey) program, Priority Pass, and premium Visa & RuPay variants. Passengers without qualifying cards can enter by paying a walk-up fee. The lounge also prioritises remote-work functionality with seating and interactive pockets designed for digital nomads. The lounge name was chosen through a nationwide contest to reflect its focus on inclusivity and youth culture, but the space is intended to appeal across age groups. The design emphasises comfort, connectivity, and social interaction, aiming to transform passenger waiting time into an engaging experience with technology support and lifestyle-driven amenities. Share Share Share

Airport Intelligence Series Sunflower Programme Takes Root at Sofia Airport January 2026   Vasil Levski Sofia Airport has joined the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower initiative, becoming the first airport in Bulgaria to adopt this widely recognised accessibility programme designed to assist passengers with non-visible disabilities such as autism, dementia, anxiety disorders, and other conditions. As part of the initiative, the airport now offers sunflower badges in the form of pins, wristbands, or badges to travellers on request at security checkpoints in Terminals 1 and 2, helping airport staff identify and provide appropriate support discreetly. Sofia Airport has partnered with the Bulgarian foundation Autism Today to deliver specialised in‑person training for employees, ensuring staff are equipped to assist passengers with empathy, clear communication, and patience. The move aligns the airport with over 325 global members of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network, enhancing comfort and dignity for travellers with hidden needs. Looking ahead, a sensory room is planned for the new Terminal 3 to offer a quiet, calming environment for passengers requiring a low‑stimulus space, reinforcing the airport’s broader commitment to inclusive travel experiences. Share Share Share

Airport Intelligence Series JFK’s Terminal One Redevelopment: Design and Digital Focus January 2026   The New Terminal One (NTO), PANYNJ $9.5 billion USD project, at John F. Kennedy International Airport (scheduled to open in phases starting in 2026) is a major redevelopment project designed to integrate modern architectural design, advanced technology systems, and resilient infrastructure as part of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s broader transformation of JFK. The terminal’s architecture emphasizes open, naturally lit spaces and functional circulation for high passenger volumes. Design and Spatial Features: The terminal spans roughly 2.4–2.6 million square feet with 23 gates planned by 2030, making it the largest at JFK. High ceilings and a central spine of skylights enhance natural lighting in key interior zones. Public areas include ~300,000 sq ft of dining, retail, lounges, and green space, including indoor and outdoor areas for passengers. Architectural strategies aim for LEED Silver certification with materials and systems that support energy efficiency. Technology & Passenger Experience: The terminal will incorporate touchless and digital systems including mobile check-in, self-service kiosks, and automated bag drops for streamlined processing. Biometric security screening and advanced video analytics in TSA lanes support faster and more efficient security processing. Charging stations and free high-speed Wi-Fi are integrated throughout passenger spaces. A Disaster Recovery System (DRS) has been tested to maintain passenger processing during system disruptions, allowing fast check-in and boarding continuity. Energy & Resilience Technology: The terminal is designed with a microgrid energy system and solar arrays on the roof to generate a significant portion of its power, improving sustainability and operational resilience. Electric ground support equipment (GSE) will be deployed as a centralized all-electric fleet, which is an industry first for a terminal. Overall, the design and technology strategy for New Terminal One focuses on operational efficiency, environmental sustainability, and a digitally enabled passenger journey.   Share Share Share

Airport Intelligence Series DXB Cargo Operations Get Boost with Centralised Screening Control January 2026   dnata and Dubai Police have jointly launched a centralised smart cargo screening control hub at Dubai International Airport’s (DXB) cargo facility, enhancing security and operational efficiency. From a single high-tech command centre, Dubai Police officers can now remotely operate and monitor six X-ray screening machines connected to dnata’s One Cargo digital management system, enabling real-time data sharing, streamlined workflows and faster decision-making. This consolidated approach replaces dispersed screening points, reducing manual touchpoints and optimising resource use, while improving throughput by around 3 per cent annually. The control room includes advanced monitoring interfaces, live imaging and automated reporting tools to ensure traceability at every stage. dnata handles roughly 60,000 tonnes of cargo per month at DXB and processed over 1 million tonnes across DXB and Dubai World Central (DWC) between April 2024 and March 2025—a roughly 30 per cent year-on-year increase. The initiative underscores a commitment to digital transformation, collaboration and sustained improvements in throughput, safety and resource efficiency. Share Share Share