Fraport on the groundbreaking AI@Fraport program, accelerating the utilisation of cutting-edge tech, engagement with startups, and more

Fraport is positioning itself at the forefront of digital transformation. ‘Innovation and efficiency’ is a key pillar of the ‘Fraport.2030’ strategy, with the pioneering AI@Fraport initiative an important component in driving enhanced operational capabilities and passenger experience. In this video interview, following their recent participation at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” – Fraport’s Claus Grunow, VP Corporate Strategy & Digitalization, and Rolf Felkel, Senior Vice President Applications & Partner Management, discuss AI@Fraport, how Fraport is accelerating its utilisation of cutting-edge tech having recently joined the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub as a Corporate Partner, and much more.

Fraport joins FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub to collaborate and engage with industry ecosystem

Fraport recently joined the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – a truly unique community, playing a crucial role in accelerating the speed at which industry stakeholders master utilisation of cutting-edge technologies. Pictured are Claus Grunow, VP Corporate Strategy & Digitalization, Fraport; Rolf Felkel, Senior Vice President Applications & Partner Management, Fraport; Daniel Coleman, Founder & CEO, Future Travel Experience; and Ryan Ghee, Chief Operating Officer, Future Travel Experience.

Fraport recently joined the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – a truly unique community, playing a crucial role in accelerating the speed at which industry stakeholders master utilisation of cutting-edge technologies. The three key themes of the FTE Hub are Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, and the Internet of Things. Members openly share expertise, experiences and inspiration year-round through curated virtual and live environments globally. Welcoming Fraport, one of the world’s leading airport groups, highlights the strength of the broadening membership.

“We love the way Future Travel Experience is fostering collaboration,” says Claus Grunow, VP Corporate Strategy & Digitalization, Fraport. “One of our key objectives in joining the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub is to achieve more interaction within the industry ecosystem and find the best players in the world to solve strategic challenges together.”

Indeed, being a Corporate Partner of the FTE Hub is an opportunity to engage with the industry and learn from others. It provides invaluable access to a diverse network of startups and industry innovators, fostering collaboration among members and startups. Engaging with startups injects fresh perspectives, agility, and innovative ideas, essential for staying competitive and driving sustainable growth in the dynamic aviation landscape.

Fraport among winners at FTE Global Pioneer Awards 2024

Fraport was recognised at the FTE Global Pioneer Awards, which took place as part of FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” – in Long Beach, California, on 28-30 October 2024. Fraport was awarded for positioning itself at the forefront of digital transformation via the AI@Fraport initiative. Pictured are Christiaan Hen, CEO, Assaia; Rolf Felkel, Senior Vice President Applications & Partner Management, Fraport; and Daniel Coleman, Founder & CEO, Future Travel Experience.

Fraport – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub and an Airport Lab Network Partner of the FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group – was recognised at the FTE Global Pioneer Awards, which took place as part of FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” – in Long Beach, California, on 28-30 October 2024. Fraport was awarded for positioning itself at the forefront of digital transformation via the AI@Fraport initiative. The airport operator is utilising Artificial Intelligence (AI) to make processes more efficient and redesign work environments. The overarching goal is to make Fraport fit for the future, while increasing the satisfaction of airlines and passengers and innovatively supporting employees. AI@Fraport is organised in various core areas, each dedicated to strengthening the group’s digital competencies.

“AI makes the difference – especially at airports,” shares Rolf Felkel, Senior Vice President Applications & Partner Management, Fraport. “We address multiple business opportunities in operations and administration of our Airport City FRA and at our subsidiaries worldwide. Doing so we see that Generative AI (GenAI) and Large Language Models (LLMs) are not the one and only approach, but also special AI algorithms and solutions such as computer vision and reinforcement learning can generate a tremendous impact.”

As a fundamental component of the ‘Fraport.2030’ strategy, AI@Fraport demonstrates the group’s commitment to ensuring world-class performance in terms of operational efficiency and customer experience. This initiative is driving innovative solutions by focusing on AI and integrating it worldwide in Fraport’s multifaceted processes. In this way, the group is paving the way for intelligently networked airport operations in the future.

Fraport is also notable for the biggest biometrics implementation in the world. From enrolment at a kiosk or counter, to pre-security automated gates and self-boarding gates, passengers can use biometric technology to seamlessly pass through each stage of the journey by simply scanning their face.