As passengers at Ben-Gurion Airport contend with overcrowding, lines, delays, and operational disruptions, the Israel Airports Authority is looking for long-term solutions. The authority is launching a new program allowing technology companies and start-ups to test their products live at Ben-Gurion Airport and other Israel airports authority facilities.
The program, RUNWAY 2-6, is kicking off with an initial call for proposals, under which up to three companies will be selected to run pilots. The objective is to enable the authority to test technologies in their actual operating environment, rather than relying solely on demonstrations or laboratory conditions.
The selected companies will work alongside authority professionals and receive feedback throughout the pilot. Following the trial, the authority will evaluate, based on the results and the terms of the call for proposals, whether to enter into further engagements with the companies.
Not just shortening the line
A primary focus of the program is the passenger journey from entering the terminal to boarding the aircraft. The authority is seeking technologies that can streamline parts of this process, such as through automation, artificial intelligence, self-service, line and crowd management, navigation and wayfinding, or biometric technologies.
Another key focus area is baggage and operations, including baggage tracking and handling systems, smart maintenance, robotics, and facility management. The call for proposals also includes solutions in security and cyber, safety, and commercial operations at Ben-Gurion Airport.
In other words, this initiative goes beyond technologies designed to change the passenger experience. Several solutions target behind-the-scenes systems that power the complex daily operations of an airport.
Where could this lead?
For participating companies, the pilot offers an opportunity to test their products in a live airport environment. If a solution succeeds, it could provide the company with practical experience and a proof of concept to present to other airports and clients worldwide.
At this stage, however, the project remains primarily an experiment: Up to three companies will be selected in the initial call for proposals, and their success will be judged only after the technologies are deployed in the field.
The Israel Airports Authority said the program is designed to bridge technology companies with the challenges of the aviation world, testing solutions aimed at streamlining processes, improving service, and boosting operational efficiency.