Governments urged to plan airport capacity, slot rules to avert crisis

Global aviation authorities are urging governments to overhaul slot allocation rules and secure infrastructure funding to avoid a potential crisis as air travel is set to grow exponentially. The warning comes from Airports Council International (ACI) World Director General Justin Erbacci during the ACI-LAC/World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition in Lima, Peru.

Erbacci emphasized that the industry will need to invest over $4tn by 2055 to accommodate the projected 19.8bn annual passengers by 2047. However, simply expanding infrastructure is not enough; a more efficient use of existing infrastructure and improved regulatory frameworks are essential for maximizing its benefits. Erbacci stressed that airports cannot increase capacity if regulatory policies restrict their ability to finance large-scale projects.

With capacity constraints, decisions regarding flight routes, competition, and passenger choices become critical, and governments must plan for aviation growth to prevent capacity crises. The ACI-LAC/World conference, which saw participation from over 600 aviation executives and official delegates from more than 60 countries, highlighted the need for digital transformation, advanced air mobility, and improved infrastructure financing.

ACI World has announced that the 2027 edition of the assembly will be held in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. Erbacci noted the consensus among airport leaders on the urgent need for more capacity and better investment conditions. Ali Tounsi, ACI Africa Secretary General, highlighted the growing importance of Africa in shaping the future of aviation, while EHCAAN Chairman Aiman Arab expressed anticipation for the upcoming conference in Egypt to build on the momentum and foster further collaboration.