The Cochin International Airport Ltd. (CIAL) is getting ready to introduce CIAL 2.0, a comprehensive project designed to improve passenger experience and streamline airport operations, marking a major advancement in digital transformation.
At a cost of Rs 200 crore, the project will be unveiled at the CIAL Trade Fair and Exhibition Centre on Monday, May 19, by Chief Minister and CIAL chairman Pinarayi Vijayan.
The change is a component of a larger initiative to update the airport’s digital infrastructure, according to S Suhas, IAS, managing director of CIAL. It encompasses improvements in operational effectiveness, cybersecurity, and the application of AI-driven technologies to improve the security and smoothness of passenger travel.
The Cyber Defence Operations Centre (CDOC), the first comprehensive on-premise server facility of its sort at an Indian airport, is one of the upgrade’s most notable features. The center, which was established with CDAC’s assistance, is intended to offer real-time threat intelligence, round-the-clock surveillance, and prompt reaction to any online threats.
A wide range of innovative technologies are being introduced across the airport as part of this program. These include full body scanners, automatic tray retrieval systems to streamline security inspections, and AI-powered surveillance systems with more than 4,000 intelligent cameras. The next-generation security infrastructure is being expanded to include advanced security instruments including threat containment containers, portable X-ray scanners, and liquid explosive detectors.
Behind the scenes, CIAL’s fundamental systems are being redesigned, including a new data center built on hyper-converged architecture, an updated flight information and announcement system, and an updated airport operational database. Barcoded boarding cards, pre-paid taxi kiosks, AI-based luggage tracking, lost item location tools, facial recognition check-in, and integration with DigiYatra for a more seamless boarding experience will all make the improvements more noticeable to travelers.
A panel discussion on the future of technology and innovation in the airport industry will wrap off the launch, which will be followed by the Aero Digital Summit, which will take place at the same location from 2:30 PM to 8:30 PM.