What do long Transportation Security System (TSA) lines, gate changes and lost luggage all have in common? If you said: “Stressful airport experiences,” you’re not alone. In fact, on average, more than 60 percent of a passenger’s total travel time is spent at the airport! Now, what would you say if there was a smarter way to travel to reduce—or possibly eliminate—these delays?

Vaughn College explores the evolution of “smart airports” and how the latest advancements in technology and infrastructure are taking efficiency, safety and the passenger experience to new heights. Read on as we share how these cool state-of-the-art technologies are underway as part of the latest redevelopment plan at New York’s John F. Kennedy (JFK) Airport—located just miles from Vaughn’s campus!

Smart technology gets even smarter

Online check-in, self-service kiosks and advanced screening measures may seem like second nature for today’s travelers, but it wasn’t too long ago that these innovations did not exist. Fast-forward as the dream of futuristic technology is making its way to present day.

Below are exciting advancements of the smart airport evolution—some of which you may experience at the completion of the JFK redevelopment:

  • Internet of Things (IoT)—IoT is a network that connects physical objects—in this case various airport systems and equipment—to improve operational efficiency by monitoring real-time conditions such as air quality, temperature and passenger flow, among others.
  • Biometric technology—Biometric technology allows for minimal contact using facial recognition. This contactless experience will be available at JFK as a seamless way to streamline the passenger journey from check-in to boarding, expediting security and eliminating the need to present a boarding pass or passport.
  • Automated baggage handling—This might become a passenger favorite at JFK as this IoT-enabled state-of-the-art system uses sensors and tracking technologies to provide real-time status updates and tracking of luggage. You’ll never lose your bag again!
  • Smart traffic management—The dreaded airport pickup will be easier at JFK as the airport will be employing artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics to manage traffic in and around the airport, as well as optimizing aircraft movement, reducing delays, congestion and improving passenger flow within the airport.
  • Sustainability—Through smart infrastructure such as renewable energy sources that include solar and wind power, the new JFK terminals will incorporate energy-efficient systems that optimize energy use while monitoring energy consumption. In fact, construction has begun on a massive solar array of more than 13,000 solar panels on the terminal’s roof that will cover an area the size of six and a half football fields. The Terminal One solar array will be the largest in New York City and the largest at any airport terminal in the country.
  • Digital wayfinding—Passengers at JFK will be kept in the know with real-time updates about flight delays, gate changes and other critical information through a number of strategically placed digital wayfinding tools including touchscreen kiosks, digital displays and an airport operations portal. This digital navigation system will not only eliminate stress among passengers but also help them navigate the airport more efficiently.
  • 5G Connectivity—Wouldn’t it be great if there were faster communication and real-time updates between various systems? JFK plans to leverage 5G networks to make this happen, along with enhancing the passenger experience with augmented reality (AR) applications and smart boarding processes.
  • Smart parking—Imagine not having to circle the parking lot looking for a place to park. JFK is solving this problem by offering smart parking, where passengers can reserve a space in advance and pay through an app for added convenience. Even cooler is the placement of sensors to direct passengers to available spots. Now, that’s a real time saver!

Growth in the market means more jobs on the horizon

According to Fortune Business Insights, the global smart airport market has seen significant growth over the years. In 2023, the global market size was valued at USD 4.05 billion, and this is projected to grow to USD 11.56 billion by 2030.

So, why is this important? The answer is simple: More jobs. As today’s big tech companies focus on creating cutting-edge autonomous solutions, the industry will need to fill more positions for this in-demand field.

How a Vaughn degree can help you fill the gap

Vaughn College plays a significant role in filling the gap for jobs in the smart airport industry. Through relevant degree programs in engineering and technology, aviation and management, Vaughn prepares students with specialized skills and knowledge that align with the latest developments in the industry, including the digital transformation of airports through automation and smart technologies. These technology-driven curricula focus on areas critical to smart airports, such as airport management and operations, aeronautical sciences and aeronautical engineering, robotic automation, cybersecurity and information technology and data analytics. The benefits of pursuing a Vaughn degree do not stop there. The College has strong partnerships with major aviation companies and smart airport technology providers which can lead to internships, co-op programs and job opportunities for Vaughn students.

Are you ready for a first-class experience to pursue your future? A smart choice for your future is Vaughn College. Be a part of the “smart airport” revolution. Apply today!