What is ACI in Aviation? (Airports Council International)

What is Airports Council International in Aviation?

Airports Council International (ACI) is a global trade association representing airports around the world. It serves as the voice of the airport industry, advocating for policies and practices that promote safe, secure, and sustainable airport operations. With a membership that includes over 1,900 airports in 177 countries, ACI works closely with governments, regulators, and other industry stakeholders to ensure that airports are able to provide the best possible service to passengers and contribute to the growth and development of the aviation industry.

ACI’s Mission and Objectives

The Airports Council International’s mission is to promote professional excellence in airport management and operations. Its main objectives include:

• Advocating for policy and regulatory frameworks that support the interests of airports and the aviation industry
• Fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among airport professionals to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness
• Providing training and professional development opportunities for airport staff
• Supporting sustainability initiatives and promoting environmentally-friendly practices
• Enhancing passenger experience and ensuring airport security

ACI’s Services and Programs

ACI offers a wide range of services and programs that benefit its member airports and the global aviation industry. Let’s explore some of them:

Airport Excellence (APEX) Program

The Airport Excellence (APEX) Program is a comprehensive initiative developed by ACI to assist airports in improving their operational and service standards. It focuses on key areas such as operational efficiency, safety, security, customer service, and environmental sustainability. Through the APEX Program, ACI provides a framework for airports to assess their performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement best practices. This program plays a crucial role in promoting consistency and excellence in airport operations worldwide.

World Business Partners (WBP)

ACI’s World Business Partners (WBP) program fosters collaboration between airports and industry suppliers. It brings together companies that provide products and services to airports, creating a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and business development. Through the WBP program, airports can access a wide range of solutions and expertise to support their operations and enhance their overall performance. This program benefits both airports and industry suppliers by facilitating partnerships and driving innovation in the aviation sector.

Airport Carbon Accreditation

As part of its commitment to sustainability, ACI developed the Airport Carbon Accreditation program. This program aims to help airports measure, manage, and reduce their carbon emissions. It provides a framework for airports to assess their carbon footprint, set targets for emission reduction, and implement strategies to achieve those targets. The program consists of four levels of accreditation: Mapping, Reduction, Optimization, and Neutrality. By participating in the Airport Carbon Accreditation program, airports demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship and contribute to mitigating climate change.

ACI and Industry Collaboration

ACI actively collaborates with other industry organizations and stakeholders to promote the interests of airports and advance the aviation sector as a whole. Some of the notable collaborations include:

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)

ACI works closely with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a specialized agency of the United Nations, to develop and implement global standards and policies for aviation. ACI actively engages in ICAO’s decision-making processes and contributes to the development of regulations and best practices that impact airports worldwide. This collaboration ensures that the interests of airports are represented and that aviation operations remain safe, efficient, and sustainable.

International Air Transport Association (IATA)

ACI also maintains a close partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the global trade association for the airline industry. ACI and IATA collaborate on various initiatives and projects aimed at enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers. This partnership focuses on areas such as airport infrastructure development, security, and passenger facilitation. By aligning their efforts, ACI and IATA work towards creating a seamless and efficient air travel experience from the moment passengers arrive at the airport until they reach their final destination.

Conclusion

The Airports Council International plays a crucial role in aviation by representing the interests of airports and promoting best practices in airport management and operations. Through its extensive network and collaborative approach, ACI ensures that airports have a voice in shaping policies and regulations that impact their operations. The services and programs offered by ACI contribute to the continuous improvement of airport standards worldwide, ultimately benefiting passengers, airlines, and the entire aviation industry.

If you want to learn more about the Airports Council International and its initiatives, you can visit their official website here.

For More: What is NPRM in Aviation? (Notice Of Proposed Rulemaking)