There can be no doubt digitalization brings a host of opportunities to the Airport industry. On the flip side, however, digitalization creates its own unique array of challenges ranging from mastering the technical, cultural and legal challenges of digitalization, to the risk of losing passengers, alternative flight experiences, hemorrhaging duty-free sales and a decline in the use of airport parking services. Airport operators need to find a way to deal with these threats now if they are to avoid a sizeable dent in their operating margins. The time has come to rise to the challenge.

Our latest study "Rise to the challenge – The risks and opportunities of digitalization for airports" identifies the likely pitfalls facing airports around the globe as a result of our increasingly digital reality. How can airports meet the potential threats posted by digitalization head on? A number of global and specific countermeasures are possible. Some of these solutions are standalone defensive moves, while others are only possible in cooperation with other players. Regardless of which approach airport operators decide to take - the race to minimize risks, while capitalizing on the opportunities of digitization, has already taken flight.