The Global Airports Forum (GAF), taking place in Riyadh on December 16 and 17, has received an impressive 200 nominations from 23 countries for the 3rd Airport Excellence Awards.
Organised by Niche Ideas and held under the main sponsorship of Matarat Holding, GAF recognises outstanding innovation, operational excellence, and industry transformation across the global aviation sector.
The impressive diversity of nominations underscores global recognition of the aviation industry’s role in addressing capacity, sustainability, security, and digital advancements.
Notably, Saudi Arabia’s strong representation features companies including Al Khalejiah Catering, Almabani General Contractors, Alvest Arabia Equipment Services, Etihad Salam, MAFA, METCO, Samana Special Mission, and Saudi Scales and Equipment, in addition to regional branches of global leaders such as SITA, Surbana Consultants, UNITED ATS, and Black Arrow Trading and Services, highlighting the Kingdom’s commitment and contribution towards advancing the global aviation sector.
Held at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre (RICEC), this 4th edition of GAF brings together aviation innovators, operators, and decision makers. The Airport Excellence Awards (AEA) will honour the best industry players across 10 distinct categories, including - Air Connectivity & Route Development, Airport Design and Infrastructure, Airport Retail & Commercial Partnerships, Airport Security, Airport Staff Training & Human Capital Development, Baggage Handling, Ground Support Solutions, Innovation and Technology, Passenger Experience, and Sustainability and Environment.
Daksha Patel, Event Director at Niche Ideas, remarked: “Despite having some legacy systems still in use, aviation has remained one of the world’s most innovative industries. GAF considers innovation as a key aspect of aligning with Saudi Arabia’s goals of aviation excellence and delivering a valuable experience to our attendees.” She added, “The Airport Excellence Awards (AEA) recognise and showcase those game-changing’ ideas and technologies that are helping our industry remain at the forefront of progress. We are pleased that global aviation companies are able to use this platform to highlight these innovations and directly engage with key airport decision-makers to take their business growth to new levels.”
International nominees include aviation leaders Skyportz, ADB Safegate, Groupe ADP, IDEMIA Public Security, BEUMER Group, Adani Airports, GMR Airports,
Leonardo SpA, Daifuku Co, Vanderlande, Plaza Premium Group, and Datalogic, amongst others, demonstrating the awards’ global appeal. - TradeArabia News Service
