CIAL to unveil digital transformation for increased passenger comfort with full body scanners, cybersecurity

The Hindu

14-05-2025

Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) will launch 'CIAL 2.0', designed to completely digitise airport operations, use artificial intelligence (AI), and enhance passenger experiences through automation and cybersecurity.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the ₹200-crore facility on May 19 at the CIAL Trade Fair and Exhibition Centre, according to a press release.
At the core of CIAL 2.0 is the establishment of the Cyber Defence Operations Centre (CDOC), a cutting-edge facility focussed on proactively safeguarding digital infrastructure. With increasing cyber threats in the aviation sector, the CDOC will employ advanced security tools to detect, neutralise, and pre-empt external threats, including hacking attempts, malware intrusions, and ransomware attacks, the communication says.
The other features include full-body scanners for contactless screening providing fast, contactless, non-intrusive passenger screening that meets international standards. The enhancements will ensure seamless yet thorough security checks without compromising passenger comfort, it claims.
The system deploying automated tray retrieval at security checkpoints will improve passenger convenience and processing speed. It automates the movement of security trays, reducing manual handling and significantly speeding up the cabin baggage screening process, the release adds.
The AI-based surveillance network is now active at the Kochi airport, with over 4,000 intelligent cameras monitoring terminal interiors, airside zones, and other sensitive areas. The AI-powered systems use deep learning for behaviour analysis, real-time threat detection, and fast response, the communication says.
Coinciding with the launch of CIAL 2.0, the Aero Digital Summit will be held between 2:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. at the same venue. It will showcase live demonstrations of new IT infrastructure, mini humanoid robots and robotic dogs, virtual reality gaming experiences, a heart stepper activity, and automated industrial assembly line.