Latest news with #CIAL
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Kerala's Cochin airport to get threat detection system under Rs2,000 million project
Cochin International Airport Ltd. (CIAL) is making a bold stride into the future with the launch of CIAL 2.0, a landmark initiative designed to completely digitise airport operations and enhance passenger experiences through artificial intelligence, automation, and robust cybersecurity. The Rs2,000 million transformation was launched by Shri. Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala and Chairman of CIAL on May 19. "Cochin International Airport is embracing the future with CIAL 2.0 — a visionary leap into digital transformation that puts intelligence at the heart of every operation. These projects, envisaged as per the directions of the Chairman and board of directors, are part of a comprehensive upgrade of CIAL's digital backbone, including the safeguarding of digital infrastructure, enhancement of security and operational efficiency, introduction of next-generation security systems, and improved passenger convenience through AI-driven solutions," read the statement by S. Suhas IAS, Managing Director, CIAL. Detecting threats At the core of CIAL 2.0 is the establishment of the Cyber Defence Operations Centre (CDOC) — a cutting-edge facility focused on proactively safeguarding digital infrastructure. It is the first full-fledged on-premises server facility at an Indian airport, supported by CDAC, featuring real-time threat intelligence, 24x7 proactive monitoring, and rapid incident response capabilities. With increasing cyber threats in the aviation sector, the CDOC employs advanced security tools to detect, neutralise, and pre-empt external threats, including hacking attempts, malware intrusions, and ransomware attacks. This real-time digital shield ensures that CIAL's vast network and IT backbone remain resilient, uninterrupted, and secure — making it a national benchmark in airport cybersecurity. Full-body scanners for contactless screening Full-body scanners provide fast, contactless, non-intrusive passenger screening that meets international standards. These enhancements ensure seamless yet thorough security checks without compromising passenger comfort. Automated tray retrieval system Deploying the Automated Tray Retrieval System (ATRS) at security checkpoints will improve passenger convenience and processing speed. The system automates the movement of security trays, reducing manual handling and significantly speeding up the cabin baggage screening process. AI-based surveillance system A powerful, AI-driven surveillance network is now active at CIAL, with over 4,000 intelligent cameras monitoring terminal interiors, airside zones, and other sensitive areas. These AI-powered systems use deep learning for behaviour analysis, real-time threat detection, and fast response. The result is a quantum leap in security precision and situational awareness, ensuring that both passengers and personnel operate in a safe environment at all times. Next-gen security infrastructure Security at CIAL is fortified with a suite of advanced tools: Bomb Detection and Disposal System (BDDS) includes new liquid explosive detectors, portable X-ray devices, and Threat Containment Vessels (TCV) for handling high-risk materials. CIAL's digital backbone will be upgraded with the following features: A revamped Airport Operational Database (AODB), Flight Information Display System (FIDS), and Automatic Flight Announcement System Introduction of Common Use Passenger Processing Systems (CUPPS) to allow flexible, shared-use counters for airlines. A next-gen data centre based on Hyper-Converged Infrastructure (HCI), offering scalable, secure back-end support. Upgraded network infrastructure to ensure high-speed and fail-safe connectivity across airport operations. Innovation suite India
India Gazette
19-05-2025
- Business
- India Gazette
Kerala CM launches Rs 200 cr IT infrastructure project at Cochin Airport
Kochi (Kerala) [India], May 19 (ANI): Cochin International Airport Ltd is presenting a model of socialising profit, said Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan at the launch of the Rs 200-crore CIAL 2.0 project, which aims to fully digitise the airport's operations. In 2023-24, 375 million people in India travelled by air, of which 275 million were domestic passengers. This marks a 21 per cent increase compared to the previous year, placing India third in the world in terms of domestic air passenger numbers. It is estimated that by 2040, India will see one billion air travellers annually. All airports in the country must prepare themselves to accommodate such large-scale growth. The Chief Minister emphasised the strategic importance of ensuring the safety of air passengers and the protection of airport assets. With around 50, 000 passengers travelling through Cochin Airport daily, and close to 100,000 people visiting the premises for travel-related needs, the security of digital assets becomes even more significant. The airport also hosts over 400 government and non-government agencies, 30 airlines, around 200 commercial establishments including hotels, and more than 12,000 employees, making it a vast and complex travel hub. The CIAL 2.0 project incorporates various initiatives focused on artificial intelligence, automation, and foolproof cybersecurity to tackle emerging challenges in cyberspace and enhance travel experience. With an investment of Rs 200 crore, the project is designed to improve passenger convenience and security. As part of the project, full-body scanners have been introduced, eliminating the need for physical pat-downs during security checks. An automated tray retrieval system has also been implemented to speed up cabin baggage screening. Additionally, 4,000 AI-enabled surveillance cameras have been installed to strengthen airport and perimeter security. The airport's existing bomb detection and disposal system is also being upgraded through CIAL 2.0. Apart from these initiatives, several large-scale projects launched last year are progressing rapidly. The apron construction, part of the Rs 700-crore International Terminal development, is in its final stages. The commercial zone being constructed in front of Terminal 3 is also advancing steadily. These developments have created around 29,000 job opportunities. CIAL is committed to offering maximum benefits to investors, local communities, and workers. In the 2023-24 fiscal year, it distributed a 45 per cent dividend to investors. The company has also undertaken multiple bridge construction projects and recently launched a society for cargo loading and unloading contract workers, which is functioning effectively. Notably, CIAL plays a key role in the Wayanad Model Township project initiated by the state government. It is independently installing solar panels on all 400 houses in the township. (ANI)
The Hindu
19-05-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Digital upgrade will ensure foolproof security in CIAL, says CM
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said here on Monday that Cochin International Airport, as a company, socialised profits, sharing it with society instead of privatising the profits. He was speaking at the inauguration of CIAL 2.0, the ₹200-crore total digitisation programme of the airport. The Chief Minister, who is also the chairperson of CIAL, said this was a time when the air travellers and assets of airports should be protected with great care. The Kochi airport handled around 50,000 passengers daily. More than 400 government and quasi government agencies, 30 airlines, hotels, around 200 commercial establishments, and 12,000 workers were functioning at the airport, he said. Artificial intelligence and automation provided foolproof security through the newly inaugurated features, he added. These features would help the airport face new cybersecurity challenges and make passenger movement smoother. Through scanners A communication from CIAL said the complete digitisation of the airport operations would make passenger handling smooth and introduce state-of-the-art security features. There would be full-body scanners at the departure security check-points. The new features allow the passengers to pass through scanners instead of CISF personnel scanning the passengers using metal detectors. If banned substances are being carried, the passengers can turn back, get rid of them and return. Another feature of the new digitised system is the automatic tray retrieval system for hand baggage. The mechanised scanning system will make the process much faster. AI-assisted cameras CIAL will also mount 4,000 AI-assisted cameras to improve security arrangements in the operations areas as well as in areas surrounding the airport. An aero digital summit was conducted from 2.30 p.m. as part of the inauguration of the new features. The public was allowed to enter the Experience Centre to view the live demonstration of new features.
New Indian Express
15-05-2025
- Business
- New Indian Express
Kochi airport embarks on major digital shift
KOCHI: The Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) is set to take a significant leap in digital innovation with the launch of CIAL 2.0, a comprehensive initiative aimed at streamlining airport operations and enhancing the passenger experience. Chief Minister and CIAL Chairman Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the project, developed at a cost of `200 crore, at the CIAL Trade Fair and Exhibition Centre on May 19. CIAL Managing Director S Suhas, IAS, said the digital transformation is part of a broader mission to modernise the airport's core infrastructure. The upgrades focus on strengthening cybersecurity, increasing operational efficiency, and introducing AI-driven technologies to ensure smoother and more secure journeys for passengers. One of the highlights is the Cyber Defence Operations Centre (CDOC), the first full-scale, on-premise server facility of its kind at any Indian airport. Set up with support from CDAC, the centre is designed to provide real-time threat intelligence, 24/7 monitoring and quick response to digital threats. The initiative also introduces a wide range of advanced technologies across the airport. These include AI-powered surveillance systems with over 4,000 intelligent cameras, full-body scanners, and an automated tray retrieval system to ease congestion at security checkpoints. The security infrastructure is further reinforced with the inclusion of liquid explosive detectors, portable X-ray scanners, and threat containment vessels. Behind the scenes, CIAL's operational backbone is undergoing a significant revamp. The airport operational database has been upgraded, flight information and announcement systems have been enhanced, and a new data centre based on hyper-converged infrastructure has been established to support seamless operations. Following the launch, the Aero Digital Summit will be held at the same venue from 2:30pm to 8.30pm, concluding with a panel discussion focused on the future of technology and innovation in the airport sector.
The Hindu
14-05-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
CIAL to unveil digital transformation for increased passenger comfort with full body scanners, cybersecurity
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.
