Cochin International Airport Ltd. (CIAL), India’s first airport built under the public-private partnership model and the world’s first fully solar-powered airport, is advancing into a new phase of growth under its CIAL 2.0 initiative – focusing on innovation, passenger convenience, and enhanced security.
As part of this mission, a trial run of Full Body Scanners has commenced at the airport’s security checkpoints. The system is designed to streamline passenger screening, reduce physical frisking, and strengthen aviation safety standards. Once the evaluation process is completed and approved by the regulatory authorities, the scanners will be fully integrated into daily operations, representing another leap forward in CIAL’s smart airport transformation.
Complementing these advancements, CIAL has also implemented the Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Program (FTI-TTP), allowing Indian passport holders and OCI cardholders to bypass queues and complete immigration through biometric e-gates. This move positions CIAL among the few airports in the country offering seamless biometric border control, drastically reducing passenger wait time during peak travel hours.
To further enhance accessibility and passenger experience, the airport has rolled out the official CIAL mobile app, enabling travelers to access real-time flight information, terminal navigation, ground transport options, and airport services – all from their smartphones.
Operational efficiency continues to be a hallmark of CIAL, which consistently records one of the fastest aircraft turnaround times in India, made possible through the synchronized efforts of ground handling teams, technical crews, and airline partners. This efficiency contributes to smoother operations and supports the airport’s growing passenger and aircraft movement demand.
Looking ahead, CIAL 2.0 includes a massive expansion plan for the International Terminal. The project covers:
- 15 lakh sq.ft of new apron area
- 5 lakh sq.ft terminal expansion
- Increase in aircraft parking bays from 44 to 52
- Total apron area expanding from 20 lakh to 36 lakh sq.ft
The expansion is set to substantially increase capacity, comfort, and airline connectivity — reinforcing CIAL’s role as a major aviation gateway to Kerala.
Speaking about the airport’s future-forward initiatives, CIAL Managing Director, Mr. S. Suhas IAS, said: “CIAL has always believed in staying a step ahead – not just in infrastructure, but in the quality of experience we offer. Our investment in innovation and security is rooted in the belief that airports must be safe, seamless, and people-centered. CIAL 2.0 is about building the next generation of aviation services for Kerala and for the world.”
From pioneering solar-powered airport operations to leading in smart passenger processing and regional connectivity development, CIAL continues to stand as one of Kerala’s strongest symbols of progress, sustainability, and global engagement – flying high, with technology at its wings.
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CIAL welcomed the launch of Emirates SkyCargo’s new Operations Centre at Cochin International Airport, strengthening international cargo connectivity. The facility was inaugurated by S. Suhas IAS, Managing Director, CIAL, and Ameer Al Zarouni, Manager, Emirates SkyCargo, in the presence of Hassan Abdullah, Emirates SkyCargo Operations Lead; Satheesh Kumar Pai, Head of Cargo, CIAL; and E. Vikas, Deputy Commissioner, Customs. The meeting also discussed new opportunities to boost import–export movement and position CIAL as a key hub for garment exports from Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
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