Developing a Smart Airport in Pittsburgh for Today and Tomorrow

When Pittsburgh International Airport opened in 1992, it was a state-of-the-art campus designed for the modern age.

But cutting-edge technology doesn’t stay modern for long.

At PIT, we are vigilant about inviting innovation. We have to be, because that’s what it takes to continually provide the best experience for our employees and our passengers.

The new terminal under construction at PIT is not just about embracing digital transformation; it is also about business transformation. And it is about evolving processes, technology and services to deliver a better experience for all stakeholders.

The transformation is creating both a seamless passenger and operational experience and a seamless integration of our systems and services.

At PIT we are not just about flying planes. We are about shaping air travel for the future by working closely with our stakeholders on initiatives to develop and deploy smart infrastructure like IoT (Internet of Things) integration, sensor networks, data analytics and artificial intelligence to provide seamless connectivity and decision-making through data-driven insights.

Building a new terminal at PIT is a perfect opportunity to create a new smart airport, and some of those innovations are already underway.

We partner with major airports and airlines across the world, some of the sharpest minds in the academic world, and local robotics and technology startups to develop and test innovative projects on our campus as part of our xBridge program.

In 2023, Pittsburgh-based Ecotone Renewables joined with us to create a waste digestor that processes around 400 pounds of food waste from concessions into a liquid fertilizer we can use on airport flower beds, helping us meet our sustainability goals.

Another partner, Synaptic Aviation, uses AI models to monitor ramp operations through cameras at each gate, synthesizing that data and instantly running analytics reports that measure timing for aircraft parking, baggage loading, passenger deplaning and more.

Gecko Robotics, a Pittsburgh robotics company, brought sensor technology that it developed onto the construction site of the new terminal to determine the efficacy of concrete pours into structural steel of the building.

These are just some of the behind-the-scenes technologies we are using at the current airport and more will be employed at the new terminal.

Travelers and employees alike will notice some of the new tech right away. We’re testing features like autonomous mobility vehicles that use AI, and wayfinding to guide passengers to the closest restroom or restaurant. And sensors will process video feeds to deliver real-time estimates for the TSA checkpoint lines using predictive analytics that can forecast peak times and allow for optimal staffing. AI-driven predictive maintenance proactively identifies potential issues, enabling optimized maintenance schedules and extending the lifespan of critical equipment.

These are just some of the ways we are finding practical uses for AI and new tech to create value.

My goal is to ensure that our technology helps us create a place where passengers are safe and comfortable, and Allegheny County Airport Authority employees are set up for success.

I am proud of what our information and technology staff has accomplished, and we will only get better as we move into a modern-age terminal in 2025.

And 32 years from now, when today’s technology has been replaced, Pittsburgh International Airport will still be innovating and evolving to maintain its place as an industry leader.