ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci Speaks Exclusively to AirwayBuzz

ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci spoke exclusively to AirwayBuzz during the ACI World Airport Experience Summit 2026, sharing his views on passenger traffic growth, airport investment, Europe’s Entry/Exit System (EES), and the future of biometric travel.

What will be the biggest challenge for airports as passenger traffic grows?

Erbacci said ACI World revised its 2026 passenger traffic forecast due to the crisis in the Middle East and now expects global passenger numbers to reach 10 billion this year. He noted that the long-term growth outlook remains unchanged, with passenger traffic expected to double by 2047.

He stressed that making more efficient use of existing airport infrastructure will be critical in accommodating this growth, adding that artificial intelligence and new technologies will play an important role in increasing capacity.

Erbacci also said nearly $2.4 trillion in global airport infrastructure investment will be needed by 2040. He noted that ACI World is currently reviewing this estimate and plans to release updated figures by the end of the year.

Could Europe’s EES create new operational challenges?

Commenting on Europe’s Entry/Exit System, Erbacci said technology alone is not enough when implementing new border systems. He stressed that technology, infrastructure, staffing and regulatory processes all need to work together effectively.

Erbacci added that airports, airlines and governments need to work in close coordination to create a seamless border experience for passengers.

Will passengers one day be able to travel using only their face?

Erbacci said passengers could eventually travel without presenting a physical ID, using biometric systems such as facial recognition instead.

He noted that the necessary technology already exists and said biometric solutions could help improve both the passenger experience and the safety and security of the countries and cities passengers travel to.