- ACI World released a white paper calling for slot allocation modernisation
- The current framework was designed more than 50 years ago
- Slot-restricted airports surged by over 25pc in the last decade
- Global passenger traffic is projected to nearly double by the mid-2040s
- ACI serves 811 members operating over 2,200 airports in more than 160 countries
Airports Council International World has released a white paper calling for modernisation of the global airport slot allocation system. The trade association of the world’s airports has stated that an outdated regulatory framework designed more than 50 years ago forces the aviation industry into inefficient compromises. The paper details how current rules create barriers to socio-economic competitiveness and connectivity.
The number of congested slot-restricted airports surged by over 25pc in the last decade. Global passenger traffic is projected to nearly double by the mid-2040s. ACI World called on regulators to engage with the industry and address the issue before the capacity crunch escalates further.
Justin Erbacci, Director General of ACI World, shared that the industry operates on a 1970s system. ACI serves 811 members operating over 2,200 airports in more than 160 countries worldwide as of January 2026.
Justin Erbacci shared: We are trying to run a 2026 aviation industry on a 1970s operating system. Airports are doing their best to operate within an outdated regulatory framework, but the reality is that these inflexible rules and practices are preventing the industry from adapting to modern passenger demands, providing competitive fares and building resilient networks. ACI World urges regulators to sit down with the industry and finally deliver the overdue upgrade that our passengers deserve.
