Saudi Arabia to upgrade 22 airports with next-gen Airbus smart technology
Agnet Turnaround to improve airport security and on-time performance
PARIS: Airbus Defence and Space has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Cluster 2 at the Paris Air Show to implement smart digital airport solutions across Saudi Arabia.
The agreement focuses on modernising operations at 22 international and domestic airports managed by Cluster 2.
The signing ceremony was attended by senior officials, including Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA); Wouter Van Wersch, Executive Vice President of Airbus International; Gabriel Semelas, President of Airbus in the Middle East and Africa; and Saad A. Alajlan, General Manager of Commercial Operations and Business Development at Cluster 2.
Advanced technology integration
At the heart of this collaboration is the introduction of Agnet Turnaround, a smart coordination platform developed by Airbus. Designed to manage real-time communication and synchronisation of ground operations, the system enables faster response times and more efficient workflows.
Agnet Turnaround integrates various airport departments – from ground handling teams to control rooms – allowing seamless collaboration and improved situational awareness. With a strong focus on enhancing On Time Performance (OTP), the system aims to reduce delays and improve the passenger experience.
Boosting efficiency and safety
Antoun Farra, Managing Director of Airbus Defence and Space in Saudi Arabia, said the partnership marks a significant milestone in digital aviation innovation. “With Agnet Turnaround, we are enabling smarter, safer and more connected airports that align with the Kingdom’s vision for the future of transportation,” he stated.
Cluster 2’s CEO, Eng. Badr Al-Dalami, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership. “Airports are vital gateways to the Kingdom, and digital transformation is at the heart of our strategy. Partnering with Airbus allows us to enhance safety, reduce response times and create a unified operations ecosystem across our airports,” he said.
Digital vision for airports
The MoU reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader ambition to embrace smart infrastructure and next-generation transport solutions. With Cluster 2 overseeing key hubs in the Kingdom, the deployment of Airbus’s technologies is expected to redefine operational benchmarks in the region.