Introduction
Airports are rapidly becoming data-driven environments.
Facial recognition, automated baggage systems, biometric boarding, smart security and predictive analytics can reduce waiting times and improve operational efficiency.
But technology also changes the legal risk profile of airports.
Automation Creates Accountability Questions
If an automated system incorrectly identifies a passenger or causes a security failure, responsibility cannot simply be attributed to “the algorithm”.
Airport operators, technology providers and regulators may each have different contractual and legal responsibilities.
Privacy Must Be Designed Into the System
Smart-airport technology can collect information at multiple points without passengers necessarily understanding the extent of the processing.
Data governance should therefore be built into procurement and system design.
Conclusion
The smart airport of the future will require smart legal governance.
Technology contracts should address cybersecurity, data ownership, liability, system failures and regulatory compliance before the system becomes operational.
