Since the first powered and controlled flight of an airplane in December 1903 and the world’s first airport in Maryland, USA, in 1909, the skies have seen millions of flights, and people have visited thousands of airports. Today modern airports have many things in common, like long security lines, cramped waiting areas, and, of course, overpriced coffee. But in recent years, some European airports have stepped up their game with technology that makes the travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. From AI-powered security to sustainable energy innovations, high-tech airports transform how we fly. But what exactly makes an airport “hi-tech”?
Criteria for a High-Tech Airport
A truly high-tech airport goes beyond just having fast Wi-Fi and plenty of charging stations (though that helps!). This year, the industry focused on robotics and automation integration to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency. Personal assistant robots will soon be able to greet passengers at check-in, help navigate, deliver food, or become portable check-in systems.
The new AI era in airports will typically feature advanced security technology, faster check-in and boarding procedures, real-time data applications, and environmentally sustainable practices. Today, 16% of airports have already implemented machine learning for faster decision-making, and 51% plan to implement digital solutions by 2026.
Trends that will be soon available in most airports
- Automation and robotics for automating passenger and baggage processes. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport already successfully practices automation, moving toward fully autonomous operations.
- AI and machine learning for predictive maintenance and personalized customer experiences.
- Biometric technology for faster check-ins and border control using facial recognition and digital identity systems. One such example is Digital ID already been implemented in Los Angeles International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and JFK International Airport.
- Sustainability with a focus on eco-friendly solutions like sustainable aviation fuel and electric transport systems.
Now that you know what a “high-tech airport” should offer, here are the top 11 airports listed as the best in Europe.
P.S. Most airports took awards on the latest prestigious Best Airport Awards held in Istanbul, representing 500 airports from 55 countries.
Rome Fiumicino Airport (Leonardo da Vinci)
Location: 30 km southwest of Rome
High-tech Features: Rome Fiumicino Airport is known for its smooth, digitally enhanced passenger experience, Fiumicino Airport has consistently been ranked as one of Europe’s best. Winning multiple awards (including the ACI’s Best European Airport multiple times), it presents impressive technological advancements such as the best security processing, advanced transfer options and biometric boarding systems.
By the way, Rome Fiumicino is the first airport with an in-airport Innovation Hub supporting over 50 startups.
Tourism in Location: Rome is an eternal city filled with history, culture, and, of course, pasta. Find optimal flight dates to Rome and receive expert travel insights and guidance.
By the way, you can see hotel sales on the map of Rome hotels here.
Toulon-Hyères Airport
Location: Southeastern France, near the Mediterranean coast
High-tech Features: Though smaller than its counterparts, Toulon-Hyères Airport stands out with its excellent environmental performance, reducing CO2 emissions by 94,5 in 2024. It has promised to reach 99% by the end of this year. This eco-innovation should definitely be a role model for other airports as well. And while it may not be the busiest airport, its tech focus is to streamline regional connections.
Tourism in Location: Serving as the gateway to Côte d’Azur, this region is known for its beautiful beaches, wine regions, and charming coastal towns like Saint-Tropez.
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
Location: 9 km southwest of Amsterdam
High-tech Features: Schiphol has always been at the forefront of airport tech innovation. Today it stands out with its electrification of ground power units as part of decarbonizing its ground operations. The Schiphol innovation hub continuously tests new systems to find better operational solutions by implementing digital technologies. Finally, soon Amsterdam airport is planning to implement a new innovative air filtration system on the apron as a way to reduce ultra-fine particles. Flights from Amsterdam are renowned for offering some of the most comfortable airport experiences.
Tourism in Location: Whether you’re a fan of Van Gogh or looking for a leisurely canal cruise, Schiphol will open its gates to Amsterdam to explore the heart of the Netherlands – one of the best destinations for family trips.
In context: See what you can do in Amsterdam in the new year.
Torino Airport
Location: 16 km northwest of Turin
High-tech Features: Torino Airport is focused on eco-friendly innovations with its photovoltaic plant that produces a large portion of the electricity. Smart technology here is used to streamline both operations and enhance the passenger experience. One such example is the Smart Locker system designed to make waiting pleasant without the weight of luggage, or the SEDIA system, an innovative autonomous driving device for people with limited accessibility.
Tourism in Location: Turin, once the capital of Italy, is known for its baroque architecture, and museums, and as the home of Fiat. It’s also the gateway to the Italian Alps.
Malta International Airport
Location: 5 km southwest of Valletta
High-tech Features: Despite being a smaller airport, Malta International Airport was one of the first to recover after the pandemic and now is focused on sustainable development. The new 6-year investment program will be focused on terminal expansion, separating Schengen arrivals, leading them directly to the baggage reclaim area, and a baggage reconciliation system with better management.
Tourism in Location: Malta is a pearl with its historical sites, beautiful beaches, cozy hotels and vibrant nightlife all year round.
See also the cities from where you can fly to Malta.
Avinor Oslo Airport
Location: 35 km northeast of Oslo
High-tech Features: Oslo Airport is a green pioneer, with advanced sustainability measures like a biofuel station and energy-efficient terminal designs. At the awards, it stood out with its innovative baggage system, autonomous snow removal, and drone detection.
It also leads in digital innovation with its strong operational and punctuality performance.
Tourism in Location: Oslo blends natural beauty with modernity, catching your breath with unimaginable views of the fjords. If you happen to visit Oslo, plan to visit Vigeland Sculpture Park to see the Monolith and Viking Ship Museum with real Viking ships.
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
Location: 25 km northeast of Paris
High-tech Features: CDG is one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, with impressive infrastructure to match. And it surely feels like the most hi-tech and digitally packed airport with its baggage handling systems, biometric access, and security measures. Fully aligned to the concept of Industry 4.0, the airport gives travelers the experience of a smart city with “Find my transport” kiosks, mobile customer advisor devices, a new updated surveillance system, and many more.
Tourism in Location: As the gateway to Paris, the “City of Lights” hardly needs an introduction. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, CDG offers easy access to one of the world’s most visited cities.
See also all flights from Paris with real-time price changes
London Luton Airport
Location: 45 km north of London
London Luton Airport. Photo by Luton AirportHigh-tech Features: Having achieved Level 4 of the Airport Carbon Accreditation program, this small but digitally advanced airport aims to reach a net-zero target by 2040 and become one of the most sustainable eco-innovative venues. Luton has invested heavily in its infrastructure with electrified express rail service, new lounge zones, and shops.
Tourism in Location: Luton serves as a budget-friendly gateway to London, where you can take your postcard-perfect picture with Buckingham Palace on the backdrop.
Check out the calendar of cheap flights to London here
Munich Airport
Location: 28 km northeast of Munich
High-tech Features: Consistently ranked among Europe’s top airports for its futuristic terminals, Google indoor navigation, smart guide to the gate, and high-speed passenger processing, Munich will soon launch modern 3D security checkpoints to make passenger and baggage check faster (520 passenger/hour), safer, and less stressful. One eye-catching hi-tech tool at the airport is Servus, your snackbot who will serve you snacks and drinks without the need to leave your spot. Pay with your credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay, and enjoy your meal. Finally, we have a self-service bag drop that has already served millions of passengers and is a fantastic solution for avoiding long waiting times at traditional check-in counters.
Tourism in Location: Munich offers a blend of old-world charm and modern innovation. If I had to pick just one must-see and must-do in Munich, it would be visiting Marienplatz and watching the Glockenspiel.
Best one-way trip dates to Munich
Zurich Airport
Location: 13 km north of Zurich | Compare all flights to and from Zurich
High-tech Features: Zurich leads in sustainability, using solar energy and smart water management systems. The airport is not only about departures and arrivals; it is a whole ecosystem with hotels, a shopping center, restaurants, a spa, a dental clinic, a witness and wellness center, and even a chapel. At Zurich Airport, passengers experiencing delays will find various entertainment options.
Tourism in Location: Zurich is known for its pristine landscapes, financial centers, and as a gateway to the Swiss Alps. One unique activity is to take a dip in one of the city’s “Badi”, or public swimming baths.
Helsinki-Vantaa Airport
Location: 17 km north of Helsinki
High-tech Features: Renovated just recently, Finland’s main airport competes with world-leading venues in technology-driven sustainability and efficiency. As a truly hi-tech airport, Helsinki-Vantaa offers a self-service check-in system, self-service baggage drop service, automatic baggage tracking, 3D scanners, and more. Of course, you will not miss the unique Finnish design blended with technology and highlighted with lightning and material choices.
Tourism in Location: Helsinki offers a combination of design, nature, and history, and the best place to see all-in-one is Oodi Central Library with a sweeping wooden facade and glass walls. Its rooftop terrace also provides a great view of Helsinki.
Final thoughts by Editor
Europe’s leading airports demonstrate how technology is revolutionizing air travel, setting new standards for passenger experience and operational efficiency. These innovations showcase the continent’s commitment to creating smarter, more sustainable air travel hubs.
Key technological achievements
- Automated check-in and security screening
- Biometric identification systems
- Robotic baggage handling
- Smart passenger flow management
- Sustainable energy solutions
- AI-powered customer service
- Real-time travel updates and navigation
Benefits for travelers
- Reduced waiting times
- Enhanced travel comfort
- Personalized services
- Improved security measures
- Reduced environmental impact
- Seamless connectivity
- Better retail experiences
Planning your journey
To make the most of these technological advances, travelers can utilize flight search engines, which helps find affordable flights to these modern airports. When planning your next European journey, consider these tech-forward airports for a smoother travel experience.
Looking ahead
As these airports continue to evolve, we can expect even more innovations in:
- Contactless technology
- Artificial intelligence applications
- Sustainable aviation solutions
- Enhanced passenger personalization
- Smart baggage tracking systems
The future of air travel in Europe is not just about reaching destinations; it’s about creating seamless, sustainable, and enjoyable journey experiences through cutting-edge technology.
