Leveraging technology to provide exceptional airport experiences

Advancing operational efficiencies 

Beyond enhancing the passenger experience, we also use emerging technologies to improve our operations. By streamlining processes, optimizing resource allocation and strengthening data-driven decision-making, we increase efficiency across our airport system. Our embrace of new technologies has led us to innovative solutions that help MSP operate smarter and more effectively. 

• Digital IDs: In addition to biometric exit systems and simplified arrival processes already in place at MSP, we are supporting the technology infrastructure required for digital identification that further enhances passenger processing for airlines or government partners. Digital driver’s licenses or passports streamline passenger identity verification using encrypted, digital versions of government-issued identification stored on mobile devices, typically in digital wallets like Apple Wallet, Google Wallet or TSA-approved apps. At security checkpoints, passengers tap or scan their mobile device at a dedicated reader instead of handing over a physical ID. Once verified, passengers proceed through security without additional manual ID checks, reducing wait times.
• Fleet telematics: We recently installed GPS technology, sensors and data analytics to monitor and manage the airport’s vehicle fleets. These systems collect and transmit real-time data such as vehicle location, fuel consumption, engine performance and route efficiency. For example, by analyzing GPS and fuel consumption data, we can identify areas where snowplows may be overlapping coverage or taking less efficient routes, allowing us to adjust deployment strategies, reduce unnecessary fuel burn and clear runways and aprons safer and faster.
• Digital signage: Building on our commitment to accessibility and real-time communication, we invested heavily in MSP’s digital transformation and streamlined the management of our digital assets to a single, customizable canvas to support operational activities. Today, there are more than 900 digital signs on MSP’s campus, communicating real-time, relevant information to customers at every step of their journey. 

Greater sustainability 

Along with improving airport operations, emerging technology is critical in advancing our sustainability efforts at MSP. Innovative technologies help us reduce MSP’s environmental impact while maintaining a world-class airport: 

• Sustainable aviation fuel: We are committed to reducing greenhouse gases by 80% from buildings and operations by 2030, reaching net zero by 2050. Last year we earned “Level 3” in the Airports Carbon Accreditation Program, which requires the MAC to engage with airlines on carbon emissions. During our discussions with airlines, Delta shared its vision to make MSP a hub for sustainable aviation fuel development. To help realize that vision and advance our emissions goals, we worked with Delta and GREATER MSP, the Minneapolis-St. Paul Regional Economic Development Partnership, to form a coalition of businesses and educational institutions focused on advancing sustainable aviation fuel manufacturing. Scaling production to meet demand will be challenging, but momentum is strong and Minnesota is emerging as a national leader in this space.
• Electric vehicles: Beyond sustainable aviation fuel, MSP continues to invest in other solutions to lower our emissions, including expanding our electric vehicle fleet, integrating electric passenger loading bridges and installing EV charging stations for airline service vehicles and other ground equipment.
• Geothermal heating and cooling: Our carbon emission-reduction goals are also being incorporated into MSP’s 168,000-square-foot expansion of Terminal 2, which will incorporate geothermal climate control. This is expected to reduce the HVAC system’s energy use by 9%.
• Smart trash bin sensors: An effective sustainability program balances bold initiatives like sustainable aviation fuels with smaller, high-impact solutions, such as our growing trash receptacle sensor program. When a bin reaches 80% capacity, sensors send a real-time alert to janitorial staff, ensuring only full receptacles are emptied. This targeted approach has led to cleaner facilities, improved efficiency and significant reduction in plastic bag waste. It’s a powerful example of how automating routine tasks can drive meaningful environmental and operational benefits. 

Engagement with industry trade organizations is another key element of our strategy. MSP actively participates in the American Association of Airport Executives’ Airport Consortium on Transformation Program, which focuses on advancing emerging technologies, as well as the Airport Cooperative Research Program, contributing to research and analysis that guide industry innovation.  

Successful implementation of emerging technologies also depends on employees embracing them. We prioritize training and education to maximize our investment return and manage change by ensuring employees understand why and how to integrate new tools into their workflows.  

An emerging leader in emerging technologies 

By embracing emerging technologies, we are fulfilling our purpose of providing exceptional airport experiences so Minnesota thrives. As we continue to invest in forward-thinking solutions and foster strategic partnerships, MSP is positioned to deliver a smarter, more seamless and sustainable airport experience for all who travel through our doors.