Azerbaijan’s Heydar Aliyev Airport joins European aviation leaders to shape high-tech future

The representatives of Azerbaijan's Heydar Aliyev International Airport have participated in the 49th meeting of the Technical, Operations and Safety Committee (TOSC) of Airports Council International Europe, where discussions centered on leveraging advanced technologies.

The high-level event in Warsaw, Poland brought together aviation experts, regulators, and industry leaders to address current and emerging challenges in aviation safety and operations, Heydar Aliyev International Airport told Caliber.Az.

The representatives from leading European airports, aviation authorities, and technology firms joined the forum to exchange ideas and collaborate on innovative safety solutions. The discussions focused on the integration of cutting-edge technologies and data-driven approaches to enhance operational efficiency and reduce risks across the aviation sector.

The delegation from Heydar Aliyev International Airport played an active role in sessions addressing the implementation of artificial intelligence in turnaround operations—the critical ground-handling process between an aircraft's landing and next takeoff. Other key topics included improving digital coordination with air navigation service providers and enhancing ramp safety. Special attention was given to the prevention of runway excursions and mitigating the human factor in ground operations. 

The airport’s representatives also presented advanced training programs for ground vehicle operators as part of a broader initiative to minimise operational hazards.

“TOSC is not just a platform for exchanging knowledge and experience — it’s where the future standards of aviation safety are shaped. We aim not only to adopt best practices but to be part of creating them,” Deputy Director for Flight Safety at Heydar Aliyev International Airport Elmir Guluzadeh said.

In a notable development, Baku was proposed as the host city for one of the upcoming TOSC sessions—an initiative that highlights Azerbaijan’s rising role in shaping the future of international aviation and Baku’s growing status as a strategic global transport hub.

By Naila Huseynova