CIAL: India's First Cyber-Secure Airport

Cochin International Airport Ltd (CIAL) is set to undergo a major digital transformation with the launch of "CIAL 2.0," a ₹200-crore initiative aimed at fully digitizing airport operations and enhancing passenger experience through the integration of artificial intelligence, automation, and advanced cybersecurity. The project will be inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on May 19.

A central feature of CIAL 2.0 is the establishment of a Cyber Defence Operations Centre (CDOC) — the first of its kind at any Indian airport. Developed in collaboration with the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC), the CDOC is an on-premises facility offering real-time threat intelligence, round-the-clock monitoring, and rapid incident response to safeguard the airport’s digital infrastructure.

Highlighting the urgency of the initiative, CIAL Managing Director S Suhas said, “With rising cyber threats in aviation, the CDOC employs advanced tools to detect, neutralize, and preempt attacks such as hacking, malware, and ransomware. This real-time digital shield secures CIAL’s network and sets a national benchmark in airport cybersecurity.”

In addition to cybersecurity upgrades, CIAL 2.0 brings several passenger-focused improvements:

Full-body scanners meeting international standards will enable contactless, non-intrusive security checks.

Automated Tray Retrieval Systems (ATRS) will speed up baggage screening by automating tray movement and reducing manual handling.

A new AI-powered surveillance system with over 4,000 cameras has been deployed across high-security zones. These smart systems use deep learning to monitor passenger behavior, detect threats in real-time, and ensure swift emergency responses.

Together, these advancements position CIAL at the forefront of smart, secure, and passenger-centric airport operations in India.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.