ACI World Urges Overhaul of 50-Year-Old Airport Slot Rules

The current global system for managing airport capacity has remained largely stagnant for half a century, even as the number of slot-restricted, congested airports has climbed by more than 25% over the last decade. ACI World warns that these rigid rules prevent airports from optimizing their operations, ultimately driving up costs and limiting connectivity for passengers.

With global passenger traffic expected to nearly double by the mid-2040s, the industry faces an accelerating capacity crisis. The association contends that the existing framework creates unnecessary barriers to market entry and socio-economic growth. By demanding a more transparent and collaborative approach, ACI is pressuring regulators to abandon inflexible practices in favor of a system capable of supporting a resilient, competitive global aviation network.