HKIA prioritises cost-effectiveness and practical needs in AI adoption: CEO
Airport Authority Hong Kong CEO Vivian Cheung says the authority prioritises tangible impact and cost-effectiveness when introducing AI, piloting small-scale projects and training staff. Dallas/Fort Worth airport official highlights early employee involvement.
The Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) prioritises tangible impact and practical needs when introducing artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into its operations, chief executive officer Vivian Cheung Kar-fay said at the third Super Terminal Expo on Tuesday 3 November.
Cheung explained that the authority carefully assesses the financial feasibility of AI tools and determines whether the technology can strengthen existing systems, optimise resource allocation, or alleviate ongoing manpower shortages. She said that the initial expenditure on AI is often substantial, making budget management and cost-effectiveness critical considerations when introducing the technology.
She emphasised that successful AI deployment hinges on whether employees can effectively use these tools. Consequently, the authority has rolled out comprehensive training programmes to help existing employees become proficient in AI. Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is currently piloting smaller-scale projects, Cheung said, adding that the authority's strategy is to build a highly skilled, AI-literate internal team through hands-on, in-house training.
Speaking at the same event, Chris McLaughlin, chief operating officer of Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), shared his observations on the importance of early employee involvement in AI development. McLaughlin noted that during DFW's recent development of a new AI project, the airport organised dedicated workshops involving over 50 frontline workers, managers, and consultants. This approach empowered end-users to help determine the tool's required functionalities, ensuring higher adoption rates and a genuine boost to overall productivity, he added.