In this insightful interview, Giulio De Carli, President of Air Tech Italy, shares his perspectives with Megha Mary Mathews on Italian firms’ collaborative efforts in the airport sector ATI is the leading trade association representing Italian companies that specialize in supplying products, technologies, and services for airports and air-traffic control. Giulio highlights the crucial role these firms play in the UAE’s airport industry, leading in the design, construction, and management of critical infrastructure projects.
What are some key areas of
collaboration and partnership between
Italy and the UAE in the airport
sector, and how do these relationships
contribute to mutual growth and
development?
In response to your question about Italy and the UAE’s collaborative efforts in the airport sector, there are several key areas where our partnership has contributed to mutual growth and development:

Giulio De Carli
President of Air Tech Italy
Infrastructure Development: Italian firms play a significant role in the UAE’s airport sector by taking leading roles in designing, constructing, and managing critical infrastructure projects. Their expertise extends to the development of airport terminals, runways, and other vital facilities, ensuring that these structures meet global standards of quality and efficiency.
Additionally, these firms contribute to the modernization of existing airport infrastructures, integrating the latest technological advancements to enhance operational capabilities and passenger services. This collaborative work not only supports the UAE’s vision as a global aviation hub but also showcases Italian engineering excellence in large scale infrastructure projects.
Aviation Technology and Innovation: Italy is globally recognized for its expertise in aviation technology and innovation. Our companies collaborate with UAE counterparts to develop and implement advanced solutions aimed at enhancing various aspects of airport functionality. This collaboration focuses on streamlining operations, bolstering security measures, and enriching the overall passenger experience. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovative practices, we work together to introduce efficient systems for baggage handling, check-in processes, and security protocols, as well as to improve passenger navigation and comfort within airport terminals.
These joint efforts not only optimize day to-day operations but also elevate safety standards and ensure a more pleasant and efficient journey for travelers passing through the UAE’s airports.
Training and Education: Italy provides training and educational opportunities for UAE aviation professionals. This includes programs for pilots, air traffic controllers, and airport staff, as well as technical training for aircraft maintenance and repair.
“Italy’s high-tech solutions, skilled workforce, and experience in aviation enhance the UAE’s extensive infrastructure projects and key position as a global aviation center. Together, we aim to boost airport efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort, promoting growth and innovation in the aviation industry.”
Aircraft Maintenance and Repair: Our companies also provide aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services to UAE-based airlines and aircraft operators. This includes services for commercial airliners, business jets, and helicopters.
Air Traffic Management: Finally, Italy and the UAE collaborate on air traffic management systems and solutions. This includes the development of airspace management procedures, air traffic control technology, and collaborative decision-making systems.
These collaborations benefit both countries by using each other’s strengths and expertise. Italy’s high-tech solutions, skilled workforce, and experience in aviation enhance the UAE’s extensive infrastructure projects and key position as a global aviation center. Together, we aim to boost airport efficiency, safety, and passenger comfort, promoting growth and innovation in the aviation industry.
Italy is known for its excellence in engineering and design. How does the Italian aviation industry leverage these strengths to provide innovative solutions for airport infrastructure and operations?
Italy’s excellence in engineering and design plays a crucial role in providing innovative solutions for airport infrastructure and operations. Some examples that I have collected:
Architectural Design: Italian firms excel in architectural design, creating visually striking and functional airport terminals and facilities. These designs prioritize passenger flow, efficiency, and comfort while incorporating innovative materials and sustainable practices.
Engineering Expertise: Our engineering companies are at the forefront of airport infrastructure development around the world, specializing in runway design, terminal construction, and airfield systems. This expertise ensures the efficient operation and safety of airport facilities.
Innovative Technologies: Italian aviation companies develop cutting edge technologies to enhance airport operations, safety and security. These technologies include advanced baggage handling systems, biometric identification solutions, airfield ground lighting solutions and smart airport management platforms.
Sustainable Solutions: With initiatives such as SustainabITALY, we are committed to sustainable development, and we see Italian airports rapidly adopting a zero-emission strategy and the overall adoption of environmentally friendly solutions.
Italian companies design energy efficient airport buildings, develop sustainable transportation systems, and implement green technologies for waste management and energy conservation.
Collaborative Partnerships: Most importantly, our aviation firms collaborate with international partners to provide comprehensive solutions for airport development and operations. These partnerships leverage Italy’s engineering and design expertise, combined with global best practices, to deliver innovative and cost-effective solutions for airports worldwide.
Italy’s excellence in engineering and design enables its aviation industry to provide innovative solutions that enhance airport infrastructure, operations, and sustainability, contributing to the growth and development of the global aviation sector. Italy has a strong reputation for its commitment to sustainability and green initiatives. How are Italian companies in the aviation sector incorporating environmental considerations into their solutions and services?
Italy has a strong reputation for its commitment to sustainability and green initiatives. Together with our member companies, we have created with a special page illustrating our joint sustainability focus.
These companies incorporate environmental considerations into their solutions and services in various ways. They focus on sustainable design and construction methods for airport infrastructure, by using eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient technologies, and green building techniques.