Summary points:
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15below has acquired Airport AI to unify airline and airport passenger communications, aiming to deliver real-time, consistent updates throughout the travel journey.
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The integration focuses on enhancing safety, operational efficiency, and customer experience by enabling two-way, AI-powered messaging that addresses common travel disruptions and service gaps.
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Airport AI currently serves over 80 airports and brings high automation rates and customer satisfaction, while the acquisition expands 15below’s AI capabilities and market reach.
BRIGHTON, England - Passenger communications provider 15below has acquired conversational artificial intelligence (AI) platform Airport AI in a move aimed at unifying and improving real-time messaging between airlines and airports.
The acquisition brings together two companies with expertise in automated, personalized passenger communication. Their combined technologies will enable airports to monitor passengers within terminals better and automate customer service interactions. For airlines, the integration enables more contextual and interactive communication with travelers, while passengers are expected to benefit from consistent and timely updates throughout their journeys.
"We really admire Airport AI's unique technology and their vision for transforming passenger communications," said Nicholas Key, CEO of 15below. "This partnership brings together two market leaders... creating a powerful force for positive change across the travel industry."
Growing presence
Airport AI, which serves more than 80 airports primarily in Europe with a growing presence in the Middle East, Australia, and the U.S., reported a 97% automation rate in customer interactions last year. The company recorded an average satisfaction score of 4.5 out of 5 in 2024.
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The move comes amid growing concern about disruptions in global air travel. So far in 2025, more than 80,000 flights - about 0.46% of the year’s total - have been disrupted, potentially affecting up to 46 million passengers by year’s end, according to Airports Council International projections.
"Inconsistent messaging between airlines and airports often leads to confusion and frustration," said Airport AI CEO Pierre Cuquemelle. "By combining our AI-driven communication platform with 15below’s airline integrations, we’re laying the groundwork for a more collaborative and efficient passenger experience."
15below said the acquisition will help accelerate its artificial intelligence roadmap and expand the capabilities of its platform to cover new use cases across the travel ecosystem. The integration of Airport AI's conversational tools is expected to make it easier for airports and airlines to coordinate and share information with travelers using their preferred channels.
"By combining our strengths, we are in a unique position to drive smarter, more connected journeys for passengers while helping airlines and airports work more efficiently together," added Key.
