Cochin International Airport Ltd (Cial) is set to launch Cial 2.0, a ₹200-crore project aimed at fully digitising airport operations and enhancing passenger services using artificial intelligence, automation, and advanced cybersecurity. Chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the initiative on May 19.
At the heart of the project is the cyber defence operations centre (CDOC), the first full-fledged on-premises server facility at any Indian airport.
Supported by CDAC, the CDOC offers real-time threat intelligence, 24/7 proactive monitoring, and rapid response to incidents.
‘With increasing cyber threats in the aviation sector, the CDOC employs advanced security tools to detect, neutralise, and pre-empt external threats, including hacking attempts, malware intrusions, and ransomware attacks. This real-time digital shield ensures that Cial’s network and IT backbone remain secure-making it a national benchmark in airport cybersecurity,’ said S Suhas, MD, Cial. In addition to cybersecurity upgrades, Cial 2.0
includes major enhancements in passenger handling and terminal safety.
Full-body scanners compliant with international standards will enable contactless and non-intrusive security checks, ensuring both safety and comfort.
Security checkpoints will be equipped with the Automated Tray Retrieval System (ATRS), which speeds up cabin baggage screening by automating the tray movement process and reducing manual handling.
An AI-driven surveillance system with over 4,000 cameras is now operational across high-security areas. These systems use deep learning to monitor behaviour, detect threats in real time, and enable swift responses to emergencies.