With just a few weeks to go before the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games, we take a look at the logistical implications of major sporting events for airports. What are the consequences of the influx of passengers and the spotlight on airports that these events imply? Three examples will show how Egis and airports from its network contribute behind the scenes to the success of major sports events. Retail, quality of service, safety and security, and aesthetics are all challenges that must be met with adaptability and creativity.
People usually expect big sporting events to bring out some magic, creating exceptional shows that generate excitement and popular support. Airports play an important role as gateways to and from the regions concerned and transit points for sports teams, the media and spectators.
For the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, Groupe ADP (Aéroports De Paris) is heavily involved in several preparation projects, and to help them meet the logistical challenges Egis has helped them set up the off-airport baggage check-in process, including for "oversized" luggage. This deals with all the athletes' equipment as they leave the Games across 14 sites in the Ile-de-France region. The system was first trialled at the World Triathlon in Paris in 2023, a test event for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The aim was to ensure that baggage check-in outside the terminal's "secure bubble" functioned properly under real-life conditions, with particular attention to security in conjunction with the Préfecture, safety, and passenger information.
Photo: check-in counters were installed during the project trial in June 2024
From technical flow management to aesthetic ambition
Eighteen thousand kilometers from Paris, Tahiti-Faa'a Airport (ADT), operated and managed by Egis, is also aware of the importance of the Olympic Games, which French Polynesia is hosting for the first time in its history. The surfing competition will take place on the island of Tahiti at the end of July, bringing together the greatest surfing champions around the epic and feared Teahupoo wave. In preparation, the airport has renovated and enhanced its façade on the city side. Working hand-in-hand with the Arts and Crafts Centre of French Polynesia, Tahiti Airport designed a huge fresco and installed it at the entrance to the terminal, giving it a warm and welcoming look. Airport pictograms and traditional Polynesian imagery all combine in a piece that celebrates art, sport, culture and biodiversity. Fish, turtles and birds recall Polynesian fauna, while garlands of flowers and shells pay tribute to the hospitality of the Polynesian people. It also evokes the unity and fraternity celebrated by the Olympic Games.
Improving the quality and range of services
ADT also seized the opportunity of the Games to continue improving and enhancing the quality and diversity of shops and services. A new catering area will open in Terminal 1 at the end of June. A similar initiative was undertaken by Abidjan Airport during the African Cup of Nations (AFCON), a major bi-annual football tournament. A commercial area between Terminals 1 and 2 was inaugurated for the event in early 2024. As part of its commitment to constantly improving the customer experience, the airport organised competitions and encouraged its partners to welcome athletes and customers in the best possible conditions. Indeed, just as Côte d'Ivoire celebrated winning the AFCON in March for the third time, the airport reached level 2 of the ACI customer experience accreditation.
Photo: Abidjan FHB Airport terminal facade with afcon colours
