15below Strengthens AI Capabilities with Airport AI Acquisition for Enhanced Air Travel Communication

Transforming Air Travel Communication: 15below Acquires Airport AI

In an ambitious move set to redefine passenger communications in the aviation sector, 15below, a leader in personalized automated communication for airlines, has announced its acquisition of Airport AI, a platform designed to enhance communication within airports. This acquisition is designed to build a comprehensive communications solution that spans every stage of the passenger journey.

15below's initiative to integrate Airport AI is not just about strengthening its service offerings, but also aims to bridge significant communication gaps that have long existed between airlines and airports. By uniting these systems, the companies seek to provide millions of travelers with timely, accurate information, thereby improving their overall travel experience.

Addressing Long-Standing Challenges

Historically, airports and airlines have faced challenges in coordinating their messaging systems. A lack of synchronization often results in inconsistent updates, leading to passenger confusion during delays or cancellations. This problem has become even more pronounced in recent years, with 2025 experiencing over 80,000 disrupted flights by mid-year. As Airports Council International (ACI) predicts a staggering 9.9 billion global passengers, the need for effective communication strategies has never been more urgent.

With the integration of Airport AI's capabilities, 15below aims to address these systemic issues by providing a self-service solution for customer support. This move is anticipated to enhance operational efficiency and reduce labor costs. Through a blend of proactive messaging and two-way conversational interactions, the new communicative structure will allow airlines and airports to provide a clearer picture for passengers as their journeys unfold.

Uniting Strengths for a Seamless Experience

According to Nicholas Key, CEO of 15below, the technology and vision behind Airport AI align closely with 15below's mission to offer seamless travel experiences. This merger not only strengthens 15below's AI offerings but also expands its reach across the airport sector, currently operating in about 80 airports worldwide.

Pierre Cuquemelle, CEO of Airport AI, echoed this sentiment, expressing excitement about the synergies between the two companies. He highlighted the potential for a more collaborative environment where airlines and airports work hand-in-hand to create smarter services that enhance passengers’ travel experience.

Proven Solutions in Action

Airport AI brings an established business model to the table, already serving over 80 airports mainly in Europe, with a burgeoning presence in markets such as the Middle East, Australia, and the U.S. The company has achieved impressive results; in 2024, its average passenger satisfaction score across clients was remarkable, and a staggering 97% of interactions were fully automated. This level of operational efficiency translated into significant cost reductions, making it a highly attractive asset for 15below.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Travel Communication

As 15below pushes forward with the full integration of Airport AI, the implications for the future of passenger engagement are substantial. The synergy between AI-driven communication tools and personalized service is set to establish a new standard in the travel industry. 15below aims to emerge as the go-to platform for airlines seeking consistent customer communication across every conceivable channel.

The future holds promise, and with the partnership between 15below and Airport AI, the aviation industry is on the brink of a transformation that could redefine how millions experience air travel. Enhanced passenger communication could lead not only to increased customer satisfaction but also tighter cohesion within the global aviation system, ultimately making travel less stressful and more efficient for everyone involved.

In conclusion, this acquisition marks a major milestone in the evolution of air travel communication, and as the integration progresses, stakeholders and travelers alike will be keenly watching to see the positive impacts unfold across the industry.