Zagreb Airport's Open Days

Participating in Zagreb Airport's Open Days was an exhilarating experience, showcasing the airport's commitment to innovation and sustainability. This year's event coincided with the launch of the 5th edition of the Play Your Airport Challenge by Groupe ADP — an initiative dedicated to identifying cutting-edge projects aimed at making Zagreb Airport a regional leader in innovation and hospitality.

What is the Play Your Airport Challenge?

Having previously seen success in Paris and Madagascar, Groupe ADP brought their celebrated competition to Zagreb, infusing the airport with a palpable sense of excitement and opportunity. The challenge is focused on discovering innovative ideas that can make the airport more attractive and environmentally friendly — turning bold concepts into practical solutions for the passengers and operations of the future.

What was the atmosphere like at the Open Days?

The atmosphere was electric, filled with industry experts, innovators, and stakeholders eager to contribute to the future of air travel. Walking through the various booths and presentations, it was clear that Zagreb Airport is on the brink of a transformative journey. One of the highlights was the enthusiasm and creativity of the participants — from startups to established companies, everyone brought their unique perspectives and solutions. Conversations buzzed around renewable energy, automation, and enhancing the passenger experience, and it was inspiring to see how dedicated everyone was to reimagining what an airport could be.

What is Groupe ADP's vision for the future?

Groupe ADP's representatives shared valuable insights into the objectives of the Play Your Airport Challenge. Their commitment to sustainability and technological advancement was evident in every aspect of the event, and they emphasized the importance of creating an airport that not only meets the demands of modern travelers but also sets new standards for environmental stewardship.

“Turning bold ideas into practical solutions — that is the essence of what the Play Your Airport Challenge is all about.

Networking opportunities abounded throughout the day. Over coffee and snacks, we connected with fellow attendees, sharing experiences and discussing potential collaborations — the informal setting fostered a real sense of community. As the day progressed, so did the anticipation around which projects would be selected and how they would be implemented at Zagreb Airport. The event culminated in a keynote address that captured the spirit of the Open Days: a call to action, urging everyone to keep pushing the boundaries of what is possible in airport innovation and sustainability.

Why do events like this matter?

Reflecting on the experience, it's clear that Zagreb Airport's Open Days were more than just an event — they were a testament to the power of collaboration and forward-thinking. The Play Your Airport Challenge has set the stage for transformative changes that will benefit Zagreb Airport and serve as a model for airports elsewhere. For VIS Solutions, it was energizing to be part of a conversation about smarter, more sustainable operations — exactly the kind of challenge where automation and data have a role to play.