Air travellers pass through automated passport border control e-gates at Heathrow Airport on November 24, 2025 in London, UK. 1000 Words, ShutterstockAirports Council International (ACI) World has called for an urgent overhaul of the global airport slot allocation system, which it claims is outdated and stifles competition. The trade association, representing airports worldwide, released a white paper highlighting the inefficiencies of a regulatory framework established over 50 years ago. This framework, according to ACI World, is ill-suited to handle the modern demands of the aviation industry, which has seen a 25% increase in congested airports over the past decade.
The white paper argues that the current system creates barriers to socioeconomic competitiveness and connectivity, as global passenger traffic is expected to nearly double by the mid-2040s. Justin Erbacci, Director General of ACI World, stated, "We are trying to run a 2026 aviation industry on a 1970s operating system." He emphasised that the inflexible rules are preventing the industry from adapting to modern passenger demands and providing competitive fares.
ACI World is urging regulators to collaborate with the industry to modernise the slot allocation system before the capacity crisis worsens. The association represents over 2,200 airports in more than 160 countries and aims to ensure a safe, secure, efficient, and environmentally sustainable global air transport system.
The call for reform comes as airports struggle to operate within the constraints of an outdated system, which ACI World believes is crucial for building resilient networks and meeting future passenger needs.
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