Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the Rs 200 crore CIAL 2.0 project at Cochin International Airport, aimed at fully digitising airport operations through advanced IT infrastructure.

The Chief Minister emphasised the importance of securing digital and physical infrastructure, given the airport handles 50,000 passengers and nearly 100,000 visitors daily. CIAL 2.0 integrates artificial intelligence, automation, and robust cybersecurity measures to address modern digital threats and improve passenger experience. Full-body scanners have been installed to eliminate physical pat-downs, while an automated tray retrieval system enhances the efficiency of cabin baggage screening.

Security has been further bolstered with the installation of 4,000 AI-powered surveillance cameras and upgrades to the bomb detection and disposal system. The Chief Minister noted that India witnessed 375 million air travellers in 2023–24, with 275 million domestic passengers - a 21 percent year-on-year increase. Projections estimate one billion air travellers annually by 2040, necessitating infrastructure upgrades nationwide. Additionally, large-scale projects such as the Rs 700 crore international terminal expansion and a commercial zone near Terminal 3 are progressing, generating approx. 29,000 work opportunities.