Assaia expands to Japan with ApronAI deployment

Assaia announced that Hokkaido Airports Co. (HAP) is deploying its technology across its international terminal at New Chitose Airport to optimise aircraft turnaround operations. Facilitated by Marubeni Corporation, the partnership marks the first fully Japanese-supported implementation of ApronAI, Assaia’s flagship AI-powered turnaround management solution. It also marks the first full-scale deployment of a computer-vision-based turnaround management solution in Japan. Using advanced computer vision and AI-powered video analytics, ApronAI continuously tracks turnaround events including fueling, baggage handling, boarding, and pushback. The platform automatically identifies when a task is falling behind schedule and alerts teams in real time, enabling faster intervention before minor delays escalate across the wider network. This helps airports and airlines improve on-time performance and optimize how gates are used throughout the day. Jan Willem Kappes, Chief Commercial Officer, Assaia, says: “Building on our long-standing relationship with HAP and Marubeni, this deployment marks an important step in HAP’s vision for more connected, data-driven airport operations. HAP recognizes the value of real-time operational intelligence in helping airport stakeholders respond faster to developing issues on the ground and create more resilient operations. Airports across Asia-Pacific are facing growing operational pressure as passenger demand and air traffic continue to increase across the region. In this environment, improving turnaround performance and maximising existing gate capacity is becoming increasingly critical. It also supports further improving passenger satisfaction, which is already at a very high level in the Japanese market.” Tomosada, Managing Executive Officer, HAP, says: “We are very pleased to partner with Assaia and Marubeni to introduce this technology at New Chitose Airport. By using the latest AI technology, this deployment will help visualise operations and strengthen collaboration among all parties across our entire international terminal. We believe it will support our commitment to delivering more efficient airport operations.” The system, which is scheduled to go live in the winter of 2026, will also introduce full Japanese language support for the first time, allowing frontline teams to work directly within the platform in their native language. Okazaki, Executive Officer, Marubeni, says: “We are delighted that the introduction of ApronAI at Japanese airports, which we have been pursuing together with Assaia since 2019, has now been realised. As a key gateway representing Japan’s northern region, New Chitose Airport is a strategic hub expected to see further growth. We are confident that this solution will help optimise workflows, reduce manpower requirements, and improve quality for everyone working at the airport.” For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Sally Passey at [email protected]