CVG and GATE Alliance agree innovation partnership

Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) and Germany’s GATE Alliance have signed an agreement to help airport technology suppliers test products, reach new markets and work with partners on both sides of the Atlantic.

GATE Alliance is a network of companies that supply technology and equipment to airports. The memorandum of understanding formalises a relationship that began in 2023. It gives GATE members access to CVG’s aviation ecosystem and innovation resources in the US, while connecting CVG partners with the alliance’s network in Germany.

“CVG believes innovation happens when organisations are willing to test ideas in real-world environments and learn from one another,” said Larry Krauter, CEO of CVG Airport. “This partnership creates a new transatlantic pathway for collaboration and strengthens connections between our region and one of the world’s leading aviation markets.”

The organisations plan to establish a joint working group to arrange introductions, technology demonstrations and pilot projects, and explore potential investment opportunities. For suppliers, the aim is to validate emerging technologies in an airport setting, gather operational feedback and assess opportunities to expand into another market.

“CVG has been a valued partner to our members for several years,” said Jens Reinhard, Managing Director of GATE Alliance. “This agreement creates greater opportunities for innovation, knowledge sharing and market access on both sides of the Atlantic.”

The partnership spans airport operations and sectors including advanced mobility, manufacturing and energy technologies. Its proposed activities include demonstrations at CVG and business introductions between companies in the US and Germany. The partners have yet to announce specific technologies or pilot projects under the agreement.

Image: CVG/GATE Alliance