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History
A History at the Heart of Airport Progress
GATE’s history is closely linked to the evolution of modern aviation and airports. What began as a practical solution to a new operational challenge has developed into a global network for airport technology.
Since its foundation in 1992, GATE has continuously brought together companies that contribute to the planning, construction and operation of airports with innovative technologies and specialist expertise. Over the years, the association has grown alongside the industry, expanding its international activities and creating platforms for collaboration through exhibitions, conferences and expert groups.
Current GATE president Kay Bärenfänger (left) together with GATE founder and honorary president Dieter A. Heinz (right).
“From the very beginning, GATE was built on the idea that innovation in aviation does not happen in isolation. It happens when companies, airports and partners come together to shape the future of our industry.”
Dieter A. Heinz,
Founder of GATE and Honorary President
Our History
The Trigger: The Age of the Jumbo Jet
The story begins with a turning point in aviation. In 1965, the decision to develop the Boeing 747 set a new standard for air travel. When the aircraft entered service in 1970, it quickly became clear: airports worldwide were not prepared for this new scale of operations.
Handling wide-body aircraft required entirely new equipment and processes, creating an urgent need for innovation across the ground.
1965–1970
The Foundation: German Airport Equipment (GAE)
Even before the 747 entered service, a group of German manufacturers joined forces in 1968 to address this challenge. Under the name GAE – German Airport Equipment, they developed and marketed ground handling solutions as an integrated package for international airports.
This marked the beginning of a new approach: collaboration instead of isolated products, and a first step toward defining airport technology as its own field.
1968
The First Platform: A New Industry Takes Shape
Recognizing the need for visibility, GAE initiated the first dedicated exhibition for airport equipment in 1977.
At a time when such technologies were overshadowed by aircraft at traditional airshows, this step created a platform focused on the ground where airport operations actually take place.
This was a decisive moment in giving the emerging industry its own identity.
1977
Global Recognition: inter airport Europe
By 1980, the exhibition had evolved into inter airport Europe, quickly becoming the leading international trade fair for airport equipment, terminal solutions, and cargo infrastructure.
What started with improvised setups at Frankfurt Airport grew into a global meeting point for the industry establishing airport technology as a recognized and essential part of aviation.
1980
The Association: Official Foundation of GATE
This marked the transition from a project-driven consortium to a structured network representing the interests of airport technology companies. From this point on, GATE became a central platform for collaboration, internationalization, and innovation in the sector.
1992
Expansion: From Ground Equipment to Integrated Systems
As airports became more complex, the scope of the industry expanded significantly.
What once focused on ground support equipment evolved into a broad ecosystem including baggage handling systems, digital infrastructure, security technologies, passenger processes, and energy systems. Airports themselves transformed into highly integrated, technology-driven environments.
GATE grew alongside this development, bringing together a diverse network of companies across all areas of airport operations.
2000s–2010s
From “Iron Age” to Intelligent Airports
From the early days of mechanical ground equipment often described as the “iron age” of airport technology, the industry has moved into an era of digitalization, automation, and artificial intelligence.
Today, GATE represents a global network of innovators shaping the future of airports: more efficient, more sustainable, and more passenger-centric.
Today
Global Recognition: inter airport Europe
The challenges facing aviation are evolving from climate goals to operational efficiency and passenger expectations.
GATE continues to build on its history as a connector and innovation driver, bringing together industry, airports, and partners to develop the next generation of airport solutions.
Future
