The paper focuses on the identification of “bottlenecks” in the passenger handling process at the airports. In the current era of digital transformation and the emergence of Industry 4.0 and 5.0 concepts, optimizing passenger flows through data-driven tools is becoming an essential part of intelligent airport management. While many solutions focus on high-end software or AI-based systems, this study demonstrates the value of preparatory models built in widely accessible platforms such as Microsoft Excel. A simulation model was developed to analyze check-in and security screening, integrating discrete event simulation (DES), queueing theory, and elements of Monte Carlo simulation. The model enables the segmentation of the handling process into key events, including probabilistically generated arrivals and service durations. Although the model is built in a basic environment, it serves as a prototype platform for potential integration into broader digitalization strategies, offering a preparatory framework for future implementation in more sophisticated systems.

Airport slot coordination plays a critical role in managing congestion at capacity-constrained airports, yet its implementation varies significantly across world regions. This article provides a comparative analysis of slot-coordination systems in Europe, the United States, and Asia, examining how regulatory frameworks, operational mechanisms, and institutional structures shape their effectiveness. The study combines a structured literature review with a qualitative assessment of key components such as capacity evaluation, historic rights, the role of the state, buffer strategies, and operational flexibility. The results show that Europe relies on a highly formalized and legally regulated model that prioritizes transparency and schedule stability; the United States applies slot controls selectively and emphasizes market mechanisms and dynamic ATC flow management; and Asia integrates WASG principles into centralized, policy-driven systems characterized by operational discipline. The comparison highlights that each regional model reflects distinct regulatory cultures and strategic priorities, offering complementary approaches to managing airport capacity under growing global demand.