Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) is finalizing steps to host the U.S. pilot launch of the Beltways accelerator: a modular, pit-less pedestrian conveyance system designed to operate at variable speeds. The pilot will run from May through October 2026.

Unlike traditional moving walkways that run at a single speed, an accelerating walkway is intended to let passengers enter and exit at a slower speed while moving faster through the middle section. The pilot system is designed to be installed without a below-grade pit, using modular sections that can be rapidly added, removed, or relocated as operational needs change.

These capabilities also combine to offer a future, alternative consideration to infrastructure-intensive tram/APM operations for long corridors, given its throughput, length scalability and lower capital cost. The CVG pilot is structured as a multi-month proof of concept with defined success measures in cooperation with industry regulators. CVG and Beltways will track and review performance across several categories, including:

• Safety and regulatory compliance readiness

• Reliability and uptime, including fault detection and incident response

• Passenger experience, including accessibility, comfort, and usability

• Operational impact on passenger flow and adjacent corridor conditions

• Maintenance requirements, serviceability, and parts and labor implications

• Energy and power-consumption characteristics, where measurable

• Software and IoT capabilities

In parallel, Beltways and CVG are aligning efforts with the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to provide an independent evaluation, with a white paper anticipated at the conclusion of the pilot period.

This pilot offers a rare chance to observe a new conveyance system in real-world conditions. If successful, the Beltways accelerator could redefine airport facilitation beyond traditional walkways and trams. Key insights on installation, performance, safety, and reliability will be shared as the pilot progresses.

To learn more, visit booth #801 at the AAAE Airport Planning, Design, and Construction Symposium & booth #900 at the AAAE Annual Conference.

For private demos, please contact hello@beltways.com.