Sacramento International Airport launches AI-backed curbside monitoring system
New system uses camera data to monitor curbside traffic and digitally issue citations when necessary.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. —
Sacramento International Airport has launched an AI-backed curbside monitoring system designed to reduce congestion in pickup and drop-off areas. Airport officials say it is the first airport in the nation to deploy the technology to support curbside citation enforcement.
The system, developed in partnership with Automotus, uses cameras to monitor 28 curbside zones across Terminals A and B. When a vehicle enters a zone, the software starts a four-minute timer. If a vehicle remains beyond that limit, the system captures photos of the vehicle, reads its license plate and sends a real-time alert to airport staff.
Landside Operations Manager Ciara Gamble said the airport first piloted the system at Terminal A in September 2025 before expanding it across both terminals. According to the airport, average curbside dwell times have dropped from about 5 minutes and 44 seconds during the pilot to about 1 minute and 45 seconds today.
Airport officials said the AI system does not automatically issue citations. Instead, an airport officer responds first to check on the driver or ask them to move. If a citation is warranted, an officer makes the final decision. Citations are issued digitally and mailed to the registered owner. Fines start at $57.50 and can increase if they are not paid on time.
Officials say the technology will also provide traffic data to help improve future curbside operations and support long-term airport planning.
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