Conference Themes

Sustainability is a key priority as airports actively embed initiatives into their operations to achieve operation efficiency. We will delve into how airports are tackling this multifaceted area and demonstrate where success is being achieved through data reporting and key metrics results. We will take a deep dive into EU vs UK and Global government’s legislation around Sustainability and what this means in practical compliance by airports. The Sustainability track will also cover implementing SAF, and the preparation work airports are conducting, transforming airside operations on the journey to reach net-zero emissions and how airports can be designed sustainably.  

The technology revolution is showing no signs of slowing, and as we swiftly transition into the adoption phase of generative AI, we are witnessing the power of digital transformation in day-to-day airport operations.  From a passenger experience, how are airport deploying the latest technology to create an optimal CX? We will look at specific case studies on the impact of technology, how a human centric approach has been adopted, where were the successes and pitfalls; and how ROI is being measured in business case justification for investment.

Security is paramount in the aviation world, one of an airport’s key priorities, is keeping their employees, passengers and equipment safe against harm. We will tactically look at real life case studies of how airports are preparing for numerous active threats – how are these prioritised and how can airports plan accordingly with multiple stakeholders with different priorities. We will touch on the geopolitical issues, cyber security and much more on how an airport can operationally, financially and reputationally operate during a crisis with minimal disruption.

 

The screening of passengers and baggage is an integral part of airport operations to ensure the safe and smooth passage of customers. We look at the new smart screening technology developments that are improving detection and the benefits around this, including around biometric development and addressing passenger privacy concerns. Airside security runways, taxiways, and navigational systems and the threats posed to these areas will also be covered, as we look holistically at airport security.

We are in data overload, with Gen AI contributing to the data influx – never before have we produced or dealt with such a volume of data – but how do we qualify it and drive insights from what the data is showing us. We will demonstrate how this is driving decision making and efficiency at airports with real life case studies. Different data sets around flight arrival data, passenger satisfaction rates, emissions etc will be dissected to show best practice in action. As we move from AI hype to implementation, AI will have a transformative effect on how an airport operates – we will see real case studies examples of those who are deploying AI with success.

For an airport to operate with excellence, people are at the heart of this - attracting the top talent to drive the growth of an airport is paramount. In these concise sessions, we will gain insights on how the industry is evolving and what skill sets do future leaders in an evolving industry need to possess?  We will examine how airports retain and nurture their best talent, how AI is transforming the recruitment process, and is it affecting the roles as we knew them?

The aviation industry is extremely proactive and energetic in its pursuit of anticipating, embracing and satisfying future customer requirements. In these Airport Development sessions, we will focus on airports that are charging ahead on how they are operating profitably, maximising revenue opportunities, and where they see future opportunities for growth. Middle Eastern Airports such as Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi are showcasing impressive features, but we’ll also look within Europe, on thew new projects being implemented and how they are implementing continuous learning around efficiency.

Airports operate within an integrated rail, bus, and road ecosystem, and an excellent intermodal operation has a direct impact on the customer experience. We look at how passengers can travel seamlessly across these modes and how they can compliment each other, whilst embracing the latest advances in technology, taking into consideration enhanced accessibility, reduced travel time and clear communication with passengers.


 

Robotics are being increasingly deployed across airports, as they are integrated into security and surveillance, baggage handling and cargo and logistics, all with the aim of enhancing efficiency. In these detailed sessions, we look at specific cases of where robotics are improving airport operations. And crucially, how can this incredible technology be embedded into a personable passenger experience. Human needs and emotions need to taken into careful consideration as robotics are bought in – we look at case studies how robotics can be evaluated.