International Airport Summit 2024

Agenda

#IARSummit
The Steigenberger Airport Hotel Amsterdam

13th — 14th November 2024

13th November

14th November

Day 2

14th November

Opening Keynote

9.00 – 9.40 am

Future skills need

Building the pipeline for the workforce of tomorrow

The face of aviation is changing and evolving, and as we implement new technologies, so too do the roles of airport workers. In this session, join airport leaders as they discuss the innovative ways that they are attracting the next generation and building the pipeline for the skills of the future. By addressing the key challenges and opportunities in skill development and workforce planning, stakeholders can collaborate to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of airports in an ever-changing landscape. In this panel session, airport leaders will discuss:

  • How are advancements in technology reshaping roles and responsibilities within airport operations, and the skills that will be crucial in order to leverage these technologies effectively
  • With increasing emphasis on sustainability, how will airports balance growth with environmental stewardship?
  • What initiatives are needed to the bridge the gap between academic programmes and industry demands?
Panel Discussion

9.40 – 10.20 am

Aircraft and airports of the future

What will aircraft and the airport of the future look like in 10-50 years’ time? The future of aviation is being reshaped by revolutionary new cleaner aircraft, and technologies such as advanced air mobility (AAM) and drones, promising unparalleled efficiency, accessibility and sustainability. This panel session delves into the transformative potential of next generation aircraft, AAM and drones, examining their impact on both aircraft design and the infrastructure of tomorrow’s airports. In this panel discussion, join us as experts discuss:

  • What are the key drivers behind the proliferation of AAM technologies, and how are they reshaping urban transportation networks? What challenges need to be addressed to enable widespread adoption of eVTOLs and UAM services?
  • How will airports of the future accommodate AAM and drone operations? What infrastructure investments are necessary to support the charging, maintenance and integration of eVTOLs and drones into existing airport facilities?
  • How can the public perception of AAM and drones be shaped to foster acceptance and integration into urban environments? What strategies are effective in addressing concerns related to noise pollution, privacy and airspace usage?
Case Study

10.20 – 10.40 am

Airport Case Study

Building the airport of the future

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Panel Discussion

10.40 – 11.20 am

Innovation around net zero and zero waste

Airports are galvanised to reduce their carbon footprints and minimise their impact on the environment. Discuss what opportunities exist for cross-sector collaboration and partnerships to accelerate progress towards net zero and zero waste and how can organisations leverage collective expertise and resources to overcome challenges and drive systemic change. Join this panel of airport innovators to see how they are focusing their efforts on the quest to net zero and zero waste.

In this session:

  • Hear what the most promising technological advancements driving progress towards net zero emissions and zero waste are
  • How can airports transition from a linear ‘take-make-waste’ model to a circular economy approach that emphasises resource efficiency, reuse and recycling? What successful case studies exemplify the benefits of circularity?
  • What innovations did not deliver what was expected, where did they fail?
Maurice Jenkins with Miami International Airport logo
Maurice Jenkins

Chief Innovation Officer, Miami International Airport

11.20 – 11.50 am

Networking Coffee

Fireside Chat

11.50 – 12.10 am

Powering the airport of the future

Renewable energies

As the aviation industry commits to reducing its carbon footprint and mitigating environmental impact, airports play a pivotal role in leading the transition towards renewable energy solutions. We explore the innovative approaches and sustainable technologies shaping the future of airport operations, with a focus on electrification, solar power, hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuel. In this session discuss:

  • How can airports facilitate the production and distribution of SAF to reduce carbon emissions from aircraft operations? What policies and incentives are needed to accelerate the adoption of SAF within the aviation industry?
  • What are the challenges and opportunities associated with electrification in airport operations? How can airports maximise solar energy generation and storage capacity to meet operational demands?
  • What potential does hydrogen fuel hold for decarbonising aviation and airport operations? How are airports investing in hydrogen production, storage and distribution infrastructure?
Panel Discussion

12.10 – 12.50 am

Threats and opportunities of AI, discuss

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming various aspects of airport operations, offering unprecedented efficiency gains, enhanced security measures and improved passenger experiences. However, alongside its promising advancements, AI also presents challenges and potential risks that must be addressed. In this session, we seek to explore the multifaceted impacts of AI adoption in airport environments, fostering a nuanced discussion on the opportunities it presents and the threats it poses. In this panel, discuss:

  • How can AI-driven technologies, such as facial recognition and behavioural analytics, strengthen security measures at airports? What are the implications for privacy and data protection?
  • In what ways can AI-powered solutions enhance the passenger experience, from personalised wayfinding to real-time flight updates and seamless check-in processes?
  • What are the cyber-security vulnerabilities associated with AI systems in airports, and how can they be mitigated to prevent potential threats, such as data breaches or system manipulation?
Giulio Ranucci with Aeroporti di Roma logo
Giulio Ranucci

Head of Innovation, Digital & CVC, Aeroporti di Roma

Ian Law with Los Angeles World Airports logo
Ian Law

Chief Digital Transformation Officer, Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA)

Fireside Chat

12.50 – 1.10 am

Biometrics and identity management

Subheading

Join us for an engaging fireside chat as we delve into the fascinating world of biometrics and identity management. In this intimate conversation, esteemed experts will discuss the latest advancements, challenges, and implications of biometric technology in shaping identity verification and authentication processes. From facial recognition to fingerprint scanning and beyond, we will explore how biometrics are revolutionising security measures, enhancing user experiences, and redefining the concept of digital identity. This fireside chat promises to illuminate key insights and provoke thought-provoking discussions such as:

  • Discover how biometric authentication methods are enhancing user experiences by providing convenient, frictionless access to devices, services, and facilities while maintaining robust security measures
  • Explore emerging trends and innovations in biometric technology, such as multimodal biometrics, continuous authentication, and decentralised identity solutions, and their implications for the future of identity management.
  • Delve into the security and privacy implications of biometric data collection, storage, and usage, and learn about best practices for mitigating risks and safeguarding user privacy.

1.10 – 2.10 pm

Networking Lunch

Panel Discussion

2.10 – 2.50 pm

Revolutionising the retail and F&B experience

Airports have evolved from mere transportation hubs to dynamic destinations offering a wide array of retail and food & beverage (F&B) experiences. Join us for an insightful discussion as industry leaders explore innovative strategies, emerging trends and disruptive technologies reshaping the landscape of airport retail and F&B offerings, and share their perspectives on enhancing the traveller experience, driving revenue growth, and staying ahead in a competitive market. In this panel session, discuss:

  • How can airports leverage data analytics and AI-driven technologies to offer personalised retail experiences tailored to individual passenger preferences and travel itineraries?
  • What role do mobile apps, digital kiosks, and e-commerce platforms play in modernising airport retail and F&B operations? How can technology bridge the gap between online and offline shopping experiences?
  • How are airports redefining the F&B landscape with innovative dining concepts, celebrity chef partnerships, and locally sourced menu offerings?
Case Study

2.50 – 3.10 pm

Passenger experience case study

Subheading

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Panel Discussion

3.10 – 3.50 pm

Security measures against rebounding and emerging threats

In an ever-evolving landscape of global security challenges, airports play a critical role in safeguarding passengers, personnel, and infrastructure against a wide range of threats. This panel gathers security experts and industry leaders to discuss proactive strategies, innovative technologies and collaborative approaches to address evolving threats and ensure the safety and security of airports worldwide. In this session, discuss:

  • What are the current trends and emerging threats facing the aviation industry, including terrorism, cyber-attacks, insider threats, and biological hazards? How are these threats evolving, and what implications do they have for airport security?
  • What innovative security technologies are being deployed to enhance passenger screening, baggage inspection, and cargo security at airports? How can biometrics, AI-driven analytics, and machine learning algorithms augment traditional security measures to improve detection accuracy and efficiency?
  • How are airport security personnel trained and equipped to respond effectively to security incidents, including active shooter scenarios, bomb threats and hostile intrusions?

3.50 – 4.20 pm

Networking Coffee

Panel Discussion

4.20 – 4.50 pm

Governance, collaboration and engagement with the airline community

Effective and open collaboration between airports and airlines is essential for ensuring seamless operations, optimising resources, and delivering exceptional passenger experiences in air travel. In this panel, we bring together key stakeholders from both sectors to discuss best practices, challenges, and opportunities in fostering productive partnerships. Join us for an insightful discussion as industry leaders explore strategies for enhancing governance structures, promoting collaboration, and fostering meaningful engagement to drive mutual success and sustainability. In this session, discuss:

  • How can airports and airlines collaborate to enhance the passenger experience, from seamless check-in and security screening processes to convenient transfers and personalised services? What innovations and technologies are being deployed to improve passenger satisfaction and loyalty?
  • What governance models and frameworks are effective in promoting collaboration and decision-making between airports and airlines? How can governance structures be optimised to address the needs and priorities of both sectors while ensuring transparency and accountability?
  • How do airports and airlines collaborate during crisis situations, such as natural disasters, security incidents, or public health emergencies? What protocols and communication channels are in place to ensure coordinated responses and maintain operational resilience?
Johanne Gallant with Fredericton International Airport YFC logo
Johanne Gallant

President & CEO, Fredericton International Airport

Abhi Chacko with London Gatwick Airport logo
Abhi Chacko

Head of Innovation and Commercial Development, London Gatwick Airport

Panel Discussion

4.50 – 5.10 pm

Managing lack of human capital

The aviation industry faces a growing challenge of managing the shortage of human capital in airports, exacerbated by factors such as demographic shifts, skilled labour shortages, and evolving workforce preferences. The panel session titled ‘Managing Lack of Human Capital in Airports’ examines how airports can address this pressing issue by embracing automation and robotics to augment workforce capabilities, improve operational efficiency and enhance passenger experiences. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion as industry experts explore innovative solutions and best practices for navigating the complexities of workforce management in the digital age. In this panel session, discuss:

  • What are the key workforce challenges facing airports today, and how are demographic shifts, skill shortages, and changing labour dynamics impacting airport operations? How can airports assess their workforce needs and identify areas where technology such as automation and robotics can fill the gaps?
  • What are the areas within airport operations that are ripe for automation, such as baggage handling, passenger screening, and maintenance tasks?
  • How can airports collaborate with technology vendors, startups, and research institutions to pilot and implement automation and robotics solutions tailored to their specific operational needs?
  • How can airports invest in upskilling and reskilling initiatives to prepare their workforce for the integration of automation and robotics technologies?
Sarah Marquez with Denver International Airport logo
Sarah Marquez

Senior Vice President Airport Operations, Denver International Airport

Fireside Chat

5.10 – 5.30 pm

Hot seat challenge

Embedding change successfully in airports

Are you ready to take on the challenge of driving transformational change in the dynamic environment of airport operations? Join us for an exhilarating Hot Seat Challenge where industry professionals will put their strategic thinking and change management skills to the test in the high-pressure arena of embedding change successfully in airports.

In this fast-paced and interactive challenge, participants will face real-world scenarios and complex dilemmas encountered when implementing change initiatives within airport environments. From modernising infrastructure and improving operational efficiency to enhancing passenger experiences and embracing sustainability, participants will tackle a range of pressing challenges that require innovative solutions and effective change leadership.

5.30 pm

Day Two Close