Berlin, Germany

19-20 November 2025

Agenda

Day 1 | Day 2

Day 1

19th November

Day 2

20th November

View the Roundtables

Session 1

Keynote Presentation

08:35 – 09:20 CET

Boardroom battlefield

How airport executives can lead through turbulence & growth

Join us for this insightful keynote discussion as leading airport executives come together to address the pressing challenges shaping the future of airport management. In an era of evolving passenger behaviours and expectations, airports are facing the paradox of rising passenger volumes coupled with declining per-passenger spending. This panel will delve into strategies for adapting to these shifting dynamics while managing the complexities of aging infrastructure and a growing number of passengers requiring enhanced accessibility.

In addition, our speakers will explore the impact of geopolitical uncertainties and the associated challenges for airport concessions and retail operations. Through candid discussions, they will share practical solutions, innovative approaches and lessons learned from navigating these common obstacles. This session offers a valuable opportunity to gain actionable insights from industry leaders facing the same challenges as your airport. Don’t miss this chance to learn how to turn challenges into opportunities for growth and resilience.

Laila Odina

CEO

Riga Airport

Ricardo Hernández

CEO

Aeris Holdings Costa Rica (Airport operator)

Sigrún Björk Jakobsdóttir

CEO

Isavia Regional Airports Iceland

Moderator

Chris Woodroofe

Managing Director

Manchester Airport

Sponsored by

Session 2

Fireside Chat

09:20 – 09:50 CET

Arrive. Drop. Go!

Reinventing check-ins for ultimate speed and convenience

As airports strive to accommodate increasing passenger volumes while enhancing efficiency, the traditional check-in process is undergoing a radical transformation. This panel will explore the future of airport check-in halls, examining how cutting-edge technology is redefining speed, convenience and overall passenger experience.

From biometric check-ins and self-service bag drops to AI-driven queue management and contactless processing, technology is playing a pivotal role in streamlining airport operations. But which innovations are making the greatest impact today, and what advancements are on the horizon? Our panel of industry experts will discuss the latest breakthroughs, share insights on implementation challenges and explore the broader implications for airport commercial strategy – including how seamless check-ins influence passenger flow, retail engagement and per-passenger spend in the departures hall.

Join us as we reimagine the future of airport check-ins and uncover how automation, personalisation and digital transformation are shaping the passenger journey.

Doug Wycoff

Director of Digital Solutions and Innovation

Tampa International Airport

Borry Vrieling

Founder

Eezeetags

Moderator

Mats Berglind

Innovation Manager

Swedavia

Sponsored by

Session 3

Panel

09:50 – 10:20 CET

The game-changing tech powering net zero aviation

As the aviation industry works towards achieving its ambitious net zero goals, a new wave of innovative technologies is emerging as a critical driver of this transformation. This panel will explore the groundbreaking advancements that are shaping the future of sustainable air travel, both now and in the near future.

Experts will delve into the cutting-edge technologies making net zero aviation a tangible reality, including sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), carbon capture systems and AI-driven efficiency solutions. Panellists will discuss the complex challenges associated with scaling these innovations, navigating the regulator environment and the pivotal role airports play in supporting the broader decarbonisation efforts. Additionally, the conversation will cover the substantial investments required to accelerate these technologies’ adoption and ensure their successful integration into the aviation ecosystem.

Join us for an in-depth discussion with industry leaders who are at the forefront of driving low-carbon technologies and transforming the aviation industry into a more sustainable and environmentally responsible sector. This session will provide valuable insights into the future of aviation and the role that technology and innovation will play in achieving a net zero future.

Giampiero Goretti

Head of energy Management and Decarbonisation

Aeroporti di Roma

Rachel Gardner-Poole, OBE

Sustainable Aviation Consultant

NATS

Chris Woodroofe

Managing Director

Manchester Airport

Moderator

Maurice Jenkins

Chief Innovation Officer

Miami International Airport

Session 4

Panel

10:20 – 10:50 CET

The accessibility revolution

Game-changing technology showcase

As the number of passengers with reduced mobility and diverse accessibility needs continues to rise, airports are increasingly challenged to deliver a seamless and inclusive travel experience. This demographic not only includes individuals with visible physical disabilities but also those with hidden needs, presenting a complex set of operational and service-related demands. In response, airports worldwide are turning to innovative technologies to bridge these gaps and redefine accessibility standards.

This panel will explore how cutting-edge solutions – such as automated wheelchairs, real-time sign language translation and virtual reality airport tours – are transforming the journey for passengers with accessibility needs. Industry leaders will share insights into the implementation and impact of these technologies, discussing best practices, challenges faced and measurable improvements in passenger satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Join us to discover how airports are leveraging technology to create a more inclusive environment, ensuring that all travellers can move effortlessly and with dignity. This session is essential for those seeking to understand the future of accessible air travel and the technologies that are leading the way.

Michele Parietti

Head of PRM Assistance

SEA Milan Airports

Darrell Watson

Senior Vice President & Chief Experience Officer

Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport

Al Titterington

Terminal Operations Director

Birmingham Airport

Sponsored by

Session 5

Panel Discussion

11:20 – 11:50 CET

Winning strategies for a carbon-neutral airport

Reducing carbon footprint and saving energy costs in BHS

This discussion explores how airports can balance operational efficiency with sustainability by implementing innovative strategies within their baggage handling systems (BHS). Experts will share practical approaches to reducing energy consumption, cutting carbon emissions, and optimizing processes to achieve measurable cost savings while advancing toward carbon-neutral airport operations.

Vijay Kapur

Capacity & Product Development Manager, Engineering and Baggage

London Heathrow Airport

Marc Deimling

Executive Vice President Forbo Movement Systems

Forbo Siegling

Moderator

Yorick Buys

Head of Baggage

Brussels Airport Company

Roundtable 1

11:50 – 12:50 CET

Digital Sovereign Cloud: A strategic imperative for airports

Airports are increasingly reliant on digital systems to manage operations, security, and passenger experiences. But with rising regulatory requirements, growing cyber threats, and the need to protect sensitive operational and passenger data, how can airports ensure their cloud strategy is both secure and compliant?
This round table will explore the practical implications of adopting a sovereign cloud, helping airports:
• Safeguard critical data while meeting regulatory and compliance demands
• Build trust with passengers, airlines, and stakeholders
• Balance innovation with operational resilience
• Collaborate effectively across the aviation ecosystem
Join industry peers to discuss how sovereign cloud solutions can support the day-to-day challenges of modern airport operations and future-proof digital transformation initiatives.

Chaired by

Gerri Sinclair

Chief Prioritization, Planning and Performance Optimization Officer
Vancouver International Airport Authority

Roundtable 2

11:50 – 12:50 CET

Running Efficient Airside Operations

Airports face the ongoing challenge of keeping airside operations efficient, safe, and resilient while meeting growing traffic demand and passenger expectations. This roundtable will bring together airport professionals to explore practical strategies for optimising runway and apron performance, improving on-time operations, and managing capacity more effectively. Discussion points will include collaborative decision-making (A-CDM), slot coordination, disruption management, integration of new technologies, and smarter use of existing infrastructure. Attendees will exchange experiences and ideas on how to enhance punctuality, maximise efficiency, and prepare for future growth without compromising safety or service quality.

Chaired by

Thomas Romig

Chief Operations Officer
Brussels Airport

Roundtable 3

11:50 – 12:50 CET

Unlocking the Potential of AI in Airport Operations

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the way airports plan, operate, and interact with passengers — from predictive maintenance and baggage tracking to facial recognition and real-time operational decision-making. This roundtable will convene airport executives, technology leaders, and innovation specialists to discuss practical applications of AI that deliver measurable benefits. Topics will include enhancing operational efficiency, improving the passenger experience, reducing delays, optimising resource allocation, and managing ethical considerations such as data privacy and bias. Delegates will share success stories, explore emerging AI solutions, and debate how to integrate AI into airport ecosystems for long-term resilience and competitiveness.

Chaired by

Maurice Jenkins

Chief Innovation Officer
Miami International Airport

Roundtable 4

11:50 – 12:50 CET

Evolving Identity and Security Strategies for Safer, Smarter Airports

Security remains a cornerstone of airport operations, requiring constant adaptation to evolving threats, regulatory changes, and passenger expectations. This roundtable will bring together airport security directors, government agencies, and technology providers to discuss how to balance robust protection with operational efficiency and a seamless passenger journey. Topics will include advanced screening technologies, risk-based security approaches, integrating intelligence sharing, enhancing landside and airside security coordination, and responding effectively to emerging threats. With the EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) set to transform border control processes through biometric verification, the session will also explore how airports are preparing to meet compliance requirements while leveraging biometrics to enhance both security and passenger experience. Participants will share practical experiences, innovative solutions, and strategies for fostering collaboration across the airport ecosystem to keep people and operations safe.

Chaired by

Oliver Braun

Head of Security
Berlin Brandenburg Airport

Session 6

Panel

13:50 – 14:25 CET

The robots are coming!

Dealing with workforce shortages with robotics and autonomy

As airports embrace digital transformation, they are adding a roster of robots to their workforce and leveraging autonomous technologies. From AI-driven security systems and autonomous baggage handling to self-service kiosks and passenger assistance robots, these innovations are enhancing efficiency and redefining the passenger experience.

This panel will bring together industry leaders to explore the opportunities and challenges of integrating robotics into airport environments. Experts will discuss the operational efficiencies gained through automation, the impact on workforce dynamics, and the evolving relationship between human expertise and machine intelligence. Additionally, the session will address key considerations such as regulatory frameworks, cyber-security risks and scalability as airports work toward seamless, technology-driven operations.

Join us to discover how robotics and autonomy are driving smarter, more resilient airports – and what this means for the future of air travel.

Leander Gottschalk

Senior Project Manager Corporate Strategy & Digitalisation

Fraport

Johannes Smejkal

Director of Ground Handling Services

Vienna Airport

Cesar Nava

Head of advanced air mobility projects / Innovation Engineer

Aena (Airport operator)

Moderator

Henk Brandsma

Strategic Process Developer Baggage, Airport Operations

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

Sponsored by

Session 7

Fireside Chat

14:25 – 14:55 CET

AI That Sees the Future:

Predictive maintenance that prevents disasters

By using the power of AI algorithms, airports can make proactive decisions, predict potential bottlenecks and optimise various parts in their daily operation. Predictive maintenance, driven by AI algorithms, is improving facility management by enabling airports to move from reactive to proactive decision-making – reducing downtime, optimising resources and enhancing passenger experience.

By analysing real-time data from sensors embedded in critical airport infrastructure – such as escalators, baggage handling systems and HVAC units – AI can detect subtle patterns that indicate potential failures. Key factors like temperature fluctuations, vibrations and energy consumption are continuously monitored, allowing predictive models to anticipate issues before they escalate into costly breakdowns.

This panel will explore how AI-driven predictive maintenance is transforming airport operations, ensuring seamless functionality, minimising disruptions and ultimately enhancing overall efficiency. Join industry experts as they delve into real-world applications, the challenges of implementation and the future potential of AI-powered maintenance in shaping the next-generation airport.

Leif Johnson

Industry Solution Director

Bentley

Doug Wycoff

Director of Digital Solutions and Innovation

Tampa International Airport

Moderator

Alvaro Rios

Innovation Project Manager

Aena

Sponsored by

Session 8

Panel

14:55 – 15:40 CET

Airports:

How smart tech is optimising every inch of your airport

Artificial intelligence is revolutionising airport operations, driving efficiency, enhancing safety and redefining the way airports manage their critical infrastructure. As AI-powered solutions become more sophisticated, airports are leveraging these technologies to optimise workflows, analyse passenger flows, reduce operational costs and make data-driven decisions in real time – ensuring seamless operational performance.

This expert-led panel will explore how AI is transforming every aspect of airport management, from predictive maintenance and automated ground handling to intelligent stand allocation and aircraft turnaround optimisation. Industry leaders will discuss the benefits and challenges of integrating AI-driven technologies, sharing insights on how airports can maximise efficiency without compromising safety or sustainability.

Join us to uncover the full potential of AI in airports, gain real-world perspectives from those at the forefront of this digital shift and discover what the future holds for AI-powered airport operations.

Fabrizio Magliocca

Head of Business Transformation, Innovation & Quality

Aeroporti di Roma

Justin Kester

VP-Global Sales

Synaptic Aviation, Inc.

Jacqui Johnson

Aviation Partner

+impact

Tara Mulrooney

Chief Technology Officer and Vice President of Innovation

Edmonton International Airport

Moderator

Thomas Romig

Chief Operations Officer

Brussels Airport

Sponsored by

Session 9

Panel

15:40 – 16:10 CET

AI in action

Transforming the passenger experience from curb to gate

Airports are under increasing pressure to deliver a seamless passenger experience while navigating rising passenger volumes, staffing constraints, and operational complexity. This panel will explore how AI and real-time data can help airports improve efficiency, reduce queue times, and deliver more personalised, responsive journeys – from the moment passengers arrive at the terminal to when they board their flight.

Our panellists will share practical insights on how airports can deploy these tools—while keeping the human touch at the heart of service delivery.

At the same time, the ethical and practical implications of AI adoption will be addressed. What does responsible, privacy-conscious passenger tracking look like? How can smaller airports implement scalable solutions without overwhelming existing infrastructure? And how can operations and commercial teams work together to unlock the full potential of AI-driven transformation?

Roland Böhm

Head of Operations Planning and Development, Operations

Berlin Brandenburg Airport

Kerry Skelly

Product Marketing Manager

AeroCloud Systems

Moderator

Fabrizio Magliocca

Head of Business Transformation, Innovation & Quality

Aeroporti di Roma

Sponsored by

Session 10

Fireside Chat

16:10 – 16:40 CET

How Berlin Airport keeps its sky safer with high-tech radar

Bird strikes represent a critical safety concern in aviation, with the potential to escalate into catastrophic events as we have seen from recent major incidents. This fireside chat will delve into the crucial role of advanced radar technologies in mitigating the risks associated with wildlife hazards at airports.

Experts from the aviation and technology sectors will explore the latest innovations in avian radar systems, real-time monitoring and deterrents that are helping to prevent bird strikes and protect aircraft, passengers and crews. By leveraging cutting-edge radar technology, airports are significantly enhancing their wildlife hazard management strategies, ensuring safer operations on the ground and in the skies.

Join us for an insightful discussion on how radar technology is playing a vital role in safeguarding aviation safety. Discover how these innovations are helping airports reduce risks, improve operational efficiency and maintain a secure flying environment for all.

Christian Miersch

Bird and Wildlife Control Manager

Berlin Airport

Sibylle Giraud

VP Wind, Civil Aviation and Environmental Practice

Robin Radar Systems B.V.

Moderator

Ian Betteridge

Director of Content

International Airport Review

Sponsored by

Session 11

Panel

16:40 – 17:10 CET

Securing the skies

The cutting-edge security tech every airport needs

As airports serve as critical national infrastructure, they face evolving and sophisticated security threats on a daily basis. To stay ahead of these challenges, airports must adopt the latest security technologies that ensure robust protection while maintaining operational efficiency.

This panel will delve into the most innovative and advanced security solutions transforming the aviation industry, including biometric screening, AI-powered threat detection systems, next generation scanners, and cutting-edge perimeter security measures tailored to the needs of modern airports.

Industry experts will discuss the practical benefits and potential challenges of integrating these technologies into existing airport operations. They will also explore the complexities of complying with ever tightening regulatory standards while striving to provide a seamless, frictionless experience for passengers. This session will highlight how these technological advancements are reshaping airport security, balancing the delicate equation of safety, efficiency and passenger convenience.

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Agenda

Boardroom battlefield

How airport executives can lead through turbulence & growth

Moderator

Sponsored by

Arrive. Drop. Go!

Reinventing check-ins for ultimate speed and convenience

Moderator

Sponsored by

The game-changing tech powering net zero aviation

Moderator

The accessibility revolution

Game-changing technology showcase

Sponsored by

Winning strategies for a carbon-neutral airport

Reducing carbon footprint and saving energy costs in BHS

Moderator

Roundtable 1

Digital Sovereign Cloud: A strategic imperative for airports

Gerri Sinclair

Roundtable 2

Running Efficient Airside Operations

Thomas Romig

Roundtable 3

Unlocking the Potential of AI in Airport Operations

Maurice Jenkins

Roundtable 4

Evolving Identity and Security Strategies for Safer, Smarter Airports

Oliver Braun

The robots are coming!

Dealing with workforce shortages with robotics and autonomy

Moderator

Sponsored by

AI That Sees the Future:

Predictive maintenance that prevents disasters

Moderator

Sponsored by

Airports:

How smart tech is optimising every inch of your airport

Moderator

Sponsored by

AI in action

Transforming the passenger experience from curb to gate

Moderator

Sponsored by

How Berlin Airport keeps its sky safer with high-tech radar

Moderator

Sponsored by

Securing the skies

The cutting-edge security tech every airport needs

Moderator

2025

Sponsors