YVR, LAWA, DFW, MIA, PIT, CVG & more among FTE Airport Digital Transformation Power List Americas 2025

Albert van Veen joined Vancouver International Airport (YVR) as Vice President, Innovation and Chief Information Officer in September 2024. He is responsible for YVR’s IT infrastructure across the travel experience. Recognised globally for his work in information technology transformation and digital identity, prior to joining YVR, van Veen served – among other roles – as CEO and Chief Digital Officer at FastID, and Chief Digital Officer at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.

As Vice President, Innovation and Chief Information Officer, van Veen leads the development and implementation of transformative digital strategies to redefine the travel experience. His role focuses on leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as digital identity, biometrics, and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven solutions to make travel faster, easier, and more secure for passengers.

YVR – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – is always looking for new and innovative ways to enhance passenger experience and operational resilience, using digital tools to streamline processes and make smarter, data-driven decisions. This includes partnering with other airports to co-develop intelligent solutions. An important development as part of these efforts is YVR’s recent partnership with Aviation Solutions – by Schiphol Group. Through the integration of YVR’s Digital Twin and Aviation Solutions’ Deep Turnaround, YVR can harness real-time intelligence and AI-driven predictions to enhance aircraft readiness, reduce delays, and maximise gate utilisation.

YVR was the first airport in the world to develop an accurate Digital Twin of the airport and is leveraging the technology to improve the passenger experience and lead innovation outside its core aviation business. Indeed, the Digital Twin has revolutionised the way YVR manages its operations. By leveraging real-time data and predictive analytics, YVR continues to optimise its operations in the terminal, across airside, and more to enhance efficiency and passenger experience.

As Vice President, Innovation and Chief Information Officer, van Veen is recognised on the Power List for his leadership role in creating a seamless, welcoming, and efficient travel experience.

As Chief Information Officer, Aura Moore leads the development of information technology strategy at Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) and oversees all information technology day-to-day operations. She serves as the top technology infrastructure and systems leader for LAWA’s two airports – Los Angeles International (LAX) and Van Nuys General Aviation (VNY) – is responsible for keeping LAWA at the global frontier of information technology and service excellence.

LAWA is in the midst of the biggest transformation project in the history of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), in advance of the city hosting the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, with the goal of making the airport an industry leader in technology, efficiency and guest experience. The capital program is transforming the entire passenger experience from curb to gate and the team led by Moore is playing a key role. Among the highlights are a $1.7 billion state-of-the-art 15-gate facility, the West Gates at Tom Bradley International Terminal; a $5.5 billion Landside Access Modernization Program (LAMP), comprising an automated people mover train system, consolidated rent-a-car facility, intermodal transportation facilities and new economy parking facility; and the Midfield Satellite Concourse (MSC) South.

In addition to all facilities that LAWA is modernising, it is rethinking the entire passenger process. A big part of that is the use of technology and what LAWA calls a ‘digital marketplace’. The concept behind the digital marketplace is that the customer will have the ability to control their journey even before they arrive at the airport through their mobile devices, incorporating amenities and services in a personalised manner. Passengers will be able to pre-book all aspects of their journey – from parking and food & beverage to virtual queuing at security checkpoints.

Moore’s focus on maintaining LAWA’s leading technology position has resulted in improvements in the operations, security, service quality, and customer experience. She has, for example, led the implementation of biometric self-boarding at LAX as well as common use self-service passenger systems.

LAWA is actively integrating robotics and automation into its operations, with a focus on enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency. Examples include the use of automated people movers, food delivery robots, and artificial intelligence (AI)-powered retail stores. Another promising application of AI that LAWA is exploring is wayfinding and navigation enhanced with real-time information – a vision where a traveller’s smartphone guides them step-by-step to their gate, with personalised recommendations based on their preferences.

While many members of the LAWA team are contributing to its digital transformation initiatives – including Ian Law, who as Chief Innovation & Experience Officer has a central role in customer and employee experience, both physical and digital – as CIO Aura Moore is recognised on the Power List for her tech-focused leadership.

Digital transformation is a key pillar of Dallas Fort Worth International Airport’s (DFW) ‘Travel. Transformed’ strategic plan, focusing on innovation with a collective goal to continuously reinvent the way it operates and to deliver new solutions to the airport’s customers and business partners.

Mike Youngs, Vice President Information Technology, leads the team progressively accelerating the adoption of digital technology. DFW – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – is embracing innovation in areas such autonomous mobility, connectivity, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. Among DFW’s myriad digital transformation initiatives are its ground-breaking Digital Twin project, which is enabling the airport to make proactive, data-led decisions in real-time to meet its sustainability, efficiency and resiliency goals.

Meanwhile, DFW partnered with Dallas-based AT&T to provide the airport with a comprehensive wireless platform to enhance connectivity and critical infrastructure. The $10 million worth of upgrades to modernise and expand the network covering the airport supports airport operations and advances free public WiFi in the terminals. A private 5G network for the airport’s internal use will meet the rising demand for Internet of Things (IoT) use cases and the digitisation of airport operations.

In partnership with Synect, DFW is also redefining airport communication through smart signage to leverage content and systems to influence passenger behaviour, streamline operations, and maximise ROI.

DFW believes in the power of collaborative innovation and is also a member of the pioneering Airports for Innovation network – a global coalition of 10 airports working together on next-generation solutions to enhance the passenger experience, which recently launched its first joint ‘Call4Startups’.

As the Chief Technology Officer & Vice President Innovation, Tara Mulrooney leads the team responsible for innovation, technology and analytics at Edmonton International Airport (YEG). Her approach to IT includes converting strategic plans into tactical reality by leveraging people, technology and efficient processes. Mulrooney and her team are enabling the innovation expansion at YEG, leading cutting-edge initiatives that leverage artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT) and data integration to enhance passenger experience, optimise airport operations, and drive sustainability. Under Mulrooney’s leadership, YEG focuses on smart infrastructure, cybersecurity, and operational efficiency, positioning the airport as a leader in digital transformation.

The YEG Master Plan 2048 includes a key principle of Innovative Airport Infrastructure – ensuring that future airport infrastructure is efficient and adaptable. Meanwhile, the terminal development strategy prioritises technology to enable greater flexibility and efficiency, as well as innovation to improve experiences for passengers and the airport working community. Plans include further implementation of common-use equipment and the introduction of new self-service check-in and bag drop technology.

YEG is also exploring robotics and autonomous vehicles, while developing a private wireless network.

From curb to gate, Miami International Airport (MIA) – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – has been introducing cutting-edge technologies at each customer touchpoint, simplifying and streamlining the passenger journey. The team led by Maurice Jenkins, Chief Innovation Officer, has keenly adopted self-service technologies and encouraged airlines serving the airport to also embrace innovation. This strategic vision has successfully culminated in the integration of new technology in the opening of the new South and North terminals at MIA, as well as new system implementations such as biometrics, virtual queuing and other new innovating technologies.

MIA is a member of the pioneering FTE Smart Ramp program, which has the ultimate goal that aircraft turnaround can be achieved autonomously and more efficiently. Each member is undertaking an innovation challenge, with MIA focusing on FOD detection via a Computer Vision AI turnaround system; installing and testing a private wireless network and 5G cameras to provide connectivity for a Computer Vison system designed to track aircraft turnaround activities and FOD detection; and testing four vendors of Computer Vision AI turnaround systems with four airlines, including the passenger boarding process.

As part of MIA’s Future Ready initiatives, the airport is advancing its Modernization in Action Plan, a comprehensive effort that will invest nearly $9 billion in maintenance upgrades and capital improvements over the next 10 years. Central to this will be technology solutions and user-driven innovation to elevate the travel experience, and MIA is exploring the potential of artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and autonomous vehicles.

MIA also sees vast potential in new digital identity approaches leveraging biometrics and how the sector can best utilise those opportunities. In addition to biometrics, the airport has trialled several innovations to enhance the passenger experience, including virtual queuing with the vision of full implementation, smart restroom trials, video analytics and Internet of Things (IoT) sensors for conveyances.

The airport is also exploring the key benefits of Private Wireless Networks, such as improved network security and enhanced operational efficiency through superior coverage, while providing the connectivity needed to support technologies such as IoT and autonomous vehicles.

Meanwhile, efforts to build a smarter, more inclusive airport experience include creating innovative wayfinding solutions that cater to everyone together with Mapsted, Route Me, and Signapse.

While many members of the MIA team are contributing to its digital transformation initiatives – including Johnathan Lewis, Division Director Innovation – as Chief Innovation Officer, Maurice Jenkins is recognised on the Power List for his tech-focused leadership.

Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) – located in the ‘Robotics Capital of the World’ – is a pioneer in the robotics and automation space and hosted the FTE World Innovation Summit in May.

PIT – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – has a firm focus on innovation and cutting-edge technology, with the team led by Deepak Nayyar, Executive Vice President & Chief Information Officer, striving to provide the best experience for both travellers and employees. The airport’s new terminal, opening in fall 2025, has been an opportunity to create a new ‘smart airport’ and it embraces digital transformation for a seamless passenger and operational experience.

PIT aims to shape the future of air travel by working closely with partners on initiatives to develop and deploy smart infrastructure like Internet of Things (IoT) integration, sensor networks, data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) to provide seamless connectivity and decision-making through data-driven insights.

Through the pioneering xBridge program, PIT also collaborates with major airports and airlines across the world, some of the sharpest minds in the academic world, and local robotics and technology startups to develop and test innovative projects on its campus. Alongside its partner, Synaptic Aviation, PIT is using AI models to monitor ramp operations through cameras at each gate, synthesising that data and instantly running analytics reports that measure timing for aircraft parking, baggage loading, passenger deplaning and more. Meanwhile, Pittsburgh-based Gecko Robotics brought sensor technology that it developed onto the construction site of the new terminal to determine the efficacy of concrete pours into structural steel of the building. These are just some of the behind-the-scenes technologies being deployed. Plus, a touchless robotic solution to automate baggage handling is being tested in a real-world environment at PIT in collaboration with Journey Robotics.

The airport is also testing features like autonomous mobility vehicles that use AI, and wayfinding to guide passengers to the closest restroom or restaurant, while sensors will process video feeds to deliver real-time estimates for the TSA checkpoint lines using predictive analytics that can forecast peak times and allow for optimal staffing.

As EVP & CIO, Deepak Nayyar is recognised on the Power List for leading the PIT team driving the airport’s comprehensive digital transformation efforts.

The Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) team, led by Chief Innovation Officer Brian Cobb, is recognised on the Power List for its progressive approach to robotics and automation, alongside its exploration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to help personalise the passenger experience.

The airport’s journey in the robotics space began in 2019 with the introduction of autonomous floor scrubbers and sweepers. It was also the first innovation team to bring Gita, a Piaggio Fast Forward following robot – like a drone from Star Wars – into an airport environment. The team uses the bots to assist in delivering traveller surveys or engage in ‘surprise and delight’ events. It has brought Ottonomy, a goods delivery robot, into CVG, and the airport has also introduced Aurrigo’s autonomous baggage tractor, Auto-DollyTug.

CVG’s utilisation of AI includes a collaboration with Tuatara Consulting to implement scalable, AI-enabled software for critical limits evaluation and alternative routing to maximise strategic growth and minimise bottlenecks.

Another key area is leveraging accessibility tech. CVG has experienced success with Signapse for AI-powered ASL digital signage, has trialled MagnusCards for non-English speaking employees, and also tested autonomous wheelchairs.

CVG – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – also collaborates with a broad range of startups through its Innovation Partner Program and is growing its innovation ecosystem by using its 7,700-acre campus as a living laboratory to test new proof of concepts and create new opportunities for its partners.

While many members of the CVG team – including Hannah Meredith, Senior Manager of Strategic Innovation – are contributing to its digital transformation initiatives, as Chief Innovation Officer Brian Cobb is recognised on the Power List for his tech-focused leadership.

The Tampa International Airport (TPA) team, led by Marcus Session, Vice President Information Technology Services, has a strong commitment to innovation with a range of technological advancements aimed at redefining the travel experience. TPA’s forward-thinking terminal expansion, including the new $787.4 million Airside D which is scheduled for completion in 2027, has digital innovation at its heart. The airport – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – has a commitment to innovation, which includes the integration of ground-breaking LiDAR and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, as well as the deployment of additional e-Gates, set to enhance operational efficiency with the aim of transforming TPA into a benchmark for modern airport experiences.

Meanwhile, TPA’s latest advancements in baggage technology include the introduction of a sophisticated Checked Baggage Inspection System and the implementation of advanced cross-belt sorter technology, setting new standards in efficiency and security for baggage handling.

AI is central to TPA’s ongoing digital transformation – from enhancing passenger experience to streamlining operations. The airport is, for example, using AI to redefine customer service. AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants provide passengers with real-time information about flight schedules, gate changes, and baggage claim locations. Meanwhile, AI-driven predictive maintenance systems monitor the health of critical infrastructure, such as runways, lighting systems, and aircraft. By analysing data from sensors and historical maintenance records, AI predicts potential failures before they occur, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. As AI technology evolves, TPA is committed to leveraging these advancements, with the potential for fully automated check-in processes, AI-powered wayfinding systems, and more personalised passenger experiences.

As Chief Information Officer, Matt Breed leads the team responsible for driving Seattle-Tacoma International Airport’s (SEA) digital transformation. SEA – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – has been experimenting with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning for several years. It has, for example, deployed sensors that capture audio and use machine learning to determine when aircraft are running their auxiliary power units – this was done in conjunction with Microsoft and the University of Washington. SEA uses Assaia Apron AI to help optimise airfield operations and also has some prototypes for baggage hygiene, cargo operations, escalator safety, and crowd density analysis. The airport has also introduced Oscar – an AI waste sorting technology from Intuitive AI.

Breed has a passion for technology, especially emerging technologies, and SEA notably used ChatGPT to create the framework for an Aviation Technology Master Plan, with a focus on emerging aviation technologies. While the airport’s use of the technology is experimental at the moment, Breed is encouraging the organisation to familiarise themselves with ChatGPT and other emerging conversational AIs. SEA has also begun exploring the use of generative AI to enhance various aspects of airport operations, passenger experience, and decision-making.

Other emerging technologies that SEA is either utilising or exploring to help further transform the passenger experience include private wireless to provide broad reach connectivity for its emerging Internet of Things (IoT) footprint, electrification, advanced analytics, and Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality.

SEA’s digital transformation initiatives are setting the stage for smarter, more efficient, and passenger-friendly air travel. By deploying AI, robotics, IoT, autonomous vehicles, and biometric technologies, SEA is not only improving operational efficiency but also enhancing the passenger experience.

In his role as Chief Technology Officer, leading the team responsible for IT and innovation at Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA), Brian Tossan serves as a driving force for technological advancement, pioneering new horizons in airport operations, and enhancing passenger experiences through human-centric solutions. Tossan brings with him over two decades of extensive experience in both the automotive and technology sectors, notably with General Motors.

GTAA – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – has launched Pearson LIFT – Long-term Investment in Facilities and Terminals (LIFT), a capital plan spanning more than a decade, investing billions of dollars into Toronto Pearson’s facilities. A key element of the program is digital transformation and establishing Toronto Pearson as a technological airport leader.

Indeed, GTAA is enhancing the passenger experience at Toronto Pearson with a suite of digital innovations. The airport has fast-tracked its modernisation plans by investing in innovative technologies that are already helping passengers navigate the airport more easily and quickly. Innovations and processes helping smooth the travel experience include contactless check-in and boarding; a partnership with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to deploy biometric e-gates; new digital technology at check-in, gates and baggage areas to replace the current generation of self-service tech; deployment of enhanced digital mapping tools to empower travellers with better information as they navigate the terminals; and an upgraded baggage system featuring artificial intelligence (AI) that anticipates overloading and detects potential breakdowns before they occur.

Tossan and his team believe AI is a gamechanger. In baggage handling, AI-driven scheduling software is revolutionising staff allocation. Toronto Pearson also uses AI for predictive maintenance, which helps it anticipate breakdowns before they happen and schedule work during off hours to minimise disruption. Meanwhile, the airport is one of a growing number using AI-driven software to optimise gate turnaround time. GTAA is also actively exploring robotics and autonomous vehicle technology at Toronto Pearson International Airport as part of its innovation efforts.

While many members of the GTAA team – including José Salamo, Associate Director, Planning & Development Technology Services (also a Captain of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub) – are contributing to its digital transformation initiatives, as Chief Technology Officer, Brian Tossan is recognised on the Power List for his tech-focused leadership.

As EVP and Chief Information and Digital Strategy Officer, Goutam Kundu, leads the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) team driving digital transformation efforts at both Dulles International and Reagan National airports.

MWAA – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – has been on a journey of transformation during the past decade, largely driven by its technology innovation team, MWAA Labs. It has a strong focus on in-house innovation and actively utilises robotics and automaton to enhance airport operations and passenger experience. As part of these efforts, MWAA on a journey to transform operations on the ramp as a member of the pioneering FTE Smart Ramp program, which has the ultimate goal that aircraft turnaround can be achieved autonomously and more efficiently.

MWAA Labs is continually exploring new technologies and approaches and specialises in areas across cloud services, mobile technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), deep learning, Internet of Things (IoT), digital display management, passenger flow and queue management, blockchain technology, and business intelligence, including predictive and prospective analytics.

MWAA is working on projects centred around three core areas. The first revolves around creating a more seamless customer experience through solutions such as virtual queueing and queue management. The second area is creating a digital marketplace that brings all products and services into one centralised platform, ultimately providing customers with more choice to interact with the airport through their preferred digital channels. And lastly, MWAA is exploring how it can use such concepts as a digital marketplace or virtual queueing to boost non-aeronautical revenue.

While many members of the MWAA team are contributing to its digital transformation initiatives – including Christian Kessler, Airports Transformation & Innovation Division Manager – as EVP and Chief Information and Digital Strategy Officer, Goutam Kundu is recognised on the Power List for his tech-focused leadership.

As Chief Digital Transformation Officer, Iyad Hindiyeh leads San Francisco International Airport’s (SFO) tech-focused innovation efforts. SFO is in the midst of a Technology Improvement Program – a roadmap driven by a major network redesign and data platform. The plan is designed to transform the organisation to start seeing technology infrastructure as a utility. This will ensure that every new project has the same proactive, resilient and agile foundation, ready to adapt and support continued growth. A key pillar involves implementing cutting-edge technologies that drive operational efficiency, reduce siloes and enable real-time data visibility.

As part of its innovation efforts, SFO hosted its first-ever Tech Day in November 2024. This brought together aviation and tech companies, along with academia, to understand shared challenges and future goals as SFO looks to develop new technology-focused solutions.

Among SFO’s recent tech innovations is the in-house development of a mobile app used for the enforcement of ground transportation rules and regulations. The airport also utilises a dynamic Digital Twin to manage its complex operations, integrating real-time data to monitor infrastructure, optimise performance, and enhance the passenger experience.

As Chief Digital Transformation Officer, Iyad Hindiyeh is recognised on the Power List for leading the team leveraging technology not just to modernise, but to reimagine the entire journey – from curb to gate and beyond.