FTE Global, widely renowned as the “CES of Aviation”, took place in Long Beach, California, on 9 to 11 September 2025 where it was, once again, co-located with APEX/IFSA Global EXPO. Together, the shows brought the best of the airport and inflight realms under one roof, creating the largest gathering of air transport executives from around the world in North America in 2025 to network, learn, forge new partnerships, collaborate and be inspired on their next moves to transform their organisations’ passenger experience, business performance, innovation, and sustainability strategies. They collectively attracted some 2,500 delegates with over 120 airlines and airports represented from every corner of the world. Under the theme of ‘Collaborative Transformation’, the event was packed with exclusive announcements, new product launches, airline and airport CEO keynotes, inspirational presentations, interactive workshops, technical briefings, a large-scale end-to-end exhibition, a major startup showcase, networking opportunities and the FTE Global Awards ceremony. It was also announced that next year FTE Global will re-locate to Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, on 8 to 10 September 2026. Take a look at our visual round-up of the key highlights from FTE Global 2025.
Join us at APEX FTE Asia Expo, Singapore, 11-12 November 2025 – find out more >> Join us at APEX FTE EMEA and Ancillary & Retailing, co-located with the new FTE Smart Ramp & Baggage Innovation Summit, Dublin, 9-11 June 2026 – find out more >> Mark your diary for FTE Global 2026 – 8-10 September 2026, Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas >>An outstanding exhibition of cutting-edge solutions from robotics & autonomous vehicles to Mixed Reality, digital identity & biometrics and much more, plus more live demos than ever before
The FTE Global exhibition is the most dynamic and future-focused showcase of air transport innovation in the region. From major global players to startup disruptors, the show floor offered access to technologies that can directly improve your operation – from passenger experience and biometrics to robotics, AI, baggage automation, and next-gen digital platforms. This year’s event featured more live and immersive demos than ever before. Attendees received a hands-on experience that was interactive and educational, with cutting-edge solutions touching on all aspects of the end-to-end passenger journey. The exhibition featured some of the most established and innovative players in the sector, including Synect, IDEMIA Public Security, aiOla, Amadeus, Ariadne, Atrius, BagID, BagsID, iProov, Meta and MSM.digital, Nagarro, TWAI, and VibeQuest, plus a major Startup Zone.
The FTE Global exhibition featured an FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group (BIWG) PoC Showcase Zone – Sponsored by BagsID – where attendees received an insightful presentation of the BIWG Proof of Concept in Toronto and Vancouver. BagsID explained how computer vision technology transforms baggage identification and boosts operational performance of the existing BHS infrastructure, reducing exceptions drastically and providing a rich data-position. The PoC spans Vancouver and Toronto and uses BagsID’s BagBridge solution for intra-airport baggage tracking across SSBDs and in-system tracking points. AI is designed to identify bags in varying conditions and for various use cases, overcoming issues and reducing reliance on barcodes. This paves the way for seamless full-journey baggage tracking at and across airport boundaries and systems, enhancing compliance and further supporting the seamless passenger journey.
The popular ‘Tech & Innovation Briefings’ on the exhibition floor also provided attendees with the opportunity to join guided tours and meet exhibitors with relevant products, services and concepts across five areas: Baggage; Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) and Extended Reality (XR); Accessibility; Self-Service & Automation; and Robotics & Autonomous Vehicles.
This year’s event featured more live and immersive demos than ever before. Below is just a small selection of the highlights:
- Pattern: Attendees had a hands-on experience with all Pattern solutions, including interactive activities with the Pathfinder autonomous baggage shuttles, the Pulse simulation and auto-dispatch system, and the intelligent Co-Pilot “Uber for ramp drivers” tool.
- Micro-X: Micro-X is redefining what’s possible in X-ray imaging. Its compact CT scanner makes the vision of a self-screening checkpoint a reality, with a footprint of just 33in by 61in. Attendees will be able to view the system in operation and see the images it produces, experiencing first-hand the innovation that is taking aviation security beyond the century-old limitations of traditional X-ray technology.
- CVG Airport Pavilion: CVG joined the FTE Global exhibition floor with an expanded Pavilion showcasing real deployments, live demos, and partner innovations. Partners included Donovan Energy, Volan, InfoTap, Hello Lamp Post, the British Consulate General Chicago, and more.
- Meta and MSM.digital: Meta and MSM.digital showcased the XR Inflight Library — a curated portfolio of AAA-quality XR applications optimised for airline deployment. Covering entertainment, education, gaming, and well-being, the library is controller-free, motion-sickness reduced, and monetisation-ready. Building on last year’s world-first Lufthansa MVP, Meta is now moving into scale-up mode with more aircraft types, expanded app content, and new airline partnerships.
- ALBA Robot: Attendees experienced the latest robot added to ALBA Robot’s autonomous micro-mobility platform, the ALBA Caddie, live and in action. This autonomous robot follows passengers while carrying their luggage or waits for them at the gate, freeing them to navigate the terminal independently and comfortably.
- aiOla: Attendees had a truly immersive and eye-opening experience at the aiOla booth, with live demos that changed how they think about operational data.
- Amadeus: Amadeus unveiled a unique way to visualise the seamless passenger journey experience, with a live demonstration of how it is connecting the dots across every airport touchpoint – it was interactive, educational and evolving.
The exhibition floor also included a dedicated Startup Zone, featuring some of the most progressive new suppliers on the market, including 22North by Phonon.io, Azalea Robotics, Journey Robotics, Loadsters, and more.
A plethora of exclusive launches and announcements
As part of our efforts for FTE Global to be the industry’s most progressive and innovative show, we provided a platform for industry stakeholders to launch new concepts and make world-first announcements, and this happened a number of times in Long Beach.
Meta announced the next chapter in its ongoing partnership with the Lufthansa Group. Building on last year’s success with the immersive inflight entertainment pilot leveraging Travel Mode, the collaboration is being expanded to bring virtual experiences to even more passengers of the Lufthansa Group, which includes airlines such as Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines and Discover Airlines within the next years. Meta has teamed up with top developers – including Cubism, Mindway, Piano Vision, Aquarium Adventures and more – to deliver travel-optimised content for every mood and moment in the sky. From immersive games and puzzles to calming wellness journeys, destination exploration, and captivating storytelling, every Quest headset is packed with experiences to make each Lufthansa Allegris Business Class flight truly unforgettable. Christine Trodella, VP Commercial Sales Reality Labs at Meta, unveiled these upgrades in a keynote at FTE Global, while Bastian Schütz, Head of XR Inflight, Meta and Eric Groenloh, Senior Director Customer Journey Development, Lufthansa Group, shared more details in a session on the APEX Thought Leadership Stage. “Our guests told us they loved the first Meta Quest activations last year during our new Allegris Business – and Premium Economy Class trials – we listened, and now we’re making immersive entertainment to an additional part our innovative premium experience in the Lufthansa Allegris Business Class,” said Groenloh. “We won’t stop here but strive to enlarge this offer to other Lufthansa Group airlines in the future.” Schütz added: “We see immense potential in connecting travellers to magical, immersive moments that make every trip memorable. Expanding to additional airlines makes this vision a reality for even more guests. Together, we’re shaping the future of how immersive experiences will be part of every user’s travel journey.” Read the full story here.
ALBA Robot is building a new standard in autonomous personal mobility and launched a new robotic solution – the ALBA Caddie – at FTE Global. This autonomous luggage transport assistant is designed to enhance accessibility, streamline airport operations, and create new non-aeronautical revenue streams. “We integrate seamlessly with airport services, offering smart mobility options for underserved travellers such as families, elderly passengers, and individuals with limited mobility, all while reducing operational strain on staff and improving passenger flow,” said Andrea Bertaia, CEO and Co-Founder, ALBA Robot.
Meanwhile, Azalea Robotics, which is transforming airport baggage handling through automated, intelligent robotic systems, unveiled REACH I (Robotic Element for Advanced Cargo Handling) to the aviation community at FTE Global. It was the first time airports and airlines had the opportunity to see the system in action.
A unique social and networking programme
Future Travel Experience Global is renowned for its social and networking events and FTE Global 2025 was no exception. Delegates were invited to network and enjoy a drink on the exhibition floor during the FTE Global Happy Hour. The FTE Global Networking Party at Hotel Maya (sponsored by T-Mobile for Business), featuring the FTE Global Awards Ceremony (sponsored by Assaia), was truly memorable and culminated in a country music theme with line dancing in hour of the re-location to Dallas, Texas, for FTE Global 2026 (8 to 10 September). Attendees were then treated to a fantastic FTE Global Closing Party, including the FTE Americas Innovate Awards Ceremony.
Inspirational keynotes from United CEO Scott Kirby, Vantage Group, OUTCOME, Meta, YVR, AMS, and Sun Country Airlines, plus APEX Thought Leadership Conference delivers airline CEO insights
The FTE Global Opening Keynote Session included compelling keynotes from George Casey, Chair and CEO, Vantage Group, and Dan Toma, Co-founder, OUTCOME. Vantage Group is an industry leader in investment, development, management, and advisory services around the world with major airport and transportation facilities active across the globe, including the new T6 at JFK which opens early next year. George Casey shared how the group is innovating and driving collaboration between airport operator, airline tenants and stakeholder partners to transform facilities, overcome challenges, create better passenger experiences, and drive operational efficiency & revenue performance. FTE Global is renowned for its high-level keynotes from innovators outside of our industry and this year was no different. In an inspiring innovation keynote, Dan Toma focused on ‘From “Moonshots” to a “Space Program” in Enterprise Innovation: Making Growth Repeatable and Scalable’. He explored what it takes to build a true “space program”: a system which consistently generates and scales, bold ideas that drive measurable growth.
Christine Trodella, Vice President Reality Labs Commercial Sales, Meta, shared a truly engaging keynote on ‘Elevating Aviation with Extended Reality – Unlocking the potential of Immersive Experiences to reimagine collaboration among air transport stakeholders’. The keynote featured compelling insights into building the future of human connection and the technology that makes it possible, plus the unveiling of the next chapter in Meta’s ongoing partnership with the Lufthansa Group.
The power of collaborative innovation was on full display in a fascinating joint keynote from Albert Van Veen, Vice President, Innovation and Chief Information Officer, Vancouver International Airport, and Lennert l’Amie, CIO, Schiphol Group. This truly unique joint presentation spotlighted how two major airports are breaking industry silos to co-create solutions with global impact. Together, they illustrated how collaboration – rather than competition – can unlock smarter, more connected operations, proving that the future of airport innovation lies in working side-by-side to address shared challenges and accelerate progress.
Jude Bricker, CEO of Sun Country Airlines, was interviewed by Dr Joe Leader, Group CEO, APEX/IFSA/FTE, in a compelling keynote, which covered a broad range of areas, including technology and innovation, customer experience and upgrades, strategy and model, profitability and standing out, and a look ahead to the future.
An undoubted highlight of the FTE Global conference agenda was the finale keynote interview with Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines, which was moderated by Brian Sumers, Editor of The Airline Observer. In a powerful keynote conversation, Kirby shared United’s ambitious mission to become the best airline in the world. From becoming the first major U.S. airline to offer free high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi to as of this year leading the world in IFE seat-back screens, United drives to set the highest standard for passenger experience. Kirby offered an inside look at the strategy forging this incredible transformation, including the cultural and operational shifts that are rapidly accelerating the airline’s progress. The session highlighted how United’s investments in people, product, technology, and innovation will reshape the future of aviation from the inside out.
Meanwhile during the APEX Thought Leadership Conference, which FTE Global attendees had access to, C-level executives from Air India, Breeze Airways, EL AL Israel Airlines, Saudia Airlines, flyadeal, and Fiji Airways all took to the stage to share invaluable leadership insights.
Digital & Innovation Conference
It was standing room only as the Digital & Innovation Conference agenda kicked-off with the Technology Leaders Conversation. The fast-moving discussion was moderated by Ross Falconer, Head of Content, Future Travel Experience, with panellists including Iyad Hindiyeh, Chief Digital Transformation Officer, San Francisco International Airport; Aura Moore, CIO, Los Angeles World Airports; James Williamson, CEO, Veovo; and Sagi Varghese, Managing Director, Airport Operations & CSD Technology, United Airlines. They discussed the technologies that will be most game-changing to air transport in the next 20 years, the new business models and revenue opportunities air transport stakeholders could open up by becoming truly digital-first businesses, the tech procurement process and procurement cycle, approaches to collaboration among all stakeholders, how to successfully embed AI, and much more.
A Special Segment on ‘Crowdsourced Safety: What 4,400 Photos Can Teach AI (and us)’ was moderated by Kevin Kleist, Head of Emerging Trends, Southwest Airlines, with panellists including Jason Fogelman, Aviation Technology Executive; Doug Kreuzkamp, Founder/CEO, Springshot; and Mike Morin, VP of Business Development and Partnerships, webAI. This segment offered a compelling case study of how artificial intelligence (AI) is already transforming ground operations by reinforcing a vital safety rule concerning the Fire Suppression Line in the cargo hold – a rule that, if violated, has life-or-death implications as tragically demonstrated in the case of ValuJet Flight 592. The session delivered a practical, real-world demonstration of AI in action, not conceptual hype. Attendees learned how these stakeholders collaborated to practically solve a problem with profound implications for aircraft safety.
A key session was ‘The FTE AI Symposium – Part 1: Case studies on how organisations are putting AI to work across their businesses’, which featured three compelling presentations. George Sammit, Staff Computer Scientist, Intelligent Systems, Southwest Research Institute, discussed what the air transport industry can learn from other sectors about effective AI implementation. He emphasised the importance of five key steps: frame the problem, assess data needs, evaluate results, integrate and deploy, and build trust. A compelling case study was then shared on how CVG is going CLEAR with scalable, AI-enabled software for critical limits evaluation and alternative routing to maximise strategic growth and minimise bottlenecks. This was jointly presented by Brian Cobb, Chief Innovation Officer, Cincinnati / Northern Kentucky International Airport; Steve Cundy, Founder & CEO, Tuatara Consulting; and Tom Driscoll, Director – Service Delivery, Tuatara Consulting. In the final case study, Tom Moran, Director of Heathrow, British Airways, explored how the airline is harnessing AI and other leading-edge technology to boost operational performance at London Heathrow – Europe’s busiest airport – to record levels.
An undoubted highlight of the Digital & Innovation agenda was ‘The FTE AI Symposium – Part 2: A deep-dive into Agentic AI and the move towards Artificial General Intelligence’. Moderated by Teaque Lenahan, Managing Partner & Group VP, Publicis Sapient, the panellists included Sree Samudrala, Director of Artificial Intelligence & Automation, Southwest Airlines; Kushal Pasari, Director of GenAI & ML Engineering, United Airlines; Stanislaw Schmal, Director Digital & AI, Lufthansa Industry Solutions; and Goutam Kundu, EVP & Chief Digital Strategy and Information Officer, Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority. The panel shared powerful insights into the opportunities presented by agentic AI solutions – systems capable of autonomously taking actions in complex environments – and how they can unlock the next generation of airport intelligence.
Day 1 of the Digital & Innovation agenda concluded with two Special Segments. First, Nagarro’s Steve Hodges, Co-practice lead – Aviation, and Vinay Yadav, Practice lead – Aviation, North America, explored the transformative potential of agentic AI in the travel industry. They showcased real-world demos, highlighting how agentic AI is being applied across travel use cases – from hyper-personalised customer experiences to intelligent operations and decision-making. In an engaging Fireside Chat, Amir Haramaty, Co-Founder & President, aiOla, and Kushal Pasari, Director of GenAI & ML Engineering, United Airlines, discussed ‘AI & The Future of Aviation: Reshaping Travel with Spoken Data’.
Day 2 of the Digital & Innovation agenda began with a fast-moving panel discussion focused on ‘Pilot stories: What hard lessons have been learned – and what are the secrets to a successful innovation journey?’ Moderated by Kevin Kleist, Head of Emerging Trends, Southwest Airlines, the panellists included Pablo Lopez Loeches, Head of Ideation & Entrepreneurship, Innovation & Customer Experience Directorate, Aena; Thomas Dworschak, Head of IT Digitalization & Innovation, Vienna Airport; Tom Cizauskas, Business Administration Manager, Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority (GRR); Christian George Kessler, Airports Transformation & Innovation Manager, Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority; Nicole Hodges-Austin, Innovation Program Manager, Alaska Airlines; and Justin Kester, VP Global Sales, Synaptic Aviation. They each shared fascinating insights into their innovation journeys so far, including what worked, what didn’t, how to scale, and the strategies and technologies being implemented.
Future Airports Conference
The Future Airports Conference agenda opened with a session on ‘Airport leadership strategies to maximise capacity, operational efficiency, customer experience, revenue, workforce – and prepare for change’. Moderated by Nick Bartlett, Director of Consulting, Lead for Transportation & Manufacturing, Future Today Strategy Group, panellists included Julian Jäger, CEO, Vienna International Airport; Atif Elkadi, Chief Executive Officer, Ontario International Airport; Thomas Hoff Andersson, Managing Director & Chief Operating Officer, Munich Airport; and Cynthia Guidry, Director, Long Beach Airport.
Attendees also heard an inspiring Special Presentation from Yutaka Kuratomi, Vice President – Business Marketing Division, Japan Airport Terminal Co., Ltd. He discussed how Haneda Airport is collaborating to create the airport of the future through the “terminal.0 HANEDA” cross-industry innovation initiative, which is expected to provide significant insights by 2026. Kuratomi explained that the “terminal.0 HANEDA” initiative is set to redefine airport experiences by leveraging cutting-edge technology, sustainability practices, and streamlined operations. Through this forward-thinking program, the airport is pushing the boundaries of what is possible, combining state-of-the-art advancements with practical application across various sectors, such as transportation, logistics, customer service, and environmental sustainability.
The future of business & commercial strategies for airports was the focus of another key session, which explored whether we are at the threshold of airports evolving to become digital companies that run experiential businesses, and what the new business models and organisational structures would be behind that. Moderated by Guðmundur Daði Rúnarsson, Chief Commercial and Airport Development Officer, Keflavik Airport, the panellists included Andrea Goodpasture, Managing Director- Airport Affairs, Southwest Airlines; Mike Hardaker, Chief Asset & Development Officer, Manchester Airports Group; and Aura Moore, CIO, Los Angeles World Airports.
The Airports AI Alliance assists the aviation industry to deploy artificial intelligence (AI) solutions effectively and responsibly by bringing together C-suite airport leaders, who are committed to creating a roadmap for their organisation. In another key session, Alliance members shared their ideas and learnings from their own efforts in this space, as well as considering the future of AI at scale in airports. Moderated by Oliver Hendry, Programme Director, Airports AI Alliance, panellists included Marcus Session, Vice President Information Technology Services, Tampa International Airport; Paul Puopolo, Executive Vice President of Innovation, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport; Sanskar Agrawal, Industry Business Development, Smart Spaces & Global Public Sector, NVIDIA; and Bob Kwik, Worldwide Head of Airports, Amazon Web Services (AWS).
Day 2 of the Future Airports agenda began with a fascinating session focused on ‘How do we leverage technology, innovation and new approaches to create Smart Ramp operations around the world and create holistic solutions to cover airline/airport/handler needs?’ Moderator Manuel van Lijf, Director Aviation Innovation, nlmtd, opened with a presentation on the latest findings from the FTE/nlmtd ACE Smart Ramp effort. The pioneering FTE Smart Ramp program – part of the FTE Accelerating Collaboration & Engagement (ACE) platform – has the ultimate goal that aircraft turnaround can be achieved autonomously and more efficiently. Each member – Miami International Airport, Schiphol Group and KLM, International Airlines Group (IAG), All Nippon Airways, and Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority – is undertaking Proof of Concepts to drive this initiative forward. Another compelling presentation followed, in which Gus Naughton, Principal Software Engineer – Innovation, Alaska Airlines, and Kellen Schroeter, CEO & Co-Founder, Pattern Labs, shared the in-depth story behind Alaska Airlines becoming the first airline to automate dispatch on the ramp with AI. Daan Boot, Strategy & Innovation Advisor, Royal Schiphol Group, then presented insights into driving towards an autonomous airport by 2050. He discussed leveraging technology, innovation and new approaches to create a seamless inbound flow and highlighted key steps, including to pick the right technology for your context, collaborate and partner up, and start thinking about supporting systems. In addition, Earl Clarke, Group Senior Manager, International Airlines Group (IAG) and Tim Toerber, President – Americas, Assaia, shared their insights as members of the panel.
An undoubted highlight was the session on ‘Enabling a Revolution in Baggage Through Interoperability’. Following an update from the moderator – Darin Juby, Head of Transformation, Future Travel Experience – on the latest progress from the FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group, the panel shared ideas and views around key topics, including seamless passenger process with new technologies; automation – loading/unloading, scanning, imaging; autonomous operations – airside, bag room and groundside; how new technologies work together and communicate key data in the baggage ecosystem; and how we as a baggage industry can achieve success with so many stakeholders. The high-level panellists included Scott Goodwin, Assistant Vice President (AVP), Airport Operations, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority; Amit Doshi, Head of Capacity Planning Logistics, Dubai Airports; Anja Schuhmacher, Senior Manager Airport Experience & Partnerships, Lufthansa; Maren Lind Másdóttir, Director – Assets & Infrastructure, Keflavik Airport; Ina Eldøy, CEO, BagID; and Byron Smith, Chief Technology Officer, NetTracer.
The Future Airports agenda closed with a fantastic session on ‘How do we now revolutionise the gate and boarding experience, and other key airport pinch-points?’ Moderated by Samuel Ingalls, Principal, Barich, Inc, panellists included Kevin Kleist, Head of Emerging Trends, Southwest Airlines; Kenyatta Lee, Chief – External Affairs, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority; Gus Naughton, Principal Software Engineer – Innovation, Alaska Airlines; and Julie Melnick, Founder & CEO, SkySquad.
Future Trends & Customer Journeys Conference
The Future Trends & Customer Journeys Conference opened with a session on ‘Collaborative & transformative approaches to reimagining CX & Business Performance’. Moderated by Robert Silk, Airlines Editor, Travel Weekly, the session featured three compelling presentations. Jason Williams, Director, Software Development, ITG, Vancouver Airport Authority, discussed ‘Airport hospitality – the next level of guest experience’. He emphasised how YVR is humanising and digitising the airport experience, while driving non-aeronautical revenue – happy customers spend more. Raza Ali, VP Innovation, International Airlines Group (IAG) then shared how the new IAGi Ventures will help to take innovation to new heights for IAG and its airlines. He highlighted six key innovation and investment themes: AI, Automation, Sustainability and Mobility, Experiential Platforms, Connectivity and IoT, and Tech Evolution and Security. Finally, Joshua Dominic, Co-Founder & CEO, shared how Dreamstar Lines is leading the development of new private overnight passenger rail in the U.S., offering a premium travel experience between major metro areas. He provided compelling insights into what air transport can learn from this new endeavour, as well as the needs of the future passenger.
Two Special Presentations then followed. Firstly, Rupen S. Philloura, General Manager – Miami Cruise Terminal A (MCTA), Cruise Terminals International, focused on ‘How do we take big strides in creating seamless travel experiences between different modes of transport and create “intelligent transport” systems and approaches?’ Then, Brandon Capps, CEO, VibeQuest, explored ‘How can we enhance health and wellness experiences for passengers, especially in economy?’
An unmissable session was a segment in which Steven Greenway, CEO, flyadeal, shared the airline’s story ‘From Startup to Standout’. Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector is undergoing unprecedented transformation and flyadeal is positioning itself for sustained growth. Greenway shared how, as a low-cost airline, flyadeal has segmented into different categories which is not typical for an LCC. The airline’s recent order of 10 Airbus A330neos signals its long-haul ambitions.
Innovations in passenger accessibility were explored in another key session. Craig Kennedy, Program Coordinator, Open Doors Organization, opened with a presentation on the latest spending habits, requirements & travel trends of travellers with disabilities. He shared how a new Harris poll commissioned by Open Doors Organization dives deep into how much people with disabilities spend when they travel. This new research trends back to ODO’s first study in 2002 giving the industry the most definitive travel trends and the powerful disability dollar. A fascinating panel then took place, featuring Rossen Dimitrov, Chief Customer Experience Officer, Saudia Airlines; Ed Collett, Accessibility Innovation Leader, Air New Zealand; and Natalie Randall, Day of Travel Experience Manager, Alaska Airlines.
An undoubted highlight of the Future Trends & Customer Journeys agenda was a session focused on ‘Understanding the trends, and factors, that will impact customer journeys & future expansion strategies of airports and airlines’. Moderated by Nick Bartlett, Director of Consulting, Lead for Transportation & Manufacturing, Future Today Strategy Group, the session explored the changes coming in the near future such as new types of aircraft and technology, plus industry developments like walkthrough screening, no bags in customs, connection updates, or enhancements at the TSA checkpoint that would have a significant impact on the way airlines and airports should plan around when forging future strategies. Speakers included Yvonne Bilshausen, SVP | Global Head of Aviation Architecture + Engineering, AECOM; Sanskar Agrawal, Industry Business Development, Smart Spaces & Global Public Sector, NVIDIA; Paige Stanton Wilson, Chief Development Officer, Acubed by Airbus; Anne Marie Pellerin, Founder and Managing Partner, LAM LHA; Keith Walters, Group Transformation Manager, International Airlines Group (IAG); and Jose Salamo, Associate Director, Planning and Development Technology Services, Toronto Pearson.
In a Special Presentation, Brian Rohlf, Manager – Landside Operations & Customer Service, The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey (PANYNJ), shared the new approaches, and initiatives, being driven forward by PANYNJ to take customer experiences for all passengers to a whole new level across the New York airport system, and the role digital will play in that.
A fascinating session included two deep-dive digital transformation case studies, highlighting tangible business cases of implementing digitisation strategies in various tech fields, with emphasis on data-driven insights and transparency regarding faced challenges. First, Georgios Pipelidis, CEO, Ariadne, delivering an insightful presentation titled ‘From Queue to Clarity: How Ariadne Turns Passenger Movement into Action at Munich Airport & San Diego International Airport’. Next, Product Managers Martijn van Boven and Mohamed Talbi discussed how Schiphol is leveraging technology, design, and data, with in-house developed intelligence that has reduced passenger peaks by 22% and elevated airside efficiency and safety. It was truly insightful presentation, in which van Boven and Talbi shared how Schiphol has redefined airport capacity and flow management through in-house developed, artificial intelligence (AI)-powered tools. These include Dynamic Time Slots, Real-time Passenger Flow Balancing, and Gate Planning Insights which have dramatically reduced peak loads and waiting times while improving safety and operational efficiency.
Day 2 of the Future Trends & Customer Journeys agenda opened with the FTE Energy & Sustainability Symposium. Moderated by Geoffrey Ax, Principal / Aviation Market Leader, Populous, panellists included John Kasuda, Head of Airports and Vertiports North America, Siemens; Sanskar Agrawal, Industry Business Development, Smart Spaces & Global Public Sector, NVIDIA; Tim Donovan, Founder & CEO, Donovan Energy; and Brian Cobb, Chief Innovation Officer, Cincinnati / Northern Kentucky International Airport.
An undoubted highlight was a Special Presentation titled ‘An LA Transformation Story’. Here, Los Angeles World Airports’ Courtney Moore, Deputy Executive Director – Strategy, Innovation & Experience, and Erin Trapp, Deputy Executive Director – Major Events & Strategy, shared powerful insights into how LAX is undergoing a major transformation ahead of the 2028 Olympics, led by the innovative Transformation Office and driven by a highly detailed, data-informed approach that’s enhancing the airport experience for all stakeholders – including passengers, employees, airlines, concessionaires, and suppliers. They discussed the insights and lessons that have emerged from this work so far, and how airports can successfully lead large-scale change through cross-functional collaboration.
Another key session focused on ‘Smarter Signage Starts Here: Strategy, Content & Systems that Deliver’. Moderated by Faith Varwig, Principal, Faith Group, panellists included Yahav Ran, CEO, Synect; Prasad Yarlagadda, AVP Enterprise Systems, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport; and Ian Birnbaum, Project Manager, Burns Engineering Group. As passenger expectations soar, airports must transform signage into a dynamic platform delivering engagement, efficiency, and revenue. This compelling session explored how content strategy and smart systems are redefining airport communication to deliver the information and experiences passengers need. The speakers provided fascinating insights into leveraging content and systems to influence passenger behaviour, streamline operations, and maximise ROI.
The Future Trends & Customer Journeys agenda concluded with a session on ‘The secrets to using AI and other new technologies to reimagine end-to-end customer journeys’ which was a truly fitting finale. Moderated by Kristin Rice, Director of Customer Experience, Cincinnati / Northern Kentucky International Airport, panellists included Vanesa Calvo Alonso, Head of Innovation, Aena; Jordie Knoppers, Future Customer Journey Manager, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines; Drew McMullen, Director of Intelligent Spaces for Airports & Airlines, Atrius; and Alex Yen, Head of Growth, Persona.
The FTE Data Sharing Symposium
An undoubted highlight of the FTE Global conference agenda was the FTE Data Sharing Symposium, incorporating the early thoughts and recommendations of the work being carried out in this area by airline and airport members of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub. Moderated by Samuel Ingalls, Principal, Barich, Inc, it featured panellists including Christian George Kessler, Airports Transformation & Innovation Manager, Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority; Keith Walters, Group Transformation Manager, International Airlines Group (IAG); Nicole Hodges-Austin, Innovation Program Manager, Alaska Airlines; and Gudmundur Karl Gautason, Director – Digital Development, Isavia.
FTE Robotics & Autonomous Vehicles Symposium
The FTE Robotics & Autonomous Vehicles Symposium was another highlight and a fitting finale to the Digital & Innovation agenda. The session featured three compelling case study presentations followed by a fast-moving panel discussion. To begin, Corey Clothier, Founder & CEO, Aribo & Global Automated Mobility Lead, Arcadis, shared the key findings and recommendations from the autonomous vehicle planning, prep and trials that Aribo has been involved in working with the likes of the GTAA, FAA, ATL, ACY, GRR and more. Tom Kikuchi, Head of Innovation, All Nippon Airways (ANA) then shared fascinating insights into ANA’s smart ramp efforts, including advanced autonomous vehicle testing. ANA is a member of the pioneering FTE Smart Ramp program. The focus on Smart Ramp operations has the ultimate goal that aircraft turnaround can be achieved autonomously and more efficiently. As part of this, ANA is implementing autonomous towing tractors for cargo transportation to efficiently move cargo from the warehouse to the apron, reducing the need for manual labour in operations. In a joint case study, Brian Cobb, Chief Innovation Officer, Cincinnati / Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), and Miles Garner, Director of Sales and Marketing, Aurrigo, then shared insights and recommended practices from CVG on planning and scaling autonomous vehicle use at airports.
Biometrics & Digital Identity Summit
A perennially-popular session is the ‘Biometrics & Digital Identity Summit’ which this year focused on ‘Advancing digital identity & seamless travel efforts’. Moderated by Ryan Propis, Vice President of Security and Facilitation, U.S. Travel Association, panellists included Melanie Bryant, Vice President – IT Delivery and Business Enablement, Emirates; Albert Van Veen, Vice President, Innovation and Chief Information Officer, Vancouver Airport Authority; Jens Sanner, Program Director for Digital Services and Transformation, Fraport; Jean François (Jeff) Lennon, Senior Vice President Border Authorities, Amadeus; Dominic Forrest, CTO, iProov; and Oscar Acuña, Acting Port Director at LAX, U.S. Customs and Border Protection. They shared a range of dynamic approaches and learnings on how they are advancing digital identity to deliver next-level customer experiences and efficiencies for industry stakeholders, and ideas on how the industry can build compelling business cases and swiftly scale the use of facial technology for passenger, and industry, benefit.
U.S. CBP Symposium – efforts to further secure and enhance air and sea travel through technology innovation
FTE Global 2025 was once more complemented by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (U.S. CBP) Symposium. CBP has expanded public/private partnerships with airlines, airports, and cruise lines to provide travellers with a secure, seamless, and touchless inspections process and enhance the passenger experience. With the anticipated increase in travel to the United States for the World Cup in 2026 and the LA Olympics in 2028, CBP is innovating the inspections process to add an extra layer of security while streamlining entry into the U.S. In this Symposium, CBP executives provided an update on ongoing efforts to leverage advanced technology like facial biometrics and mobile applications to further secure and enhance travel in the air and sea environments. Moderated by Samuel Ingalls, Principal, Barich, Inc, the speakes were Dontrell Nelson-Owens, Assistant Port Director – Passenger Operations, U.S. CBP, and Victor J. Todorov, Watch Commander, Los Angeles/Long Beach Support, U.S. CBP.
Sprint Sessions on tech and experiential strategies for enhancing accessibility, use cases for agentic AI in aviation, and strategies to achieve end-to-end CX personalisation
At FTE Global, the Sprint Sessions provided a dedicated zone on the exhibition floor for attendees to dive deep into some of the most pressing challenges in the aviation industry. Participants gathered in a series of 20-minute brainstorm sessions, each designed to encourage collaborative thinking and solutions-oriented discussions. The three sessions focused on tech and experiential strategies for enhancing accessibility, use cases for agentic AI in aviation, and strategies to achieve end-to-end CX personalisation.
Innovation round table breakouts and deep dives with our top speakers
Following his inspirational keynote address, Dan Toma, Co-founder, OUTCOME led an ‘Innovation Keynote Round Table Breakout’ focused on ‘Inside the innovation system: lifting the hood on what makes corporate innovation-led growth repeatable and scalable’. It was an ideal opportunity to double-click on what it really takes to make innovation-led growth a sustainable, repeatable process for your enterprise – one that runs on a system, not a group of superheroes. The Round Table explored how leading brands have aligned their growth agendas with strategy, culture, leadership, and processes to build engines of continuous growth.
Guðmundur Daði Rúnarsson, Chief Commercial and Airport Development Officer, Keflavik Airport, led an exclusive session open to members of the FTE World Ancillary & Retailing Working Group. This offered a unique opportunity to dive into thought-provoking conversations and gain valuable knowledge and perspectives in a focused and intimate environment.
Following their Special Segment, Los Angeles World Airports’ Courtney Moore, Deputy Executive Director – Strategy, Innovation & Experience, and Erin Trapp, Deputy Executive Director – Major Events & Strategy, led an exclusive deep dive session offering a unique opportunity for thought-provoking conversations in a focused and intimate environment. They provided deeper insights into how LAX is undergoing a major transformation ahead of the 2028 Olympics, led by the innovative Transformation Office and driven by a highly detailed, data-informed approach that’s enhancing the airport experience for all stakeholders – including passengers, employees, airlines, concessionaires, and suppliers.
FTE Global Awards winners announced
A highlight during the FTE Global Networking Party, sponsored by T-Mobile for Business, on 10 September was the FTE Global Pioneer Awards Ceremony, sponsored by Assaia, which recognised the world’s most pioneering airlines and airports for their outstanding efforts to transform the passenger experience and define the future of the air transport industry. International Airlines Group, All Nippon Airways and United Airlines were recognised for ‘Outstanding Achievement’ in the FTE Airline Pioneer Awards, while Airport Authority Hong Kong, Royal Schiphol Group and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport emerged victorious in the FTE Airport Pioneer Awards category. The outstanding achievements among our FTE Americas Digital Transformation Power List nominees were also recognised during the evening. You can read the full report from the Awards here.
FTE Global concluded with the FTE Americas Innovate Awards. These landmark awards are truly unique and are the industry’s definitive innovation platform. Airlines and airports competed head-to-head with their peers, shining a light on their latest innovation efforts. There were three awards categories: Alaska Airlines won Most Innovative Airline Initiative; Tampa International Airport won Most Innovative Airport Initiative; and Journey Robotics won Best New Transformative Concept. Read our full FTE Americas Innovate Awards report here.
Exclusive FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub members-only activities
Future Travel Experience’s role as a dynamic community catalyst and enabler of industry transformation is spearheaded by its innovation communities, including the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub. The FTE Hub is a one-of-a-kind community where members can openly share their expertise and experiences, discover new partners and inspiration from outside of the sector, explore opportunities to collaborate, and deliver positive change. As part of these efforts, FTE Hub Corporate Partners had a unique experience in Las Vegas on 8 September, ahead of FTE Global, with exclusive tours of both Elon Musk’s The Boring Company and AREA15. Beforehand, on the evening of 7 September, attendees also had the opportunity to meet for a networking dinner kindly sponsored by FTE Hub Corporate Partners Assaia and Springshot.
During an exclusive tour of Elon Musk’s The Boring Company, Corporate Partners of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub explored the cutting-edge underground transit system designed to streamline short-distance urban travel. The Boring Company creates safe, fast-to-dig, and low-cost transportation, utility, and freight tunnels, with the mission to solve traffic, enable rapid point-to-point transportation and transform cities. This guided experience offered a first-hand look at the operational Loop system, where autonomous Tesla vehicles transport passengers through high-efficiency tunnels beneath the Las Vegas Convention Center. Attendees gained insight into the design, construction, and scalability of this system, and explored how similar infrastructure could complement airport access, intermodal connectivity, and future mobility solutions.
Designed as a platform for boundary-pushing creativity, AREA15 is redefining how physical spaces can engage and inspire visitors. On this exclusive tour, led by Mark Stutzman, Chief Operating & Technology Officer, AREA15, Corporate Partners of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub explored how immersive environments, interactive installations, and experiential storytelling are shaping the future of leisure and entertainment – key elements in enhancing the passenger experience. They received an overview of AREA15, the technology and concept, plus a tour of the campus, and an opportunity to then enjoy one of the AREA15 experiences.
Meanwhile, during FTE Global in Long Beach, California, members of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub experienced a networking lunch and startup pitch session, featuring KINOVA, Loadsters, and Draxon.
There was also an informal ‘Meet the Captains’ session, led by Kevin Kleist, Head of Emerging Trends, Southwest Airlines and Head of Innovation, Digitalisation & Startup Engagement, Future Travel Experience. This was an opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub to hear the latest updates, meet the Captains, and explore their first-hand experiences.
Learn more about the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub >>FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group meeting
The FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group (BIWG) brings together the most innovative and progressive baggage supply chain companies, airlines, and airports from across the industry to provide a unique platform for cooperation and industry advancement. It is the platform for game-changing Proof of Concepts and developing new techniques, technologies, and business models to deliver tangible change in the baggage sector.
BIWG members met at FTE Global for an informative meeting led by Darin Juby, Head of Transformation, Future Travel Experience. The packed agenda featured four compelling presentations:
- David Millard, Co-Founder & CEO, Azalea Robotics, discussed robotic baggage handling and a future with flexible technology.
- Richard Camman, CEO, BagsID, delivered a presentation on the biggest-ever FTE BIWG Proof of Concept being undertaken at Toronto Pearson and Vancouver International Airport, using Computer Vision technology.
- A joint presentation on the power of partnerships Presentation was delivered by Iain Grierson, Senior Engineer, Heathrow; Chris Craven, Operations Director – Aviation & Travel, DHL; and Magnus Rossa, Senior Sales Manager, Vanderlande.
- Gus Naughton, Principal Software Engineer, Alaska Airlines, discussed the use of software to optimise baggage movement and reduce mishandling.
There was also an informal ‘Meet the Captains’ session, led by Darin Juby, Head of Transformation, Future Travel Experience. This was an opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about the FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group to hear the latest updates, meet the Captains, and explore their first-hand experiences.
Learn more about the FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group >>FTE Smart Ramp members’ meeting
FTE Global featured a meeting of the pioneering members of the FTE Smart Ramp initiative, including International Airlines Group (IAG), Miami International Airport, All Nippon Airways, Royal Schiphol Group, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority. Smart Ramp is part of the groundbreaking FTE Accelerating Collaboration & Engagement (ACE) platform launched in partnership with innovation consultancy nlmtd. The meeting, led by Manuel van Lijf, Director Aviation Innovation, nlmtd, included an update on the innovation challenges being undertaken by the Smart Ramp partners, plus a look ahead to exciting plans for 2026.
Learn more about the FTE Accelerating Collaboration & Engagement (ACE) platform >>FTE Global relocates to Dallas for 20th anniversary in 2026 with DFW, Southwest, and Dallas Love Field as Headline Partners
Future Travel Experience (FTE) has announced that its flagship event, FTE Global, will relocate to Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas, in September 2026 for a landmark edition marking the event’s 20th anniversary. The milestone gathering, taking place on 8-10 September 2026, will be delivered in partnership with Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Southwest Airlines, and Dallas Love Field Airport as official Headline Partners. Widely regarded as the “CES of Aviation”, FTE Global is the industry’s definitive innovation event, bringing together airlines, airports, government agencies, and industry partners from across the world. The 2026 edition in Dallas-Fort Worth will be the biggest and boldest in the event’s history, welcoming more than 2,000 senior attendees for three days of future-focused conferences, a comprehensive exhibition packed with exclusive demos and announcements, and unrivalled networking opportunities. Read our full announcement here.
Mark your diary for FTE’s upcoming events
- APEX FTE Asia Expo co-located with the Onboard Hospitality Forum Asia – Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Singapore, 11-12 November 2025
- APEX FTE EMEA and Ancillary & Retailing co-located with the new FTE Smart Ramp & Baggage Innovation Summit – RDS Dublin, 9-11 June 2026
- FTE Global co-located with IFSA Global EXPO – Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center, Dallas, 8-10 September 2026.
Many thanks to our partners and sponsors
