Following his recent participation at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” – Future Travel Experience caught up with Maurice Jenkins, Chief Innovation Officer, Miami International Airport (MIA). In this video interview, he shares MIA’s objectives in joining the groundbreaking FTE Smart Ramp collaborative innovation program, the airport’s pioneering approach to digital and tech innovation, and how the Modernization in Action (M.I.A.) Plan is enhancing operational efficiency and customer experience.
At FTE Global 2024, Jenkins participated in two key sessions – moderating the Digital Identity & Biometrics Symposium, while also speaking in the Private Networks Symposium. In the video interview above, he expands on MIA’s efforts with these technologies, outlining the ability of biometrics to make a significant impact in the air transport industry, as well as the airport’s successful deployment of a Private Wireless Network.
Indeed, MIA has a strong culture of innovation. As part of its Future Ready Capital Improvement Program, MIA is currently advancing its Modernization in Action (M.I.A.) Plan. In the video interview above, Jenkins also discusses how this extensive effort is enhancing operational efficiency and customer experience.
MIA is first pioneering airport member of groundbreaking FTE Smart Ramp collaborative innovation program
Miami International Airport and International Airlines Group – both Corporate Partners of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – are inaugural members of the pioneering new FTE Smart Ramp program.
Smart Ramp is the latest initiative as part of the groundbreaking FTE Accelerating Collaboration & Engagement (ACE) platform launched in partnership with innovation consultancy nlmtd. ACE is dedicated to driving real collaborative action among stakeholders, facilitating fast progress and dynamic change in key areas of the aviation industry which are rife for transformation.
The focus on Smart Ramp operations has the ultimate goal that aircraft turnaround can be achieved autonomously and more efficiently. A phased approach will assess which solutions truly work by each member testing new technologies, while incorporating requirements from the other participants. The program will support startups and introduce new suppliers not yet active in aviation, forging paths together on how to overcome hurdles while also exploring the potential for shared investments in the future.
Results of the innovations will be shared with respective experts, industry bodies and regulators, meaning the outcomes can be used to create recommended practices and standards in the industry.
“MIA is thrilled to be the inaugural airport partner of the FTE Smart Ramp program,” says Jenkins. “We believe in the power of collaborative innovation and value the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with, learn from, and share experiences and results with like-minded airports, airlines and other key innovators. The emphasis on hands-on execution and rapid implementation of new technologies perfectly aligns with our own innovation strategy at MIA.”
For more information on the FTE Accelerating Collaboration & Engagement (ACE) platform, the Smart Ramp program, and how to get involved, please click here.
Mark your diary for FTE Global 2025 – 9-11 September 2025, Long Beach Convention Center >>
