9-11 September 2025
Long Beach Convention Center, California
FTE Global 9-11 September 2025, Long Beach Convention Center, California

Digital & Innovation Conference Agenda

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FTE Global 2025 Digital & Innovation Conference Agenda is currently in development and will be available soon. Please click here to subscribe and stay updated.

Theme: Transforming Air Transport

FTE Global’s conferences are renowned for delivering cutting-edge insights, inspiration, and strategies from the most innovative minds in the industry.

While our 2025 conference agendas are still being developed, you can get a flavour of the transformative content by exploring the 2024 agendas. They featured thought-provoking keynotes, panel discussions, case studies, and interactive sessions that addressed the biggest challenges and opportunities in the air transport industry, offering a glimpse into the high-quality content you can expect at future FTE Global events!

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Sunday 27th October 2024

Sunday 27th October 16:00 - 18:00

FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub Innovation Tour – open to Corporate Partners only

Members only

We are delighted to announce that Corporate Partners of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub will have access to a private tour of JetZero’s Hangar at Long Beach Airport on Sunday, October 27, the evening before the co-located FTE Global and APEX/IFSA Global EXPO get underway.

JetZero, the pioneering aerospace startup based in Long Beach, is at the forefront of transforming the future of air travel. Its innovative blended-wing body aircraft promises to reduce fuel consumption by up to 50% compared to traditional tube-and-wing aircraft. This cutting-edge design utilises existing next-generation single-aisle aircraft engines and is capable of flying as far as trans-oceanic routes. Beyond fuel efficiency, JetZero’s blended-wing body aircraft aims to deliver a radically ‎different passenger experience. As is highlighted by last week’s announcement of an investment by Alaska Airlines – the first direct airline backing for the company – JetZero is already grabbing headlines across the industry.

This exclusive event will give Corporate Partners of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub a first-hand look at JetZero’s revolutionary aircraft and the innovations that are set to redefine the passenger experience. During the tour, attendees will explore key stations focused on Passenger Experience, Efficiency, Environment, and Technology. This is a rare chance to witness the future of aviation up close, network with industry innovators, and gain insights that could shape your own organisation’s strategies moving forward.

Capacity is limited and therefore we are able to offer one ticket per Corporate Partner.

Visit the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub website to learn more >>

Monday 28th October 2024

07:30 - 17:30

Registration Open

Monday 28th October 09:00 - 12:00

APEX Thought Leadership Conference - (Open to all FTE Global premium pass holders)

Premium Pass

If you are registered for FTE Global with a Premium Pass you will get access to the APEX Thought Leadership morning on Monday 28 October. PLUS all registrants for FTE Global get complimentary access to the APEX/IFSA Global EXPO exhibition hall.

Learn more about the benefits of this incredible co-location effort and how the co-location works in practice for participants at both shows, here >>

Speakers include
Michael Rousseau

President and Chief Executive Officer

Air Canada

Andre Viljoen

Managing Director & CEO

Fiji Airways

Con Korfiatis

CEO

Oman Air

Perry Cantarutti

President, APEX & Senior Vice President – Alliances and International

Delta Air Lines

Fiona Kiesel

Chief Guest Officer

Breeze Airways

Rossen Dimitrov

Chief Guest Officer

Saudia Airlines

Xie Bing

CEO & President

Xiamen Airlines

Catriona Larritt

Chief Customer and Digital Officer

Qantas Group

Monday 28th October 10:00 - 12:00

Exclusive Workshop by Populous and CVG: Step into Tomorrow – A 12-Step Program to Unveil AAM (limited availability)

Ready to turn the vision of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) into reality? Join Populous and Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) for a two-hour workshop, Step into Tomorrow: A 12-Step Program to Unveil AAM, taking place alongside FTE Global in Long Beach. In this hands-on session, Populous and CVG will bring their expertise as global thought leaders in innovation, to break down the complexities of AAM, providing a clear, actionable 12-step guide to help airports and airlines prepare for the future of transportation.

This exclusive event has limited spaces. Register your interest below for a chance to receive an invitation.

Interested in attending this workshop? Express your interest here

Monday 28th October 13:00 - 15:00

FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group meeting – Open to members only

Members only
Baggage innovation 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 (POCs) & developing new techniques, technologies, and business models to deliver tangible change in the baggage sector.

Please contact us for more information Airlines can join for free

Attendees interested in baggage solutions might also like to join the Tech & Innovation Tour of products and solutions being showcased at FTE Global, conveniently scheduled at the end of this session. Learn more here >>

Tenille Houston
Tenille Houston

VP Public Relations and Communications

Aurrigo

Randy Morrison

Program Analyst

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

Ina Eldoy

CEO

BagID

James Houghton

Aviation Business Development

Materna IPS

Wopke Dost

Programme Management Lead

nlmtd

Dennis van Kleef

Programme Lead Baggage

Royal Schiphol Group

Monday 28th October 13:00 - 15:00

FTE World Ancillary & Retailing Working Group Meeting - Open to all

Members only

Theme:

“Collaborative Retailing Strategies to Drive Revenue Growth for All”

  • Welcome and Scene Setting from Daniel Coleman, Founder & CEO, Future Travel Experience and Sammy Patel, VP Commercial, Vantage Group
  • Keynote presentation & Q&A: Munich Airport and Lufthansa have launched a groundbreaking new partnership with Miles & More. This unique cooperation between an airport, an airline and a loyalty program offers travellers and visitors to Munich Airport “an even more attractive shopping experience”. It is already delivering fantastic results by changing passenger behaviour and buying habits, and in this deep-dive joint presentation by Dr. Jan-Henrik Andersson, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) & Chief Security Officer (CSO) at Munich Airport and Dr. Björn Becker, Head of Program Future Intercont Experience, Lufthansa we will hear details on exactly how it works, the use cases they have already successfully tested, and those coming next. (we have put one hour aside for the above presentation and a fireside chat/Q&A led by Sammy that takes in questions too from the audience in the room, and online.
  • Open Discussion for the group (in-person and virtual participants) on collaborative retailing ideas and possibilities with initial perspectives from Sammy Patel, Vice President, Commercial, Vantage Airport Group, Abby Wanjiru, Senior Manager Ancillaries, Riyadh Air & Guðmundur Daði Rúnarsson, Chief Commercial and Airport Development Officer, Keflavik Airport in the room.

The theme of the meeting will be “Collaborative retailing strategies to drive revenue growth for all” and speakers will include:

Dr. Jan-Henrik Andersson

Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) & Chief Security Officer (CSO)

Munich Airport

Sammy Patel

Chief Executive Officer, Midway Partnership & Vice President, Commercial

Vantage Airport Group

Guðmundur Daði Rúnarsson
Guðmundur Daði Rúnarsson

CCO and Airport Development Officer

Keflavik Airport

13:00 - 18:00

FTE Exhibition Opens, VIP Tours & Showcases

Monday 28th October 13:20 - 15:00

The FTE Sprint Sessions

Exhibition Pass Premium Pass

In our Sprint Sessions, hosted in a dedicated zone on the show floor, attendees passionate about key industry topics can join one of three 20-minute sessions to brainstorm and propose potential solutions to the challenges presented. The outcomes will be shared with all attendees and the broader industry after the event. Topics include:

  • 13:20 – 13:40 – Topic 1: Strategies for improving industry response to disruptions
  • 14:00 – 14:20 – Topic 2: Use cases for Generative AI in aviation
  • 14:40 – 15:00 – Topic 3: Use cases for sustainable applications of hydrogen at airports
Monday 28th October 15:00 - 15:30

Tech & Innovation Briefing - Baggage

Exhibition Pass Premium Pass

Our popular Tech & Innovation Briefings on the exhibition floor allow attendees to join guided tours and meet exhibitors with relevant products, services and concepts to learn more about the subjects they are most interested in. You can expect briefings in 2024 around a variety of pertinent topics, each briefing subject is scheduled to succeed a related conference session.

Bagpoint

This Tech & Innovation Briefing has been conveniently scheduled so that BIWG Members can move directly from the 13:00-15:00 FTE Baggage Innovation Working Group meeting, open to members only and continue exploring this important industry topic.

For more information and to view the full Tech & Innovation Briefing schedule, click here >>

Monday 28th October 15:30 - 17:00

FTE Global Opening Keynote Session

Premium Pass
Welcome Address
Daniel Coleman

Founder & CEO

Future Travel Experience

Dr. Joe Leader

CEO

APEX/IFSA

Inspirational keynotes:

FTE Global Exclusive Unveiling – How will Riyadh Air, the new airline based in the capital city of Saudi Arabia rewrite the rules for end-to-end guest experiences, and what will the role of digital be within that?

Anton Vidgen

Vice President, Guest Experience

Riyadh Air

Riyadh Air aims to become the world’s most forward-thinking carrier, a digital native embracing the best sustainability practices and elevating travel experiences. They are preparing to better connect the world to Riyadh and Riyadh to the world. Inspiration to be the very best is what powers Riyadh Air.

Every aspect of their operation has been thoroughly thought out, resulting in best-in-class performance at every level. As a disruptive startup airline, they have a unique opportunity to adopt the latest technologies and systems from day one and move away from aviation legacy thinking. Leveraging Saudi Arabia’s strategic geographic location between the three continents of Asia, Africa, and Europe, Riyadh Air will offer better connectivity to Riyadh – a global destination for transportation, trade, and tourism.

In this exclusive keynote we will hear Riyadh Air’s views on what the future will look like, how passenger needs around the world will evolve and the thinking behind the choices they have made on how they will interact with their guests at every step of the journey both on the ground, and up in the air. They will share the challenges they have encountered and overcome on their journey so far, and give their views on what needs to happen next in our sector to transform travel for the better.

Lessons on how to deal with times of transformation and the changing nature of consumer engagement

David Decker

President Content Sales

Warner Bros. Discovery

Monday 28th October 17:00 - 18:00

FTE Global Happy Hour

Exhibition Pass Premium Pass

Make the most of the vital networking opportunities provided at the FTE Global Happy Hour, where delegates can enjoy demonstrations in the exhibition and network with their peers over drinks.

Tuesday 29th October 2024

07:45 - 17:30

Registration Open

Tuesday 29th October 09:00 - 09:30

Morning Keynote

Premium Pass

Transformation or Steady Evolution – A leadership question

Paul Puopolo

Executive Vice President of Innovation

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport

The question of disruptive transformation or evolutionary improvement isn’t about technology but about leadership approaches. To keep up with the pace of technology and meet rising customer expectations it will require ambidextrous leaders who embrace not only today’s challenges but also the unpredictable future. The market is becoming more complex and will require leadership that drives a culture that is responsive to change, that is willing to embrace technology innovation, and build and retain teams with the right skillsets to deliver a different future. Organizations will need to invest in process, technology and culture integrated by skillful leaders to be successful in the future, so what does the future look like and how do we set ourselves up to succeed?

09:00 - 17:30

Exhibition Open

Tuesday 29th October 09:30 - 10:30

The Technology Leaders Conversation

Premium Pass

Format:

Fast-moving panel discussion on topics outlined

Moderator:
Dr. Joe Leader

CEO

APEX/IFSA

Panellists:
Stephen Snyder

Managing Director, Operations & Partnerships

JetBlue Ventures

Ian Law

Chief Innovation & Experience Officer

Los Angeles World Airports

Matt Gilkeson

Chief Technology, Data, and Artificial Intelligence Officer

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

Sagi Varghese

Managing Director, Airport Operations & CSD Technology

United Airlines

More exciting speakers to be announced soon.

Topics of discussion:
  • Progressive IT organisation approaches for airlines and airports
  • How much longer will airlines & airports need legacy systems, and what will the tech stack of the future look like for key industry stakeholders?
  • AI – policies of using, what are the tools, what focus areas should we bet on?
  • What is the successful formula for getting more for less with technology?
  • How much can new technologies & automation really impact efficiency and CX efforts, and how do you bring all these enablers together effectively instead of being siloed?
  • How can we build more resilience into systems to avoid CrowdStrike style meltdowns?
10:30 - 11:30

Coffee Break on the exhibition floor

Grab a coffee from one of the various available points in the expo hall and enjoy the cutting-edge exhibitor solutions and concepts on offer.

Tuesday 29th October 10:30 - 11:15

Tech & Innovation Briefing - Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) & Extended Reality (XR)

Exhibition Pass Premium Pass

Our popular Tech & Innovation Briefings on the exhibition floor allow attendees to join guided tours and meet exhibitors with relevant products, services and concepts to learn more about the subjects they are most interested in. You can expect briefings in 2024 around a variety of pertinent topics, each briefing subject is scheduled to succeed a related conference session.

This Tech & Innovation Briefing has been conveniently scheduled so that premium pass holders with an interest in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) & Extended Reality (XR) can move directly to the 11:30-12:45 FTE AI Symposium and continue exploring this important industry topic.

For more information and to view the full Tech & Innovation Briefing schedule, click here >>

Tuesday 29th October 11:30 - 12:45

The FTE AI Symposium

Premium Pass

Innovation and Tech Briefings

FORMAT

Case Studies exploring the best use cases for today, tomorrow and well into the future

Moderator’s Presentation:

What inspiration can we take from inside our sector, and beyond it, on how AI can be leveraged successfully?

Ed Vanga

Vice President of Product Management for Artificial Intelligence

Publicis Sapient

Presentations by

How will Alaska Airlines use AI to increase productivity, transform customer experiences, streamline operations, remove manual toll and drive revenues, and what can it learn from those efforts?

Vikram Baskaran
Vikram Baskaran

Vice President, Information Technology

Alaska Airlines

What exactly does the AI @ FRA programme look like and what business cases and learnings can be shared from the effort so far?

Rolf Felke

Senior Vice President Applications and Partner Management

Fraport

Southwest Airlines is leveraging computer vision technology to improve turnaround performance at the gate. How successful has this effort been, and how might it further leverage the technology going forward?

Kevin Kleist

Head of Emerging Trends

Southwest Airlines

Christiaan Hen
Christiaan Hen

CEO

Assaia

More exciting speakers to be announced soon.

12:45 - 13:30

Lunch and networking on the exhibition floor

Premium pass holders will be able to claim their complimentary lunch from the catering points in the heart of the exhibition (just show the knife and fork icon on your badge). Expo pass holders can visit the same catering areas and select their preferred lunch for purchase. There are expanded menu options for purchase at the concession stands at the rear of the hall.

Tuesday 29th October 12:45 - 13:30

Tech & Innovation Briefing - Digital Identity, Biometrics & Security

Exhibition Pass Premium Pass

Our popular Tech & Innovation Briefings on the exhibition floor allow attendees to join guided tours and meet exhibitors with relevant products, services and concepts to learn more about the subjects they are most interested in. You can expect briefings in 2024 around a variety of pertinent topics, each briefing subject is scheduled to succeed a related conference session.

Vision-BoxSITA

This Tech & Innovation Briefing has been conveniently scheduled so that premium pass holders with an interest in Digital Identity, Biometrics & Security can move directly from the 11:50-12:45 – Digital Identity & Biometrics Symposium and continue exploring this important industry topic.

For more information and to view the full Tech & Innovation Briefing schedule, click here >>

Tuesday 29th October 13:15 - 14:15

FTE Innovate Pitch Session – Best new Transformative Concept by Startups & Vendors

Premium Pass

At the epicentre of this show is the region’s largest and most respected innovation competition. Industry stakeholders will pitch on-stage in an effort to impress our judges and audience, whose all-important votes will dictate who wins.

The format will be 5-minute pitch sessions by 6 Startups & Vendors for our shortlisted airlines with quick-fire questions and comments from the judges.

Aurrigo International’s Auto-DollyTug smart airside solution leveraging latest autonomous tech

Tenille Houston
Tenille Houston

VP Public Relations and Communications

Aurrigo

Aurrigo International for the latest generation Auto-DollyTug – a zero-emission, all-electric, autonomous baggage and cargo tractor. With its robotic arms, Aurrigo is the first company to offer automated loading and unloading of a unit load device (ULD), delivering a fully autonomous solution. The vehicles are currently on the ground and being put through their paces at six airports, enhancing operational efficiency, customer experience, commercial performance and sustainability.

Gameway’s premium video game lounges revolutionising airport layover experience

Geena Martin

Director of Business Development

Gameway

Gameway for its innovative premium video game lounges, which are revolutionising airport layovers by offering an experience that transforms idle time into engaging entertainment. There are already six airport locations and more on the way. The lounges are about more than just gaming and are designed to enhance every aspect of the airport experience – from improving operational flow and customer satisfaction to boosting commercial revenues.

Foundations Worldwide’s Ascent Universal Changing Table

Kate McFarlane

Director of Content and Creative

Foundations Worldwide

Foundations Worldwide for the Ascent Universal Changing Table launched in June 2024, which provides dignified and hygienic access to public restrooms for individuals who may not be able to use standard handicapped accessible restrooms. While most universal changing tables are designed for medical facilities and for use by professionals, Foundations Worldwide’s height-adjustable product is easy to use, easy to install and maintain, and comfortable for both users and caregivers.

DataArt’s GateGuide navigation concept with real-time insights across end-to-end journey

Tim McMullen

Vice President, Business Development

DataArt

DataArt for its GateGuide navigator concept, aiming to reimagine the entire customer journey by combining multiple travel elements into a single, cohesive app. GateGuide is innovative in multiple aspects: it extends the passenger journey beyond how it is typically viewed; the technology available not only combines existing applications but is available in real-time; and it is practical, giving travellers insights across their true end-to-end journey.

Kquika’s Trakt AI-powered predictive maintenance system

Victor Oribamise

CEO

Kquika

Kquika for the Trakt AI-powered predictive maintenance system, which represents a transformative leap in aviation maintenance technology. Trakt addresses critical industry pain-points with an innovative, AI-driven solution that promises to revolutionise how aircraft maintenance is conducted. The system’s ability to significantly reduce maintenance-related delays, increase overall efficiency, and dramatically cut down on errors, demonstrates its potential to enhance both operational performance and passenger experience.

Tuesday 29th October 14:30 - 15:30

Leveraging Technology to enhance efficiencies at the airport

Premium Pass
Moderator:
Renie Subin

Senior Director, Technology & External Affairs

ACI-NA

PRESENTATIONS BY:

MATARAT monitor the operations of 27 airports in Saudi Arabia through its subsidiaries (Riyadh Airports, Jeddah Airports, Dammam Airports and Cluster 2) and is working to develop one of the world’s leading airport networks, so how ambitious are the group’s digital transformation plans?

Amal Hejles

Digital Strategy Director

MATARAT

How JFK used machine learning and data driven planning to improve experiences and efficiencies at security screening.

James Williamson
James Williamson

CEO

Veovo

Raymond Viggiano

Assistant Manager of Customer Service Delivery

The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey

From Vision to Reality: How the Curaçao Express Pass is Setting a New Standard for Contactless Border Crossing

Jeff Lennon

VP Strategic Sales and Global Partnerships

Vision-Box

Gabriel Wichrowski
Gabriel Wichrowski

VP of Global Business Development

Airside

Gerold Daantje

Immigration Department, Ministry of Justice

Curaçao

Priscilla Duin-Circkens

Chief Strategy Officer (CSO)

Curacao Airport Holding

More exciting speakers to be announced soon.

15:30 - 16:30

Networking Break on Exhibition Floor

Grab a coffee from one of the various available points in the expo hall and enjoy the cutting-edge exhibitor solutions on offer.

Tuesday 29th October 15:30 - 16:15

Tech & Innovation Briefing – Accessibility

Autonomous wheelchairs & other exciting new technology & services to improve accessibility for all.

Exhibition Pass Premium Pass

Our popular Tech & Innovation Briefings on the exhibition floor allow attendees to join guided tours and meet exhibitors with relevant products, services and concepts to learn more about the subjects they are most interested in. You can expect briefings in 2024 around a variety of pertinent topics, each briefing subject is scheduled to succeed a related conference session.

Foundations Worldwideimage HOLDERS

This Tech & Innovation Briefing has been conveniently scheduled so that premium pass holders with an interest in Accessibility can move directly from the 14:30-15:30 – Accessibility Symposium and continue exploring this important industry topic.

For more information and to view the full Tech & Innovation Briefing schedule, click here >>

Tuesday 29th October 16:30 - 16:45

Special Keynote

Premium Pass

Beyond the Skies: Reimagine the Travel Sector with Meta and Metaverse Technology

Tuesday 29th October 16:45 - 17:30

Case Studies & Learnings from progressive technology projects

Premium Pass
Moderator:
Darin Juby

Head of Transformation

Future Travel Experience

How is the world’s largest airline successfully building a strategy for a mobile device supported operation in the airport as part of its digital transformation, and automation, program to create big wins for passengers, employees and the business?

Rob Cato

Director CX Airport Technology Product Management

American Airlines

Nicolas Tarassoff

Key Account Manager

Scandit

Security and Control in Airport Displays

Phillip Chan

Executive Director of Solutions

Samsung

Darin Juby

Head of Transformation

Future Travel Experience

More exciting speakers to be announced soon.

Tuesday 29th October 20:30 - 23:00

FTE Global Networking Party (featuring the FTE Global Awards Ceremony)

Premium Pass

This year’s FTE Global Networking Party will take place at the Hotel Maya – a full-scale Latin American-inspired resort with a distinctive Southern California combination of spectacular, oceanfront views amidst 14 acres of lush, tropical gardens dotted with 500 palm trees in a modern, open-air setting. The event will be this year’s premier industry networking event, providing a perfect opportunity to unwind and network with fellow attendees in a scenic environment.

For a chance to win roundtrip flights from Los Angeles to London Heathrow, kindly donated by Aer Lingus, show off your karaoke skills in our Rockstar Karaoke competition, with this special prize awarded for the best performance of the night!

It will also provide the perfect location for the industry-leading FTE Global Pioneer Awards ceremony sponsored by Assaia, which will recognise the world’s most pioneering airports and airlines with innovation projects prevalent across their entire organisations. Three airports and three airlines will be highly commended, while three more airports and airlines will receive FTE Global Pioneer Awards trophies. As part of the evening we will also recognise outstanding achievements among our FTE Americas Digital Transformation Power List nominees.

Wednesday 30th October 2024

07:45 - 16:00

Registration Open

Wednesday 30th October 09:00 - 09:30

Morning Keynote

Premium Pass

09:00 - 16:30

FTE Global Exhibition Open

Wednesday 30th October 09:30 - 10:30

Upgrading from Traditional FIDS and Legacy Digital Signage? Why Content Strategy is Vital when It's Time to Invest in a Digital Ecosystem.

Premium Pass

Sponsored by:

Moderator:
Royce Holden

Cybersecurity Lead/CISO

Mead & Hunt

Speakers:
Faith Varwig

Principal

Faith Group

Mike Youngs

VP of Information Technology

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport

Yahav Ran

CEO

Synect

Rob Bischoff

Global Digital Experience Design Leader

Gensler

Austin Gould

President

Gould Strategic Solution

Topics to be Covered:
  • The Importance of a Content-First Strategy:
    • Understanding why content strategy is the north star for hardware, software, and other decisions.
  • The Role of System and Infrastructure:
    • How the system and infrastructure exist to deliver content that is:
      • Engaging – to capture attention
      • Effective – to serve a purpose and deliver meaningful results
  • Consequences of Delaying Content Discussions:
    • The risks of postponing content strategy conversations, including the potential for wasteful hardware spending, costly replacements, and limited system capabilities.
  • Benefits of Prioritizing Content Strategy:
    • How prioritizing content strategy can inform and optimize hardware and software decisions.
    • Different ways to achieve cost savings and maximize return on investment (ROI).
  • Putting it All Together to Enhance Operations and Increase Responsiveness
    • How to enable quick reaction and automated response to the hyper-dynamic airport environment.
  • Start Where You Are and Build to Scale
    • Where does your airport need to enhance passenger communication, drive engagement, optimize behavior, or streamline operations?
    • Wherever you are, it’s the right time and place to consider content and smart solutions.
  • 10:30 - 11:30

    Networking Break on the exhibition floor

    Grab a coffee from one of the various available points in the expo hall and enjoy the cutting-edge exhibitor solutions and concepts on offer.

    Wednesday 30th October 10:30 - 11:15

    Tech & Innovation Briefing – Self-Service & Automation

    Exhibition Pass Premium Pass

    Our popular Tech & Innovation Briefings on the exhibition floor allow attendees to join guided tours and meet exhibitors with relevant products, services and concepts to learn more about the subjects they are most interested in. You can expect briefings in 2024 around a variety of pertinent topics, each briefing subject is scheduled to succeed a related conference session.

    This Tech & Innovation Briefing has been conveniently scheduled so that premium pass holders with an interest in Self-Service & Automation can move directly from the 09:30-10:30 – How do we leverage technology, innovation and new approaches to create Smart Ramp operations around the world / Leveraging digital displays at airports to the maximum through content, positioning & collaboration session and continue exploring this important industry topic.

    For more information and to view the full Tech & Innovation Briefing schedule, click here >>

    Wednesday 30th October 11:30 - 12:30

    FTE Americas Innovate Awards Pitch Session: Most Innovative Airline & Airport Initiative

    Premium Pass

    At the epicentre of this show is the region’s largest and most respected innovation competition. Industry stakeholders will pitch on-stage in an effort to impress our judges and audience, whose all-important votes will dictate who wins.

    The format will be 5-minute pitch sessions by 3 airlines and 3 airports for our shortlisted nominees with quick fire questions and comments from the judges.

    Most Innovative Airline Initiative

    Alaska Airlines’ world-first Generative AI flight search tool

    Bernadette Berger

    Director of Innovation

    Alaska Airlines

    Alaska Airlines for the Alaska Inspires destination discovery tool – the world’s first Generative AI flight search launched by an airline. Drawing from Alaska Airlines’ rich customer data, destination recommendations are synthesised and hyper-personalised, as a key tool in the airline’s drive to proactively improve the complete customer journey. Alaska Inspires is also driving new revenue, with email campaigns promoting the tool generating $1million in revenue within one month.

    Southwest Airlines’ AI and Machine Learning-powered Leading Indicator Alert Tool

    Max Pariazar
    Max Pariazar

    Principle Data Scientist for Artificial Intelligence & Data Transformation

    Southwest Airlines

    Sree Samudrala

    Director of AI Delivery

    Southwest Airlines

    Southwest Airlines for its Leading Indicator Alert Tool. In December 2022, Winter Storm Elliot created extreme weather conditions that impacted the entire industry. Southwest responded with the development of the tool, which combines existing data with AI and Machine Learning to create predictive models that allow the airline to proactively address potential issues, enhancing both operational efficiency and customer experience.

    Envoy Air/American Airlines Group’s autonomous wheelchair initiative

    Deesha Desai
    Deesha Desai

    Vice President, LAX Hub & West Region

    Envoy

    Envoy Air/American Airlines Group for the partnership with WHILL to deploy autonomous wheelchairs at MIA and LAX, fundamentally transforming how American Airlines’ customers with mobility challenges navigate these busy hubs. The autonomous wheelchairs enable customers to reach their gates independently, enhancing operational efficiency and CX by also allowing staff to focus on providing personalised assistance to passengers who need it most.

    Most Innovative Airport Initiative

    CVG Airport’s advanced tech to streamline CX for deaf travellers

    Hannah Meredith
    Hannah Meredith

    Senior Manager of Strategic Innovation

    CVG Airport

    Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) for becoming the first airport in the U.S. to implement Signapse, which utilises advanced technology to streamline the passenger journey for deaf individuals. The AI-powered sign language and interpretation services ensure an equitable travel experience for deaf passengers by reducing stress through the seamless integration of dynamic technology.

    MWAA’s unique in-house innovation lab and custom hardware solutions

    Christian George Kessler

    Organizational Alignment and Strategic Innovation

    Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority

    Patrick Skelton

    Innovation Research & Development Program Manager

    Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority

    Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) for its in-house innovation lab, which creates custom sensors and other electronics tailored to its airports’ specific needs. MWAA focuses on rapid prototyping, hands-on testing, and real-world application, with a priority on low-cost development with big returns in terms of operational efficiency, CX and commercial performance. The innovation lab has also energised MWAA’s reservoir of talents, transforming the culture of the organisation itself.

    Tampa International Airport’s strategic roadway analysis program leveraging intelligent automation

    Doug Wycoff

    Director of Digital Technologies & Innovation, HCAA \

    Tampa International Airport

    Tampa International Airport (TPA) for its strategic roadway analysis program, utilising existing and emerging technologies and incorporating an easy-to-use dashboard to pinpoint emerging trends. The program leverages existing LiDAR technologies to build a foundation that will later incorporate AI to predictively manage the airport’s roadways. The intelligent automation and predictive planning are helping catapult the airport into the future of operational efficiency and positive passenger experience.

    12:30 - 14:00

    Lunch and networking on the exhibition floor with exclusive launches and unveilings

    Premium pass holders will be able to claim their complimentary lunch from the catering points in the heart of the exhibition (just show the knife and fork icon on your badge). Expo pass holders can visit the same catering areas and select their preferred lunch for purchase. There are expanded menu options for purchase at the concession stands at the rear of the hall.

    Wednesday 30th October 13:00 - 14:00

    FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub Interactive Workshop – open to Corporate Partners only

    Members only

    Corporate Partners of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub are invited to participate in this members-only workshop, which will include interactive discussions on topics of mutual interest as well as an opportunity to network with fellow members, including a selection of the industry’s most forward-thinking airlines, airports and vendors.

    Wednesday 30th October 13:30 - 14:30

    Tech & Innovation Briefing - Robotics & Autonomous Vehicles

    Exhibition Pass Premium Pass

    Our popular Tech & Innovation Briefings on the exhibition floor allow attendees to join guided tours and meet exhibitors with relevant products, services and concepts to learn more about the subjects they are most interested in. You can expect briefings in 2024 around a variety of pertinent topics, each briefing subject is scheduled to succeed a related conference session.

    This Tech & Innovation Briefing has been conveniently scheduled so that premium pass holders with an interest in Robotics & Autonomous Vehicles can move directly to the 14:30-15:30 Robotics & Autonomous Symposium and continue exploring this important industry topic.

    For more information and to view the full Tech & Innovation Briefing schedule, click here >>

    Wednesday 30th October 14:00 - 14:30

    Post-Lunch Keynote Session for all

    Premium Pass

    Wednesday 30th October 14:30 - 15:30

    The FTE Robotics & Autonomous Vehicles Symposium

    Premium Pass

    Captained by:
    Cole Wolfson

    supporting e Tank team members & Director, xBridge

    Pittsburgh International Airport

    FTE Exclusive

    The “FTE Robotics Think Tank” Live – building on the workshop brainstorming at the 2nd FTE Aviation & Robotics Summit in Pittsburgh this May

    Theme:

    How will humans and robots co-exist within aviation in the future, and what are the best ways to introduce, and develop, a harmonious relationship between the two?

    Team Members include:
    Kristen
    Kristen Berndt

    Senior Manager, Customer Strategy & Innovation

    United Airlines

    Keith Walters

    Group Transformation Lead

    International Airlines Group (IAG)

    Doug Kreuzkamp
    Doug Kreuzkamp

    Founder/CEO

    Springshot

    Zahra Merchant

    Chapter Lead Robotics

    Royal Schiphol Group

    Tomoyuki Kikuchi

    Manager, Ground Handling Planning, Airport Support, Operations Support Center

    ANA

    Wednesday 30th October 15:30 - 16:30

    FTE Global Closing Party (featuring the FTE Americas Innovate Awards Ceremony)

    Exhibition Pass Premium Pass

    Make the most of the vital networking opportunities provided at the FTE Global Closing Party, which provides a final opportunity to spend some quality time on the show floor with a fun social twist thanks to our exhibitors who will be hosting drinks receptions, prize draw giveaways and unveilings. The FTE Global Closing Party will also provide the perfect location to reveal the winners of the FTE Americas Innovate Awards. During the previous two days audience members will have heard from industry stakeholders, each pitching on stage in an effort to impress our judges and their fellow aviation colleagues. Join us as we see the region’s largest and most respected innovation competition come to a close. The all-important audience votes will be tallied, and we will announce and celebrate the FTE Americas Innovate Awards winners.


    Why attend FTE Global?

    Don’t just take our word for it – read what FTE Global attendees have said about the show…

    “The great thing for our team at FTE Global has been to try to understand what other people are doing and get great new ideas. I think United is doing more to innovate in more areas than any other airline in the world,but there’s still plenty of good ideas and innovation that’s happening outside and the opportunity to come to a place like FTE Global and learn what others are doing really helps get that creative engine firing and get more ideas. Our team wants to come back and share all the areas in which we are leading that sometimes people don’t know about – giving them the opportunity to come and show the pride that they have in that leadership role will be exciting.”

    Scott Kirby, Chief Executive Officer, United Airlines

    “My experience at FTE Global was great. I have talked to a lot of smart people and had a great time. The social events and networkingopportunities have been fantastic. I have had the opportunity to sit in on the conference sessions. The topics were really good – they are unique, but they are relevant to all travellers, especially digital identity which is on the cutting-edge of technology. The exhibition has a really good range of companies – you can come and see all travel has. Based on my experience this year, I will be back for sure, so I am looking forward to it.”

    Yemi Oshinnaiye, CIO, Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

    “My experience this year at FTE Global has been fantastic. It is my third consecutive time attending the event. The networking opportunities and social events have been terrific. The conference sessions have been fantastic as well. There are always interesting companies here in the exhibition hall – this year was certainly another success in that sense for me. I will absolutely be back at FTE Global again.”

    Charles Duncan, President, Norse Atlantic Airways

    “As always, the networking opportunities have been fantastic. It has been really great to network with a lot of like-minded people. One of the things I love about FTE events is that we get people of a senior level from airlines, airports and vendors, so it has been great. It has been a really interesting exhibition – it is great to see a mix of well-established companies as well as start-ups, and also good to see a number of new launches. The conference sessions have been really interesting. I have been attending FTE Global for a number of years and am looking forward to going to LA next year.”

    Chris Annetts, Chief Strategy Officer, Heathrow Airport

    “I have been attending FTE Global for over a decade and it is just incredibly refreshing to be not only in a learning environment, but a relaxed environment where we are able to engage in very healthy, forward-looking conversations and really try to push the boundaries. FTE Global is not the usual mundane conference, so I am super-proud of what you are doing. I have been absolutely overwhelmed by the number and quality of visitors to our booth. Of course, I will be back at FTE Global. It just never ceases to amaze me how much bigger and better the event becomes, and really that is the beauty of bringing airports, airlines and vendors together, along with regulators, so in an environment like that you can really never go wrong.”

    Brian Cobb, Chief Innovation Officer, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport

    “My experience at FTE Global has been fantastic. It is a great showcase of all the latest technology. It is very exciting – I am sort of overwhelmed by how much technology there is here, you can’t consume it all. Congratulations on such a fabulous show.”

    John Thomas, Chief Executive Officer, Connect Airlines

    “This is my first time attending FTE Global and I have really enjoyed it. What I really like is it’s a great mix of not only our vendor partners, but also airlines and a good representation of international airports as well. It’s good to share information and network. I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to get away and be strategic for a couple of days.”

    Mike Youngs, VP of Information Technology, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport

    “It is my first time attending FTE Global. I’ve really enjoyed the opportunity to tell the DFW digital twin story for the first time out in a public setting. It’s great to see what other airports are doing around this space – it’s going to take a village to transform this industry. It is this type of environment at FTE Global that allows us to exchange what worked, what didn’t work, and the new innovation and ideas that are coming together. We’re all going to leave this event better equipped for what we need to do for the mission.”

    Shaun Klann, Head of Strategic Growth, Willow

    “LAX is obviously a great airport, so it is great to have the co-located FTE Global and APEX EXPO in Los Angeles this year. We are actually thinking about doing something special together with LAX and FTE for the show, so you can be surprised and looking forward to this.”

    Dr. Bjoern Becker, Head of Program Future Intercont Experience, Lufthansa

    “ I have attended a number of FTE events over recent years, some as a delegate and others as a speaker. FTE Global in particular, always attracts a diverse mix of experts and professionals from across the world of aviation. What stands out against other conferences is the inclusion of hospitality, technologists and futurists who help delegates learn from other sectors, which enables a broader knowledge and understanding of what else we can do to promote the aviation sector. Networking opportunities and social events are always of the highest standard and allows old and new friends to come together in a relaxed and fun way.”

    David Wilson, Managing Partner, daa International

    “ I felt that at Future Travel Experience the past week the conference has been excellent to not only be able to have though-provoking aviation discussions, but also to collaborate and connect to other airports and leaders in aviation.”

    Naashom Marx, Senior Manager Innovation, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International

    “ The networking opportunities are always fantastic at FTE Global. There has been a high level of interaction and engagement between delegates.”

    Rick Belliotti, Deputy Chief Officer - IT (CTO), Austin Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)

    “ FTE Global is a wonderful event. I have met representatives from many different modes of travel, and heard what people need to think about in the next decades. In terms of networking, the right players are here to have conversations with.”

    Zachary Matthews, Senior Regional Manager, Business Development and Operations, US and Canada, Uber

    “ I have particularly liked that the event helps from a strategic standpoint. FTE Global really allows for a holistic strategic mind-set. The conference sessions have been very relevant in terms of customer experience.”

    Michael Morford, Airport Concessions Manager, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport

    “ It’s great that we’re hearing about disruption. Blurring the lines between industries is very important, and this event does that very effectively.”

    Rachel Walker, DDirector/MD Innovation & Solutions for Customer Contact Centers, United Airlines

    “ I have been very happy with the conference sessions, which have been projecting us into the future. It’s my first time here at FTE Global and it has exceeded my expectations. I have met lots of different contacts – the event is very good for networking.”

    Aymeric Dussart, Vice President, Technology and innovation, ADM Aéroports de Montréal

    “ The panel sessions have been excellent, with good interaction with the audience. It’s a very forward-thinking event and people here are not afraid to talk about the future.”

    Joshua Krall, Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder, Boom Supersonic

    “ I’d heard a lot about FTE Global from industry colleagues and it has certainly met my expectations. The conference sessions have been very interesting, and it has been my pleasure to take part.”

    Christoph Rufenacht, VP Airport Development and Asset Optimization, Vancouver Airport Authority

    “ FTE Global was definitely a great opportunity for us to network and to learn from all the players that are changing the airline industry and the travel industry. During three days we were exposed to lots of insights and we were exposed to a broader way of approaching our business.”

    Alessandro Fusaro, MBA | Product Management & omni-channel Customer Experience, SkyTeam

    “ The event has been very insightful. I’ve been to a lot of conferences, and the knowledge gained at FTE Global is unique and innovative. It’s very good that the event is all about collaboration. I will take some nice concepts home with me.”

    Maria Rosario C. Jocson, Assistant Vice President, Centre for Customer Management, Marketing Department, Philippine Airlines

    “ As always, I come away inspired, with lot of ideas and new perspectives to try to push my organisation even further.”

    Guðmundur Daði Rúnarsson, Chief Commercial & Airport Development Officer, Keflavik (KEF) International Airport

    “ I really enjoyed the event and seeing lots of interesting airlines and technologies. Highlights for me were the NASA and TSA talks and the collaboration work between the partners. There are differences we have, but it is very interesting to make it all come together.”

    Lilian Narumi, Passenger Services Manager, Singapore Airlines

    “ I’ve been asked by a number of people how FTE compares to other events on the aviation circuit. My response is that it’s very much a case of quality over quantity, with a more focused selection of relevant speakers and discussion topics, rather than the broad brush approach used by others. It’s this focus on quality speakers, innovation and informative topics that makes FTE the success that it is.”

    Martin Bowman, Aviation Technology Director, Deloitte

    “ The sharing amongst partners airlines and operators is what makes this show unique. Everybody gives a lot of insights on the issues and challenges of the industry and it is good to hear that there are similarities in the issues we are all facing.”

    Alphonsus Chan, Manager, Corporate IT & Technology, Changi Airport

    “ The show has been tremendous so far. I managed to see some incredible presentations from a lot of great people from inside the industry. We were able to meet with a lot of vendors with whom we have talked to before, but it is great to meet them here in person, which makes it a lot more efficient for us to make decisions on how we drive the guest experience for passengers. For me, this event is really forward looking – it’s not just about what people have accomplished, but about what they were trying to accomplish. So, I think that’s very valuable, as we are trying to move the industry forward.”

    Bobby Schroeter, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Spirit Airlines

    “ Compared to some of the other industry events which are a lot broader, FTE really focuses on innovation, so that makes it different. It is always about new ideas and new technologies that could be applied in real life problems, so that’s what makes it unique.”

    Suhail Kadri, Senior Vice President Technology & Innovation, Hamad International Airport

    FTE Global registration

    Find out FTE Global 2025 registration options

    Click here to register

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    Contact us using our online form.

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    Vital Event Information

    Future Travel Experience Global 2025 is a global forum that brings together airlines, airports, government agencies, vendors, start-ups, terminal designers, architects, ground handlers, destination partners and various other travel industry stakeholders to learn, collaborate and be inspired on their next moves to transform their organisations’ passenger experience, business performance & sustainability strategies.

    fte-asia-schema-img
    Event
    Future Travel Experience Global 2025
    Date
    - September 2025
    Location
    Long Beach Convention Center, California, United States

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