EXPERT AIRPORT & AIRLINE INDUSTRY SPEAKERS!
Passenger Terminal CONFERENCE 2021 Virtual ‘LIVE’ speakers will appear on this page once they have accepted our invitation to speak at the conference.
Some of the great speakers who were due to present in 2020 will be joining us for the new virtual conference!
Keep checking back!
Ann Marie Aguilar
senior vice president
IWBI
UK
Synopsis: By supporting awareness of health and wellness programs and policies, organizations can promote health literacy and encourage engagement with health resources, leading to individual benefits such as increased participation in healthy behaviors and use of health services, and also employer benefits, providing an estimated 4:1 return on investment. Establishing a health-centered mission and orienting stakeholders as to how the organization will adhere to that mission and WELL features through design and operations, helps individuals remain engaged in the space and empowers them to utilize all available health and wellness programs and policies.
Synopsis: The architecture of the airports can define the immune system response to our current crisis. How can existing airports use the impacts of the pandemic to reimagine the travel experience? Today we will explore the 10 themes of the WELL Building Standard’s v2 and understand how they map across SOM’s six pandemic design strategies. We aim to disrupt the negative impact of this global pandemic by sharing the imperative we are faced with today: investing in healthy spaces. Our panel discussion will involve the important themes of transparency, certification and continuous monitoring.
Cristina Alcivar
founder
Vane Airport Media Inc
CANADA
Synopsis: The airport can play a supporting role in a healthier and happier society. For instance, changing dwell time to swell time. For passengers to have a more joyful airport experience, basic human needs must come first. Transforming the dreaded, discretionary spending-focused dwell time into swell time should be at the forefront of any airport’s post-pandemic transformation moving forward. Dwell time is about making money, not passenger happiness. Happy passengers are willing to spend more of their time and money in airports.
Synopsis: The architecture of the airports can define the immune system response to our current crisis. How can existing airports use the impacts of the pandemic to reimagine the travel experience? Today we will explore the 10 themes of the WELL Building Standard’s v2 and understand how they map across SOM’s six pandemic design strategies. We aim to disrupt the negative impact of this global pandemic by sharing the imperative we are faced with today: investing in healthy spaces. Our panel discussion will involve the important themes of transparency, certification and continuous monitoring.
Bjoern Becker
head of product management - ground
Lufthansa German Airlines
GERMANY
Synopsis: The combination of a digital, touchless and personal hospitality experience has always been at the center of Lufthansa Group's passenger experience and has become even more relevant in recent months. The aim is to design a passenger-determined experience that is personalized and provides efficiency and hospitality. To achieve this, Lufthansa applies innovative service designs and technologies.
Synopsis: How have airports transformed their passenger and employee operations to be totally touchless? What has worked well and what needs improvement?
Paul Behnke
senior associate, knowledge and industry intelligence
Aviation Strategies
USA
Synopsis: This panel features presentations by four airport CEOs on the coping strategies implemented to continue the airport business throughout the pandemic. After the presentations, there will be discussion and Q&A, and the moderator, Paul Behnke, will provide a summary of key findings.
Mats Berglind
digital innovation manager
Swedavia AB
SWEDEN
Synopsis: This panel will be a conversation between airport representatives who work in the area of innovation. It will be a free-flowing conversation. How might this pandemic change the future of airports? What could change in the long term to provide safe traveling environments for passengers? How can hot spots be avoided? How to create an industry that can adapt quickly and be flexible if a threat such as this were to happen again? How could the whole operating model change?
Johan Berhin
designer and founder
Green Furniture Concept
SWEDEN
Synopsis: While the industry puts new safety measures in place, it needs to keep passengers feeling good along the way. Can this be achieved through innovative safety measures that improve passenger experience today? And can they be flexible enough to meet any new requirements to come? Many passengers are faced with an impersonal service, and they long for familiar comforts and safe spaces. Introducing organic shapes, living materials and natural textures to waiting areas can transform these places into relaxing oases. Plantlife can be used to provide social-distancing barriers and also direct passenger flow. When we find ways of taking passengers beyond the new normal, their journeys will remind them of happier times.
Synopsis: This exclusive panel discussion brings together creative agencies, airports and airlines in a quest to unlock fresh, radical ideas and technologies to restore passenger confidence in a post-pandemic world. Expect bold predictions about the future of air travel, unconventional thinking and a whole lot of fun!
Patrick Bertsch
director, aviation security
American Airlines
USA
Synopsis: Covid-19 has brought unprecedented challenges to the aviation industry as a whole and has driven a reimagining of the role of airline security departments. This session will discuss how aviation security teams had to pivot in their approach to managing risk and supporting operations in light of the changes brought about by the pandemic.
Synopsis: The primary focus of this discussion will be training for aviation security and operations, and safety for passengers and employees in these changing Covid-19 times. It will include the impact of the pandemic on aviation security operations and staffing, measures put in place at checkpoints and throughout the terminal, and maintaining recurrent training priorities as protection protocols continue to evolve in the future.
Nandita Bhatt
airport director Udaipur (general manager architect)
Airports Authority of India
INDIA
Synopsis: A critical moment in a passenger’s confidence occurs before they even walk through the revolving door. At airport entry points, travelers want to see smart procedures to limit the spread of Covid-19. These need to be faster, touchless and designed to maintain physical distancing. Redesigning layouts and queuing strategies, combined with leveraging new touchless technologies, can speed up processing, minimize the wait and keep everyone at safe distances. Finally, once passengers get through security, they need to be able to move freely and with confidence. Passengers want to return to their comfortable shopping, dining and waiting habits in a safe environment.
Synopsis: This panel features presentations by four airport CEOs on the coping strategies implemented to continue the airport business throughout the pandemic. After the presentations, there will be discussion and Q&A, and the moderator, Paul Behnke, will provide a summary of key findings.
Patrick Bohl
head of retail and property management
Budapest Airport Ltd
HUNGARY
Synopsis: While the aviation industry gets ready to ensure safer travel with pre-boarding testing schemes, travel retail has been lagging behind, driven by uncertainty about future passenger behavior. Once the rebound starts, who will be the industry's customers? The brave, experimental, seasoned world travelers first? Or those who need to fly on business or to visit friends and family, but prefer to keep their distance? Will airports be able to give passengers the feeling of safety and excitement that has been typical for this industry that has recovered relatively quickly after security scares in the past? And what will be the impact of tomorrow’s passenger behavior on commercial masterplanning, retail mix and assortment both medium and long term?
Synopsis: This panel will discuss the changing nature of travel, at least for the next couple of years. How will the mix of travelers change – will VFR travel rebound first, then leisure, then business? We will look at the changing psychology of travel and travelers – will new customer segments emerge (have they already?), with a very different approach to the shopping and dining proposition in airports? Consequently, how will the shape and size of the commercial offer evolve?
Gilles Brentini
head of strategic innovation and projects
Genève Aéroport
SWITZERLAND
Synopsis: This panel will be a conversation between airport representatives who work in the area of innovation. It will be a free-flowing conversation. How might this pandemic change the future of airports? What could change in the long term to provide safe traveling environments for passengers? How can hot spots be avoided? How to create an industry that can adapt quickly and be flexible if a threat such as this were to happen again? How could the whole operating model change?
Alice Brightwell
business manager Europe
Airbiz
UK
Synopsis: Contactless is a trend we experience in everyday life, including within the aviation industry. But does it actually provide any benefits to airports, airlines and passengers, and what challenges must be overcome to implement it? What opportunities exist to encourage ‘totally touchless’, that will enhance airline and airport products, improve the passenger experience and attract positive ROIs?
Synopsis: How is the industry performing on short-term investments in new technology to regain passenger and staff trust, health and safety?
Nina Brooks
vice president, security, facilitation and innovation
ACI
CANADA
Synopsis: Covid-19 has significantly impacted security operations, including how security is delivered and the resources available to deliver it. As we start to emerge from the pandemic, airports and security authorities will need to continue to adapt to provide a future-proof, resilient regime that continues to deliver an efficient, safe and secure set of security measures, through new processes, smart technologies and flexible regulation.
Synopsis: The panel will look at the global outlook for aviation security and safety, including how the pandemic has affected operations/threats and how it will change aviation security in the future.
Fraser Brown
retail director
Heathrow Airport
UK
Synopsis: The presentation will look ahead at the changing nature of travel, and discuss the resultant change in the passenger mix. It will also cover the psychology of travel and travelers, in terms of new expectations for shopping and dining propositions in airports and, consequently, how the commercial offer will evolve.
Synopsis: This panel will discuss the changing nature of travel, at least for the next couple of years. How will the mix of travelers change – will VFR travel rebound first, then leisure, then business? We will look at the changing psychology of travel and travelers – will new customer segments emerge (have they already?), with a very different approach to the shopping and dining proposition in airports? Consequently, how will the shape and size of the commercial offer evolve?
Roberto Castiglioni
director
Reduced Mobility Rights Limited
UK
Synopsis: As the aviation industry gears up for a full restart, accessibility remains in the spotlight. Airports and airlines will have to adapt to new rules and guidance including the EU Accessibility Act and beyond. The Accessibility Now panel features, among others, speakers from the EU Commission, the UK CAA, IATA and end users, who will discuss the structure and potential implications of up-and-coming new frameworks, making this session a must-watch for all operators who wish to lead rather than follow. We will cover the barriers faced by disabled people, the need to all come together and the solutions already in our hands.
Ricardo Cerri
CTO
Corporación América Uruguay
URUGUAY
Synopsis: The presentation will explain how biometrics can have positive direct and indirect effects on passenger experience, where some revenue streams could be increased in a normal non-Covid world. It will also look at how investing in transforming the airport into a digital one enables rapid adaptation, reducing the risk of virus contagion, plus speeding processes to avoid queues and almost any future challenge that could require a change in airport procedures.
Synopsis: How is the industry performing on short-term investments in new technology to regain passenger and staff trust, health and safety?
Abhi Chacko
head of innovation and commercial IT services
Gatwick Airport
UK
Synopsis: The presentation will cover a number of ideas that are being trialed or implemented at Gatwick to reduce the Covid risk for passengers and staff. This will cover a UV tunnel for tray disinfection, touchless biometric journey, automatic baggage belt allocation, a restaurant booking solution and bingo boarding.
Synopsis: How have airports transformed their passenger and employee operations to be totally touchless? What has worked well and what needs improvement?
Pierre Charbonneau
director passenger experience & facilitation
IATA
CANADA
Synopsis: The transformation of the travel experience into a contactless journey had already begun, but could Covid be an unexpected catalyst for the acceleration of a healthier travel vision? Given the unprecedented financial impact on the industry, the investment required by stakeholders will be a huge challenge in the short run, so can the industry take this opportunity to recover in a strategic way even though there might not be a short-term ROI, or will the reaction be to go back to what we know because it is safer, and miss out on the opportunity to change. Also, does this require a new approach between the key stakeholders?
Synopsis: How is the industry performing on short-term investments in new technology to regain passenger and staff trust, health and safety?
Erin Cooke
sustainability and environmental policy director
San Francisco International Airport
USA
Synopsis: San Francisco International Airport continues to advance its ambitions of becoming the world’s first net-zero energy, net-zero carbon and zero-waste airport campus as a key tenet of its pandemic and economic recovery to resilience pathway. Explore SFO’s priority 'zero' initiatives and the resulting triple bottom-line benefits achieved for the airport, its workers and the surrounding community.
Synopsis: We will not only cover what we’ve seen in terms of impacts on the environment recently from the pandemic (in terms of climate, local air quality, noise, hazardous waste, etc) but also highlight the opportunities now – building back greener, with investments, funding, etc. This will include the push for a sustainable and green recovery for the industry, state aid, investment and funding with 'green' conditions attached. Is this an opportunity to re-prioritize capex and green it? What do we as an industry need to do differently with regard to sustainability/aviation impacts?
Jeremy Corfield
partner
CPI
AUSTRALIA
Synopsis: This panel will discuss the changing nature of travel, at least for the next couple of years. How will the mix of travelers change – will VFR travel rebound first, then leisure, then business? We will look at the changing psychology of travel and travelers – will new customer segments emerge (have they already?), with a very different approach to the shopping and dining proposition in airports? Consequently, how will the shape and size of the commercial offer evolve?
Synopsis: This panel will discuss the changing nature of travel, at least for the next couple of years. How will the mix of travelers change – will VFR travel rebound first, then leisure, then business? We will look at the changing psychology of travel and travelers – will new customer segments emerge (have they already?), with a very different approach to the shopping and dining proposition in airports? Consequently, how will the shape and size of the commercial offer evolve?
Joël Couillandeau
managing director of operations
Merchant Aviation, Groupe ADP
USA
Synopsis: EVTOL and UAM have become buzzwords for future aviation enthusiasts. However, there is very little understanding of the overall challenges associated with developing reliable vehicle technology as well as ground infrastructure and regulatory policies. This is a panel of experts who are already working on these elements and will provide a 360º view of what to expect in the next decade.
Sébastien Couturier
head of innovation
Groupe ADP
FRANCE
Synopsis: In the current context of environmental transition in air transport and economic recovery, the Paris region, Groupe ADP and RATP Group are developing a unique urban air mobility initiative with a focus on electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL). The partners have decided to bring together all the conditions to make the emergence of this new mode of transport possible. The prospect of the 2024 Olympic Games provides an exceptional opportunity to involve an entire industry in order to make the Paris region a leader in the global urban air mobility market.
Synopsis: EVTOL and UAM have become buzzwords for future aviation enthusiasts. However, there is very little understanding of the overall challenges associated with developing reliable vehicle technology as well as ground infrastructure and regulatory policies. This is a panel of experts who are already working on these elements and will provide a 360º view of what to expect in the next decade.
Kevin Cullinane
head of communications
Cork Airport
IRELAND
Synopsis: Cork Airport has seen a significant impact on passenger numbers and flights due to Covid-19, which has decimated aviation across the globe. As head of communications at Cork Airport in Ireland, Kevin Cullinane has witnessed first hand the serious reduction in passenger numbers, as well as flight cancellations and disruptions. Despite the current crisis, he believes passionately that communications objectives still need to follow business objectives without being tone-deaf to the unfolding crisis. In this presentation, he shares how Cork Airport has stayed close to its customers digitally and emotionally throughout the pandemic by staying relevant.
Synopsis: This panel will discuss the different approaches to building passenger confidence in the airport environment as a healthier place today than it's ever been. We will discuss how airports and airlines have made communication with passengers a vital part of the process, understood new passenger needs and continue to provide a smooth journey during difficult and changing times.
Lorenzo Di Loreto
VP business development and service delivery
Munich Airport International GmbH
GERMANY
Synopsis: This panel will discuss current and ongoing airport development projects, and the effects the pandemic has had on them – now and for the future. This will include how safety measures such as distancing have been implemented at construction sites, changes that have been made to planning, collaboration between stakeholders and future-proofing the airport in case of a future pandemic.
Antoine du Teilhet de Lamothe
project director - global airport operations
Groupe ADP
FRANCE
Synopsis: As an airport operator, how can you fundamentally improve the health and well-being of staff, and what are the current efforts and evolving challenges?
Synopsis: The architecture of the airports can define the immune system response to our current crisis. How can existing airports use the impacts of the pandemic to reimagine the travel experience? Today we will explore the 10 themes of the WELL Building Standard’s v2 and understand how they map across SOM’s six pandemic design strategies. We aim to disrupt the negative impact of this global pandemic by sharing the imperative we are faced with today: investing in healthy spaces. Our panel discussion will involve the important themes of transparency, certification and continuous monitoring.
Velissarios Eleftheriou
CEO
TotalCDM
GREECE
Synopsis: The panel will look at ways to prepare airports and airlines for recovery as more substantial traffic levels return. How could the traditional operating model be challenged to bring an opportunity for change out of this crisis?
Synopsis: The panel will look at ways to prepare airports and airlines for recovery as more substantial traffic levels return. How could the traditional operating model be challenged to bring an opportunity for change out of this crisis?
Dawn Errede
assistant manager, industrial hygiene
Metropolitan Airports Commission
USA
Synopsis: Clean and healthy airports are always important, but especially during a pandemic. Airports have installed plexiglass barriers, increased the frequency of cleaning throughout terminals, and placed signs reminding passengers to distance themselves and wear masks. Some airports increased fresh air delivery and air filtration, and installed sanitizing robots, all at a time when revenues from travel have plummeted. Which measures reduce health risks, and which are a ‘hygiene theater’?
Synopsis: The architecture of the airports can define the immune system response to our current crisis. How can existing airports use the impacts of the pandemic to reimagine the travel experience? Today we will explore the 10 themes of the WELL Building Standard’s v2 and understand how they map across SOM’s six pandemic design strategies. We aim to disrupt the negative impact of this global pandemic by sharing the imperative we are faced with today: investing in healthy spaces. Our panel discussion will involve the important themes of transparency, certification and continuous monitoring.
Anna Fantoni
senior airport planner and operations specialist
NACO
NETHERLANDS
Synopsis: Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, airports are under pressure to minimize capital investments, reduce operating costs and use their infrastructure and resources more efficiently. Additionally, this crisis has made the traditional planning approach – which relies on historical data – no longer relevant. Airport managers have to increasingly rely on new data sources, break down organizational silos, and develop strategic partnerships with airlines, government agencies and other stakeholders. This presentation outlines an agile planning and operating framework to address short- to medium-term challenges where the focus is on scenario testing, new data sources, efficiency and flexibility, and sustainable financial performance.
Synopsis: The panel will look at ways to prepare airports and airlines for recovery as more substantial traffic levels return. How could the traditional operating model be challenged to bring an opportunity for change out of this crisis?
Michael Feely
chief operating officer
Horizon Consumer Science
AUSTRALIA
Synopsis: This presentation draws from a pilot study we conducted in January 2021 exploring expectations for travel over the next 12 months among five key nationalities for global travel: Chinese, British, German, American and South Korean. We have been tracking the profile and shopping behavior of traveling consumers for a decade now, with the Travel Retail Catalyst Study (TRACS). Our TRACS data acts as an important benchmark. The travel expectations identified in the pilot study can be compared against ‘normal’ pre-Covid-19 travel behavior and preferences in our TRACS data.
Synopsis: This panel will discuss the changing nature of travel, at least for the next couple of years. How will the mix of travelers change – will VFR travel rebound first, then leisure, then business? We will look at the changing psychology of travel and travelers – will new customer segments emerge (have they already?), with a very different approach to the shopping and dining proposition in airports? Consequently, how will the shape and size of the commercial offer evolve?
Sergio Fernandez
director airports, passenger, cargo and security, Europe
IATA
SPAIN
Synopsis: This unprecedented crisis in the aviation industry has taught us, in a hard way, how critical it is to have a more harmonized, coordinated approach among the EU, EEA and UK states if the sector is to recover. Airlines, airports, ANSPs, businesses and passengers are suffering the impact of the crisis, and only if each one of us does our part, and we work in a coordinated way, will we be able to recover in an efficient and sustainable way.
Synopsis: The panel will look at ways to prepare airports and airlines for recovery as more substantial traffic levels return. How could the traditional operating model be challenged to bring an opportunity for change out of this crisis?
Aude Ferrand
chief retail officer
ADP
FRANCE
Synopsis: The presentation will discuss the main trends in terms of the changing nature of travel, the mix of travelers and their new mindset that has been noticed at Paris Airports. Then we will discuss the challenges that we have to overcome to keep offering the passengers a unique hospitality and retail experience in this new context.
Synopsis: This panel will discuss the changing nature of travel, at least for the next couple of years. How will the mix of travelers change – will VFR travel rebound first, then leisure, then business? We will look at the changing psychology of travel and travelers – will new customer segments emerge (have they already?), with a very different approach to the shopping and dining proposition in airports? Consequently, how will the shape and size of the commercial offer evolve?
Emanuel Fleuti
head of environment
Flughafen Zürich AG
SWITZERLAND
Synopsis: Travel restrictions and local lockdowns have led to an immediate decrease in passenger mobility. This has affected not only aviation but also road traffic. A study has been done to look at the effects of reduced air traffic on the local air quality at the airport in the closer vicinity of Zurich Airport and to assess the contribution of air traffic to the overall ambient air quality situation.
Synopsis: We will not only cover what we’ve seen in terms of impacts on the environment recently from the pandemic (in terms of climate, local air quality, noise, hazardous waste, etc) but also highlight the opportunities now – building back greener, with investments, funding, etc. This will include the push for a sustainable and green recovery for the industry, state aid, investment and funding with 'green' conditions attached. Is this an opportunity to re-prioritize capex and green it? What do we as an industry need to do differently with regard to sustainability/aviation impacts?
Raphaël Frayssinet
innovation project manager
Groupe ADP
FRANCE
Synopsis: This panel will be a conversation between airport representatives who work in the area of innovation. It will be a free-flowing conversation. How might this pandemic change the future of airports? What could change in the long term to provide safe traveling environments for passengers? How can hot spots be avoided? How to create an industry that can adapt quickly and be flexible if a threat such as this were to happen again? How could the whole operating model change?
James Fremantle
manager, consumer policy and enforcement
UK Civil Aviation Authority
UK
Synopsis: The Covid pandemic has impacted on world travel. Meanwhile, in the UK, data shows that tens of thousands of passengers continue to use assistance services at airports. This is against a background of furloughed staff, the introduction of new passenger processes due to health regulations and fluctuating demand for assistance services. The experience in the UK has been of an industry rising to the challenge despite these unique challenges, and ensuring that fair access to air travel remains available for those who need it.
Synopsis: As the aviation industry gears up for a full restart, accessibility remains in the spotlight. Airports and airlines will have to adapt to new rules and guidance including the EU Accessibility Act and beyond. The Accessibility Now panel features, among others, speakers from the EU Commission, the UK CAA, IATA and end users, who will discuss the structure and potential implications of up-and-coming new frameworks, making this session a must-watch for all operators who wish to lead rather than follow. We will cover the barriers faced by disabled people, the need to all come together and the solutions already in our hands.
Ralf Gaffal
managing director
Munich Airport International GmbH
GERMANY
Synopsis: Never before has the aviation industry suffered from such a setback. Travel restrictions and the general insecurity of the population led to a significant drop in traffic movements. How have the pandemic and the associated regulations affected airport transition projects, and which additional challenges have to be taken into consideration? MAI has successfully completed various projects throughout the year, despite the difficult circumstances, and is happy to share some insights.
Bernardo Gogna
chief development officer
Los Angeles World Airports
USA
Synopsis: This presentation will highlight a proactive planning effort undertaken by LAX to develop a series of best practices specifically aimed at making the Tom Bradley International Terminal a healthy terminal. A variety of operational, physical and technological concepts were explored to develop a range of potential initiatives. Initial ideas were considered for immediate application in a reduced passenger traffic environment where little or no infrastructure changes would be required. Initiatives requiring greater investment were studied at a conceptual level. A throughput optimization analysis was conducted to identify triggers for when additional measures might be considered.
Synopsis: This panel will discuss current and ongoing airport development projects, and the effects the pandemic has had on them – now and for the future. This will include how safety measures such as distancing have been implemented at construction sites, changes that have been made to planning, collaboration between stakeholders and future-proofing the airport in case of a future pandemic.
Robert Graham
head of airports
Eurocontrol
FRANCE
Synopsis: The panel will look at ways to prepare airports and airlines for recovery as more substantial traffic levels return. How could the traditional operating model be challenged to bring an opportunity for change out of this crisis?
Synopsis: The panel will look at ways to prepare airports and airlines for recovery as more substantial traffic levels return. How could the traditional operating model be challenged to bring an opportunity for change out of this crisis?
Claus Grunow
VP strategy & digital
Fraport AG
GERMANY
Synopsis: This panel will be a conversation between airport representatives who work in the area of innovation. It will be a free-flowing conversation. How might this pandemic change the future of airports? What could change in the long term to provide safe traveling environments for passengers? How can hot spots be avoided? How to create an industry that can adapt quickly and be flexible if a threat such as this were to happen again? How could the whole operating model change?
Karin Gylin
head of innovation
Swedavia AB
SWEDEN
Synopsis: Airports are always working to improve the passenger experience and to meet new and evolving customer needs like seamless travel and increased sustainability. The Covid pandemic has had a large impact on passenger needs regarding safe travel. Innovation and new ideas are key to meet all these different needs and move toward the next-generation passenger experience.
Synopsis: This exclusive panel discussion brings together creative agencies, airports and airlines in a quest to unlock fresh, radical ideas and technologies to restore passenger confidence in a post-pandemic world. Expect bold predictions about the future of air travel, unconventional thinking and a whole lot of fun!
Hanna Hämäläinen
head of passenger services and development
Helsinki Airport
FINLAND
Synopsis: Helsinki Airport, a leading airport in northern Europe, has been a leader in Covid-19 actions. We've followed all the aviation recommendations during the crisis, and also introduced innovative new solutions such as Covid-19 dogs, new technology and service models to ensure excellent customer experience for airlines and passengers. Together with highly skilled teams, we have enabled the airport facilities operations of Finland's authorities.
Synopsis: This panel will discuss the different approaches to building passenger confidence in the airport environment as a healthier place today than it's ever been. We will discuss how airports and airlines have made communication with passengers a vital part of the process, understood new passenger needs and continue to provide a smooth journey during difficult and changing times.
Anthony Harcup
senior director of airline experience
Teague
USA
Synopsis: The significant rise in domestic air-travel numbers in the US and China signifies passenger confidence is returning and airlines are now working toward zero cash-burn. But there is a dog fight on the horizon: with business travel affected long-term and international restrictions still in force for the foreseeable future, legacy carriers are shifting their focus to get a piece of the domestic leisure market. With half the business and twice the players, there’s not enough business to go round – so who will survive? Will there be a race to the bottom on ticket prices, or will airlines innovate to win the fight for passenger preference?
Synopsis: This exclusive panel discussion brings together creative agencies, airports and airlines in a quest to unlock fresh, radical ideas and technologies to restore passenger confidence in a post-pandemic world. Expect bold predictions about the future of air travel, unconventional thinking and a whole lot of fun!
Neville Hay
director of training
Interportpolice
UK
Synopsis: The primary focus of this discussion will be training for aviation security and operations, and safety for passengers and employees in these changing Covid-19 times. It will include the impact of the pandemic on aviation security operations and staffing, measures put in place at checkpoints and throughout the terminal, and maintaining recurrent training priorities as protection protocols continue to evolve in the future.
Robert Hoxie
chief development officer
City of Chicago Department of Aviation
USA
Synopsis: This presentation will cover a trajectory of progress that follows where O’Hare started 2020, how its ambitious capital program has progressed, and the innovations that are in development as a result of the pandemic. This presentation will share how flexibility and resilience have helped fuel recent developments across O’Hare and the balance that exists between sustaining progress and managing the challenges of an airborne virus. The audience will get a glimpse into the strategies that designers are applying to new terminal facilities and the proactive approach that O’Hare is taking for its future facilities.
Synopsis: This panel will discuss current and ongoing airport development projects, and the effects the pandemic has had on them – now and for the future. This will include how safety measures such as distancing have been implemented at construction sites, changes that have been made to planning, collaboration between stakeholders and future-proofing the airport in case of a future pandemic.
Samuel Ingalls
principal
Barich Inc
USA
Synopsis: This exclusive panel discussion brings together creative agencies, airports and airlines in a quest to unlock fresh, radical ideas and technologies to restore passenger confidence in a post-pandemic world. Expect bold predictions about the future of air travel, unconventional thinking and a whole lot of fun!
Maurice Jenkins
division director, information systems
Miami Dade Aviation Department
USA
Synopsis: The presentation will highlight the specific programs that Miami International Airport has implemented or enhanced in response to Covid-19. This will include a brief overview of new technologies being tested to help with day-to-day operations for passengers and staff.
Synopsis: How have airports transformed their passenger and employee operations to be totally touchless? What has worked well and what needs improvement?
Synopsis: How is the industry performing on short-term investments in new technology to regain passenger and staff trust, health and safety?
Mary Kerins
ex head of health, safety, sustainability and environment
DAA
IRELAND
Synopsis: We will not only cover what we’ve seen in terms of impacts on the environment recently from the pandemic (in terms of climate, local air quality, noise, hazardous waste, etc) but also highlight the opportunities now – building back greener, with investments, funding, etc. This will include the push for a sustainable and green recovery for the industry, state aid, investment and funding with 'green' conditions attached. Is this an opportunity to re-prioritize capex and green it? What do we as an industry need to do differently with regard to sustainability/aviation impacts?
Suresh Khadakbhavi
assistant vice president - innovation lab
Bangalore International Airport
INDIA
Synopsis: This panel will be a conversation between airport representatives who work in the area of innovation. It will be a free-flowing conversation. How might this pandemic change the future of airports? What could change in the long term to provide safe traveling environments for passengers? How can hot spots be avoided? How to create an industry that can adapt quickly and be flexible if a threat such as this were to happen again? How could the whole operating model change?
Art Kosatka
CEO
TranSecure
USA
Synopsis: The primary focus of this discussion will be training for aviation security and operations, and safety for passengers and employees in these changing Covid-19 times. It will include the impact of the pandemic on aviation security operations and staffing, measures put in place at checkpoints and throughout the terminal, and maintaining recurrent training priorities as protection protocols continue to evolve in the future.
Philipp Kriegbaum
retired senior aviation security expert
Philipp Kriegbaum
GERMANY
Synopsis: The panel will look at the global outlook for aviation security and safety, including how the pandemic has affected operations/threats and how it will change aviation security in the future.
Sujata Kumar Suri
vice president – strategy and development
Hamad International Airport
QATAR
Synopsis: The presentation will describe the various actions that DOH undertook to remain operational despite the pandemic, ensuring that the well-being of passengers remained at the heart of its strategy. Passenger and staff safety and security remain the top priority while deploying an operation recovery plan in line with multiple stakeholder requirements. New hygiene measures were introduced across the terminal to ensure passengers' confidence in safe travel is restored.
Synopsis: This panel will discuss the different approaches to building passenger confidence in the airport environment as a healthier place today than it's ever been. We will discuss how airports and airlines have made communication with passengers a vital part of the process, understood new passenger needs and continue to provide a smooth journey during difficult and changing times.
Sylvain Lefoyer
deputy director aviation security and facilitation
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
CANADA
Synopsis: Aviation is facing a paradigm shift, from decades-long continuous growth to a post-pandemic restart and recovery. Aviation security and facilitation were preparing to cope with a demand for high throughput to prevent congestion, but have now to operate in a very different environment where sanitary measures apply. The presentation will address the challenges associated with this paradigm shift and how threats have evolved. It will also explain the key role of ICAO, as a global organization, to help mitigate the risks and keep our industry safe and secure, by mobilizing innovation and promoting an effective and sustainable security culture.
Synopsis: The panel will look at the global outlook for aviation security and safety, including how the pandemic has affected operations/threats and how it will change aviation security in the future.
Jean-François Lennon
vice president strategic sales and global partnerships
Vision-Box SA
PORTUGAL
Synopsis: Now that Covid-19 has dramatically altered the travel industry landscape, it has become clearer than ever that biometrics will play a vital role in getting the world moving again. How can we work to ensure a seamless and safe end-to-end experience for passengers? How to reinstill passenger confidence in regard to health and safety when using an airport?
Synopsis: This panel will discuss the different approaches to building passenger confidence in the airport environment as a healthier place today than it's ever been. We will discuss how airports and airlines have made communication with passengers a vital part of the process, understood new passenger needs and continue to provide a smooth journey during difficult and changing times.
Martin Liepmann
associate director
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)
UK
Synopsis: From a currently reactive response to the pandemic situation we see a move toward proactive design measures. Some address the mind, body and human well-being, others the spaces we inhabit. Overlaying six pandemic design ideas with the work of the WELL Airport Advisory, we can create tools moving to a more resilient and prepared environment. How to enable free passage, anti-anxiety entries, breathable buildings and improved urban mobility are only a few of the topics related to airport architecture that we will discuss.
Synopsis: The architecture of the airports can define the immune system response to our current crisis. How can existing airports use the impacts of the pandemic to reimagine the travel experience? Today we will explore the 10 themes of the WELL Building Standard’s v2 and understand how they map across SOM’s six pandemic design strategies. We aim to disrupt the negative impact of this global pandemic by sharing the imperative we are faced with today: investing in healthy spaces. Our panel discussion will involve the important themes of transparency, certification and continuous monitoring.
Tamara Mahal
assistant commissioner, resilience
Chicago Department of Aviation
USA
Synopsis: The experience of the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) offers an example of the complexity of addressing a crisis in the context of a complex environment. The initial measures taken as the understanding of the Covid-19 threat increased demonstrate the tension between response, regulatory requirements and restrictions, and the need to maintain public confidence. The CDA crisis management must also be understood in the context of a crisis response simultaneously being conducted for a major urban area. The importance of a coordinated response with the city’s airports as an integrated part of response were hallmarks of Chicago’s early efforts.
Synopsis: Airports are subject to a range of natural and man-made disasters that can quickly spiral into crisis situations. Be it the spread of disease, civil unrest or even theft of aircraft, the possibility of a crisis in an airport is always at hand. This session explores fundamental issues critical to any crisis management program. It will facilitate the audit and benchmarking of current mitigation, response and recovery practices and help to identify corrective measures. Grounded in global case studies and best practices, it will give participants insights into the management of crisis and movement to resilience and normalized operations.
Ilias Maragakis
chief operating officer
Fraport Greece
GREECE
Synopsis: The presentation focuses on smart measures for regional airports at summer leisure destinations, mainly characterized by high seasonality and very high traffic peaks during their busy periods. The measures aim to achieve a higher passenger throughput in the Covid era, and also to find ways to welcome passengers back in the summer 2021 season. We must not forget that even during the most difficult era for aviation, airport passenger experience remains relevant and of paramount importance. Passenger experience does not require opex, but leadership, operational ideas and team creativity.
Synopsis: The panel will look at ways to prepare airports and airlines for recovery as more substantial traffic levels return. How could the traditional operating model be challenged to bring an opportunity for change out of this crisis?
Steve Maybee
vice president, operations and infrastructure
Edmonton International Airport
CANADA
Synopsis: Steve will discuss the crippling impacts of Covid-19 on Edmonton International Airport (EIA) and the entire aviation industry. Safety will always be EIA's top priority for passengers and employees, and in this presentation Steve will detail safety measures put in place while also remaining flexible and adjusting in real time. With every challenge comes opportunity, and EIA has continued along its innovative path, pivoting its approach to address the impacts of Covid-19 through rapid testing solutions and touchless technologies.
Synopsis: At the heart of this panel discussion will be the people who deal with facilities for passengers and staff at airports during 'normal' times and who have risen to the unprecedented challenge of Covid: safety, loss of passenger traffic, loss of revenue and loss of passenger confidence, which must be restored if the aviation industry is to recover. We will provide dynamic perspectives from seasoned aviation experts on what and how they have had to adapt their airport facilities during the pandemic, and which measures will need to stay in place in the future.
Catherine Mayer
vice president
SITA
USA
Synopsis: To help set the scene, the panel will start with some key highlights and charts from the just-released 2020 Airport and Airline IT Trends Surveys, including the industry's response to touchless processing, the areas where this is being implemented, and the technologies being leveraged to ensure a safe and healthy industry.
Synopsis: How have airports transformed their passenger and employee operations to be totally touchless? What has worked well and what needs improvement?
Synopsis: How is the industry performing on short-term investments in new technology to regain passenger and staff trust, health and safety?
Candace McGraw
chief executive officer
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport
USA
Synopsis: Whether it's due to airline mergers, economic downturns, technology innovations or public health concerns, the airport industry is ever-changing. Only those leaders and airports that are adaptable and embrace those changes will survive – and perhaps even thrive.
Synopsis: This panel features presentations by four airport CEOs on the coping strategies implemented to continue the airport business throughout the pandemic. After the presentations, there will be discussion and Q&A, and the moderator, Paul Behnke, will provide a summary of key findings.
Kiran Merchant
CEO
Merchant Aviation
USA
Synopsis: EVTOL and UAM have become buzzwords for future aviation enthusiasts. However, there is very little understanding of the overall challenges associated with developing reliable vehicle technology as well as ground infrastructure and regulatory policies. This is a panel of experts who are already working on these elements and will provide a 360º view of what to expect in the next decade.
Gary Merrow
vice president facilities
Atlanta Airlines Terminal Company
USA
Synopsis: Having ISO 55001 in place better prepares you to make knowledge-driven decisions that meet health needs and resiliency efforts, and drive staffing during uncertain times. Atlanta Airlines Terminal Corporation’s vice president of facilities will provide an overview of the company's ISO journey and demonstrate how its tools drove a quicker staffing response to the pandemic. Critical system response strategies saved millions of dollars in the first six months by leveraging in-depth knowledge of HVAC and vertical transportation, and helped provide executive leadership with energy optimization strategies. Ongoing efforts will make H-JAIA a safer and more efficient operating airport as the recovery continues.
Synopsis: At the heart of this panel discussion will be the people who deal with facilities for passengers and staff at airports during 'normal' times and who have risen to the unprecedented challenge of Covid: safety, loss of passenger traffic, loss of revenue and loss of passenger confidence, which must be restored if the aviation industry is to recover. We will provide dynamic perspectives from seasoned aviation experts on what and how they have had to adapt their airport facilities during the pandemic, and which measures will need to stay in place in the future.
Andras Mogyoro
legal officer
European Commission
BELGIUM
Synopsis: This presentation will focus on the European Commission's evaluation of Regulation (EC) 1107/2006 on the rights of passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility when traveling by air. It will also discuss measures taken by the Commission to protect passengers’ rights during the Covid pandemic.
Synopsis: As the aviation industry gears up for a full restart, accessibility remains in the spotlight. Airports and airlines will have to adapt to new rules and guidance including the EU Accessibility Act and beyond. The Accessibility Now panel features, among others, speakers from the EU Commission, the UK CAA, IATA and end users, who will discuss the structure and potential implications of up-and-coming new frameworks, making this session a must-watch for all operators who wish to lead rather than follow. We will cover the barriers faced by disabled people, the need to all come together and the solutions already in our hands.
Steven Moore
head of ATM Network Operations Division
Eurocontrol
BELGIUM
Synopsis: The presentation will provide an outline of the scenarios of recovery and their impact on the Airspace Network of Europe, coupled with the partnerships for recovery
Synopsis: The panel will look at ways to prepare airports and airlines for recovery as more substantial traffic levels return. How could the traditional operating model be challenged to bring an opportunity for change out of this crisis?
Michael Mowinski
senior manager airside systems
Fraport AG
GERMANY
Synopsis: This presentation will discuss how airports are preparing for the return to (new) normal operation. The dynamic resilience is complex to manage and requires new ideas.
Synopsis: The panel will look at ways to prepare airports and airlines for recovery as more substantial traffic levels return. How could the traditional operating model be challenged to bring an opportunity for change out of this crisis?
Johnnie Müller
senior vice president, security services and crisis response
Copenhagen Airports
DENMARK
Synopsis: The presentation will outline the Covid-19 measures at Copenhagen Airport and the impact of the pandemic on the airport’s operations. This will include the security and safety operation, from lockdown to resuming operations, and adjusting for the future: a smaller airport.
Synopsis: The primary focus of this discussion will be training for aviation security and operations, and safety for passengers and employees in these changing Covid-19 times. It will include the impact of the pandemic on aviation security operations and staffing, measures put in place at checkpoints and throughout the terminal, and maintaining recurrent training priorities as protection protocols continue to evolve in the future.
Ben Orson
founder and MD
Orson Associates
UK
Synopsis: Covid-19 is driving changes to the way the world travels that we are only beginning to comprehend, accelerating trends and upending established thinking. As our industry grapples with these shifts in technology, economics and culture, we explore how the passenger experiences of the future can grasp these new opportunities to reposition the premium travel experience for a new generation, and deliver a dynamic and engaging return to sustainable growth.
Synopsis: This exclusive panel discussion brings together creative agencies, airports and airlines in a quest to unlock fresh, radical ideas and technologies to restore passenger confidence in a post-pandemic world. Expect bold predictions about the future of air travel, unconventional thinking and a whole lot of fun!
Preston Peterson
director of customer experience innovation
American Airlines
USA
Synopsis: American is focused on creating touchless solutions that give customers the confidence to travel during the pandemic, while also focusing on long-term capabilities that deliver a frictionless customer experience. We're working with government and technology partners to develop technology that will make the day of travel experience feel less transactional and more reflective of the digitally enabled world we live in.
Synopsis: How have airports transformed their passenger and employee operations to be totally touchless? What has worked well and what needs improvement?
Satyaki Raghunath
chief strategy and development officer
Bangalore International Airport
INDIA
Synopsis: Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), the operator of Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru (KIAB or BLR Airport), has been working on developing contactless and biometric boarding solutions as part of its digital transformation efforts. As part of these developments, the team at BIAL worked extensively on building passenger confidence in flying again in the post-Covid world through the extensive adoption of digital/contactless travel solutions.
Synopsis: This exclusive panel discussion brings together creative agencies, airports and airlines in a quest to unlock fresh, radical ideas and technologies to restore passenger confidence in a post-pandemic world. Expect bold predictions about the future of air travel, unconventional thinking and a whole lot of fun!
Synopsis: This panel will discuss current and ongoing airport development projects, and the effects the pandemic has had on them – now and for the future. This will include how safety measures such as distancing have been implemented at construction sites, changes that have been made to planning, collaboration between stakeholders and future-proofing the airport in case of a future pandemic.
Ian Redhead
deputy director of aviation
Kansas City Missouri Aviation Department
USA
Synopsis: This presentation will focus on management of operations during Covid-19. Key issues will include operating on the airport with closed terminals and gates, designated access routes to parked aircraft for required maintenance, transitioning back to 'normal' operations, maintaining FAA certification during Covid-19 for airfield checks and required maintenance, traffic updates and safety measures inside the terminal. The presentation will also highlight exciting plans for a new 39-gate terminal and 6,300-space parking garage that will replace existing Terminals A, B and C.
Synopsis: At the heart of this panel discussion will be the people who deal with facilities for passengers and staff at airports during 'normal' times and who have risen to the unprecedented challenge of Covid: safety, loss of passenger traffic, loss of revenue and loss of passenger confidence, which must be restored if the aviation industry is to recover. We will provide dynamic perspectives from seasoned aviation experts on what and how they have had to adapt their airport facilities during the pandemic, and which measures will need to stay in place in the future.
Wendy Reiter
director of aviation security, safety and emergency preparedness
Port of Seattle
USA
Synopsis: Crisis management is dealing with those incidents or events that you either have no plan for or where existing plans are inadequate. The August 2018 theft of an Alaskan Airlines jet from the Seattle Tacoma International Airport is an example of such a crisis. The lessons from that brief, isolated incident demonstrate the challenges that have later been experienced in grappling with the Covid-19 pandemic. Those lessons may also provide a path forward for the current situation. Focusing on the desired future end state, modernizing policies and procedures, and strengthening communications are critical parts of crisis management.
Synopsis: Airports are subject to a range of natural and man-made disasters that can quickly spiral into crisis situations. Be it the spread of disease, civil unrest or even theft of aircraft, the possibility of a crisis in an airport is always at hand. This session explores fundamental issues critical to any crisis management program. It will facilitate the audit and benchmarking of current mitigation, response and recovery practices and help to identify corrective measures. Grounded in global case studies and best practices, it will give participants insights into the management of crisis and movement to resilience and normalized operations.
Danielle Rinsler
head of aviation policy
Uber Technologies
USA
Synopsis: City, regional and airport planners play a critical role in enabling urban air mobility (UAM) services. Traditionally, aviation planning has not been a principal consideration in urban and regional transportation planning processes. As electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft and other emerging aviation technologies will enable new forms of mobility, it is essential that planning processes and municipal zoning codes address the integration of new types of aviation infrastructure and low-altitude operations. This presentation will consider a broad range of planning issues associated with UAM, from airspace integration to infrastructure planning and permitting, and related community engagement.
Synopsis: EVTOL and UAM have become buzzwords for future aviation enthusiasts. However, there is very little understanding of the overall challenges associated with developing reliable vehicle technology as well as ground infrastructure and regulatory policies. This is a panel of experts who are already working on these elements and will provide a 360º view of what to expect in the next decade.
Linda Ristagno
assistant director external affairs
IATA
SWITZERLAND
Synopsis: The second edition of the IATA Accessibility Symposium expanded the focus on ensuring that policy and processes related to accessibility are consistent and in line with the IATA principles on accessible air travel. The current environment amid Covid-19 was also addressed, including guidance developed to help support and inform policy as airlines welcome passengers with disabilities back to the skies. The IGAS gave voice to frequent travelers who told their stories from their perspective. Let's review what happened after the symposium and what is forecast for 2021 in terms of global access in air travel.
Synopsis: As the aviation industry gears up for a full restart, accessibility remains in the spotlight. Airports and airlines will have to adapt to new rules and guidance including the EU Accessibility Act and beyond. The Accessibility Now panel features, among others, speakers from the EU Commission, the UK CAA, IATA and end users, who will discuss the structure and potential implications of up-and-coming new frameworks, making this session a must-watch for all operators who wish to lead rather than follow. We will cover the barriers faced by disabled people, the need to all come together and the solutions already in our hands.
Antoine Rostworowski
senior vice president, programs and commercial services
ACI World (Airports Council International)
CANADA
Synopsis: What are the various lessons learned from the Covid pandemic and how can they be leveraged to become drivers of change? How can the industry absorb the related significant investments required? Are there opportunities to help answer these challenging questions? This presentation will look at the role of airports, collaboration with all other industry players, the opportunities and ways to drive for change while discussing funding solutions.
Synopsis: How is the industry performing on short-term investments in new technology to regain passenger and staff trust, health and safety?
Steven Rotolo
chief of counter-terrorism
The Port Authority of NY & NJ Police Department
USA
Synopsis: The Covid-19 pandemic has posed many challenges for the health and safety of the public and our members of service. Decisive action and the ability to make swift changes have allowed us to maintain a high level of readiness in keeping the public and our facilities safe.
Synopsis: The primary focus of this discussion will be training for aviation security and operations, and safety for passengers and employees in these changing Covid-19 times. It will include the impact of the pandemic on aviation security operations and staffing, measures put in place at checkpoints and throughout the terminal, and maintaining recurrent training priorities as protection protocols continue to evolve in the future.
David Rubens
executive director
Institute of Strategic Risk Management
UK
Synopsis: If there is one thing that many organizations have experienced since the start of Covid-19, it is that the frameworks they have used to model, prepare for and engage with crisis scenarios have proved to be fundamentally unsound. This presentation will look at some of the fundamental issues that are critical to any crisis management program, and that can be used to audit and benchmark current practices as well as identify realistic and achievable steps that can be taken within any organization's crisis management network.
Synopsis: Airports are subject to a range of natural and man-made disasters that can quickly spiral into crisis situations. Be it the spread of disease, civil unrest or even theft of aircraft, the possibility of a crisis in an airport is always at hand. This session explores fundamental issues critical to any crisis management program. It will facilitate the audit and benchmarking of current mitigation, response and recovery practices and help to identify corrective measures. Grounded in global case studies and best practices, it will give participants insights into the management of crisis and movement to resilience and normalized operations.
Kris Russell
sustainability program manager
Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
USA
Synopsis: Covid-19 has elevated the importance of mission-critical facilities like airports to support the movement of passengers, goods, and services. DFW Airport is implementing a set of aspirational goals (Sustainability North Star initiatives) that will allow us to strategically focus our efforts for maximum impact (driving economic, social and environmental value). Highlighted by our Net Zero 2030 commitment to climate action, these goals will support our recovery while making the world a better place for future generations.
Synopsis: We will not only cover what we’ve seen in terms of impacts on the environment recently from the pandemic (in terms of climate, local air quality, noise, hazardous waste, etc) but also highlight the opportunities now – building back greener, with investments, funding, etc. This will include the push for a sustainable and green recovery for the industry, state aid, investment and funding with 'green' conditions attached. Is this an opportunity to re-prioritize capex and green it? What do we as an industry need to do differently with regard to sustainability/aviation impacts?
Ana Salazar
head of sustainability
Aena
SPAIN
Synopsis: Continued and meaningful climate action as part of aviation and airport recovery strategies is essential to restore our passengers' confidence, gain access to public and private funds, and reduce current and future costs related to infrastructure and operations. Airports must reinforce the 'green recovery' of the aeronautical sector and build a path toward recovery that is compatible with the achievement of zero net CO2 emissions, working in collaboration with all stakeholders, promoting and reinforcing actions, adapting to the new scenario in which we are immersed, and thus guaranteeing the future of our activity, not only in the short term, but also in the medium/long term. For all the above, Aena has prepared a Strategic Plan for Sustainability and Innovation, which details the objectives to be achieved, as well as the specific initiatives and programs that make it possible to make the objectives a reality, and the corresponding indicators to assess the level of achievement of these objectives.
Synopsis: We will not only cover what we’ve seen in terms of impacts on the environment recently from the pandemic (in terms of climate, local air quality, noise, hazardous waste, etc) but also highlight the opportunities now – building back greener, with investments, funding, etc. This will include the push for a sustainable and green recovery for the industry, state aid, investment and funding with 'green' conditions attached. Is this an opportunity to re-prioritize capex and green it? What do we as an industry need to do differently with regard to sustainability/aviation impacts?
Jean Salomon
CEO
EAB, the European Association for Biometrics
FRANCE
Synopsis: Recent progress in biometrics performance, interoperability, standards and enrollment data quality are all essential to improve the robustness of the security tokens secured in current eMRTDs and their future generations. In particular, contactless biometrics technologies may thrive due to the Covid situation. Responding to recurrent ID theft, and specifically preventing biometrics attacks ('spoofing') is still a challenge that will require strong coordination between all security stakeholders, in AVSEC and beyond. The EU has recognized the need for sustained R&D biometrics efforts, along with an evolution of current privacy impact assessments to protect citizens against excessive biometrics mass usage.
Synopsis: The panel will look at the global outlook for aviation security and safety, including how the pandemic has affected operations/threats and how it will change aviation security in the future.
Nicolas Schenk
chief development officer
Delhi Noida International Airport [Zurich Airport International]
INDIA
Synopsis: This short presentation introduces the new Delhi Noida greenfield airport for the National Capital Region of India and shares the benefits of a design competition that was completed during this pandemic. If you are in a lockdown state, with limited time and a need to keep up the pace of your projects and find a variety of solutions and development approaches, a design competition is the right choice. This presentation discusses additional benefits offered by design competitions where you can test collaboration with potential master architects. It will show how, with clear assignment and defined expectations, a design competition can deliver more in constrained times.
Synopsis: This panel will discuss current and ongoing airport development projects, and the effects the pandemic has had on them – now and for the future. This will include how safety measures such as distancing have been implemented at construction sites, changes that have been made to planning, collaboration between stakeholders and future-proofing the airport in case of a future pandemic.
Anette Schouls
manager digital airport & recovery
Air France-KLM
NETHERLANDS
Synopsis: Throughout 2020, urgent new customer needs have emerged overnight. At KLM Digital we needed to put all our agility into practice to respond to these needs. In this short video, we will clearly define several phases and categories in these customer needs. Furthermore, we will share examples of how digital products still help KLM to manage this situation. Agility, communication, collaboration, data analysis and customer feedback play the main part. What did we learn? What will be in store for us in 2021?
Synopsis: This panel will discuss the different approaches to building passenger confidence in the airport environment as a healthier place today than it's ever been. We will discuss how airports and airlines have made communication with passengers a vital part of the process, understood new passenger needs and continue to provide a smooth journey during difficult and changing times.
Charul Shukla
general manager
Airports Authority of India
INDIA
Synopsis: During this pandemic, airports have been forced to reconsider their normal business and operational processes for the safe movement of passengers. The need of the hour is for the deployment of innovative planning, technologies and solutions for self and autonomous operations. Airports, in cooperation with health ministries, are implementing preventive measures throughout terminals to deal with the outbreak – such as temperature checks, health screening, installing extra hand-sanitizing stations, stepping up scheduled cleaning and enhanced sanitization efforts. Although the airports have become operational, the challenges involved are many, to make the airport processes as contactless as possible, maintaining social distancing. Technology will help the airports implement passenger processing that will enable higher throughput of passengers in existing capacity, better passenger experience, a reduction in operational costs and fewer opportunities for further spread of the virus.
Synopsis: This panel will discuss current and ongoing airport development projects, and the effects the pandemic has had on them – now and for the future. This will include how safety measures such as distancing have been implemented at construction sites, changes that have been made to planning, collaboration between stakeholders and future-proofing the airport in case of a future pandemic.
Martyn Sibley
founder and CEO
Purple Goat
UK
Synopsis: As the aviation industry gears up for a full restart, accessibility remains in the spotlight. Airports and airlines will have to adapt to new rules and guidance including the EU Accessibility Act and beyond. The Accessibility Now panel features, among others, speakers from the EU Commission, the UK CAA, IATA and end users, who will discuss the structure and potential implications of up-and-coming new frameworks, making this session a must-watch for all operators who wish to lead rather than follow. We will cover the barriers faced by disabled people, the need to all come together and the solutions already in our hands.
Synopsis: This panel will discuss the changing nature of travel, at least for the next couple of years. How will the mix of travelers change – will VFR travel rebound first, then leisure, then business? We will look at the changing psychology of travel and travelers – will new customer segments emerge (have they already?), with a very different approach to the shopping and dining proposition in airports? Consequently, how will the shape and size of the commercial offer evolve?
Synopsis: This panel will discuss the changing nature of travel, at least for the next couple of years. How will the mix of travelers change – will VFR travel rebound first, then leisure, then business? We will look at the changing psychology of travel and travelers – will new customer segments emerge (have they already?), with a very different approach to the shopping and dining proposition in airports? Consequently, how will the shape and size of the commercial offer evolve?
Nina Smith
head of aviation security training and human factors
Civil Aviation Authority
UK
Synopsis: The challenges Covid has brought to the sector in 2020 are unprecedented and many entities have undergone a significant reduction in operations and associated restructuring this year, while facing an uncertain future. In the new world of Covid, one challenge is not to underestimate the impact on our workforce and their capability, from both internal and external pressures. The presentation will consider the impact of skill fade on security staff, the risk of losing experienced staff from the sector, as well as the link between training, human factors and security culture.
Synopsis: The primary focus of this discussion will be training for aviation security and operations, and safety for passengers and employees in these changing Covid-19 times. It will include the impact of the pandemic on aviation security operations and staffing, measures put in place at checkpoints and throughout the terminal, and maintaining recurrent training priorities as protection protocols continue to evolve in the future.
Jonathan Song
global business development director
Plaza Premium Group
HONG KONG
Synopsis: Since the beginning of the pandemic, travel has changed. Although air travel will recover, consumer behavior has shifted entirely and will continue to evolve. Airport hospitality is even more fundamental during this recovery period as travelers require more support and reassurance. It is crucial for service providers to be observant, agile and innovative in service offerings to shape the new age of travel as it becomes more complex. With the emergence of new customer segments, industry players must consider key factors in travel and be ready for business transformation such as digitization and partnerships to revive the industry.
Synopsis: This panel will discuss the changing nature of travel, at least for the next couple of years. How will the mix of travelers change – will VFR travel rebound first, then leisure, then business? We will look at the changing psychology of travel and travelers – will new customer segments emerge (have they already?), with a very different approach to the shopping and dining proposition in airports? Consequently, how will the shape and size of the commercial offer evolve?
Roelof Steenstra
president and CEO
Fort McMurray International Airport Authority
CANADA
Synopsis: The presentation will offer a unique perspective on Covid coping and recovery strategies.
Synopsis: This panel features presentations by four airport CEOs on the coping strategies implemented to continue the airport business throughout the pandemic. After the presentations, there will be discussion and Q&A, and the moderator, Paul Behnke, will provide a summary of key findings.
Nancy Stern
in-house architect
Vancovuer Airport Authourity
CANADA
Synopsis: The impact of Covid on aviation is an ever-changing new normal to which airports and airlines are adapting. YVR has embraced these changes on multiple fronts, which will be highlighted in this talk. How did YVR incorporate Covid safety/social distancing in the terminal and within construction sites? How has YVR worked with government agencies and business partners to collaborate on ensuring successful passenger experiences. There are also new questions to answer: how do we future-proof existing facilities for another pandemic, can we pivot to alternative revenue opportunities, should there be global standards for the passenger experience?
Synopsis: This panel will discuss current and ongoing airport development projects, and the effects the pandemic has had on them – now and for the future. This will include how safety measures such as distancing have been implemented at construction sites, changes that have been made to planning, collaboration between stakeholders and future-proofing the airport in case of a future pandemic.
Aurimas Stikliūnas
head of aviation services
Lithuanian Airports
LITHUANIA
Synopsis: In the current context of Covid-19, aviation faces a new reality that will change the route development process in the long term. There has been a significant reduction in flights and passenger volumes. To manage this crisis, a well-prepared action plan, with fast and non-traditional decisions followed by strong cooperation with airline partners, is vital to make the situation an opportunity rather than an obstacle. This presentation shares how Lithuanian Airports is coping with this crisis and what actions are relevant for the recovery.
Synopsis: The panel will look at ways to prepare airports and airlines for recovery as more substantial traffic levels return. How could the traditional operating model be challenged to bring an opportunity for change out of this crisis?
Mariya Stoyanova
director guest experience
JetBlue
USA
Synopsis: This exclusive panel discussion brings together creative agencies, airports and airlines in a quest to unlock fresh, radical ideas and technologies to restore passenger confidence in a post-pandemic world. Expect bold predictions about the future of air travel, unconventional thinking and a whole lot of fun!
Ralph Tamburro
airport delay reduction and airspace modernization
Port Authority of NY/NJ
USA
Synopsis: The presentation will discuss the many areas of consideration for airports. Should the vertiport be landside or airside? Accommodating multiple types of aircraft with varying performance capabilities. Do we model it along with existing helicopter operations or a completely new ConOps? Infrastructure requirements – common use or exclusive use? Do we allow for multiple landing sites on one airport? Does the PA invest in the development or do we leave that to the operators? Ensuring UAM operation has no impact on the existing airport flows. What safety and electrical power infrastructures are required?
Synopsis: EVTOL and UAM have become buzzwords for future aviation enthusiasts. However, there is very little understanding of the overall challenges associated with developing reliable vehicle technology as well as ground infrastructure and regulatory policies. This is a panel of experts who are already working on these elements and will provide a 360º view of what to expect in the next decade.
Mike Tasker
senior manager facilities and infrastructure
Port of Seattle
USA
Synopsis: This presentation will focus on global best practices related to Covid-19 at airport facilities, and a case study of how the Seattle airport is managing facilities during this pandemic. A major focus will be a discussion of practical and proven implementation issues for Covid-19 compared with theoretical sales pitches. Topics will include touchless technologies, HVAC, UVC light cleaning, sanitation stations, cleaning frequencies for restrooms and other terminal areas, Covid cleaning certification, signage, concessions, social distancing, Covid-19 testing at the airport, restoring passenger confidence, and risk-based decision making with limited financial resources.
Synopsis: At the heart of this panel discussion will be the people who deal with facilities for passengers and staff at airports during 'normal' times and who have risen to the unprecedented challenge of Covid: safety, loss of passenger traffic, loss of revenue and loss of passenger confidence, which must be restored if the aviation industry is to recover. We will provide dynamic perspectives from seasoned aviation experts on what and how they have had to adapt their airport facilities during the pandemic, and which measures will need to stay in place in the future.
Ashwini Thorat
head of design and planning
Noida International Airport
INDIA
Synopsis: This panel will discuss current and ongoing airport development projects, and the effects the pandemic has had on them – now and for the future. This will include how safety measures such as distancing have been implemented at construction sites, changes that have been made to planning, collaboration between stakeholders and future-proofing the airport in case of a future pandemic.
Synopsis: This panel will discuss current and ongoing airport development projects, and the effects the pandemic has had on them – now and for the future. This will include how safety measures such as distancing have been implemented at construction sites, changes that have been made to planning, collaboration between stakeholders and future-proofing the airport in case of a future pandemic.
David Tomber
director of strategic consulting
Woolpert
USA
Synopsis: At the heart of this panel discussion will be the people who deal with facilities for passengers and staff at airports during 'normal' times and who have risen to the unprecedented challenge of Covid: safety, loss of passenger traffic, loss of revenue and loss of passenger confidence, which must be restored if the aviation industry is to recover. We will provide dynamic perspectives from seasoned aviation experts on what and how they have had to adapt their airport facilities during the pandemic, and which measures will need to stay in place in the future.
Matthew Vaughan
director, aviation security and cyber
International Air Transport Association (IATA)
CANADA
Synopsis: Sars-Cov2 is, without contest, the most efficient terrorist ever. Nothing else has ever been capable of forcing authorities to ground aircraft and close significant portions of the economy for months or lock down a large part of humanity for weeks. The usual threat and risk models – from assessment to risk avoidance, risk mitigation, risk transfer and risk tolerance – seem to have been replaced by a new zero-tolerance or principle of precaution model. How will aviation survive without safety and security risks? How can aviation security principles and pillars even adopt a zero-tolerance model? Is aviation security even needed after Covid-19?
Synopsis: The panel will look at the global outlook for aviation security and safety, including how the pandemic has affected operations/threats and how it will change aviation security in the future.
Wieke Vrielink
head of consumer marketing
Royal Schiphol Group
NETHERLANDS
Synopsis: Our aim is to make time valuable for passengers at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. Our customers are the central focus of everything we do. Understanding, acknowledging and responding to their ever-changing demands and adding value along the entire passenger journey are absolutely essential. The challenge is to effectively predict their behavior and offer the right products, services and information at the right time. During this session, we will give you an insight into the way Covid affects passenger behavior and how we adapt in our aim to deliver a valuable customer journey. We will address our way forward and our latest and future innovations.
Synopsis: This panel will discuss the changing nature of travel, at least for the next couple of years. How will the mix of travelers change – will VFR travel rebound first, then leisure, then business? We will look at the changing psychology of travel and travelers – will new customer segments emerge (have they already?), with a very different approach to the shopping and dining proposition in airports? Consequently, how will the shape and size of the commercial offer evolve?
Ben Wagenaar
innovation architect
Heathrow Airport
UK
Synopsis: This panel will be a conversation between airport representatives who work in the area of innovation. It will be a free-flowing conversation. How might this pandemic change the future of airports? What could change in the long term to provide safe traveling environments for passengers? How can hot spots be avoided? How to create an industry that can adapt quickly and be flexible if a threat such as this were to happen again? How could the whole operating model change?
Duncan Walker
founder and CEO
Skyports
UK
Synopsis: Advanced aerial mobility is getting closer. Without vertiports, there will be limited applications for this new technology. This presentation looks at how to navigate the timing and revenue uncertainties of a new industry with the large capital expenditure required for airport infrastructure.
Synopsis: EVTOL and UAM have become buzzwords for future aviation enthusiasts. However, there is very little understanding of the overall challenges associated with developing reliable vehicle technology as well as ground infrastructure and regulatory policies. This is a panel of experts who are already working on these elements and will provide a 360º view of what to expect in the next decade.
Palmina Whelan
principal
Palmina Whelan Strategic Solutions
USA
Synopsis: This presentation will offer a success story in which leadership and risk management efforts rescued a project as it entered a pandemic.
Synopsis: This panel will discuss current and ongoing airport development projects, and the effects the pandemic has had on them – now and for the future. This will include how safety measures such as distancing have been implemented at construction sites, changes that have been made to planning, collaboration between stakeholders and future-proofing the airport in case of a future pandemic.
David Wilson
chief operating officer
Oman Airports
OMAN
Synopsis: The presentation will offer a summary of the steps taken by Oman Airports during the Covid-19 pandemic and highlight steps taken for the airports' closure, dealing with repatriation flights and preparing for reopening to scheduled air traffic.
Synopsis: The panel will look at ways to prepare airports and airlines for recovery as more substantial traffic levels return. How could the traditional operating model be challenged to bring an opportunity for change out of this crisis?
Joshua Wintersgill
founder and director
Able Move
UK
Synopsis: Covid-19 has impacted the decisions of two-thirds of PRMs to book future air travel. Furthermore, airlines and airports have stripped back their accessibility services and paused funding into accessibility innovation. With PRM volume growing, there is real concern that if not invested in, the growth of innovation will be much slower than required. WCHCs in particular are being undervalued, and their financial importance will be shared here. A top-down pan-disability invested approach is critical to ensure the future success of accessibility in aviation. Questions should be asked about whether PRM remains an appropriate inclusive description of passengers who receive such support.
Synopsis: As the aviation industry gears up for a full restart, accessibility remains in the spotlight. Airports and airlines will have to adapt to new rules and guidance including the EU Accessibility Act and beyond. The Accessibility Now panel features, among others, speakers from the EU Commission, the UK CAA, IATA and end users, who will discuss the structure and potential implications of up-and-coming new frameworks, making this session a must-watch for all operators who wish to lead rather than follow. We will cover the barriers faced by disabled people, the need to all come together and the solutions already in our hands.
Jacqueline Yaft
chief executive officer
Austin Bergstrom International Airport
USA
Synopsis: The presentation will discuss the collaboration between the city of Austin and Austin Bergstrom International Airport during Covid, including the impact on staffing, concessionaires and the capital program. It will also discuss financial status, short-term relief and budget planning to match declining numbers, plus understanding the new norm for the airline business, the effects it will have on the economy of City of Austin, and the changes in airport management.
Synopsis: This panel features presentations by four airport CEOs on the coping strategies implemented to continue the airport business throughout the pandemic. After the presentations, there will be discussion and Q&A, and the moderator, Paul Behnke, will provide a summary of key findings.
Zack Zainal
senior vice president - group security
Emirates Airline
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Synopsis: In an aviation environment where threats abound, airlines must be prepared for crisis. Particular attention must be paid to maintaining operations as crises are identified and addressed. This presentation will outline the basic guidelines for handling a crisis. It will also offer an examination of the anatomy of a crisis, looking at the phases that individuals pass through as situations develop. As crises are met and handled, some common features for successful resolution become apparent. Lessons from prior events will be shared and offer a basis for discussion of the essential actions required for favorable outcomes to crisis situations.
Synopsis: Airports are subject to a range of natural and man-made disasters that can quickly spiral into crisis situations. Be it the spread of disease, civil unrest or even theft of aircraft, the possibility of a crisis in an airport is always at hand. This session explores fundamental issues critical to any crisis management program. It will facilitate the audit and benchmarking of current mitigation, response and recovery practices and help to identify corrective measures. Grounded in global case studies and best practices, it will give participants insights into the management of crisis and movement to resilience and normalized operations.
Steve Zerkowitz
CEO
BluSky Services Group
BELGIUM
Synopsis: Thinking of the times before Covid-19 and feeling like it was heaven? Wanting to go back there once the crisis is over? Hold on – be honest with yourself. We were in fact hanging on in the middle of rising delays and overcrowded terminals, with little idea how we would actually manage our way out of it all. We do not want to go back there. The future is what we make of it using the opportunities the current crisis presents.
Synopsis: The panel will look at ways to prepare airports and airlines for recovery as more substantial traffic levels return. How could the traditional operating model be challenged to bring an opportunity for change out of this crisis?
Donald Zoufal
consultant
CrowzNest Consulting Inc
USA
Synopsis: Airports are subject to a range of natural and man-made disasters that can quickly spiral into crisis situations. Be it the spread of disease, civil unrest or even theft of aircraft, the possibility of a crisis in an airport is always at hand. This session explores fundamental issues critical to any crisis management program. It will facilitate the audit and benchmarking of current mitigation, response and recovery practices and help to identify corrective measures. Grounded in global case studies and best practices, it will give participants insights into the management of crisis and movement to resilience and normalized operations.