2019 Agenda Highlights

Check out the full 2019 ACI-NA Annual Conference and Exhibition agenda here.

Aligning Organizational Structure to New Demands

Business as we know it is changing significantly and airport operators are no exception. Innovation, changing customer expectations and increased pressure for greater non-aeronautical revenue generation are just some of the factors pushing leaders to re-think how their organization prepares for these new challenges. Hear from airport leaders on how they’re structuring their organizations, creating more cross-functionality and working closer with stakeholders to better serve their customers and communities.

How to Be More Financially Resilient?

The Great Recession ended in 2009. A decade later economic indicators show the next recession may be on the horizon. Economists are hedging their bets by forecasting a downturn in the economy, if not a recession, over the next 12-24 months. If history has taught us anything, it is that the airline industry is more sensitive to economic downturns, as personnel and business travel budgets decline. And, as airline traffic declines, so do airport revenues that are tied to enplaned passengers. Is your airport financially and operationally ready to weather another recession? Join the conversation with your fellow airport executives and build your toolkit to ensure your airport is prepared.

Complex World of Airport Construction

Airport capital projects worldwide are on the rise and the growth in terminals, runways and infrastructure construction shows no signs of slowing. A significant number of airports currently have major expansion programs in the works, which will certainly result in major construction going forward. As the ACI-NA Airport Infrastructure Needs Study, Terminally Challenged, found, airports in the U.S. face over $128 billion in infrastructure needs between now and 2023. Proportional needs exist in Canada. Our panel will discuss how airports in both countries are using innovative planning and design processes, capital program management techniques and project delivery strategies to meet these needs on-time, on-budget and on-quality.

Enabling 21st Century Passenger Processing

The most successful airports have focused on passenger processing technologies and new solutions to improve the passenger experience and maximize operational efficiency. Passengers are constantly connected with smartphones, and as such, passengers demand an increased level of personalized service. Adopting a new passenger processing experience can optimize capacity of existing facilities and lower operational expenditures. Make sure you are taking advantage of resources to better serve your customers, avoid disruptions and increase passenger satisfaction.

Managing Changing Risks in Aviation

Airports of today are faced with an increasingly complex and evolving plethora of risks and challenges, such as unmanned aerial systems, climate change, cyber-attacks and PFAS contamination. How does airport leadership ensure they are focusing on the right priorities? What processes can help review and evaluate not only risks but also opportunities? How do you bring together your staff to solve these issues using a multi-disciplinary approach? In this session, learn about how your organization can be structured to proactively manage today’s risks and be prepared for tomorrow’s unknowns.

North American Aviation Security Dialogue

Evolving threats to civil aviation such as those posed by creatively concealed explosives, large crowds in public areas and unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), present a unique challenge for both regulators and airport operators. Technology is an essential component in enhancing the security of the aviation system. In order to improve security effectiveness while managing budgetary constraints, it is important for agencies and the industry to collaborate on effective processes, procedures and technology. Don’t miss this opportunity to talk directly with senior TSA and CATSA representatives about initiatives to stay ahead of the latest threats.

The Transnational Regulatory Picture

Join us for this perennial transnational favorite, which provides the opportunity to interact face-to face with senior officials from both Transport Canada and the FAA. In this year’s session, we will be discussing the latest regulatory landscape, reform efforts from both agencies, key policy initiatives and a look ahead. This is always an informative and engaging session and provides a superb opportunity to ask questions and discuss concerns.