Inter Airport Europe 2025: Q and A with Event Director Syreeta Tranfield

Marking its landmark 25th edition, this year's Inter Airport Europe is set to be a standout event for the global airport community, offering more innovation, insight, and networking than ever before. With over 400 exhibitors expected from more than 100 countries, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the latest cutting-edge solutions, connect with like-minded industry professionals, and hear from leading experts across the sector.

New for 2025, the free-to-attend Inter Airport Focus Conference, and the dedicated AI & Robotics Zone will spotlight transformative technologies and forward-thinking strategies shaping the future of airport operations. We're also thrilled to welcome over 20 new suppliers showcasing their products for the first time, bringing fresh perspectives and exciting developments to the show floor.

With airports evolving faster than ever to meet future demands, visitors at the Inter Airport Europe 2025 will experience the latest advancements in airport technology, including AI-powered automation, biometric check-ins, smart baggage handling and sustainable infrastructure solutions.

We'll also be shining a spotlight on excellence through this year's Innovation Awards, celebrating the most groundbreaking technologies and solutions in the airport industry. With more entries, greater industry recognition, and an enhanced ceremony, the 2025 awards promise to be bigger, better, and more impactful than ever before.

Another feature of this year's event we can't wait to unveil is the brand-new Advisory Board; a panel of industry experts who are helping us shape an exciting new format for this year's event. Complementing this, the free-to-attend conference program will feature a dynamic mix of keynote talks and panel discussions covering some of the most pressing and forward-looking topics in the industry.

Event Director Syreeta Tranfield 

What themes are you focusing on this year for the conference?

Attendees can look forward to a new program of networking opportunities, including complimentary entry to the conference agenda across the three days complemented by a hosted buyer program for airports looking to source new equipment.

The conference agenda will address key themes affecting the sector, including Robotics, Intermodal Transport, Airport Development, Sustainability, Technology & Innovation, Workforce Development, Big Data & AI, and Risk Management & Contingency Planning.

Why should visitors attend?

With the event occurring every two years, Inter Airport Europe 2025 marks the 25th edition and the 49th year the show has been running. We are proud to be the only international event covering the whole spectrum of airport operations, airside and landside, from curb to gate. With over 400 exhibitors and 5,000 professionals expected to attend, it will provide an unrivaled opportunity to network with industry leaders, suppliers and innovators from around the globe.

The exhibition encompasses the full spectrum of airport operations providing visitors with insights into every facet of airport infrastructure and services through its three main tracks:

  • Terminal – focuses on terminal construction, interior design, operations and passenger handling solutions.

  • Data – highlighting airport IT systems, data management, AI and communication technologies.

  • Ramp – showcasing ground support equipment, airfield construction and aircraft handling services.

This year will also see a greater emphasis showcasing solutions that contribute to a greener aviation industry.

What have been some of the key innovations that have transformed the airport sector over the last 50 years?

Automated check-in, biometric screening and baggage handling have been some of the biggest transformations. Fifty years ago, those processes were all carried out manually, causing long queues, delays and lost luggage. Now, self-service kiosks, eGates, high-speed and RFID-enabled baggage handling systems have all revolutionized the airport experience.

Air traffic modernization has also seen satellite-based systems, digital towers and AI-assisted routing replace radar-based systems, improving safety, reducing fuel burn and enhancing airspace capacity and efficiency.

What's more, the evolution of sustainable and green airport design as well as smart terminal infrastructure is driving a greener, more seamless and exciting passenger experience, improving operational efficiency and real-time monitoring while simultaneously focusing on compliance with global climate targets.

As the organizer what are you most looking forward to?

Inter Airport Europe offers a unique opportunity to showcase the incredible innovations happening across the sector – from digitalization and automation to sustainable infrastructure and future fuels. It also offers a platform to bring the global airport community together and engage in meaningful dialogue. With a diverse exhibitor base and a renewed focus on net-zero targets, this year's event promises to be a catalyst for the next generation of airport excellence.

You have put Future Flight on the agenda – why is this important for airports?

Airports are no longer just transport nodes. As the ambassadors of aviation on the ground they're aviation ecosystems supporting the evolution of next generation aircraft and preparing for the rise of advanced air mobility (AAM). Whether it's through the development of vertiports, electric charging infrastructure, unified airspace, partnerships with eVTOL manufacturers, or a more personalized passenger experience airports are laying the groundwork for a new era of urban air mobility and we're excited that Inter Airport is fully embracing the future of flight.

With a refreshed format, expert insights, and a packed agenda of innovation, Inter Airport Europe 2025 is set to be the must-attend event for the global airport community.

For more details on the program, exhibitors, and registration, visit: http://bit.ly/3HzK6uJ