ORLANDO, Fla. – What will the future of airports and travel look like? That was one of the questions hundreds of travel industry experts from across the globe gathered to discuss at Orlando International Airport (MCO) last week. Future Travel Experience (FTE), An innovation-focused travel industry organization, held its first FTE Communities Live Days event of 2025 to explore what’s next in aviation and airports.
Members of three FTE Communities – Baggage Innovation Working Group; Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub; and Ancillary & Retailing Working Group – collaborated on topics related to Baggage Handling, Innovation and AI, and strategies for revenue growth through retailing and new business models.
“This was an excellent opportunity to showcase what we are doing and to receive input from global aviation experts on what we can do better to further enhance the travel experience,” said Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which operates Orlando International Airport.
“This truly unique event brought together our three FTE Communities in one place, providing a perfect environment to share, learn from one another, and explore the impressive innovations on show across Orlando International Airport and the surrounding area,” said Daniel Coleman, Founder & CEO of Future Travel Experience. “Thanks to all the innovation happening across MCO, it really was n ideal location for our first in-person meeting of 2025.”
More than 200 members engaged in inspiration-filled sessions, valuable networking, and exclusive airport tours as well as heard welcome remarks from Mike Miller, Vice President of External Affairs and Workforce Integration, at Space Florida. Miller shared how Florida’s space industry, including SpaceX and NASA, is connected to the transportation network in Central Florida.
Orlando was a logical host for the event, given the technology and innovation used in opening Terminal C in September 2022. The terminal features 100% automated screening lanes in TSA checkpoint, 100% facial recognition for international arrival and departures; and experiential media experiences. The conference also supported the Aviation Authority’s strategic priority to leverage emerging technologies that will elevate its potential. For a roundup of activities, visit FTE Communities Live Days.
