A NEW conference and exhibition will generate ideas for the future of airport developments across the world, according to organisers.
The inaugural Super Terminal Expo (STE) 2024 brought more than 500 international and regional aviation professionals to AsiaWorld-Expo.
The event also saw organiser Informa Markets announce an Asia Pacific edition of Connect Marketplace, which is aimed at the business events industry.
Backgrounder… Aviation events gaining altitude in HK
STE is among the events in Hong Kong targeting industry professionals working in sectors such as air cargo and airport terminal developments. Routes World and Airspace Asia Pacific are among the events being held at AsiaWorld-Expo in 2025 set to underscore Hong Kong’s role as a global aviation and logistics hub. A third runway at Hong Kong International Airport is due to open at the end of the month with a new Airport City development catering to an expected increase in passenger and cargo traffic currently taking shape.
More than 60 airports, companies and airport authorities, including Hong Kong International Airport which is next to AsiaWorld-Expo, participated in the event.
“As technology continues to weave intricate connections within our airports, the significance of uniting to address endless challenges and opportunities cannot be overstated,” said Paul Burton, managing director, Asia-Pacific, Aviation Week Network, and an STE advisory board member.
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Michael Duck, executive vice president, Commercial Development, Informa Markets, said in his opening speech: “The ideas we generate in these halls can shape the future of terminal operations and design, influence aviation policies, and improve the passenger and cargo handling experience worldwide.
STE’s attendees also included airport executives responsible for enhancing terminal operations, consultants specialising in airport development, security and technology providers equipped with the latest advancements for safer and more efficient terminals, key decision makers from airlines and ground handling companies, policymakers, financial investors interested in airport infrastructure, along with architects and designers who shape the future of airport spaces.
STE conference sessions included:
- Airport Hub Strategies and APAC Challenges: A panel discussion on airport hub development strategies featuring leaders from Airport Authority Hong Kong, IATA, Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) APAC , SITA and Huawei. Moderated by Air Transport World, the session explored collaborations with governments and key challenges in the Asia-Pacific aviation sector.
- Safe Skies, Seamless Journeys: Harmonising Safety Standards and Airport Systems: dealt with strategies and technologies that enhance safety and security in passenger terminals. Experts from Nuctech, Arup, and TAPA APAC discussed advanced threat detection, crowd control, and solutions to global airport challenges for a secure and seamless travel experience.
- Elevating Efficiency: Innovations and Challenges in Air Cargo and Terminal Ground Handling in Asia: Industry leaders from HACTL, CAUC, Airport Authority Hong Kong, and IBS Software, explored the opportunities and challenges in building a comprehensive air cargo ecosystem. Factors influencing airport air-cargo performance and competitiveness.
- Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Forum – From Concept to Reality: Unlocking Air Mobility in China: The AAM Forum, held with the main conference, examined the potential of urban air mobility, particularly eVTOL (Electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing Aircrafts) testing. Representatives from Beihang University, Arup, Skyports, EHang, Autoflight, Aerofugia, and Volocopter were among the panelists across two sessions.
