Airports Innovate is a unique conference format dedicated to fostering innovation in the airport industry by facilitating new connections, sharing the latest expertise, and breaking down barriers to market access for new products, concepts, and services. Conceived as a premier global event, it captures the essence of transformation and encourages out-of-the-box thinking. The conference serves as a platform for game-changers, innovators, start-ups, and leading technology experts to showcase disruptive ideas and solutions with the potential to revolutionise the future of airports.
Developed jointly by ACI EUROPE, ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East, and ACI World, the event is rich in business, commercial, and strategic insights.
Organisers
Host
Why Attend Airports Innovate?
In the ever-evolving landscape of airports, innovation is the driving force behind progress, from operational advancements, cost efficiencies, enhanced customer experience and stakeholder alignment to sustainable and decarbonised infrastructure. Join global leaders, innovators, and experts to redefine the airport experience.
Unrivaled Networking
Connect with C-level airport executives, leading World Business Partners, airlines, aircraft manufacturers, broader aviation industry representatives, and key institutional stakeholders.
Cutting-Edge Content
Our agenda is packed with insights on AI, sustainability, passenger experience, and operational efficiency. Stay ahead of the curve with expert-led sessions.
Exclusive Exhibition
Discover groundbreaking solutions from leading suppliers in our dynamic exhibition hall. Experience the future of travel with a firsthand look at current airport innovations.
Fast Facts
Packed with business, commercial, and strategic insights, the reimagined event is the leading global aviation conference where innovation, collaboration, and groundbreaking ideas take flight.
The Conference
Review the event outline and start planning your visit.
DAY 1
November 23
Pre-Conference Workshop
Welcome Reception
DAY 2
November 24
Full Conference Day & Exhibition
Gala Dinner
DAY 3
November 25
Full Day Conference & Exhibition
Airport Tour
ACI World Business Partner Innovation Showcase
Use the opportunity to spotlight the airport community’s most transformative ideas and solutions on a global stage. Under the theme Best Available Innovation at an Airport, World Business Partners can submit bold solutions that have a real impact on airports. From pilot projects to fully implemented innovations, a wide variety of solutions are eligible. Winners will be able to present their solutions to a live airport audience during the Showcase at Airports Innovate. Each finalist will receive two complimentary registrations to attend the event. Applications will be judged by the following five criteria:
- A clarity of vision: Is the innovation’s impact clearly and concisely presented
- Meaningful impact: How significantly does it improve the airport experience or operational efficiency
- True originality: What makes this idea stand apart?
- Ease of integration: How readily can it be adopted and scaled
- Intelligent investment: What is the value proposition and potential return
Judged by a committee of independent industry experts, World Business Partners can submit their innovative airport solutions for free via this portal before 31 May 2026.
2026 ACI World Airport Innovation Awards
For the sixth consecutive year, ACI World is proud to present the ACI World Airport Innovation Awards, celebrating the increasingly vital role that innovation plays in advancing the global airport community.
These awards invite projects and leadership initiatives that enhance passenger experience, improve operational efficiency, and optimize airport processes for passengers, employees, and aviation stakeholders. The contest is open to all ACI airport members, and airports of all sizes are encouraged to participate. Find out more via the link below.
Meet the Host
Airports Innovate 2026 lands in Barcelona, hosted by Aena—one of the world’s most forward-thinking airport operators. Managing more than 590 million passengers across its Spanish airports over the past three years, Aena brings unmatched expertise and ambition to the event, offering delegates a direct view into the future of airport operations.
Barcelona, long known as a crossroads of technology, creativity, and visionary urban design, is the perfect setting for Airports Innovate. There’s no better place to link the future of aviation with a city that embodies innovation every single day.
Highlights of the Past Editions
A glimpse into the vibrant atmosphere and key moments from our previous conferences.
