Airport Experience® News -Customer Service Issue 2026

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2026

Dear Readers,

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2026 / V24 N274

Welcome to the Customer Service issue of Airport Experience News. This issue explores the myriad ways airports and airport concessionaires are enhancing the traveler experience. From massive terminal overhauls to pop-up and specialty experiences to engaging play spaces for young travelers, airports are pulling out all the stops in their efforts to provide a memorable journey through their facilities. This issue also spotlights two industry leaders as they embark on new life phases. Kevin Burke, the longtime CEO of ACI-NA, retired in October. He reflects on navigating the organization through tumultuous years and the big achievements the trade organization had along the way. And AXN’s own Melissa K. Montes changed course earlier this year, embarking on a new career in financial technology. She shares the highlights of her journey leading this magazine and the AX Conference. As always during the fourth quarter, the entire AX Team is focused on creating the next Airport Experience Conference. The 2027 AXC will be March 14-17 in San Diego. We hope to see you all there! Happy Reading!

KID-FRIENDLY AMENITIES TAKE FLIGHT

BURKE BIDS FAREWELL TO AIRPORT INDUSTRY

TERMINAL TRANSFORMATIONS CREATE NEW JFK

AIRPORTS TURN UP THE EXPERIENCE

Carol Ward Editor-in-Chief

Airport Experience News carol@airportxnews.com

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AX NEWS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2026