Airport Experience® News - Post-Conference Issue 2026

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16 CEO Insights At the 2026 AX Conference, CEOs from six leading concessions companies gathered for a closed-door roundtable discussion with AXN on the key issues facing the industry. Here’s what they had to say. 20 eVTOL Aspirations No one knows exactly when or how, but eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft are coming to U.S. airspace. Some commercial airports are getting ready. 25 Bragging Rights Check out which individuals, companies and brands took home trophies from the 2026 AX Awards Gala. 28 Growth Strategies Tackling issues ranging from high labor costs to balancing lounge and F&B needs in airports, key AXC sessions featured experts who strategized on how to improve profitability for all stakeholders at the airport. 34 New Opportunities Business growth strategies, digital engagement, and new concessions prospects were all discussed in AXC sessions focused on improving the traveler experience. 38 Director-To-Director In a shift from the typical panel format, eight airport directors – four sets of two directors each – took the stage for interview-style conversations in front of the AXC audience. 41 Women In Action The Women In Leadership Breakfast at AXC sold out once again. The panel of industry leaders shared their perspectives on resilience, relationships and a host of other issues. 44 Conference Snaps Check out AXC 2026 as captured by AXN’s photographer.

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4 Letter From The Publisher 6 Data Check

Data from Future Partners shows waning interest in visiting the U.S. from international travelers, especially those from Europe and Canada. 8 Latest Buzz The Upgrade SEA initiative at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport includes a C Concourse expansion scheduled to open this summer, as well as other projects. 12 Director’s Chair

48 Industry Insights Gensler’s Ty Osbaugh shares his firm’s vision for creating a future airport that is entirely experience-driven from curb to gate.

51 Advertising Index 52 Before You Take Off

A year ago, Shannetta Griffin transitioned from a leadership role within the Federal Aviation Administration to the

Young people often don’t envision a career in airport hospitality. Concessions International is seeking to change that with the launch of its immersive career exposure program.

helm of Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. Now, as executive director and CEO of the Maryland Aviation Administration, she outlines her vision for growth at BWI.

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AX NEWS APRIL/MAY 2026