PodChats for FutureCOO: Making the case for unified, data-driven operations

In 2026, Asia Pacific’s travel boom is reshaping airport strategy. While January saw a slight demand dip due to Lunar New Year shifting to February, IATA confirms a 5.2% global seat capacity expansion by March, signalling robust growth. 

This surge, with passenger numbers projected to double by 2043, forces airports to modernise aggressively. 

But as with many industry sectors turning to transforming to capture unpredictable market opportunities, a cornerstone of any transformation is being to tap the data that exists at their fingertips. 

Cxociety Research discourse with the C-suite community suggests that central to achieving any lasting transformation is achieving a unified, data-driven operation. In the case of the travel industry, it is moving away from siloed airside, terminal, and landside management. 

COOs are adopting AI for predictive disruption management and embedding energy optimisation to cut OPEX by up to 15%. The modern airport is no longer a transit hub but an intelligent, seamless, and ecosystem.

In this PodChats for FutureCOO, we are joined by Philippe Arsonneau, Senior Vice President of Infrastructure Segment, Schneider Electric, who will help us make the case for unified, data-driven operations.

1.       Given that many airports currently run airside, terminal, and landside operations separately, what is our roadmap to intelligently unify these functions for complete situational awareness?

2.       With AI able to analyse millions of signals simultaneously, how can we best deploy it to predict disruptions and reduce delays, thereby improving passenger flow during peak travel seasons?

3.       How can we leverage AI-embedded energy management across all our buildings and assets to achieve up to 15% OPEX reduction while shrinking our carbon footprint?

4.       What new revenue opportunities can AI and data analytics unlock for our airport retailers, and how do we integrate these with passenger movement data?

5.       With passenger numbers forecast to double by 2043, how will our current infrastructure and technology scaling plans accommodate this long-term growth without compromising service?

6.       What interdependency models must we develop between airlines, ground handlers, and retailers to manage the growing complexities and traveller volumes smoothly?

7.       No discussion around modernisation and transformation can continue without addressing the security aspects of an operation. As airport modernise, how do we balance the need for seamless digital travel experiences (biometrics, wayfinding) with robust cybersecurity and passenger privacy?

8.       Based on IATA’s January 2026 load factor of 83.9% for Asia Pacific, what key performance indicators should we track to continuously optimise both operational efficiency and passenger satisfaction throughout the terminal?

9.       What is your advice for airport operators striving to transform and modernising their operations in 2026?