97th Annual
AAAE Conference & Exposition
From Here to Anywhere
June 8-10, 2025 | Georgia World Congress Center | Atlanta, GA
Special Thanks to Our Host Airport!
The countdown to this event is over!
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Join us in Atlanta, Georgia, June 8-10, 2025, for an immersive experience that promises unmatched education, innovative solutions, and meaningful connections—propelling your airport's journey "From Here to Anywhere."
Experience unparalleled education, offering the most comprehensive insights and the latest updates on industry rules and regulations, all conveniently housed under one roof. Leave equipped with the knowledge and connections essential for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of airport management.
Discover cutting-edge solutions designed to optimize operations and enhance passenger satisfaction, all showcased within our expansive exhibit space. From innovative technologies to cost-saving strategies, explore solutions that will elevate your airport's performance and bottom line.
Stay ahead of the curve with our robust continuing education program, earning CEUs to maintain your certification and stay abreast of industry advancements.
Forge invaluable connections amidst a diverse gathering of airport professionals. Engage in networking events renowned for fostering collaboration and inclusivity, providing opportunities to build relationships that transcend boundaries.
Saturday, June 7
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Delegate Registration
8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
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Exhibitor Set-up
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
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Attendee Volunteer Event: HouseProud ATL
8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
We have partnered with HouseProud Atlanta, an organization that provides free home repairs for seniors, veterans, and disabled homeowners in Atlanta. Volunteers will participate in a variety of hands-on tasks, including painting, home repairs, and yard work for a veteran in need. All meals will be provided.
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Accreditation Interviews
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sunday, June 8
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Delegate Registration
8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
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Exhibitor Set-up
8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
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Accreditation Interviews
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
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Proctored Essay/Memo Exam
8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
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Chapter Meetings
8:30 - 9:45 a.m.
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AAAE Executive Business Meeting
10:15 a.m. - 12 p.m.
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Corporate Committee Meeting
12 - 1:30 p.m.
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Academic Relations Committee Meeting
12:30 - 2 p.m.
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Air Service Committee Meeting
12:30 - 2 p.m.
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General Aviation Committee Meeting
12:30 - 2 p.m.
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Operations/Safety/Planning/Emergency Management Committee Meeting
12:30 - 2 p.m.
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Leadership Development Committee Meeting (invite only)
12:30 - 2 p.m.
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Finance and Administration Committee Meeting
12:30 - 2 p.m.
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Airport Board Members and Commissioners Meeting
2:30 - 4 p.m.
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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee Meeting
2:30 - 4 p.m.
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Environmental Services and Sustainability Committee Meeting
2:30 - 4 p.m.
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Civil/Military Relations Committee Meeting
2:30 - 4 p.m.
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Transportation Security Services Committee Meeting
2:30 - 4 p.m.
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Real Estate and Commercial Development Committee Meeting
2:30 - 4 p.m.
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Facilities and Technical Services Committee Meeting
2:30 - 4 p.m.
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Welcome and Exhibit Hall Open
5 - 6:30 p.m.
Monday, June 9
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Breakfast in Exhibit Hall
8 - 9 a.m.
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Session 1: FAA Briefing
9:15 - 10:30 a.m.
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Session 2: The Nature of Taking Risks
9:15-10:30 a.m.
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Official Conference Opening Ceremony
10:45 - 11:15 a.m.
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Keynote Speaker: Will Guidara
11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
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Lunch in Exhibit Hall
12:15 - 1:30 p.m.
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Hudson Book Signing in Exhibit Hall
12:30 - 1 p.m.
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IAAE Board Meeting
12:30 - 1:45 p.m.
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Session 3: Defining Customer Experience Across the Airport
1:45 - 3 p.m.
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Session 4: How to Make Electrification Make Cents
1:45-3 p.m.
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Workshop 1: Moving Forward After an Emergency
1:45 - 2:15 p.m.
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Workshop 2: LinkedIn Lift-Off: Elevate Your Personal Brand & Expand Your Influence
2:25 - 2:55 p.m.
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Networking Break in Exhibit Hall
3 - 3:30 p.m.
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Session 5: Navigating Growth with a Customer-Centric Approach
3:45 - 5 p.m.
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Session 6: General Aviation Lightning Round
3:45-5 p.m.
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Workshop 3: Networking in a Post-Pandemic World – Evolving Connections and Strategies
3:45 - 4:15 p.m.
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Workshop 4: Next Steps After a Cyber Incident
4:25 - 4:55 p.m.
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Happy Hour in Exhibit Hall
5 - 6 p.m.
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Evening Event
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Tuesday, June 10
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Breakfast in Exhibit Hall
8 - 9 a.m.
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USCTA General Membership Meeting
8 - 9 a.m.
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Session 7: Small Airports Doing Big Things
9:15 - 10:30 a.m.
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Session 8: DHS/CBP/TSA Roundtable
9:15-10:30 a.m.
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Workshop 5: Developing a Mobility Strategy
9:15 - 9:45 a.m.
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Workshop 6: Fireside Chat: SMF Secures TIFIA Loan
9:55 - 10:25 a.m.
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Coffee/Snack Break
10:30 - 10:45 a.m.
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General Session II
10:45 a.m. - 12 p.m.
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Executive Member Business Meeting
12 - 12:30 p.m.
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Lunch in Exhibit Hall
12 - 1:30 p.m.
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Session 9: Economics
1:45 - 3 p.m.
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Session 10: Air Service – How to Drive Business?
1:45-3 p.m.
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Chair's Reception
5:30 - 6:15 p.m.
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Dinner
6:15 - 7:45 p.m.
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Closing Ceremony
7:45 - 8:30 p.m.
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After Party
8:30 - 10 p.m.
Wednesday, June 11
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Bus Loading for Airport Tours*
8 - 8:30 a.m.
Buses load for tours.
*Capacity is limited. Pre-Registration Required
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Airport Tours*
9 a.m. - Noon
*Capacity is limited. Pre-Registration Required
Keynote Speaker

Will Guidara is the author of the NY Times Bestseller Unreasonable Hospitality, which chronicles the lessons in service and leadership he has learned over the course of his career in restaurants. He is the former co-owner Eleven Madison Park, which under his leadership received four stars from the New York Times, three Michelin stars, and in 2017 was named #1 on the list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. He is the host of the Welcome Conference, an annual hospitality symposium that brings together like minded people to share ideas, inspire one another, and connect to form community. A graduate of the hospitality school at Cornell University, he has coauthored four cookbooks, was named one of Crain’s New York Business’s 40 Under 40, and is the recipient of WSJ Magazine’s Innovator Award. He is also a Co-Producer on the Emmy Award-winning series The Bear.
Thank you to Hudson for sponsoring this session.
Click below to view the full agenda. Subject to change. Please check back for updates.
Please note that all sessions and the exhibit hall will be held at the Georgia World Congress Center unless otherwise noted.
Registration Information
You acknowledge that in registering for and attending this AAAE event, you agree to adhere to the cancellation policy noted below, AAAE's Duty of Care, and AAAE's Code of Conduct and Terms and Conditions.
Fees & Deadlines
Registration Type |
Early Bird
On or before April 25, 2025 |
After April 25, 2025 |
Member Full Conference | $885 | $1,075 |
Non-Member Full Conference | $1,275 | $1,595 |
Member Corporate | $1,055 | $1,355 |
Non-Member Corporate | $1,875 | $2,195 |
Federal Government | $495 | $715 |
Student | $350 | $350 |
Exhibitor Additional Personnel | $625 | $725 |
Single Day Rates and Guest Registration available. Contact aaaemeetings@aaae.org.

Speakers
CANCELLATION POLICY: Registrations, cancellations and refund requests must be submitted in writing. All cancellation requests for registrations received on or before Friday, May 23, 2025, are subject to a $175 cancellation processing fee; approved refunds will be processed after the meeting takes place. There will be no refunds of any kind after this date. Cancellations with outstanding invoices received within two weeks of the start of the conference, will require full payment on the balance due. Refunds will not be provided, and balance dues will not be forgiven for no-shows. Substitutions within the same conference will be accepted without penalties. The difference between member and non-member price will be charged if a non-member replaces a member. Substitutions will be accepted with a written request to AAAEmeetings@aaae.org. The individual substituting for the original registrant is responsible for all financial obligations (balance due; difference in fees due to membership type) associated with that substitution. For all inquiries regarding cancellations, refunds and substitutions, please contact the AAAE Meetings Department at 703.824.0504 or email AAAEmeetings@aaae.org. By submitting a completed registration form, you acknowledge that you have read and understand the cancellation policy. Please note failure to receive a confirmation letter before an event will not be grounds for a refund or credit.
IMPORTANT: AAAE reserves the right to postpone or cancel an event if the number of registrants is insufficient; due to acts of God; or any other reason beyond AAAE’s control. In this event, we will notify all registrants by email and credit the full registration fee towards another AAAE meeting, product or service. However, any costs incurred by the registrant, such as hotel cancellation or airline penalties, are the responsibility of the registrant. Confirmation emails will be sent to attendees shortly after receipt of registration. However, if you have not received a confirmation email two business days prior to the meeting, and you enrolled at least two weeks prior to the meeting, please contact the AAAE Meetings Department at 703.824.0504 or email AAAEmeetings@aaae.org. Please note failure to receive a confirmation letter before an event will not be grounds for a refund.
#AAAEATL Social Media Kit
We're excited to support your participation in the 97th Annual AAAE Conference & Exposition! To help you spread the word, we’ve created a Social Media Kit with ready-to-use graphics optimized for LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Download, customize, and share to let your network know you’ll be there!
Additional Information

Hotel Accommodations
Discover official hotel accommodations for the 97th Annual AAAE Conference & Exposition in Atlanta. Beware of unauthorized solicitations. Booking links will be available in the Fall to secure your room at the group rate!

Transportation Information
Book your flights with United Airlines or Delta Air Lines for the meeting with exclusive discounts. Ground transportation options also available. Save on your travel today!

Local Information
From the Georgia Aquarium to the World of Coke, get to know Atlanta and discover the best things to do around the city at Discover Atlanta.

About Our Host Airport
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is the busiest and most efficient airport in the world and, by some accounts, the best in North America. Hartsfield-Jackson is a global gateway, offering nonstop service to more than 150 domestic and 70 international destinations.
Exhibits & Sponsorship
The Annual AAAE Conference attracts a diverse audience of industry leaders in search of solutions.
This is the ultimate event for capturing the attention of airport leaders gathered to make quality connections, buying decisions, and plans to invest their funds.
Please note that all sessions and the exhibit hall will be held at the Georgia World Congress Center unless otherwise noted.
Attendee Demographics
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200+ exhibitors
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2,700+ North American airport & aviation professionals
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Attendees include upper and mid-level management from 315+ airports, as well as FAA, DHS, and TSA personnel
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Conference coverage reaches millions, including leaders at more than 900 airports
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82% of attendees are purchasing decision-makers and come to find business solutions.
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99% of attendees visit the exhibit hall
Attendee Job Functions
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Management
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Operations
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Security/Safety
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Concessions
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Customer Service
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Environmental
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Finance
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Legal
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Marketing
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Facilities/Maintenance
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Terminal Management
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Airport Planning & Development
Quick Facts
2,700+ airport and aviation professionals in attendance
315+ airports in attendance
Two (2) complimentary exhibitor personnel registrations per 10'x10' (100 SqFt). Exhibitor personnel registrations includes access to all sessions, meals, and receptions Sunday through Tuesday.

Exhibits
Showcase your innovative products and services while you meet face-to-face with your primary target audience.

Sponsorship
Build brand recognition by having your brand front and center at the top events and branded items of the conference.
Thank You to Our Planning Committee
Conference Program Chair
Rebecca Francosky, C.M.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Committee Members
Megan Atkins Thoben, A.A.E.
Louisville Regional Airport Authority
Ethan Croop, A.A.E.
Lee County Port Authority
Karen Ellis
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Kimberly Fabend, P.E., PTOE, ENV SP
C&S Companies
Greg Heaton, C.M., P.E., AICP
Crawford, Murphy & Tilly, Inc.
Matthew Heil
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
Megan Large, CF APMP
Mead & Hunt, Inc.
Brandon Nunn-Zia
Los Angeles World Airports
Graham Ritz, C.M., C.A.E., ACE
Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority
Melissa Sabatine, C.M., IACE
Jacobs
Ashley Thorsen, A.A.E.
Gerald R. Ford International Airport
Patrick Wilson, A.A.E., ACE
Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority
Test Your ATL Knowledge!
Test your ATL trivia knowledge before you land and discover how much you know about the city, from famous events to local favorites!
📺 Which of these popular TV shows took place in and around Atlanta? A. The White Lotus |
🏅 What year did Atlanta host the summer Olympics? A. 1992 |
🛫 Roughly how many restaurants, shops, and services does ATL Airport have? A. 260 |
🚶How many passengers does ATL Airport average in a day? A. 204,000 B. 215,000 C. 248,000 D. 286,000 |
🥤In 1886, which popular beverage was invented in Atlanta? A. Coca-Cola B. Pepsi C. Dr. Pepper D. Fanta |
🍑 Aside from peaches, what food is Georgia the top producer of in the U.S.? A. Cashews B. Peanuts C. Tangerines D. Popcorn |
How Well Did You Do?
Whether you’re an ATL expert or just learned a few fun facts, we’re excited to see you in Atlanta soon. Stay tuned for more updates as we count down to #AAAEAnnual!
Post a screenshot of your results on social media, tag us @aaaedelivers, and include #AAAEATL for a chance to win an exclusive prize!
Questions? Contact Us!
Program Information
Danielle Whalen
703.575.2462
Attendee Registration, Conference Logistics, and Meeting Space Information
AAAEmeetings@aaae.org
Hotel Reservations
Samantha Wittie
571.560.1854
Sponsorship Opportunities, Registration
Amy Trivette
703.575.2471
Exhibit Opportunities, Registration
Lisa C. Williams, CMP, CEM
571.560.1765
Press/Media Inquiries
Brian Kalish
703.575.2461
AAAE Membership Information
Gwen Basaria
703.797.2540