Global Aviation Forum Speakers

As the President and CEO of Aerostar Airport Holdings, LLC, I lead the largest US airport public-private partnership (P3) transaction, related to the 40-year lease for the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU) in San Juan, Puerto Rico. I have been part of the executive management team overseeing all aspects of the airport's operations, administration, finance, compliance, security, commercial, planning, IT, and sustainability.

With over 25 years of international and domestic experience in finance and executive management, I have demonstrated expertise of turning high-performance entities, managing private equity-backed transactions, and leading troubled re-organizations and acquisition-related restructurings. I hold an MBA from Georgetown University, an EMBA from ESADE Business & Law School, a BA from the University of Puerto Rico, and a Global Management Program Certificate from INCAE Business School. I am a Certified Public Accountant ("CPA"), fully bilingual in English and Spanish, and passionate about creating value and impact through innovation, collaboration, and excellence.

Mr. Darren Large is the Director, Facilities & Operations at Morristown Municipal Airport. He has been with MMU for the past 21 years and has served in various capacities such as Operations, Projects and Grants and Facilities Manager. He is currently responsible for day-to-day maintenance and operations at the facility, snow removal activities, airport capital improvement plan, wildlife control, obstruction removal/approaches and any other number of things that come his way throughout the day. Darren received his bachelor’s in history with airport management minor from Dowling College and a master in Aeronautical Science and Management from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. He is also a licensed private pilot.

Brian Freed is the CEO of Illuminex AI, a company using artificial intelligence to improve airfield operations and safety. With experience in technology leadership and financial strategy, Brian develops solutions that drive value and enhance efficiency in critical infrastructure settings. Under his leadership, Illuminex AI equips airfield inspectors with AI tools, such as FODAI, a Foreign Object Debris (FOD) detection system, to support safer and more effective operations. Brian advocates for innovation that creates tangible impact, emphasizing AI’s ability to amplify human judgment and adaptability.

Mr. Matthew Falcioni is the Manager of Operations at the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA), which oversees operations at Toronto Pearson International Airport. He has developed a strong skill set in operations management, emergency management, and airport management, with a particular focus on commercial aviation.

Falcioni holds a Diploma in Aviation Management from Georgian College, which has equipped him with the foundational knowledge necessary for his role in the aviation sector. His professional journey includes various positions within the GTAA, indicating a deep commitment to enhancing airport operations and safety protocols. 

In his current role, Falcioni is responsible for overseeing operational strategies and ensuring efficient airport functionality, which is critical given the complexities involved in managing one of North America's busiest airports.