In this episode of the FTE Podcast, host Max speaks with Kevin Kleist, Head of Emerging Trends at Southwest Airlines and Head of Innovation & Startup Engagement at Future Travel Experience.

Kevin shares his views on the biggest technology opportunities in aviation, including AI, robotics, autonomous ramp operations, employee-led innovation, startup collaboration and the future passenger journey.

The conversation explores why technology should be introduced in service of people, how frontline employees can become champions for change, why aviation and startups need better bridges between speed and discipline, and how the industry can learn faster by collaborating more openly.

In this episode of the Future Travel Experience (FTE) Podcast, host Max Gosney sits down with Harvey Tate, Keith Walters, and David Breeze from the IAG Transform team to explore how innovation is overhauling the future of aviation operations across airlines and airports.

From AI-powered turnaround optimisation and smart ramp technology to biometrics, autonomous vehicles, robotics, and the future potential of humanoid technology, the conversation explores some of the biggest innovations shaping the aviation industry today.

The discussion also covers sustainability, operational efficiency, passenger experience, airport readiness, and the importance of collaboration across airlines, airports, regulators, suppliers, and technology providers.

Topics discussed include:

• AI and Agentic AI in aviation
• Smart ramp technology and turnaround optimisation
• Biometrics and digital identity
• Autonomous vehicles and robotics
• Sustainability and operational efficiency
• The future of airport infrastructure
• Passenger experience innovation
• Preparing aviation teams for rapid technological change

A must-listen for aviation leaders, airport operators, airlines, and technology providers interested in the future of air transport innovation.