Join our special opening ceremony, where we celebrate the vibrant Panamanian culture through traditional dance. Dressed in the exquisite pollera; Panama’s national dress, the dancers take to the stage to welcome you all.

Dr. Rafael Echevarne provides an in-depth market analysis of the Latin American and Caribbean aviation landscape, exploring macro trends, regional dynamics, and their implications for ground operations.

This high energy opening debate brings together sector leaders to explore today’s most pressing commercial and operational challenges across the Americas region, with perspectives from airlines, handlers, airports, and industry bodies.
 
This is a forum for putting your biggest business concerns to the panel so please email us your questions at confernences@groundhandling.com

This session examines the realities of operating in a high pressure, 24/7 environment and the importance of supporting staff motivation and mental wellbeing. It also discusses how improved transparency and communication between airlines and handlers can strengthen operational collaboration and reduce avoidable friction

The session begins with a one to one conversation exploring operational efficiency, workforce dynamics, and technology adoption from Unifi’s perspective.

This leads into a panel spotlighting influential female leaders within the community, discussing diversity, inclusion, and how broadening industry appeal can unlock performance improvements and new talent pipelines.

This joint session highlights a case study on the turnaround transformation achieved through collaboration between WFS and Frontier. Six stations (LAX, IAH, AUS, MSY, TOL, and BDL) have adopted Frontier’s system, improving safety, SLA performance, and on-time operations. The rollout features handheld and headset communication, replacing radios and messaging apps, alongside voice AI for hands-free coordination. Integration with existing databases and ramp systems supports efficiency. The initiative involves all team roles, from remote operations in Brazil to leadership, with a focus on safe implementation, minimal disruption, and strong user adoption.

A forward-looking discussion on the evolution of PRM services, moving beyond traditional service delivery toward a more controlled, data-driven operational model. As airlines and service providers face increasing pressure around cost, performance, and passenger experience, the role of technology is shifting from support tools to real-time operational control. This session will explore how assistive service technologies, live data, and integrated service design can improve accessibility while enhancing efficiency, predictability, and profitability across PRM operations in the Americas

A strategic overview of BLAS and its role as Panama’s leading ground handling provider, including its relationship with Copa Airlines and operational responsibilities across the regional hub.

This session presents the three-year collaboration between TLD, Copa, and Averest, highlighting the deployment of PosiCharge systems and electric GSE at PTY. Speakers will detail the operational outcomes, emissions reductions, and long-term sustainability strategy behind this transformation.

A dedicated safety debate featuring chief safety officers and safety directors from across the region, examining critical risks and organisational responsibilities. The session will include discussion on safe handling of lithium batteries, standardisation, and training frameworks

Wilcox GSE presents a practical exploration of total cost of ownership versus upfront investment, using real case examples to demonstrate how long term planning, sustainability choices, and collaborative procurement can reduce cost and improve reliability.

This session provides updates on the NTO project and shares operational learnings from JFK and the broader region. The discussion includes infrastructure challenges, policy constraints, and the importance of integrating terminal operators into the wider ground handling dialogue.

A forward looking session on the deployment of autonomous systems in airport environments. Speakers will share operational insights, regulatory considerations, and lessons learned from implementing autonomous vehicles and robotics across North American airports.

A wide ranging conversation on how AI and digital tools are reshaping workforce strategy. The session explores smarter training pathways, wellbeing considerations, and how operators can move from attrition focused thinking to strategic workforce development.

An exploration of the technologies transforming ramp operations and turnaround performance. The session covers AI enabled cameras, robotics, smart glasses, and digital workflow tools, with potential live demonstrations.

A critical discussion of the data standardisation gaps currently limiting AI adoption in the region. Panellists will address interoperability challenges, commercial data agreements, and what is needed to enable fully integrated AI driven operations.