Data, Technology, and the Passenger Experience

Data is transforming the guest experience, enabling predictive, insight-driven operations that boost efficiency for operators and reduce friction for travelers. Advanced technologies, like biometrics and AI, are helping teams anticipate guests’ needs and optimize key passenger touchpoints throughout the journey, from curb to gate.

To learn more about this transformation – and what’s coming next – we sat down with Edward D’Angelo, Senior Director, Global IT Operations at Vantage Group and VP, Technology at JFK Millennium Partners.

Edward has been instrumental in executing various airport terminal redevelopment projects, leading technology design, and driving collaboration across multiple teams. His career spans more than 20 years in IT strategy, systems design, project management, and operational support.

Our fast five interview covers:

• Edward’s career journey
• His favorite part of his job
• Emerging data trends
• Challenges airports are using data to solve
• What he’s most excited for

What was your career journey like? Did you always plan to work in aviation?

I didn’t initially plan to work in aviation; my career started in technical support and operations, which has since evolved into leading large-scale IT and digital transformation programs across multiple industries. But an opportunity early in my career quickly drew me into aviation. Airports are some of the most operationally complex and technology-driven environments in the world.

I’ve since gotten to work on projects like LaGuardia Terminal B and JFK Terminal 6 which have given me the opportunity to help shape both technology strategy and the passenger experience from the ground up. Today at Vantage Group, I work across both global IT operations and major airport redevelopment programs.

What’s your favorite part about working at Vantage?

I really enjoy contributing to the future of airport development, operations, and passenger experience. At Vantage, we’re involved in transformational projects where technology, operations, design, and innovation all come together, which creates a very dynamic environment.

What trends are you seeing with how airports are leveraging data?

Airports are becoming far more data-driven and operationally intelligent. Data is being used to better manage passenger flow, operations, and disruptions in real time, and as a result, we’re seeing a major shift from reactive to predictive operations.

There’s also a strong focus on integrating systems and centralizing data, so airports have better visibility across the entire operation. AI, analytics, biometrics, and digital experience platforms are all starting to work together to create more seamless and efficient passenger journeys.

What are some of the biggest challenges airports are using data to solve?

Airports are under pressure to improve passenger flow, reduce congestion, optimize staffing, and create a more seamless travel experience, especially during peak travel periods and irregular operations. As passenger expectations continue to shift, reducing friction throughout the journey is a major priority.

Cybersecurity and operational resilience are key areas in meeting those expectations. As airports become more connected, data is playing a larger role in monitoring system health, improving situational awareness, and helping teams proactively respond to operational or security challenges before they become larger disruptions.

What are you most excited to see in the coming year when it comes to advancements in tech or data-driven solutions?

I’m excited that AI and predictive analytics are continuing to advance within airport operations. As we create smarter environments, we have greater capability to anticipate operational challenges, dynamically adjust resources, and create more seamless passenger experiences in real time.

I’m also eager to see growth in biometrics, digital twins, and integrated operational platforms that connect systems together more intelligently. The industry is moving toward truly connected airport ecosystems and that’s an exciting direction.