BACKGROUND

Artificial intelligence (AI) technology and applications are growing exponentially across all industries. For airports, use of AI can result in improved operational efficiencies, more accurate traffic forecasting, and improved system diagnostics. While there is much interest in the possible applications of AI at airports, both the supporting technologies and possible applications are still at a nascent stage. There is much to be learned about the benefits, risks, and limitations—particularly in the areas of cyber and operational security, fact validation, legal issues, and public safety.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this project is to conduct an in-person ACRP Insight Event (see Special Note A) for airport-industry practitioners, relevant stakeholders, and subject matter experts (SMEs) to discuss the key factors related to the benefits, risks, and transformational aspects of AI technology for airports.

TASKS

Task 1. Conduct a literature review to identify relevant themes, topics, and SMEs (within and outside the airport industry) as potential speakers, session panelists, or moderators. Submit the literature review, including relevant themes and topics and an annotated bibliography. Submit a separate database of SMEs. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (the National Academies) members should be considered as potential speakers/presenters/moderators. The database should be sortable and include individual's contact information, area of expertise, potential role (e.g., session speaker, moderator) and demographic information (e.g., gender, race/ethnicity, career stage). The panel and ACRP staff will be a resource to the contractor and will review and approve contractor's recommendations before their execution.

Task 2. Based on the information gathered for the literature review, prepare a draft final version of an ACRP First Look. The First Look will provide an overview of AI and its nexus with airports, including issues, potential challenges and opportunities, regulatory context, and future research needs.

Task 3. Prepare a schedule for the activities and milestones needed to develop, prepare for, and conduct the Insight Event. The schedule should also identify industry- or topic-related events (e.g., conferences, seminars) to be avoided when setting the date for the Insight Event.

Task 4. Facilitate a 1-day in-person Insight Event planning meeting with ACRP staff and the panel. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the findings of the literature review, confirm the desired audience and perspectives to be represented by event participants/attendees, confirm the themes and topics to be covered, agree on a general agenda framework and format, and set a date for the event. Panel comments on the draft final First Look will also be reviewed to confirm revisions to be incorporated into the final version.

Task 5. Coordinate with ACRP staff to reserve a venue and needed technology (e.g., audiovisual equipment) for the in-person Insight Event.

Task 6. Prepare a topic-relevant outreach plan and promotional material, including a save-the-date announcement, aimed at reaching the intended audience/participants (e.g., major airport influencers, SMEs, thought leaders, specialized or niche perspective communities, and interested state and federal agencies). The strategy should describe clear methods, specific techniques, potential partner organizations, and resources to develop participant invite lists and tactics to encourage participation. Submit the plan for ACRP panel review and approval at least 6 months before the date of the Insight Event.

Task 7. Upon ACRP approval, implement the outreach plan.

Task 8. Prepare a registration website and track registrations to ensure the agreed-upon attendance limit is not exceeded and participants provide a balance of perspectives (with a focus on airport practitioners).

Task 9. Facilitate a web-based planning meeting with the panel approximately 2 months before the Insight Event. The purpose of this meeting is to provide a status report; confirm speakers, moderators, and session topics; and identify areas where panel assistance may be needed.

Task 10. Prepare a post-event survey using a common online survey tool and a set of questions provided by ACRP. The survey will be used to gauge participant satisfaction and plan for future Insight Events. The survey should be ready for use immediately after the Insight Event concludes.

Task 11. Develop a guide for speakers and moderators and confirm each speaker understands and will follow the guidelines.

Task 12. Conduct the Insight Event. Working with the National Academies events team and ACRP staff, ensure room(s) are set up appropriately, staff the sign-in/registration table, and ensure meal- and refreshment-related needs are met. Ensure speakers and moderators are prepared before their session begins. Handle logistics for displaying visual aids, Q&A, session transitions, breakout sessions, and related activities (such as an evening networking event, if applicable). Facilitate a wrap-up session summarizing the discussion and identifying future research needs.

Task 13. At the conclusion of the Insight Event, open the post-event survey for attendees and encourage their participation.

Task 14. Participate in a post-event web meeting with the panel and ACRP staff to collect input and perspectives on how the Insight Event fared and to identify which research ideas should be developed into ACRP problem statements.

Task 15. Provide a post-event technical report documenting event preparation, execution, and follow-up; the findings from the post-event survey; and resulting problem statements.

Task 16. Prepare a summary of the proceedings and discussions at the Insight Event to be published in the Transportation Insights series. The summary will be based on the notes collected by the rapporteur.

STATUS: Proposals have been received in response to the RFP. The project panel will meet to select a contractor to perform the work.