The AmCham Tech Talent Network recently gathered, with this installment exploring how artificial intelligence, data, and emerging technologies are transforming aviation and airport operations. The group was welcomed by HPE Nordic Cluster Lead Carsten Nielsen at HPE’s Skøyen office. Participants then heard from our two keynote speakers Knut-Olav Traa, Head of Enterprise Architecture at Avinor, and Geir Leirvik, Solutions Architect at HPE Aruba, who shared how AI and data are being applied in practice to drive efficiency, sustainability, and better airport experiences.
Knut-Olav Traa presented an overview of Avinor’s role and scope, highlighting key figures and the company’s vision of “connecting Norway and the world through sustainable aviation.” Traa emphasized that technology is not a support function at Avinor, but a core part of every operation, spanning both information technology and operational technology.
Traa showcased several of Avinor’s major technology initiatives, including the pioneering development of digital air traffic control towers which strengthen competence development, enhance resource efficiency, and ensure more effective use of expertise across the organization.
He also underscored Avinor’s growing focus on cyber and information security, as well as the expanding use of artificial intelligence throughout the company. AI is already being applied to optimize everything from operational efficiency to value creation. Avinor will continue to invest in forward-looking technology development to stay ahead in an increasingly digital aviation industry.
Geir Leirvik from HPE followed with a presentation on smart aviation and hyper-aware environments, focusing on how data and AI can improve airport performance and passenger experience. Leirvik underlined the central role of data in enabling AI, and the importance of reliable, continuous data flows to deliver real operational value.
"We need to focus on outcomes - not just the data we collect".
Drawing on HPE’s experience, Leirvik explained how airports generate vast amounts of data and how IoT systems can capture and analyze data flows in real time. He stressed the importance of shifting focus from data collection alone to understanding the outcomes data can deliver, such as improved efficiency, reduced energy consumption, and enhanced passenger satisfaction.
Ultimately, understanding how data moves and influences behavior is key to creating more sustainable, efficient, and user-friendly airport environments.
TTN is a non-competitive arena for knowledge sharing, professional development, and expanding international market insights, currently open to select Patron-level technology industry member representatives. Exclusive quarterly sessions with industry leaders and external speakers create opportunities for collaboration and leadership development.
For further information and interest in the program, please contact Ragnhild.Dalen@amcham.no.
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