A US$9 billion development plan is transforming Miami International Airport (MIA). And at the heart of this transformation sits Maurice Jenkins, the airport’s Chief Innovation Officer, implementing the technology that will take MIA to a forecasted 77 million passengers in 2040.

Based in a landlocked area, MIA can’t put its faith in construction projects to expand its footprint. While the construction of a new Concourse K will go some way to alleviate the impact of greater passenger numbers, Jenkins believes brick-and-mortar initiatives can only go so far. Nevertheless, he has to be sure that innovation is implemented in an effective way.

Are we prepared to carry the technology that we have today to 80, 90, 100 million passengers? Can it support the whole airport ecosystem as well as taking passenger expectations into consideration?

Developments currently on the cards at MIA include omnichannel app communications, that in the future could be integrated with holographic technology to ensure passengers navigate the airport seamlessly. While US$9 billion plan includes other big-picture investments, including biometric gates, Jenkins and the team aren’t letting small details escape their notice either, down to the airport toilets. Replacement and repair of all conveyances, as well as other operational necessities, will be upgraded to deliver a more functional experience to travellers.

We’re adding sensors to the entire airport so we can receive better predictive analytics. So when there’s a failure, we can get in front of that and avoid the downtime, whether that’s a loading bridge or a conveyance, or even operational issues with the bathrooms.

MIA serves as the Official Airport Partner of Aviation Festival Americas 2026. This exciting collaboration will spotlight the latest advancements in aviation technology at Miami, further emphasising the airport’s position at the cutting-edge of the industry. Jenkins explains:

Bringing the Festival to Miami also brings additional resources, and we can help realise the value that aviation brings not just to Miami but to the region as a whole.

Get your ticket to join us in Miami at Aviation Festival Americas 2026. 

🎥 Watch the video to get the full interview with Maurice Jenkins.

Questions asked include:

  • Which innovations at MIA have earned you the biggest return on investment?
  • What kind of role will tech and innovation play in managing passenger numbers?
  • What about the future? What kind of tech will passengers see at MIA in 2040?
  • Miami is the Official Airport Partner of Aviation Festival Americas 2026. Could you tell us a bit more about the partnership and what you’re excited for at the event?

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