The Future of Airports: WestJet and Embross on the Rise of Self-Service

#23 The Connected Skies: 5G, Predictive Maintenance, and the Future of Aviation

In this cutting-edge episode of The JumpSeat, Chris Glass is joined by William Cecil from FLYHT Aerospace and Max Le Leannec from Transatel for a deep dive into the evolving world of aviation connectivity. Together, they break down how legacy communication systems like ACARS are reaching their limits—and how private 5G networks, edge computing, and IoT-driven infrastructure are set to transform everything from engine data offload to predictive maintenance and real-time baggage handling. The conversation covers why aviation has lagged behind industries like automotive in connectivity, and how global telecom innovation is now catching up to aircraft, gates, and terminals. From 5G private network deployments at airports like Charles de Gaulle and Hong Kong, to redundancy strategies for mission-critical systems, this episode explores how to future-proof the entire aviation data ecosystem. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to truly connect an aircraft—and an airport—this is your boarding pass to the future.

#23 From Telex to Terabytes: Why Aircraft Data Needs a Modern Upgrade

In this episode of The Jump Seat, host Chris Glass sits down with Willie Cecil of Flight Aerospace to demystify one of aviation's biggest hidden challenges: how aircraft operational data is collected, transmitted, and used today—and why it desperately needs a 21st-century overhaul. From legacy telex-based communication systems to manual engine downloads that take hours, Willie explains why so much of aviation still operates like it’s the 1970s—and what’s finally changing. Willie introduces us to Edge+, a 5G-enabled data solution that’s helping airlines collect massive amounts of flight data in real time, paving the way for true predictive maintenance and more connected, efficient airline operations. They dive deep into the limitations of ACARS, QAR, and FADEC data handling, the rise of private 5G networks at airports, and what a fully connected aircraft can really unlock. Whether you’re an aviation pro or just fascinated by the tech that keeps us flying, this is one episode you won’t want to miss.

UK Met and the Art of the Possible: Innovations in Weather Data Collection

In this episode of The Jump Seat, host Chris Glass sits down with Lisa Marvin, a commercial manager at the UK Met Office, to explore the fascinating intersection of meteorology, aviation, and data innovation. Lisa shares insights into the pivotal role of aircraft, including partnerships with airlines like Loganair, in capturing atmospheric data using advanced water vapor sensors. These sensors enable better weather predictions, contribute to climate modeling, and even hold potential for contrail avoidance, making the skies greener and safer. With a rich history dating back nearly 200 years, the UK Met Office has been at the forefront of weather science, from supporting the D-Day landings to today’s cutting-edge climate initiatives. Lisa’s unique journey from law enforcement to weather contracting highlights the diversity of opportunities within the organization. This conversation is a deep dive into how technology and collaboration across industries are shaping the future of global weather systems and the fight against climate change.

The Future of Airports: WestJet and Embross on the Rise of Self-Service

In this insightful episode of the Jump Seat Podcast, host Chris Glass is joined by Liz Baring from Embross and Ryan Potter from WestJet to explore the rapidly evolving world of airport self-service technology. The conversation delves into WestJet’s innovative self-serve bag drop, the transition from manual check-ins to mobile-first solutions, and how technologies like AI and biometrics are shaping the future of air travel. With a focus on improving the customer experience and speeding up airport processes, this episode highlights the partnership between WestJet and Embross and their vision for the future of airports. Tune in to learn how these advancements are setting the standard for the industry.

Ultra Low-Cost Airports: The Abbotsford Model with Parm Sidhu

In this episode of "The Jump Seat," host Chris Glass takes listeners on location to the Abbotsford Airport, where he sits down with Parm Sidhu, the airport's General Manager. Parm shares his incredible journey from a Zamboni driver to the helm of one of Canada's fastest-growing airports. The conversation delves into the unique aspects of Abbotsford Airport, including its history, growth, and innovative approach to becoming an ultra low-cost airport. Parm discusses the airport’s early days, the impact of WestJet, and how Abbotsford has adapted to changes in the aviation industry over the years. Listeners will gain insights into the importance of partnerships, the influence of technology, and how the airport plans to handle future growth without expanding its physical footprint.  Join Chris and Parm for a deep dive into the strategies and innovations that are driving Abbotsford Airport's success and learn how this dynamic airport is setting new standards in the aviation industry.