Vantage Group launches venture to drive aviation innovation

Vantage Group has announced the launch of Vantage Futures, a corporate venture programme focused on driving innovation in airport and transport infrastructure.

Matthew Handford, Executive Managing Director of Vantage Futures, spoke to Cities Today about the specific challenges the programme seeks to address.

“Our investment thesis centres on three verticals: sustainability, connected infrastructure, and the future of mobility,” he said.

The programme is designed to help airports advance carbon neutrality and improve energy efficiency, which he noted can provide both environmental and financial benefits.

Connected infrastructure solutions are another key focus. The new venture aims to implement technologies such as digital twins and disaster management tools to optimise airport operations and improve safety.

“We’re looking for solutions that can optimise operations, such as asset and building management tools that drive savings,” Handford explained. These technologies are expected to enhance efficiency and resilience across airport infrastructure.

Handford highlighted the future of mobility and how innovations like intermodal traffic management platforms and automation that could make airports more interconnected and streamlined.

“We see significant potential for automation and robotics to create intermodal airports that will increase operational efficiency across aviation and transportation,” he said.

Vantage Futures has already made its first investment in Opfyx, a company deploying an AI-powered digital communications platform. The platform allows airport, airline, and tenant stakeholders to respond to operational issues in real time, eliminating the inefficiencies of siloed communication systems.

Handford sees great potential in applying the technology to operations at the new Terminal 6 at JFK Airport, with the first set of gates opening in 2026.

Vantage Futures draws on the group’s background in airport investment, development, and management, providing early-stage companies with opportunities to trial their solutions in real-world settings. With funding and industry expertise, the programme seeks to support new technologies in aviation and transport infrastructure.

As airports continue to prioritise sustainability, Vantage Futures is particularly interested in technologies that promote energy efficiency, sustainable design, and carbon management solutions. The group is also closely following innovations in next-generation aviation fuels and water conservation technologies as part of its broader commitment to carbon neutrality in aviation.

Handford emphasised the importance of fostering innovation in the sector: “Airports are complex ecosystems, and collaboration is key to driving meaningful change. By working with emerging technology companies, we can help accelerate solutions that improve efficiency, sustainability, and the passenger experience.”

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