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2026 Webinar Series

Airport Security by Design: Building Passenger Trust Without Compromising Protection

Airport Security by Design: Building Passenger Trust Without Compromising Protection

FREE Webinar | 31 March 2026 (Tuesday)
1 PM KSA Time
Hosted by: Global Airports Forum

As airports across the Middle East accelerate digital transformation and National Agenda initiatives, security strategies must evolve to be smarter, faster, and more passenger-centric without weakening protection. This webinar will explore how airports and border agencies are embedding security by design into their infrastructure, leveraging biometrics, AI-powered threat detection, next-generation screening technologies, and integrated digital physical security architectures to enhance resilience, efficiency, and traveller confidence.

Industry experts will share insights into intelligent screening, risk-based security models, smart borders, cybersecurity frameworks, and the convergence of physical and digital security systems. The session will highlight real world cases and implementation strategies for one of the largest airport development markets in the world today – Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East, helping airports balance innovation, regulatory compliance, and passenger experience.

Featured Thought Leaders

Moderator: Shannon Wandmaker
Director, CW Aviation Security Consulting

He is a director of CW Aviation Security Consulting, a specialised consultancy that works with governments and industry on strategy, governance, and oversight.

He is an experienced aviation leader with over 25 years of experience in over 50 countries in the Middle East, Asia/Pacific, and Europe, and has in-depth security, international relations and diplomatic experience backed up by decades of regulatory and operational knowledge.

Shannon is the former Head of Aviation Security for G4S Risk Consulting in Kuwait and the former worldwide Head of Cargo Security for the International Air Transport Association (IATA). In addition, he led the aviation security audit and capacity development programme across 44 pan-European countries for the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC).

Shannon spent 12 years in Australian Government aviation policy, operational and diplomatic positions, including as First Secretary (Transport) for the Australian Embassy, Abu Dhabi, and in addition led aviation security capacity development activities in the Asia Pacific region.

He is AVSEC PM qualified and is a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society.

Speaker: Adnan Alghamdi
Aviation Security Advisor, GACA

As a seasoned expert with over 29 years of experience in aviation security, legislation development, and risk mitigation, I have led groundbreaking initiatives at the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) in Saudi Arabia. My leadership has driven the integration of advanced security technologies, including facial recognition and unmanned vehicle systems, ensuring that Saudi Arabia remains at the forefront of aviation security globally. I am passionate about shaping the future of aviation security, leading cross-functional teams, and fostering international collaboration. Connect with me to explore opportunities to drive innovation in global aviation security.

Speaker: Dr. Ghassan Chahine
Regional Sales Manager MEA, Leidos

He is a senior executive and strategic advisor with over 20 years of leadership experience in security, technology, and systems integration across Saudi Arabia multiple sectors including aviation. Holding a DBA from Grenoble École de Management and an Executive MBA from Université du Québec à Montréal, he has driven significant business growth and digital transformation for global and regional organizations. Dr. Chahine has led major initiatives in physical security, AI, cybersecurity, and intelligent infrastructure while advising Saudi government entities and international partners. Recognized for his strategic vision and technical depth, he consistently provides advisory for aviation security, through innovative technology solutions.

Speaker: Peter Drissell
Director Aviation Security, UK Civil Aviation Authority

Appointed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) as its first Director of Aviation Security on 1st April 2014, Peter is the Aviation Security Regulator for the UK.  In 2018, the Cyber Security Oversight of UK aviation sector was added to his portfolio. He previously served as Director of Security & Business Continuity for the Home Office for 5 years.  Prior to this, Peter had served for 32 years in the Royal Air Force from which he retired as an Air Commodore in April 2007.  His last appointments were as Provost Marshal for the RAF and Commandant General of the Royal Air Force Regiment.  He has been a Corporate Security Director for 20 years.