In Conversation: EXPO Preview with Edward Shapiro

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    Ed Shapiro

    Up next in our pre-EXPO coverage is Edward Shapiro,  Partner and Vice President of PAR Capital Management and experienced airline investor. Edward was recently announced to kick off our exciting Education Day agenda with a keynote address discussing global airline strategy and the future of passenger experience.

    Edward’s opening address starts at 9:10 a.m. on the 15th, immediately after the Welcome & Introduction session. You won’t want to miss it! Read on to see which talks are on Edward’s must-attend list and what item he can’t travel without.

    About Edward: Mr. Shapiro is Chairman of: Global Eagle Entertainment, Legend 3D, Inc. and Lumexis Corporation, and a director of Sonifi Solutions.  Mr. Shapiro is also a member of the Wharton Undergraduate Board, Vice Chairman of the Trust Board for Boston Children’s Hospital, a board member of The Rashi School in Dedham, MA and Combined Jewish Philanthropies in Boston. He previously served on the board of US Airways from 2005-2008 and Web.com from 2001-2005.  Mr. Shapiro earned his BS in economics from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School and an MBA from UCLA’s Anderson School of Management. Mr. Shapiro lives in Needham, MA, with his wife Barbara and children Joshua (13) and Samantha (12). 

    Q: Which EXPO talks are you most looking forward to?

    A: The Entertainment and Connectivity – Technology Focus break-out sessions, and the wireless streaming panel discussion.

    Q: Airlines are starting to implement wearable technology. In your opinion, are passengers ready for these changes?

    A: It’s still too early for mass market but airlines could be a leader in adoption of wearable technology in the future.

    Q: Favorite IFE genre?

    A: Drama

    Q: Go-to travel item?

    A: My iPad