Trend Report Webinar (19 May): How AI and data are transforming transport operations and services

Register here

 

Date: Tuesday 19 May 2026

 

Time: 9.00 (CDT), 10.00 (EDT), 15.00 (BST), 16.00 (CEST), 17.00 (EEST)

 

Length: 60 minutes + Q&A

 

Transport systems are entering a new era. Across cities and regions, advances in AI and data are enabling a shift from static, fragmented infrastructure to intelligent, connected networks that can respond to demand in real time, optimise performance, and deliver more seamless user experiences.

 

In this webinar, supported by Microsoft, we’ll explore how transport authorities and operators are using data and AI to transform both planning and day-to-day operations. From managing congestion and improving air quality, to enhancing asset utilisation and enabling more reliable multimodal journeys, the potential impact is significant – but so are the challenges.

 

A key focus of the discussion will be how cities and transport organisations can overcome fragmented data landscapes. Many transport systems still operate across disconnected platforms and agencies, limiting visibility and slowing innovation. We’ll examine how approaches such as shared data services, common platforms, and stronger governance frameworks can help unlock the full value of AI across entire transport networks.

 

Our panel of experts will share real-world insights and practical examples, including how cities are: 

• Using real-time data to actively manage traffic and improve service reliability  
• Applying AI to optimise infrastructure and reduce operational costs  
• Coordinating across modes and operators to support seamless journeys  
• Scaling from pilot projects to network-wide transformation

We’ll also look ahead to the future of transport, where AI systems increasingly act as operational partners – supporting decision-making, automating processes, and enabling more adaptive, resilient mobility ecosystems.

 

Whether you’re a transport leader, policymaker, or technology partner, this session will provide valuable perspectives on how to move from experimentation to impact. 

 

 

Register here

 

Speakers

		Katherine Flesh Director of Transportation, Cities & Infrastructure Industry, Americas Microsoft   Katherine Flesh is Director, Transportation & Critical Infrastructure, Americas at Microsoft where her transportation expertise helps public sector organizations use AI and cloud technology to advance safer, more resilient, and more efficient transportation systems. She brings 25+ years of experience in modernising infrastructure, improving operational performance, and guiding digital transformation across transportation, state and local government and AEC firms.
		Speaker to be announced shortly
		Luke Antoniou Senior Editor SmartCitiesWorld   Luke has been reporting on the implementation of smart technologies that benefit citizens and the public sector since 2017.   He has a particularly keen interest in smart and sustainable mobility and its role in influencing the decisions of urban planners, citizens and governments alike.   As rapid urbanisation continues, he keeps his finger on the pulse of the myriad urban challenges facing local and central governments, making new connections in the public and private sectors and finding new angles from which to cover the latest smart city developments around the world.