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    Events

    Barcelona to host Routes World 2027

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    Frankfurt,24th October 2026: On the final day of the 2026 edition of Routes World in Frankfurt, it was announced that the 2027 edition of the event will be hosted by the Generalitat de Catalunya and Barcelona City Council on October 2027. Held in a different location each year, Routes World brings together key stakeholders from the route development community to advance global air connectivity. Airlines, airports and tourism authorities are expected to participate in more than 8,000 meetings during the 2027 event, creating opportunities to form partnerships and develop new air services. Steven Small, Vice President, Air Transport Events, Informa, said: “As one of the continent’s leading long-haul gateways, Catalonia combines a powerful business, tourism, knowledge and innovation economy with millions of passengers still travelling indirectly to priority international markets. That combination of proven demand and untapped potential makes Barcelona an exceptional destination to unite the global route development community.” Small added: “Hosting Routes World will deliver Barcelona the opportunity to convert demand into direct connectivity, accelerate its long-term strategy and showcase its ambition to the people that define where the world’s aircraft fly.” Arantxa Calvera, Director of the Catalan Tourist Agency believes “This opportunity serves for seeing connectivity as a lever to attract talent and investment, drive knowledge and innovation, connect businesses with markets and create opportunities across the whole of Catalonia. Routes World 2027 will be an excellent opportunity to show the world our approach to connectivity: we are not simply looking for more connections, but for connections that generate greater value for Catalonia.” Passenger traffic and Airport operational capacity  More than 5.3 million passengers travelling between Catalonia and international markets currently use connecting services, highlighting significant potential for the development of additional non-stop routes. The United States is the largest of these markets, with 1.5 million origin-and-destination passengers traveling indirectly, followed by Asia-Pacific with 593,000; China, Hong Kong and Taiwan with 405,000; South America with 314,000; and Japan with 305,000. Barcelona-El Prat Airport has already achieved significant progress in strengthening its long-haul network. Over the last decade, the number of direct intercontinental connections has increased from 33 to 62, representing growth of 88% and reinforcing Barcelona’s position as one of Europe’s fastest-growing airports for long-haul connectivity and a major international gateway to Spain. This progress has been supported by more than two decades of collaboration between the Generalitat de Catalunya, Barcelona City Council, Aena and the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce through the Air Route Development Committee (CDRA). Routes World 2027 will form an important part of the CDRA’s new 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, creating an opportunity to accelerate the development of direct connectivity with priority intercontinental markets, particularly Asia-Pacific and the United States. Expanding Barcelona’s international network has implications far beyond aviation. Direct air connectivity supports the internationalisation of Catalan businesses, strengthens the region’s knowledge and innovation economy, and enhances its ability to attract investment and global talent. According to an economic impact study prepared by the University of Barcelona and the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce, Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport generates 6.8% of Catalan GDP and supports more than 218,000 jobs, with its impact extending across tourism, logistics, international trade and research. Barcelona’s position as a leading international business and events destination further strengthens the case for enhanced global connectivity. The city hosted 166 international congresses and ranked third worldwide in the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) 2025 rankings. The MICE sector accounts for around 20% of visitors to the city and plays an important role in supporting year-round tourism and reducing seasonality. The advantage of hosting the event Hosting Routes World 2027 will provide Catalonia with a global platform to advance these ambitions, bringing the global route development community directly to the market. Alongside opportunities to secure new air services and strengthen existing routes, the event will support a broader connectivity strategy designed to enhance Catalonia’s competitiveness, international reach and sustainable economic development, generating long-term economic, social and territorial value across the region. By consistently uniting decision-makers from the global route development community, Routes World has made a real impact on the world’s air services—over half of the world’s new routes are connected to meetings at the event. VPs and Heads of Network Planning from 230 of the world’s leading carriers are expected to attend the event in Barcelona.

    Airports, Events

    Routes Asia returns to Cebu,Philippines in 2028

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    Frankfurt, Germany,21st October 2026: Cebu, Philippines, has been selected to host the 24th edition of Routes Asia, the leading air service development event dedicated to advancing connectivity across the Asia-Pacific region. The official announcement was made at Routes World on 21st October, with the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA) serving as the official host of the 2028 event. Routes Asia will return to Cebu nine years after the destination hosted the event in March 2019. The 2028 edition comes at a pivotal point in Cebu’s aviation growth as it strengthens its role as a major international gateway and connecting hub for the Visayas and Mindanao. Cebu’s selection reflects its established position in the Asia-Pacific aviation market and its ambition to expand domestic and international connectivity. The event will also provide Cebu with an international platform to showcase its appeal beyond leisure travel. As one of the Philippines’ leading centers for tourism, commerce and investment, Cebu is increasingly serving as a gateway for visitors and businesses seeking access to the wider Central and Southern Philippines. Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) handled 11.6 million passengers in 2025, while recent investment in airport infrastructure is creating further capacity for future growth. The airport’s parallel runway, inaugurated in 2025, is expected to enable MCIA to accommodate up to 18 million passengers annually once both runways are operating simultaneously. Routes Asia provides a platform for the senior decision-makers responsible for developing the region’s air services to meet, negotiate and identify new market opportunities. Through thousands of face-to-face meetings, the event supports the development of new routes and the strengthening of existing services, helping destinations improve connectivity and unlock wider tourism and economic benefits. Steven Small, Vice President, Air Transport Events, Informa, said: “Cebu has an incredibly compelling aviation story and we are delighted that Routes Asia will return to the destination in 2028. When the route development community last gathered in Cebu in 2019, the destination demonstrated both the strength of its aviation ambitions and the renowned hospitality of the Philippines. Since then, Cebu’s connectivity, infrastructure and importance as a gateway to the wider Visayas and Mindanao regions have continued to develop.” Small added: “Bringing Routes Asia back nine years later gives Cebu an important platform to showcase that progress directly to the airline network planners who can support its next phase of growth. We look forward to working with our hosts to deliver an event that creates new connections, new opportunities and a lasting impact on the region’s air services.” Mr. Julius G. Neri, General Manager of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA), said: “Cebu is more than ready to host another Routes Asia event. The last Routes Asia held in Cebu in 2019 was a success; however, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 significantly affected our ability to fully realize its intended benefits. We recognize the importance of Routes Asia and the lasting opportunities it can bring to Cebu, particularly in strengthening air connectivity, tourism, and economic development.” Neri added: “We are also proud to showcase the airport’s parallel runway, the first of its kind in the country. Once both runways are fully operational simultaneously, the airport is expected to increase its capacity and accommodate up to 18 million passengers annually.” Atty. Glenn B. Napuli, Assistant General Manager of MCIAA, said: “Mactan-Cebu International Airport has consistently demonstrated its commitment to world-class airport service, having been recognized as the Best Airport in the Asia-Pacific region in the 5–15 million passenger category for both 2024 and 2025. These consecutive recognitions are a testament to our continuing commitment to service excellence, operational efficiency, and delivering an exceptional passenger experience. We look forward to building on these achievements as we prepare to welcome Routes Asia once again to Cebu.”  

    Events

    FlySight and HR Smith to Showcase Personnel Locator System Simulation at Global Defence Aviation 2026

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    Warsaw( Poland), 20 October 2026: FlySight and HR Smith will present a Personnel Locator System Simulation at Global Defence Aviation (GDA) 2026 in Warsaw, demonstrating how FlySight’s OPENSIGHT software can support the integration and simulation of specialised avionics systems within a mission environment. The demonstration, available from Tuesday, 20 October, will showcase the collaboration between the two companies, combining HR Smith’s expertise in airborne Personnel Locator Systems with FlySight’s software capabilities and its OPENSIGHT mission system ecosystem. OPENSIGHT is designed to integrate heterogeneous sensors, systems and data sources into a common operational environment. Through its modular architecture, the software enables mission information to be visualised, managed and exchanged, supporting the integration of different capabilities within complex airborne mission scenarios. The Personnel Locator System Simulation highlights the role of software-based integration in bringing specialised avionics capabilities into a broader mission context. It also reflects the importance of interoperability in modern airborne operations, where systems must work together to provide operators with coherent and accessible mission information. The collaboration between FlySight and HR Smith demonstrates how complementary expertise can contribute to the development and evaluation of integrated mission capabilities.  

    Business Aviation, Events

    BAAFEx 2027 set to grow with more exhibitors and aircrafts on static display

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    Singapore, 20 October 2026: Business Aviation Asia Forum & Expo 2027 (BAAFEx 2027) continues to build momentum, with a growing number of exhibitors signing on for the show, Vista confirming a Global 8000 for static display, Dassault Aviation planning to showcase an aircraft on static display, and the Asian Business Aviation Association (AsBAA) returning as supporting association. The event, to be held at the Changi Exhibition Centre, is expected to be 50% bigger than its inaugural 2025 edition. It is set to attract more than 3,000 industry professionals and trade visitors, with over 75 participating companies taking part in the exhibition, sponsorship opportunities and three-day forum programme. Growing exhibitor line-up  More than 20 exhibitors have currently confirmed across aircraft, charter and aircraft management, aviation fuel, trip support, connectivity, MRO and technical solutions, airports and regulatory services. Among the latest additions is Dassault Aviation, which will return to BAAFEx in 2027 and plans to have an aircraft on static display. Dassault Aviation, Executive VP Civil Aircraft, Carlos Brana, says: “We are pleased to be returning to BAAFEx in 2027. Asia Pacific remains an important market for Dassault Aviation, and BAAFEx provides a valuable platform to engage with the region’s business aviation community. We look forward to showcasing Dassault Aviation’s capabilities and sharing our approach to performance, efficiency and passenger comfort.” Vista Global, Sino Jet and Aviaarc Trip Support are also among the latest companies to join the BAAFEx 2027 exhibitor line-up, alongside previously announced exhibitors including AEG Fuels, Amber Aviation, Boeing Business Jets, Gogo, HADID International Services, Lufthansa Technik and Viasat. Vista will showcase a Global 8000 on static display, giving visitors the opportunity to see the ultra-long-range business jet up close. Ian Moore, Chief Commercial Officer at Vista, says: “Southeast Asia plays an important role for business development across Asia Pacific which is also underscored by Singapore’s 58% flight traffic growth in the first half of 2026 compared to 2025. As demand for private aviation continues to evolve, our global fleet allows us to connect clients seamlessly across 96% of the world, while offering flexibility and consistency every trip. We are excited to return to BAAFEx in 2027 to showcase Vista’s latest offerings and contribute to the conversations shaping the next phase of business aviation growth in the region.” Sino Jet will also return as an exhibitor, with Vice Chair Jenny Lau set to participate in the forum’s China market discussion. AsBAA will again support BAAFEx, reinforcing the event’s role as a regional platform for the business aviation community. Phil Balmer, Chairman of AsBAA says: “AsBAA is proud to support BAAFEx in 2027, and we are delighted to see this dedicated business aviation event gaining momentum. It is an excellent opportunity for operators, manufacturers, service providers, regulators and other stakeholders to come together, exchange perspectives and address the priorities that will support the industry’s continued development across the region.” Expanded Forum Programme  BAAFEx 2027 has also unveiled its expanded conference programme which will bring together business aviation leaders from across Asia Pacific and beyond to discuss the most pressing issues facing the industry. BAAFEx’s three-day forum programme includes a wide-range of topics including: factors driving the growth of Asia Pacific’s business aviation sector, business aviation markets in Southeast Asia, Australia, China and India, need for improved airport infrastructure and slot availability to sustain the growth, advances in Urban Air Mobility, how the MRO sector is developing in-region and attracting maintenance engineers and technicians to support the needs of business jet operators, how digital platforms are facilitating the charter business, shifts in passenger expectations when it comes to the onboard passenger experience, advances in inflight connectivity and cabin interiors, adoption of sustainable aviation fuel, carbon off-setting and other initiatives to reduce emissions. Leck Chet Lam, Managing Director of Experia Events, says: “Asia Pacific’s business aviation industry has continued to grow and evolve, and BAAFEx 2027 is growing and evolving in line with that.” “The decision to include dedicated discussion panels on the Australia and India business aviation markets reflects size and importance of these markets in the region, while the decision to have a dedicated panel on urban air mobility shows the helicopter and eVTOLs role in the broader business aviation transport ecosystem.” “The forum overall aims to bring together the key players in Asia Pacific’s business aviation community and generate discussions that lead to positive outcomes,” he adds. Market-focused discussions on China and Southeast Asia will return in 2027, reflecting the continued importance and development of these markets. BAAFEx 2027 will also introduce dedicated discussions on Australia and India, recognising their growing importance and longer-term potential within Asia Pacific business aviation. Separately, Urban Air Mobility (UAM) will be introduced as a new subject area for BAAFEx 2027. The discussion will cover helicopters and eVTOLs, including how the two types of aircraft could coexist within the wider aviation ecosystem and the regulatory, infrastructure and airspace requirements needed to support future growth.

    Events

    Bratislava to Host CAPA Airline Leader Summit Airlines in Transition 2027

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    Delhi, October 15th 2026: CAPA – Centre for Aviation, part of Aviation Week by Informa, announced that Bratislava, Slovakia, will host the CAPA Airline Leader Summit Airlines in Transition 2027, bringing senior airline executives and aviation decision-makers to the Slovak capital on 8-9 April. One of the flagship events in CAPA’s global summit series, the event will bring together airline CEOs and C-suite executives, policymakers, industry suppliers and thought leaders to examine the fundamental changes reshaping the global air transport sector. Taking place at a time of significant transformation across the industry, the two-day summit will explore how aviation leaders are responding to evolving business models, changing passenger expectations, technological innovation, sustainability pressures, geopolitical uncertainty and an increasingly complex operating environment. Bratislava provides a timely setting for these discussions. Located at the heart of Central Europe, the Slovak capital combines strong regional accessibility with a rapidly expanding aviation market. Bratislava Airport handled a record 2.44 million passengers in 2025, representing 25% year-on-year growth, while significant airline investment has continued to expand the airport’s network and capacity. The airport entered summer 2026 with the largest scheduled network in its history, offering 77 routes to 63 destinations across 29 countries—almost double the number of scheduled routes available the previous year. The expansion reflects growing airline confidence in the market, with both Ryanair and Wizz Air increasing their presence. Claudia Kunz, Senior Director, Events, CAPA and GAD, said: “CAPA Airline Leader Summit Airlines in Transition is designed around the issues that are keeping aviation leaders awake at night and the strategic decisions that will define the next generation of the airline industry.” Kunz added: “The growth taking place across the Slovak aviation market, together with the city’s position at the heart of Europe, makes it an extremely relevant location to bring together airline and industry leaders from across the world. We look forward to welcoming the industry to Bratislava for two days of candid discussion, insight and collaboration as we examine how airlines can successfully navigate a period of continued change.” Dusan Novota, CEO of Bratislava Airport, said: “Neither Bratislava nor our airport has ever hosted an aviation event of this scale and significance, bringing together key stakeholders and decision-makers from across the global aviation industry. We are therefore truly honoured to welcome the CAPA Airline Leader Summit to Bratislava in 2027.” Novota added: “The timing could hardly be more relevant for us. Bratislava Airport is currently the fastest-growing medium-sized airport in Europe, recording triple-digit passenger growth. Hosting one of CAPA’s flagship global events at such an important stage in our development makes this opportunity even more significant for Bratislava, our airport and Slovakia as an aviation market.” The programme will combine CAPA’s independent market analysis with high-level airline leader interviews, panel discussions and strategic debate, providing delegates with insight into the most important commercial and operational issues facing global aviation. The 2026 edition of the event addressed themes including the evolution of airline business models, non-fare revenues, airline payments, partnerships and alliances, artificial intelligence and sustainability, bringing together senior leaders from across the global aviation sector.

    Events, Top Stories

    Airport-airline partnerships take centre stage at World Aviation Festival 2026

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    LISBON, Portugal, 2 October 2026 :  The World Aviation Festival (WAF) is introducing a dedicated Airport & Airline Collaboration Track at its 2026 event, taking place between 13-15 October in Lisbon. The programme will look at how airports and airlines can build joint operational resilience and enable seamless travel for passengers. It will also bring in perspectives from border management, ground handlers, and technology providers. Daniel Boyle, General Manager of Transport at WAF organiser Terrapinn, said: “Airlines and airports are facing many of the same pressures, but too often they are still trying to solve them in isolation. Meaningful collaboration between the two has never been more important.   “That’s why we’re creating an honest forum where leaders can cut through the usual talking points, confront the legacy systems and entrenched ways of working that continue to hold the industry back, and identify practical ways to move forward together. This isn’t collaboration for collaboration’s sake; it’s about delivering better operations, stronger commercial outcomes and, ultimately, a better passenger experience.” A panel on digital identity infrastructure will consider the role of standards including IATA One ID and ICAO Digital Travel Credentials, and whether passengers can expect to be able to travel end-to-end without a traditional passport by 2030. Panellists include Maurice Jenkins from Miami International Airport, Amin Lalani from Delta Air Lines, Vladimir Stojkovski from CLEAR, and Lisette Looren de Jong from the Dutch Ministry of Justice and Security. Another session will explore how airports, airlines and ground handlers can move beyond parallel responses and build joint operational resilience. Attendees can hear from Istvan Szabo of Berlin Brandenburg Airport, Ryan Abram of dnata, Adam Schipper of Ericsson, Chamith Seneviratne of Air Canada, and Marc-Philippe Lumpé of Air Transat. Girish Nair, COO at Bangalore International Airport, will take part in a fireside chat on how airports and airlines can better align their operations and commercial outcomes.

    2026, Events

    Aviation Week by Informa’s MRO Asia-Pacific Returns to Singapore, September 22-24

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    Region’s Largest Aviation MRO Event to Unite Global Leaders at Singapore Expo. The Asia-Pacific market is experiencing high growth with a full fleet forecast to be presented at the event. Singapore, September 18, 2026: Aviation Week by Informa’s MRO Asia-Pacific will return to the Singapore Expo and Convention Centre September 22–24, with more than 7,500 professionals gathering for the region’s leading aviation maintenance, repair, and overhaul industry event. A cornerstone of Asia-Pacific’s aviation calendar, the 26th MRO Asia-Pacific convenes top-tier stakeholders and decision-makers from around the world to examine industry challenges, share best practices, and explore innovative solutions across the entire MRO ecosystem. The robust Asia-Pacific market is experiencing high growth, with the commercial aircraft fleet expected to rise from 9,700 to more than 13,300 units in the next decade. This represents a 3.5% compound annual growth rate, a full half of a percent higher than the global growth rate, with annual MRO demand to support these aircraft to increase $6.5 billion from 2026 to 2035, according to Brian Kough, Senior Director of Forecasts and Aerospace Insights for Aviation Week. The full forecast, which will be presented at the event, will also show $275 billion in scheduled requirements across a diverse fleet in 37 countries within the next 10 years. MRO Asia-Pacific offers expert-driven conference sessions, high-impact networking, and access to a robust marketplace where airlines, OEMs, MROs, lessors, and suppliers engage in business development and collaboration. It is expected to draw more than 7,500 attendees from over 80 countries, including 750+ buyers representing airlines and lessors.Conference programming runs September 22-23 and features a comprehensive lineup of timely topics and strategic insights, including fireside chats and panels moderated by Aviation Week’s editors and analysts. Topics include: Opening Remarks: Jingxin Zheng, Vice President and Head of Mobility for the Singapore Economic Development Board will outline its approach to expanding the MRO ecosystem in the Asia-Pacific and to strengthening Singapore’s position as a global hub. Fleet and MRO Forecast from Aviation Week: An early insight into the outputs from Aviation Week’s 2027 Fleet and MRO Forecast Building tomorrow’s aviation: Leading the way from the hangar to the boardroom Leaders panel: Navigating global geopolitical uncertainty and strategies for strengthening regional MRO capacity Solving the parts puzzle: cost, reliability, and innovation in component MRO Q&A session with regulators Focused session: Evaluating the state of the Aero Engines market The Path to Transformation: Adapting to APAC’s Fleet Growth and MRO Challenges Working together for supply chain resilience Artificial intelligence in MRO Building and supporting the future workforce For a full agenda and session times, visit the Conference Program.The sold-out exhibition hall, open September 23-24, features 375+ solution providers across the MRO value chain. Attendees will also benefit from complimentary access to the Go Live! Theater, sponsored by Setna, where panels will address key topics such as: Debate: What Defines Value in APAC MRO Today— Speed, Certainty, or Flexibility? Inside MRO Careers: Hot Seat Confessions from the Next Generation Meeting the Maintenance Needs of Business Aviation: Lessons from China, India, and Singapore “We are delighted to once again host our annual event in Singapore, the long-standing home of MRO Asia-Pacific,” said Helen Curl, Vice President of Events, Aviation Week. “For 26 years, MRO Asia-Pacific has served as the premier gathering for the region’s aviation maintenance community, providing a vital platform for industry leaders to exchange ideas, build strategic partnerships, and shape the future of MRO.” The program begins on Monday, September 21 at the Capella Hotel with The 7th Annual MRO Asia-Pacific Awards featuring Asia Aerospace Leadership Networking enters its seventh year as the region’s most trusted platform recognizing excellence across MRO, and aftermarket services. The event brings together a uniquely senior audience at the moment when strategic conversations matter most. Over 70% of attendees are C-level and executive decision makers from across the Asia-Pacific aerospace ecosystem.

    Airports, Events

    Vilnius selected as host for Routes Europe 2028

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    Vilnius has been selected to host Routes Europe 2028, bringing Europe’s leading route development forum to Lithuania following a record-breaking year for Lithuanian Airports. The 21st edition of the event will be hosted by the Ministry of Transport and Communications, the Ministry of Economy and Innovation, the Vilnius and Kaunas City Municipalities, and Lithuanian Airports, with support from national tourism and investment agencies Go Vilnius, Travel Lithuania, and Kaunas IN. The event will bring together senior representatives from airlines, airports, tourism authorities, and industry suppliers from more than 55 countries. “Hosting Routes Europe 2028 is a major recognition of Lithuania’s growing aviation sector and the country’s potential. More than 1,000 aviation decision-makers, including representatives of more than 120 airlines, will gather in Lithuania. For us, this is a unique opportunity to engage directly with the people shaping Europe’s air connectivity and attract new airlines, open new routes and strengthen existing connections. We must make the most of this opportunity, as better air connectivity is essential for the growth of aviation, tourism and investment in Lithuania,” says Juras Taminskas, Minister of Transport and Communications. Organised annually, Routes Europe is the region’s premier air service development forum, providing a platform for strategic discussions and partnerships that shape the future of air connectivity across the continent. More than 120 airlines are expected to be represented by senior network planning executives. Edvinas Grikšas, Lithuania’s Minister of Economy and Innovation, highlights the importance of Routes Europe 2028 for strengthening Lithuania’s international visibility and connectivity: “Hosting Routes Europe 2028 in Vilnius is a great opportunity to strengthen Lithuania’s position as an attractive destination for both tourism and business. The event will bring together aviation and tourism representatives from more than 55 countries, giving us a unique opportunity to showcase Lithuania to an international audience while driving the development of new air routes and better connectivity.” Infrastructure investment has been a cornerstone of Lithuanian Airports’ growth strategy. In February 2025, Vilnius Airport opened a new departure terminal. That investment is already being matched by sustained demand. In 2025, Lithuanian Airports handled a record 7.16 million passengers – an 8.3% increase year-on-year – reclaiming the leading position among the Baltic States by passenger volumes after two decades. Growth has continued into 2026, with passenger traffic repeatedly reaching new monthly records. The next major step is already underway. A new arrivals terminal at Vilnius Airport, designed by the world-renowned Zaha Hadid Architects, is due to open in 2028. The project will create a seamless arrival experience while bringing the distinctive vision of one of the world’s most recognisable architectural practices to Lithuania’s main international gateway. The investment has helped support continued network growth, with airlines increasing frequencies on existing routes and new carriers entering the Lithuanian market, including flydubai and Arkia. “Bringing Routes Europe to Lithuania is an important milestone for Lithuanian Airports and a strong recognition of the progress our aviation market has made. We have invested significantly in modernising our airports, expanding capacity and preparing for future growth. In 2028, we will have the opportunity to show the European aviation community first-hand what Lithuania, and its airports have to offer. Just as importantly, Routes Europe will help us deepen relationships with our industry partners and build momentum that lasts well beyond the event itself,” says Gintarė Norvilaitė-Tautevičė, Interim CEO of Lithuanian Airports. Lithuania’s growing appeal as both a leisure and business destination is supporting increased demand for air connectivity. Foreign visitor arrivals rose by 4.4% in 2025, driven by a diverse tourism offering spanning cultural heritage, wellness, and nature-based experiences. As the country continues to prioritise sustainable tourism growth, Routes Europe will provide an opportunity to highlight Vilnius and Lithuania to the aviation industry’s key decision-makers. “Hosting Routes Europe 2028 is a great opportunity for Vilnius to bring together the people shaping the future of air connectivity in Europe. Vilnius may be a compact capital, but that is one of its strengths – distances are short, access is easy and things move fast, while our ambitions are anything but small. Better connections mean more opportunities for our city, its businesses and visitors, and we look forward to showing the aviation community what Vilnius has to offer.” says Valdas Benkunskas, Mayor of Vilnius. As part of Lithuania’s wider ambition to strengthen international connectivity and highlight the country beyond its capital, Kaunas will also play a role in welcoming the Routes Europe community in 2028. “Over the past decade, Kaunas has worked consistently to become a more accessible, welcoming, and internationally connected city. We have invested in modern infrastructure, improved the urban environment, and created a city that is ready to welcome people and ideas from around the world. Routes Europe 2028 is an important recognition of this progress and an opportunity to take the next step – to build new partnerships, strengthen Kaunas’ international profile and create lasting value for the city, its people and Lithuania as a whole.” says Visvaldas Matijošaitis, Mayor of Kaunas. Steven Small, VP of Air Transport Events, Informa, said: “Routes Europe 2028 will come at the perfect time for Vilnius. With its dynamic economy, modern infrastructure and impressive growth trajectory, Vilnius will provide the perfect backdrop for decision makers to define future air connectivity across Europe and beyond.” Small added: “The city has established itself as a prominent venue for international events, conferences, and summits. With independent analysis demonstrating that previous host destinations experience a 6.9% boost in network growth in relation to comparator airports, Routes Europe will form an important pillar within Lithuania’s tourism growth strategy.”

    2026, Events

    India’s SAF mandate gains momentum; global industry to gather at 2nd India SAF Conclave & Awards 2026

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    SAF Association announces India’s largest Sustainable Aviation Fuel forum as the country prepares for the next phase of SAF implementation New Delhi, 19th August 2026: Following the Government of India’s recent indication that the country’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) mandate is moving towards implementation, the SAF Association (SAFA)—India’s leading not-for-profit industry body dedicated exclusively to advancing the Sustainable Aviation Fuel ecosystem—today announced the 2nd India SAF Conclave & Awards 2026, to be held on 28–29 September 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Coming at a defining moment for India’s aviation sector, the Conclave will serve as the country’s premier platform to bring together the complete SAF value chain and accelerate policy implementation, investment, technology deployment, capacity building and global collaboration, reinforcing India’s ambition to emerge as a leading global Sustainable Aviation Fuel hub. Positioned as India’s largest Sustainable Aviation Fuel forum, the Conclave is expected to welcome more than 1,000 delegates, over 100 global speakers and 50+ international partners, including policymakers, ministries, airlines, airports, oil & gas companies, refiners, fuel producers, feedstock suppliers, EPC companies, OEMs, technology developers, investors, financial institutions, research organisations and international agencies. As India’s leading industry platform for Sustainable Aviation Fuel, the SAF Association is bringing together every critical stakeholder to strengthen policy dialogue, foster strategic partnerships, mobilise investment, promote technology collaboration and create a globally competitive SAF ecosystem for India. Event Details: 2nd India SAF Conclave & Awards 2026 Theme:  Powering the SAF Transition Together Date: 28–29 September 2026 Venue: Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi Media Partner: Aviation World The two-day programme will feature ministerial sessions, international technical conferences, knowledge-based workshops, implementation-focused masterclasses, closed-door leadership roundtables, strategic matchmaking, B2B and B2G meetings, an International Buyers & Investors Forum, technology showcase, exhibition, knowledge report launches, strategic MoU signings and the India SAF Awards 2026. Designed as an implementation-focused platform rather than a conventional conference, the Conclave offers stakeholders an unparalleled opportunity to engage directly with policymakers, forge strategic partnerships, connect with investors and project developers, showcase innovative technologies, participate in specialised workshops and closed-door roundtables, exchange global best practices and unlock new business opportunities in one of the world’s fastest-growing Sustainable Aviation Fuel markets. Rohit Kumar, Secretary General, SAF Association, said: “India stands at a defining moment in its Sustainable Aviation Fuel journey. As the country moves towards implementation of its SAF roadmap, collaboration across government, industry, technology providers, investors and global partners will be critical to accelerate commercial deployment. The 2nd India SAF Conclave & Awards 2026 has been created as India’s premier global platform to drive partnerships, investment, innovation and knowledge exchange while positioning India as one of the world’s leading destinations for Sustainable Aviation Fuel production, technology and investment. Together, we can power the SAF transition and shape India’s leadership in the global sustainable aviation ecosystem.” The SAF Association (SAFA) is India’s leading not-for-profit industry body dedicated exclusively to advancing the Sustainable Aviation Fuel ecosystem through policy advocacy, industry collaboration, international partnerships, technology development, market development and capacity building, supporting India’s transition towards a globally competitive and low-carbon aviation sector. ——————————————————————————————————————- For more details, contact : SAF Association E: secretary@safassociation.com www.safassociation.com  

    2026, Events

    APASS 2027: Asia Pacific aviation safety leaders to gather in Kuala Lumpur

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    Kuala Lumpur,11th August 2026: Organised by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) and hosted by Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) with the support of the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), APASS 2027 will bring together aviation leaders, safety professionals, regulators, aircraft and engine manufacturers, maintenance organisations, air navigation service providers, training organisations and technology partners from across the Asia Pacific region and beyond. The preparations are well underway for the Asia Pacific Aviation Safety Seminar 2027 (APASS 2027), which will take place from 7–9 September 2027 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Recognised as the Asia Pacific region’s flagship aviation safety forum, APASS is led by airlines, providing a unique platform for the exchange of operational experience, collaborative problem-solving and the sharing of practical safety initiatives. Under the theme Shaping the Future of Safe Aviation, APASS 2027 will explore how the aviation community can collectively shape the future of safe aviation by embracing emerging technologies, strengthening operational resilience, advancing human performance and fostering collaboration across the global aviation community. The three-day programme will feature keynote addresses, plenary discussions, specialist technical streams and interactive workshops covering a broad range of contemporary operational issues, including: ·      Flight Operations ·      Engineering and Maintenance ·      Cabin Safety and Aviation Security ·      Human Factors and Organisational Resilience ·      Artificial Intelligence, Digital Transformation and Predictive Risk Management ·      Emerging Technologies, Sustainability and Regional Collaboration Commenting on APASS 2027, Wong Hong, Director General of AAPA, said:” The Asia Pacific region continues to lead global aviation growth, bringing with it both tremendous opportunities and increasingly complex operational challenges. APASS 2027 reflects our collective commitment to shaping the future of safe aviation through innovation, strong leadership, operational resilience and trusted collaboration across the aviation community.” MAG welcomes the opportunity to host APASS in Kuala Lumpur and to strengthen regional partnerships in advancing aviation safety. Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar, President and Group Chief Executive Officer of MAG, said: “As the aviation industry continues to evolve, maintaining the highest standards of safety requires a shared commitment to continuous learning and collaboration. At MAG, these principles guide the way we operate every day, and we look forward to engaging with industry partners to exchange operational experience, share best practices and strengthen aviation safety across the region.” The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) has also expressed its support for APASS 2027, recognising the importance of regional collaboration in the implementation of international aviation safety standards. Building on more than two decades of success, APASS 2027 will continue to provide practical operational insights and collaborative solutions that help shape the future of safe aviation.

    FOREWORD

    Dear Readers,

    The Asia-Pacific aviation sector is expanding rapidly, driving growth far beyond aircraft numbers into crucial verticals like MRO, training, logistics, and aerospace supply chains. In this edition of Aviation World, we bring you exclusive interviews and features from across these sectors, offering direct industry insights from top global leadership.

    Our cover story highlights Shveta Gupta, CEO of Divyanshi Aviation. Under her dynamic leadership, the company has established itself as one of India’s premier aerospace supply chain providers, partnering with leading global manufacturers. Our corporate feature delves into Divyanshi Aviation’s core operations, paired with an exclusive interview where Ms. Gupta candidly shares her professional journey and vision for the company’s future.

    This issue also features exclusive conversations with prominent industry leaders, including:

    • Ron Nye, President of Avionics, Acron Aviation
    • Bob Gibbs, Vice President, Defense & Special Missions Sales, Textron Aviation
    • Sudhir S. Rajeshirke, President – Aerospace, Jubilant Enpro
    • Emmanuel Simon, Program Manager and Aerospace Leader, PHINIA
    • Arved von zur Muehlen, Chief Commercial Officer, Saudia Group
    • Simon Azar, Vice President, Civil Aviation, Asia Pacific, CAE

    Each leader offers key perspectives on their organization’s strategic initiatives and their growing contributions to the Indian aviation and aerospace ecosystem. Additionally, you will find expert-authored analytical features offering deep dives into current sector trends.

    Aviation World continues to expand its global footprint as an official media partner for major domestic and international aviation events. Our editorial team will be participating in several upcoming global forums, and we look forward to connecting with industry peers and exploring new collaborations.

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    The Editorial Team

    Aviation World

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