Aviation leaders to meet in Windhoek next week
The global aviation industry is set to converge in Windhoek from 19 to 21 June for the annual Aviation Development (Aviadev) Africa Conference. Hosted by the Namibia Airports Company (NAC) at Movenpick Hotel, the event will see over 35 airlines and 400 participants, the highest number ever for an AviaDev conference, come together to explore opportunities for new air routes across Africa.The conference is a platform for influential stakeholders, including airlines, airports, tourism boards, government officials and industry experts, to foster collaboration and forge strategic partnerships. It is renowned for its unique ability to create a conducive environment for aviation professionals to network, exchange ideas and collaborate on innovative strategies that drive sustainable air connectivity.
Deputy prime minister and transport minister John Mutorwa will officiate the opening ceremony. The NAC, a key national asset, is leading the recovery of the aviation industry in Namibia, based on its mandate to manage and develop airports.
The conference supports the Yamoussoukro Decision towards a Single Air Transport Market (SAATM) in Africa and pursues partnerships that will assist in carving out new opportunities for the continent's aviation development and progress. According to the NAC, air travel is critical to its success because it creates previously untapped opportunities. Better connected African countries and regions through a successful air transport industry can be a driver for increased commerce, trade, tourism and cultural exchange, which is what we all live for, NAC CEO Bisey /Uirab said.
Namibia, a rapidly growing tourism destination, offers a diverse range of attractions, including the Namib Desert, the Skeleton Coast and the Etosha National Park. The country also has a rich cultural heritage, with a variety of ethnic groups and languages.
The conference is sponsored by Airbus, Embraer, NACO, NAVPASS and Tourvest as platinum sponsors, and AERCAP, AI12, AirlinePros, Network, Kiu, SITA and South Africa Tourism as gold sponsors. FlyNamibia, Discover Airlines and South African Airways are the official carriers for the event, with Gondwana Collections among the silver partners. The Namibia Aviation Training Academy (NATA) is the outreach partner. For more information about AviaDev Africa, visit aviationdevelop.com.