Global Industry Highlights

IATA Events

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) continues to bring together leaders from across the aviation ecosystem. With 18 events planned for 2026, IATA provides forums for policy discussion, technological innovation, and sustainability, connecting the right decision-makers to address the sector’s most pressing challenges.

New in 2026

• World Maintenance & Engineering Symposium — 23–25 June | Madrid, Spain
  A focused discussion on aerospace supply chain challenges, exploring solutions to maintain aircraft production and operational efficiency amid delays costing billions globally.
• Wings of Change Middle East & North Africa — 8–9 September | Manama, Bahrain
  Airline and government leaders will examine the region’s rapid growth, evolving passenger expectations, and decarbonisation strategies.

Other Key Conferences

• World Cargo Symposium — 10–12 March | Lima, Peru
  Covering digitalisation, sustainability, and safety/security for the global air cargo industry.
• World Data Symposium — 8–9 April | Singapore
  Focus on AI, robotics, cybersecurity, and emerging aviation technologies.
• World Safety & Operations Conference — 6–8 October | Istanbul, Türkiye
  Exploring operational safety, including lithium battery transport risks and GNSS interference.
• World Sustainability Symposium — October | Brussels, Belgium
  Bringing together aviation, energy, and finance leaders to advance SAF production, energy transition, and net zero targets.
• World Passenger & Financial Symposiums — Q4 | Locations TBC
  Examining digital identity, airline retail, and disruptive payment technologies.

IATA events remain essential for aviation leaders seeking insight and collaboration on global challenges.

Global Airshows and Trade Exhibitions

Flagship Airshows

• Singapore Airshow — 3–6 February | Singapore
• Farnborough International Airshow — 20–24 July | UK
• Bahrain International Airshow — 18–20 November | Bahrain

These shows combine flying displays, static exhibits, and high-level conferences, offering OEMs, airlines, and defence organisations a stage to showcase innovation.

Business and General Aviation

• EBACE — 27–29 May | Geneva, Switzerland
• NBAA-BACE — 20–22 October | Las Vegas, USA
• AERO Friedrichshafen — 22–25 April | Germany

These events highlight business jets, general aviation, avionics, flight training, and innovation for aviation professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Southern Africa’s Key Aviation Events

AERO South Africa 2026

10–12 June | Lanseria International Airport, Johannesburg
Southern Africa’s leading general aviation trade show, bringing together light aircraft manufacturers, service providers, flight schools, and enthusiasts. Highlights include fly-ins, product demos, workshops, and networking opportunities.

Africa Aerospace and Defence Expo (AAD 2026)

16–20 September | Air Force Base Waterkloof, Tshwane
Africa’s premier aerospace and defence exhibition, combining a 3-day industry trade show with 2 days of public airshow displays. Exhibitors include military delegations, civil aviation players, OEMs, and government officials, showcasing the latest aviation and defence innovations.

Additional Local Activities
The South African Air Force Museum and regional air display programmes will continue to provide enthusiasts with interactive experiences and flight demonstrations, though schedules will be confirmed closer to the events.