Aviation Africa: ‘Flying Forward Together’

One of the most strategically important aviation events in the 2019 calendar, Aviation Africa takes place in Kigali, Rwanda on 27-28 February.

Top level speakers from AFRAA, AFCAC and AASA will be addressing some of the most sensitive issues facing aviation across the continent. The audience includes civil aviation regulators, military air chiefs, airline CEOs and government ministers.

Under the theme 'Flying forward together - developing partnerships for Africa's future skies' the 2-day summit and exhibition brings together leaders across the civil and military aviation spectrum to discuss and debate the key issues that are driving change across the African continent.

With the single skies' agreement - SAATM now in place, this event will help leaders discuss the challenges and successes in implementing the agreement. Senior Heads and Directors from key associations and organisations including CANSO, ICAO, IATA, Rwanda CAA as well as airlines -

Air Madagascar, RwandAir, Air Mauritius and Ethiopian Airlines will join the panel discussions.

H.E Zoureutou Tchankouda Kassa Traore - Minister for Infrastructure & Transport, TOGO will present a Keynote on how governments can prepare for SAATM. Qatar's Al Baker - known for his strong words - will be calling for change as he outlines how Africa should be developing a hub structure. 

Meanwhile Australian search and rescue (SAR) expert Brian Day who has been involved in developing SAR policies in Africa and the Middle East will share concerns about existing practices. 

Africa is leading the way in drone usage, already operating drones to deliver vital medical supplies in Rwanda and Ghana. Zipline, the company behind this operation will share their story. To date, they have made over 10,000 vital deliveries, saving lives in Africa. There will also be a panel discussion looking at unmanned opportunities with Airbus, Dronamics, Rolls Royce and the FAA.

We are in a new era for Africa's air defences and Major General Charles Karamba, Air Forces Chief of Staff, Rwandan Defence Force will present a Keynote to discuss the challenges and successes. The former Chief of the South African Air Force & now executive board member of Paramount Group will present how collaboration, building capacity, strengthening the industrial capacity and establishing national defence industries will benefit African nations' capabilities to control the value chain.

The exhibition hall is now sold out and will host more than 100 global aviation companies.

Platinum sponsor Gulfstream will also be displaying 2 aircraft at the static park at the airport, a G500 and G280 for VIP guests to tour onboard.

Sponsors for the 2019 edition of Aviation Africa include host sponsors Nexus & Wyvern. Gold sponsors Airbus and Bestfly, Silver Sponsors, Boeing, Rolls-Royce, Embraer, Bugesera Airport Company & SP Aviation, Bronze sponsors - Air BP, Skyplan, Aero MRO and ATNS.

Supporting Sponsors are Dassault Aviation, Akagera Aviation and Nedbank CIB. 

Aviation Africa is supported by the Government of Rwanda, Rwanda Civil Aviation Authority, Rwanda Development Board, Rwanda Airport Company and the Rwanda Defence Force and the official airline is RwandAir.

Registration closes on Friday 22nd February with 800 attendees expected over the two days.