IAAE North America/Central Europe Airport Issues Conference
October 19-21, 2025 | Warsaw, Poland
Presented by
Hosted by



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About the Conference
The International Association of Airport Executives (IAAE) is proud to present the North America/Central Europe Airport Issues Conference, to be held in Warsaw, Poland, October 19-21, 2025, and hosted by Poznan Airport and Polish Airports (PPL S.A.).

Returning to Where It All Began: Warsaw, 1995
This year’s gathering carries special significance, as it marks 30 years since AAAE/IAAE’s first meeting in Central Europe, which was held in Warsaw in 1995. This is a milestone worth celebrating as we look ahead to the future.
As we return to the city where it all began, we celebrate three decades of collaboration, growth, and innovation across the transatlantic aviation community.
This premier forum brings together airport executives, government leaders, and aviation experts from both sides of the Atlantic to explore the future of global aviation. The conference will focus on strategic topics including greenfield airport development, geopolitical challenges, military-civil cooperation, digital transformation, ESG and sustainability, and innovative infrastructure financing. With a spotlight on Poland’s Central Communication Port (CPK) and transatlantic perspectives on technology, investment, and policy, the event provides a vital platform for strengthening U.S.–Europe collaboration and shaping the next era of aviation.
As in past years, key aviation officials from throughout the region will participate in the conference, including representatives from Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Serbia, and the Slovak Republic. In addition, U.S. Commercial Service officers from U.S. embassies throughout the region participate, supporting U.S. business engagement.
U.S. and European airports, aviation firms, and service providers will find this a unique opportunity to showcase expertise, identify partnership and investment opportunities, and strengthen relationships in one of the world’s most dynamic aviation markets. Reunite with your airport, airline, and government colleagues, and come away with practical insights and valuable connections to help you work more effectively—now and into the future.
Who Should Attend?
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Airport CEOs/Directors from Central Europe, Eastern Europe, the U.S., and others with interest in these regions.
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Government officials from the U.S., and Central and Eastern Europe
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Airport planning, business development, marketing, and international affairs professionals
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Airline executives
- Industry suppliers, consultants, and partners
Why Warsaw?
Where history meets innovation, Warsaw is the ideal host city for the North America/Central Europe Airport Issues Conference. As one of the fastest-growing aviation markets in Europe and home to Poland’s bold Central Communication Port (CPK) project, Warsaw stands at the crossroads of global connectivity, strategic growth, and transformative opportunity.
For aviation executives, Warsaw offers an up-close look at a city reshaping the air travel experience—from terminal design and operational excellence to digital transformation and passenger-centric innovation.
For government leaders, the city embodies the importance of cross-border collaboration and policy alignment in building future-ready aviation systems.
For investors, Warsaw presents a compelling gateway to emerging markets, supported by a business-friendly climate, rising passenger demand, and robust infrastructure plans.
Modern, accessible, and strategically located in the heart of Europe, Warsaw is more than a destination—it’s a statement about the future of aviation. Join us in a city poised to define the next era of airport development, sustainability, and global air mobility.
Conference Agenda
Sunday, October 19
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Conference Registration
8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Belweder Foyer
Lanyards- Sponsored by Chicago Department of Aviation
Delegate conference Bags - Sponsored by San Francisco International Airport
Delegate name Badges - Sponsored by Dimark Limited
IAAE Board Dinner - Sponsored by Savannah Airport Commission -
IAAE Board of Directors Meeting (Closed)
9:30 - 11 a.m.
Chopin Room (Closed Meeting)
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Walking City Tour
12:30 - 3:30 p.m. (Meet outside the hotel by 12:30 p.m.)
Sponsored by Rhode Island Airport Corporation
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Welcome Reception
5 - 6 p.m.
Belweder Terrace
Sponsored by Jacobs
Monday, October 20
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Registration
7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Belweder Foyer
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Networking Breakfast
8 - 9:45 a.m. Kitchen Gallery Restaurant
sponsored by Parsons
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Welcome Remarks and Conference Overview
10 - 10:30 a.m. Belweder
Speakers:
Heba Gouda, Vice President, Global Operations, AAAE
Dr. Maciej Lasek, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Infrastructure, The Government Plenipotentiary for the Central Communication Port (CPK)
Kevin Bumen, A.A.E., C.A.E., IAAE Chair, Chief Finance and Commercial Officer, San Francisco International Airport
Łukasz Chaberski, CEO, Polish Airports (PPL S.A.)
Grzegorz Bykowski, CEO, Poznan Airport
Douglas S. O'Neill,Deputy Chief of Mission
The U.S. Embassy, Warsaw (TBC) -
SESSION 1 — Panel Discussion: Development of New Airport Hubs
10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Belweder
This panel will explore global trends in airport infrastructure, examining the strategic decision between building new greenfield airports and modernizing existing ones. Featuring a keynote by the Government Plenipotentiary for CPK, the session will include a case study on Poland’s Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) as a model for 21st-century airport development, and assess the broader economic and mobility impacts of major aviation investments.
Sponsored by Hill International
Introduction: Adam Sanocki, eMBA, DBA
Member of the Management Board
Polish Airports (PPL S.A.)
Presentation of the Polish growing aviation market as an introduction to a discussion on the modernization of existing airports and the development of new greenfield airport hubs. Case studies: Warsaw Chopin Airport and the Central Communication Port (CPK).Moderator: Dominik Sipinski
Editor-in-chief
Ch-aviationSpeakers: Dr. Maciej Lasek, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Infrastructure
The Government Plenipotentiary for the Central Communication Port (CPK)Łukasz Chaberski, CEO, Polish Airports (PPL S.A.)
Filip Czernicki, Ph.D, CEO, CPK
Steven Morris, Senior Vice President Aviation, Hill International, Inc.
Iftikhar Ahmad, P.E., President and CEO
Rhode Island Airport CorporationViktor Sober, CEO, Dubrovnik Airport
Greg Kelly, Executive Director
Savannah/Hilton Head International AirportMarios Sentris, Aviation Lead for EMEA, Parsons
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Coffee/Networking Break
12-12:30 p.m. Belweder Foyer
Sponsored by Morristown Airport and Co-Sponsor by Jeanne M. Olivier, A.A.E., ACE, IACE, Past Chair, AAAE
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SESSION 2 — Geopolitical Challenges for the Aviation Sector
12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Belweder Foyer
This expert session will address the far-reaching impact of geopolitical conflicts—particularly the war in Ukraine—on global aviation. Topics will include airspace restrictions, sanctions, and rerouting challenges, as well as the need for cohesive pan-European strategies. The discussion will also focus on lessons learned in crisis response and international cooperation within the aviation sector.
Introduction: Adrian Mazur, Director of Strategy Department, Ministry of Infrastructure (TBD), 10 minutes presentation: Presentation of the major conclusions of the Report on Future Technologies for Civil Aviation, prepared on behalf of PPL S.A. by the Team of Economic Advisors TOR.Moderator: Kostas Dimitros, Vice President, Business Development-Strategic Programs EMEA, Parsons
Speakers: Rafał Marczewski, Vice President, Air Navigation, Polish Air Navigation Services Agency
Anca Apahidean, Area Manager Eastern Europe, IATA, Romania
Pierre Coutu, A.A.E., Ed.D., FRAeS, President and CEO, Aviation Startegies International (ASI)
Sergiy Khyzhnyak, Director of Commercial and Strategy, Kyiv-Boryspil Airport (KBP)
UkraineRussell Reil, FAA Senior Representative - Warsaw (TBC)
Lot Polish Airline (TBD)
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Networking Luncheon
1:30 - 3 p.m. Kitchen Gallery Restaurant
Sponsored by Birmingham (Ala.) Airport Authority -
SESSION 3 — Digital Transformation in Airport Management
3 - 4 p.m.
This panel will examine how airports are leveraging artificial intelligence, automation, and intelligent passenger management systems to enhance operational efficiency and capacity. Experts will share practical models from both the U.S. and Europe, highlighting how digital tools are reshaping the future of airport operations and improving the overall passenger experience.
Sponsored by AddeptoIntroduction: Paulina Paga
ESG Unit Manager and Plenipotentiary
Management Board of Sustainable Development
Presentation of the major conclusions of the Report on Future Technologies for Civil Aviation, prepared on behalf of PPL S.A. by the Team of Economic Advisors TORModerator: David Full, AICP, Vice President and National Discipline Leader for Aviation Environmental
RS&H
Speakers: Darren Large A.A.E., Director, Facilities & Operations, DM AIRPORTS LTD/Morristown (N.J.) Municipal AirportPerry Miller, A.A.E., I.A.P. President & CEO,
Richmond (Va.) International AirportMikołaj Lis, Head of Research and Development (R&D), Dimark
Bader Al Aydi, Chairman, Aviation Department, Prince Sultan University, Saudi Arabia
Julius Norkunas, CEO, Aeroclass
Dr. Alexander Gediehn
Project Director
BNP Associates, Inc.
Marcin Marczyk
Delivery Director
Addepto
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Networking Coffee Break
4 - 4:30 p.m. Belweder Foyer
Sponsored by Richmond (Va.) International Airport
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SESSION 4- Enhancing Cooperation in Civil and Dual-Use Airport Operations: Strategies for Integrating State and Military Activities in Central and Eastern Europe
4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Sponsored by Jeanne M. Olivier, A.A.E., ACE, IACE, Past Chair, AAAE
This session will examine strategies for enhancing collaboration at dual-use airports in Central and Eastern Europe. Experts will explore operational frameworks, coordination mechanisms, and best practices for integrating state and military activities, ensuring readiness and resilience across the region.
Introduction: Grzegorz Bykowski, CEO Poznan Airport- Presentation: How greater military mobility might affect the aviation sector - chances and risks
Moderator: Jeanne Olivier, A.A.E., ACE, IACE, Past Chair, AAAE
Speakers: Mark VanLoh A.A.E., CEO,
Jacksonville Aviation AuthorityRick Crider, A.A.E., Airport Director,
Prescott Regional AirportPerry Miller, A.A.E., I.A.P., President & CEO, Richmond International Airport
Łukasz Strutyński, CEO Kraków Airport
Karol Przywara, CEO, WROCŁAW Airport
Slobodan Kadijević, Acting Executive Director of Airport Development, Sarajevo International Airport
Sergiy Khyzhnyak, Director of Commercial and Strategy, Kyiv-Boryspil Airport (KBP)
UkraineLot Polish Airline (TBC)
5:30- 6 p.m. Joint Use Airport Meet & Greet
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Official Gala Dinner at Belvedere Restaurant
7-9 p.m.
Sponsored and Hosted by Poznań Airport and the Polish Airports (PPL S.A.)
Belvedere Restaurant is one of the most beautiful and interesting spots on the culinary map of Poland. The restaurant is located in the unique building of the New Orangery in the Royal Łazienki Park. It is a building with more than 150 years of history. As in the old days, it is filled with magnificent tropical plants.
Tuesday, October 21
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Registration
7:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Belweder Foyer
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Networking Breakfast
8:00 - 9:30 a.m. Kitchen Gallery Restaurant
Sponsored by Dubrovnik Airport
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SESSION 5 —ESG in Aviation – A Strategy for the Future
9:30 - 10:30 a.m. (Belweder)
This session examines how airports embed ESG principles into strategy and operations. Panelists will cover U.S. decarbonization efforts, emerging sustainability technologies, and evolving EU regulations, providing a transatlantic perspective on a resilient, responsible aviation sector.
Introduction: Paulina Paga, ESG Team Leader and Plenipotentiary of the Management, Board of Sustainable Development, Polish Airports (PPL) S.A
Moderator: Paulina Paga, ESG Unit Manager and Plenipotentiary, Management Board of Sustainable Development, Polish Airports (PPL) S.A
Speakers: Adam Sanocki, eMBA | DBA, Member of the Management Board, Polish Airports State Enterprise (PPL S.A.)
Jan Eklund, Intramodality Strategist, Strategic Development and Innovation,
SwedaviaMohamed Khalifa Rahma, Director, Air Transport Bureau, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
Bader Al Aydi, Chairman, Aviation Department at PSU, Saudi Arabia
Lot Polish Airline (TBD)
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Networking Coffee Break and Visit with the Exhibitors
10:30 - 11 a.m. Belweder Foyer
Sponsored by PHZ Baltona S.A.
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Learning Spotlight: Executive Certificate in AI for Airports
11-11:10 a.m. Belweder Foyer
Learn how the new Executive Certificate in Applied AI for Airports equips leaders with the tools to embed artificial intelligence into airport planning, operations, and commercial strategies. Discover how this intensive program delivers practical frameworks, case studies, and board-ready roadmaps to drive measurable value from AI.
Speaker: Pierre Coutu, A.A.E., Ed.D., FRAeS, President and CEO, Aviation Strategies International (ASI)
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SESSION 6- Innovative Financing Models for Airport Infrastructure
11:10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Belweder
This session will explore innovative financing models for airport infrastructure, with a focus on global experiences in public-private partnerships (PPPs), access to EU funding, and the role of private capital in aviation. Speakers will also highlight forward-looking strategies for financing green infrastructure, offering U.S. and European perspectives on sustainable investment approaches in a changing regulatory and economic environment.
Introduction: Adam Sanocki, Member of the Board, Polish Airports (PPL S.A.) - Presentation of the Catalytic Report
Moderator: Andrew Gibson, Global Market Director for Aviation, Jacobs
Speakers: Kevin Bumen, A.A.E., C.A.E., Chief Finance and Commercial Officer, San Francisco International AirportMarcin Danil, CFO, PPL S.A
Raffi Kasparian, Managing Director
Alton Aviation Consultancy (UAE)Monika Karolak, Managing Director, Head of Debt Advisory, Pekao Investment Banking
Crawford Burden, Managing Director, Global Aviation - Europe and India
AECOMTomasz Szymczak, SVP Commercial
Warsaw Modlin Airport (TBC)
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SESSION 7— The Future of Airports in a Dynamically Changing World
12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Belweder
This final session will reflect on the key themes and insights from the conference while addressing the evolving challenges and strategic priorities facing airports over the next decade. It will conclude with remarks from the organizers and a forward-looking discussion on how the global aviation community can adapt, innovate, and lead in a rapidly changing environment.
Moderator: Jeff Mulder, A.A.E., Airports Director, Past Chair, AAAE, Oklahoma City (OKC)
Speaker: Dr. Igor Štimac, PhD, IAP, EMBA, FRAeS, VP of Infrastructure, Technology, and Operations for Concession Supervision, Business Consulting, and Education, Zagreb Airport Ltd.Palmi Randversson, Managing Director
KADECO, Airport City Development
Keflavik International Airport, IcelandMarcin Drzycimski, Director, Strategy and Development, Poznan Airport
Lot Polish Airline (TBD)
Tomasz Szymczak, SVP Commercial, Warsaw Modlin Airport (TBC)
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Conference Adjournment and Invitation to the 2026 Conference
1:30 p.m.
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Networking Luncheon
1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Sponsored by Jacksonville (Fla.) Aviation Authority
Registration Fees & Deadlines
You acknowledge that in registering for and attending this AAAE event, you agree to adhere to the cancellation policy noted below, AAAE's Duty of Care, and AAAE's Code of Conduct and Terms and Conditions.
2025 REGISTRATION FEES
If you are not seeing the correct pricing appear for your member type, please contact member.services@aaae.org to complete your registration for this event.
On/Before September 12, 2025 |
After September 12, 2025 |
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IAAE/AAAE Member | $780 USD (~€695*) | $880 USD (~€784*) |
Non-Member | $880 USD (~€784*) | $980 USD (~€873*) |
Exhibit Tabletop Additional Personnel | $495 USD (~€441*) | $550 USD (~€490*) |
Guest** | $350 USD (~€267*) | $400 USD (~€312*) |
*Exact Euro amount will be determined by your individual bank at time payment is processed. Fees are charged in U.S. dollars. Registrant responsible for any foreign transaction fee.
**Guest refers to a spouse, significant other, or personal friend, NOT a business associate or staff colleague affiliated with the aviation industry. Guest registration provides access to the welcome reception and evening event only.
AAAE accepts registration regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, sex, physical disability, and national or ethnic origin. This includes but is not limited to admissions, employment and educational services. If you require any special assistance to participate or have special dietary requirements, email aaaemeetings@aaae.org.
Cancellation Policy:
Registrations, cancellations and refund requests must be submitted in writing. All cancellation requests for registrations received on or before Friday, October 3, 2025, are subject to a $175 cancellation processing fee; approved refunds will be processed after the meeting takes place. There will be no refunds of any kind after this date. Cancellations with outstanding invoices received within two weeks of the start of the conference, will require full payment on the balance due. Refunds will not be provided, and balance dues will not be forgiven for no-shows. Substitutions within the same conference will be accepted without penalties. The difference between member and non-member price will be charged if a non-member replaces a member. Substitutions will be accepted with a written request to AAAEmeetings@aaae.org. The individual substituting for the original registrant is responsible for all financial obligations (balance due; difference in fees due to membership type) associated with that substitution. For all inquiries regarding cancellations, refunds and substitutions, please contact the AAAE Meetings Department at 703.824.0504 or email AAAEmeetings@aaae.org. By submitting a completed registration form, you acknowledge that you have read and understand the cancellation policy. Please note failure to receive a confirmation letter before an event will not be grounds for a refund or credit.
NOTE: AAAE reserves the right to postpone or cancel an event if the number of registrants is insufficient; due to acts of God; or any other reason beyond AAAE’s control. In this event, we will notify all registrants and credit the full registration fee towards another AAAE meeting, product or service. However, any costs incurred by the registrant, such as hotel cancellation or airline penalties, are the responsibility of the registrant. Confirmation letters will be emailed to attendees within two weeks of receipt of registration. However, if you have not received a confirmation email two business days prior to the meeting, and you enrolled at least two weeks prior to the meeting, please contact the AAAE Meetings Department at 703.824.0504 or AAAEmeetings@aaae.org. Please note failure to receive a confirmation letter before an event will not be grounds for a refund.
Media Access Policy:
AAAE reserves the right to grant at its sole discretion access to TV, radio, and print media organizations or individuals that have registered and received prior authorization from AAAE at least 72 hours prior to an AAAE event they wish to cover. Due to the sensitive nature of some discussions, not all sessions at some AAAE events will be open to media. AAAE retains the sole right to grant or refuse media access for any event or section of an event it operates.
Photo/Video Disclaimer:
By registering for and attending any AAAE event, you agree that your image may be used at any time, without further notification, for printed materials, web sites, social media and other marketing purposes.
Hotel & Travel

Hotel Accommodations
Rooms are being held at the Sofitel Warsaw Victoria, located at 11, Królewska Street, 00-065 Warsaw, Poland. Attendees are eligible for a special rate of 766,80 zł/night, approximately $190/night (pending current currency conversion) exclusive of applicable room taxes and fees.
Room rate includes breakfast. Guests guarantee the reservation in case of non-arrival or late arrival.
Rooms may sell out, so make your reservations today!
Travel
Traveling to Poland from outside the country? Be sure the check visa requirements and apply early!
Airline Information
United Airlines and Delta Air Lines have been selected as the official air carriers for this meeting. When booking United, refer to the offer code ZQ59414458. When booking Delta, refer to meeting code NY3L2.
United Airlines has been selected as one of the official air carriers for this meeting. United Airlines is pleased to offer discounts of 2% to 10% off published fares. Save an additional 3% by booking your own reservations at www.united.com. Choose your flight times, and access your meeting discounts by inserting ZQ59414458 in the Promotions and Certificates Offer Code box. Or Call your travel professional or United Meetings at 800.426.1122 for reservations. Refer to Z Code ZQ59 and Agreement Code: 414458.
Delta Air Lines is pleased to offer special discounts for American Association of Airport Executives Please click here to book your flights! You may also call Delta Meeting Network® at 1.800.328.1111* Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. (CT) and refer to Meeting Event Code NY3L2.
*Please note there is not a service fee for reservations booked and ticketed via our reservation 800 number.
Ground Transportation
Check back for ground transportation information.
Sponsor and/or Exhibit to Make a Lasting Impression!
This conference is designed to provide business executives with an edge in developing meaningful working relationships in the U.S./Central European airport/aviation market. Increase your company's visibility by sponsoring. You will be demonstrating your company's dedication to promoting excellence through education with your target audience. Sponsoring and/or exhibiting offers a strong platform to showcase your continued leadership and commitment to international collaboration.
Sponsor Benefits:
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Listing as an exclusive sponsor of conference event
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Thank-you signage prominently displayed
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Verbal recognition during the program
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All conference Social Media promotion
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Listing on AAAE mobile app during conference
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High-impact brand visibility across all event materials
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All conference advertising
Exhibitor Benefits:
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Direct Access to Key Decision-Makers: Engage with senior airport executives, government officials, and industry leaders from North America and Central Europe in one focused forum.
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Showcase Products and Innovations: Demonstrate your latest technologies, services, and solutions to an influential and targeted audience actively seeking new partners and advancements.
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Networking Opportunities: Build relationships with potential clients, partners, and collaborators during dedicated networking sessions, coffee breaks, and social events.
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Market Expansion and Business Development: Tap into new markets and explore cross-border opportunities with airlines, airports, and aviation authorities from both regions.
Don't see an option that meets your needs? Contact Heba Gouda to discuss other alternatives.
Thank You to Our 2025 Hosts, Sponsors, and Exhibitors!




















We’re thrilled to have you join us, and we'd love your help in sharing the excitement. Whether you're a speaker, sponsor, exhibitor, or attendee, your voice plays a key role in building momentum for this year's event. To make it easy, we've put together social media graphics to promote your participation. Here, you'll find a variety of downloadable graphics to share on social media.
Ready to get started? Right-click on the graphic you want, click Open Image in New Tab, and save the photo. If you'd rather use Canva to add your photo and information, click the button below to access the template.
When you post on social media, be sure to tag @aaaedelivers on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and X!






Contact Information
Program:
Heba Gouda
+1.703.797.2545
Registration & Hotel:
Stephanie Santini, CMP, DES
+1.703.797.2558
Sponsorship:
Heba Gouda
+1.703.797.2545
Press & Media Inquiries:
Polskie Porty Lotnicze S.A.
Social Media Kit