Global Airports Forum—
Global Aviation Issues Conference
December 16-17, 2025
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
A Partnership with
Main Global Airports Forum Sponsor
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About the Conference
Join us for the Global Aviation Issues Conference—part of the Global Airports Forum—happening in Riyadh on December 16–17, 2025. The Forum, organized by Niche Ideas and NCX, connects aviation leaders from around the world. IAAE is supporting the Global Airports Forum with dynamic educational content delivered over the two days of the Forum. Designed to address the most critical topics shaping the aviation industry—from AI and automation to workforce development, sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), passenger experience innovations, and spaceport integration—this Forum serves as a strategic hub for knowledge exchange and cross-sector collaboration.
As part of the Forum, the conference will provide additional exposure for U.S. companies seeking to establish a presence in the Middle East's aviation sector and expand their global reach, and for U.S. airport executives aiming to stay ahead of industry trends. The comprehensive agenda features engaging panels led by industry experts, providing unparalleled insights and networking opportunities.
At the heart of this program is the Saudi Aviation Strategy, backed by a $147 billion investment plan to revolutionize the sector and position the Kingdom as a global leader in connectivity, innovation, and sustainability.
Conference Agenda
Tuesday, December 16
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Day 1: Setting the Stage for Transformation
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Networking Breakfast
8:30-9 a.m.
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Welcome and Overview
9-9:15 a.m.
Heba Gouda
Vice President, Global Operations, American Associations of Airport ExecutivesKevin Bumen, A.A.E., C.A.E., IAAE Chair/AAAE Secretary/Treasurer, Chief Financial & Commercial Officer Finance & Commercial, San Francisco International Airport
Raed bin Hassan Al-Idrissi, CEO, MATARAT
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Overview of Global Aviation Trends, Industry Outlook
9:15-10:15 a.m.
Keynote Speaker: TBD, Prince Sultan University - PSU Strategic Direction in Enabling the Saudi Aviation Strategy
Keynote Speaker: Aiman Arab, Chairman, Egyptian Holding Company Aviation and Air Navigation (EHCAAN) - Overview of the launch of Terminal 4 at Cairo International Airport as a benchmark airport terminal - Operational Technology vs Operational Systems
Keynote Speaker: Ali Rashed, Chief Airport Operations, Bahrain Airport - Presentation on ORAT case for Bahrain Airport
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SESSION 1: AI and Automation in SMART Airports
10:15-11:15 a.m.
Exploring the role of AI, automation, and digital transformation in airport operations. Industry leaders will discuss innovations driving smarter airports and the future of automated systems.
Moderator: Maxim Romanenko, IAP, Aviation Expert, Consultant and Author, Kazakhstan
Speakers: Jihad Boueri, Vice President, Strategy & Transformation - Middle East & Africa , SITA
Oliver Weiss, Chief Operating Officer, Fraport, Saudi Arabia
Lance Lyttle, IAP, Chief Executive Officer, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority
Khaled Hashem, President Middle East & Africa, Honeywell
Andrija Brstina, Head of Process Excellence, Abu Dhabi Airports -
Networking Break
11:15–11:45 a.m.
(official opening of the Global Airports Forum (formerly the Saudi Airport Exhibition))
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SESSION 2: Attracting the Next Generation- AI and Workforce Innovation
11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.
This session will explore the challenges the aviation industry faces in attracting future leaders and younger generations to pursue careers in aviation. With aviation programs struggling to appeal to high school students, panelists will discuss strategies to make the industry more attractive. Topics will include the role of regulators, airlines, airports, and universities in promoting aviation careers, successful workforce development initiatives, and international best practices that can be adapted across regions. Additionally, the session will examine how AI and emerging technologies can support workforce innovation and skills development.
Moderator: Bader Al Aydi, Chairman - Aviation Department, Prince Sultan University
Speakers: Maxim Romanenko, IAP, Aviation Expert, Consultant and Author, Kazakhstan
Julius Norkunas, CEO, Aeroclass.org
Dr. Mashael Al Qahtani, Nationalization Director, GACA
David Studden, Global Sales & Partnership Manager, Etihad Aviation
Majid Khan, CEO, Air Connectivity Program Saudi Arabia
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SESSION 3: The Rise of Spaceports in Aviation – Bridging Aerospace and Commercial Airports
12:45-1:45 p.m.
Exploring the integration of spaceports into commercial aviation, addressing regulatory, operational, and business opportunities for airports in the growing space industry.
Moderator : Jeanne Olivier, A.A.E., IACE
Airport Management AdvisorSpeakers: Mark VanLoh A.A.E., CEO, Jacksonville Aviation Authority
Chris Runde, Vice President, Introba
Jeff Kloska, A.A.E, Director, Colorado Air and Space Port
Don Zoufal, President/Founder, CrowZnest Consulting -
Networking Lunch and Visit with Global Airports Forum Exhibitors
1:45-2:45 p.m.
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SESSION 4: Airline Industry Trends and Regional Growth
2:45-3:45 p.m.
Focus on post-pandemic recovery, fleet modernization, air cargo expansion, ground handling innovations, and sustainability efforts. How airlines are adapting to the changing aviation landscape.
Moderator: Kevin Bumen, A.A.E., C.A.E., IAAE Chair/AAAE Secretary/Treasurer, Chief Financial & Commercial Officer, Finance & Commercial , San Francisco International Airport
Speakers: Julius Norkunas, CEO, Aeroclass.org
Hamdi Osman, Founder and CEO, SolitAir Holding Ltd.Abdelilah Aleidi, Vice President of Global Sales, Flynas (Dubai)Alan Lim, Director, Alton Aviation Consultancy (UAE)David Fiore, JD, C.M., Airport Affairs, Operations & Planning, FedEx Express -
SESSION 5: Enhancing Passenger Experience and Operational Readiness
3:45-4:45 p.m.
This session will focus on innovations and strategies to elevate the passenger experience, including biometric technology, contactless solutions, and future terminal redesigns. Additionally, it will address operational readiness, risk management, and contingency planning for smooth airport operations.
Moderator: Lance Lyttle, IAP, Chief Executive Officer, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority
Speakers: Susan Warner Dooley, A.A.E., IAP, Aviation Chief Commercial Officer, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
Delip Prasad, Head of Market MENA, Munich Airport International
Natalie Salinas, Founder & CEO, Nth Consulting Group
Christina Apatow, CEO, FetchyFox
Chris Jack, Program Director at Neom Airports, Charity Chair/Trustee, Business Coach, AECOM
Ali Bora Isbulan, Deputy CEO, Plaza Premium Group
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Official Conference Dinner
7-9 p.m.
Hosted by General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA)/MATARAT Holding
Wednesday, December 17
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Day Two: Shaping the Future: Innovation, Resilience, and Connectivity in Aviation
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Networking Breakfast
8:30-9 a.m.
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SESSION 6: Advanced Air Mobility
9-10 a.m.
This session will explore the evolution and future of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), with a particular focus on how innovative technologies like electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft are reshaping aviation in line with the highest global standards and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The session will address challenges related to airspace integration, safety, regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure, highlighting how AAM can revolutionize urban mobility, alleviate congestion, and serve as a critical component in sustainable city planning. Through discussions on key initiatives within Saudi Arabia, such as the NEOM project and national airspace development, stakeholders will share insights into sector collaboration needed to unlock the full potential of AAM in both regional and global aviation.
Moderator: Captain Fahad ibne Masood, MRAeS, Strategic Aviation Leader | Pioneering Regulatory Frameworks for UAS, AAM and eVTOL| Airport Management, Sultanate of Oman
Speakers: Khalid Al Harthi, Advisor Vice President of Strategy, GACA
Khurram Qureshi, Project Manager
Dubai Air Navigation Services (dans), Dubai International AirportHeba Al Kurdi, Professor, King Saud University
Eng. Daniyar Tule, Chief Flight Inspection Engineer, Samana Special Mission
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SESSION 7: The Future of Aviation in a Sustainable World
10-11 a.m.
Industry leaders discuss global decarbonization efforts and the role of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), green technologies, and innovations in reducing the aviation industry's carbon footprint.
Moderator: Dr. Mohammad Nurunnabi, Founding Director - Center for Sustainability and Climate, Aide to the President; Chair - Accounting, Prince Sultan University
Speakers: Emad Alharbi, Mobility Decarbonizations Director, SWD
Mohamed Abubaker Farea, Regional Director, Middle East Regional Office, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
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Networking Break with SAE Exhibitors
11:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
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SESSION 8: The Power of Aviation Connectivity
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Explore how airports and regions leverage connectivity to drive development. The session will discuss the role of data, international and local airport business models, and the function of hubs in fostering growth.
Moderator: Kevin Bumen, A.A.E., C.A.E., IAAE Chair/AAAE Secretary/Treasurer, Chief Financial & Commercial Officer, Finance & Commercial, San Francisco International Airport
Speakers: Mohsin Abdul Jawad, Head of Brand & Communication, Air Connectivity Program Saudi Arabia
Mohamed Yahya, Professor, Aviation Management, PSU
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SESSION 9: Optimizing Airspace Management: Balancing Growth, Innovation, and Operational Efficiency
12:30-1:30 p.m.
This session will address airspace congestion, integrating new technologies, and enhancing collaboration between stakeholders to ensure efficiency and safety in high-density regions. Let me know if you'd like any further refinements .
Moderator: Captain Fahad ibne Masood, MRAeS, Strategic Aviation Leader | Pioneering Regulatory Frameworks for UAS, AAM & eVTOL | Faculty – Aviation Management, Airport Management Business & Economics, Sultanate of Oman
Speakers:
Aiman Arab, Chairman, Egyptian Holding Company for Airports and Air Navigation (EHCAAN)
Captain Ahmed Al Zuhairi, Vice President, Safety, Riyadh Air
Joseph Alesia, Executive Director, Head of Advanced Air Mobility, NEOM
Giulio de Carli, President, Air Tech Italy -
SESSION 10: Public Health & Well-being in Aviation
1:30 - 2 p.m.
This session will explore Strategies for managing public health crises in aviation, drawing lessons from COVID-19 and innovations in health screening technologies to ensure safer travel experiences for passengers and staff.
Moderator: TBD
Speakers: Dr. Hassan Naggadi. Aviation Medicine Consultant, GACA
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Conference Adjournment & Closing Remarks
1:30 p.m.
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Networking lunch and visit with GAF Exhibitors
1:30-5 p.m.
Registration Fees & Deadlines
Registration includes admission to the Global Airports Forum exhibition - a $900-1,200 value!
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 October 24, 2025 |
After October 24, 2025 |
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|---|---|---|
| IAAE/AAAE Member | $750 | $850 |
| Airport Non-Member |
$950 | $1,050 |
| Corporate Non-Member | $1,100 | $1,200 |
IAAE/AAAE and Niche Ideas 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.
Accredited Airport Executives:
The course is worth 12 credits in the AAAE Continuing Airport Management Education Unit (CEU) program.
Cancellation Policy:
Registrations, cancellations and refund requests must be submitted in writing. All cancellation requests for registrations received on or before Friday, November 14, 2025, are subject to a $125 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: IAAE/AAAE and Niche Ideas 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 IAAE/AAAE and Niche Ideas' 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.
Photo/Video Disclaimer:
By registering for and attending any IAAE/AAAE and Niche Ideas 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
All Global Aviation Issues Conference sessions will be held at the Riyadh Exhibition & Convention Center, King Abdullah Rd, King Abdullah Dt., Riyadh 11564.
NOTE: Niche Ideas, LLC, is negotiating reduced group rates for the conference. To book your hotel, please contact Nadeem Mohamed at nadeem@ncubeexpo.com or Mariella Navarro, at mariella@nicheideas.net.
Sponsor and Make a Lasting Impression
This conference is designed to provide business executives with an edge in developing meaningful working relationships in the global 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.
View the sponsorship brochure for complete details on opportunities.
Don't see an option that meets your needs? Contact Heba Gouda to discuss alternatives.
WHY SPONSOR?
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Share your vision in the high-level conference covering policy, strategy, innovation and investment opportunities.
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Provide expert advice to Saudi and regional leaders looking to transform and grow their national aviation industry.
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Highlight your business to key aviation officials responsible for procuring the latest solutions and innovations for their airports.
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Enhance your brand to an elite audience of global aviation decision makers and influencers.
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Position your business as a supporter of innovation and development in the global aviation sector.
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Promote your commercial activities across the conference's extensive international marketing campaign.
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Host parallel VIP and closed-door networking events for your clients and regional leaders.
Contact Information
Educational Program & Registration:
Heba Gouda
+1.703.797.2545
Sponsorship & Exhibits:
Holly Ackerman
+1.703.578.2507
