IAAE Global Aviation Issues Conference
December 16-17, 2025 | Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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About the Conference
Join us at the second annual Global Aviation Issues Conference, December 16-17, 2025, in Riyadh, KSA, where we will delve into the future of aviation and tackle crucial topics ranging from emerging technologies and air cargo to security and workforce issues. Being held in conjunction with the Saudi Airport Exhibition, conference attendees will receive complimentary admission to the exhibition - a $900-1,200 value!
Hosted by the International Association of Airport Executives (IAAE) in partnership with AAAE, the Global Aviation Issues Conference will be the ultimate platform 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 that will be led by industry experts, providing unparalleled insights and networking opportunities.
Join us to:
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engage with experts and thought leaders who are at the forefront of innovation and change in the aviation sector;
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explore the pivotal role of international cooperation in promoting industry growth;
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delve into the importance of air cargo in powering global trade and supply chain management;
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learn how digital transformation, AI, and big data are reshaping aircraft maintenance, operations, and passenger experiences;
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gain insights into the evolving landscape of aviation security;
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discuss strategies for building a skilled aviation workforce and promoting diversity within the industry;
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explore sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of aviation; and much more!
Conference Agenda
Tuesday , December 16
- Day 1: “Setting the Stage for Transformation” 8 am -5 Pm
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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
Chief Financial & Commercial Officer Finance & Commercial
San Francisco International Airport -
Overview of Global Aviation Trends, Industry Outlook
9:15-10:15 a.m.
Keynote Speaker: General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Saudi Arabia
Keynote Speaker: Aiman Arab, Chairman, Egyptian Civil Aviation and Air Navigation ECAAN - 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: The Future of Aviation in a Sustainable World
10:15-11:15 am
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: Prof Mohammad Nurunnabi, Founding Director - Center for Sustainability and Climate Aide to the President; Chair - Accounting, Prince Sultan University
Speakers; TBD -
Networking Break (official opening of the Saudi Airport Exhibition)
11:15 – 11:45am
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SESSION 2: AI-and Automation in Smart Airports
11:45-12:45 p.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, International Airport Professional
Speakers: TBD
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SESSION 3: Enhancing Safety and Security in Aviation
12:45-1:45 p.m.
Address evolving threats and Emerging Safety Technologies and Risk Management and (Strategic Approaches to Aviation Security- such as aviation cybersecurity, screening innovations, regulatory frameworks and international regulatory coordination.
Moderator : TBD
Speakers: TBD
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Networking Lunch and Visit with SAE 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: TBD
Speakers: TBD
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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: TBD
Speakers: TBD
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Official Conference Dinner
7-9 pm
Wednesday, December,17
- Day Two- “Shaping the Future: Innovation, Resilience, and Connectivity in Aviation" 8 am - 2:30 pm
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Networking Breakfast
8:30 -9:00 a.m.
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SESSION 6: Resilience and Crisis Management in Aviation
9 -10 a.m.
Focus on best practices for disaster preparedness and lessons learned from global disruptions, with a focus on the role of technology, communication, and airport flexibility in crisis management.
Moderator: TBD
Speakers: TBD
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SESSION 7: AI’s Impact on Workforce Innovation
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Focus on innovative strategies to build a skilled and diverse aviation workforce in the age of AI. It will cover apprenticeships, workforce development programs, and the role of AI in enhancing aviation skills sustainability.
Moderator: TBD
Speakers: Maxim Romanenko,IAP, Aviation Expert, Consultant and Author, Kazakhstan
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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
11:30-12:30 p.m.
Exploring 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: TBD
Speakers: TBD
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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: TBD
Speakers: TBD
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SESSION 10: Public Health & Well-being in Aviation
1:30 - 2:30 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: TBD
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Conference Adjournment
2:30 p.m.
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Networking lunch and visit with SAE Exhibitors
2:30-5:30 p.m.
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 October 24, 2025 |
After October 24, 2025 |
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|---|---|---|
| IAAE/ AAAE Member | $750 | $850 |
| Airport Non-Member (includes one-year membership, a $295 value. Renews at regular price.) |
$950 | $1,050 |
| Corporate Non-Member (includes one-year membership, an $850 value. Renews at regular price.) |
$1,100 | $1,200 |
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.
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: 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
Hotel information coming soon. Please check back for updates.
The following hotels will be used for the summit. Rates will be posted once available.
Golden Tulip Qasr Al Nasiriah Riyadh – 4 star
(King Abdullah Road - Alfdoul Street - King Faisal DT 13215, Riyadh)
Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Center – 5 star
(King Abdullah Ibn Abdulaziz Rd, King Abdullah Dist., Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)
Crowne Plaza Riyadh RDC Hotel & Convention – 5 star
(Imam Saud Ibn Abdul Aziz Road, Riyadh, Ar Riyadh).
For more hotel options, visit https://www.saudiairportexhibition.com/hotels/
Passport Information
A valid passport is required for U.S. citizens to enter or exit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A minimum of six months’ validity beyond the date of travel is recommended. One blank page is required for entry stamp. For individuals outside the U.S., please visit your country's Saudi Embassy website for information.
Visa Information
Visas are required for U.S. travelers visiting Saudi Arabia. U.S. citizens may apply for an electronic visa (eVisa). For further information and to apply, visit https://visa.visitsaudi.com/. For more information on how to "Plan YOUR VIST", visit https://www.saudiairportexhibition.com/plan-your-visit/ For individuals outside the U.S., please visit your country's Saudi Embassy website for information.
Travel Information
Ground Transportation
Golden Tulip (King Abdullah Road - Alfdoul Street - King Faisal DT 13215, Riyadh) offers an airport shuttle to the property. The hotel is approximately 32 kilometers from King Khalid International Airport and takes about 25 minutes to reach.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Center (King Abdullah Ibn Abdulaziz Rd, King Abdullah Dist., Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)
The hotel is approximately 30 kilometers from King Khalid International Airport and takes around 15 minutes to reach by taxi.
Crowne Plaza Riyadh RDC Hotel & Convention
Imam Saud Ibn Abdul Aziz Road, Riyadh, Ar Riyadh
Airport shuttle fee: $50 (SAR 185) per vehicle (one-way)
Air Travel
(DETAILS TO COME)
Make a Lasting Impression by Sponsoring!
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 Holly Ackerman to discuss alternatives.
Contact Information
Questions? Contact Us!
Program & Registration:
Heba Gouda
+1.703.797.2545
Sponsorship & Exhibits:
Holly Ackerman
+1.703.578.2507
Press & Media Inquiries:
Brian Kalish
+1.703.575.2461
