Now in its seventeenth year, The Future of Air Transport event has grown in size and reputation and is acknowledged throughout the industry as one of the sector's leading events. Last year's event saw over 150 senior delegates converge on London to network and explore the key issues and challenges facing the industry.
The aviation sector is facing some of the worst market conditions in living memory. Although oil prices have fallen from their record highs, offering airlines some respite, the global recession has subsequently caused dramatic falls in traffic and declining yields, forcing many airlines to cut capacity and in some cases ground aircraft.
Despite these difficulties, it is important not to focus entirely on the present. The size and shape of the aviation sector will have to change upon a return to growth and The Future of Air Transport 2009 will provide a forum for senior stakeholders to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the industry and to explore strategies to ensure a strong, profitable aviation sector will emerge from the current downturn.
Speakers already confirmed include:
- Howard Millar, Deputy Chief Executive Officer & Chief Financial Officer, Ryanair
- Edmond Rose, Director,Commercial and Revenue Planning, Virgin Atlantic
- Jorge Vilches, Chief Executive, LAN Peru, LAN Airlines
- Vera Kriel, Head of Corporate Strategy and Business Planning, South African Airways
- Julian Carr, Commercial Director, bmibaby
- Mike Forster, Director of Strategy and Regulation, BAA
- Sian Foster, Corporate Sustainability and Responsibility Manager, Virgin Atlantic Airways
- Paul Gretch, Director, Office of International Aviation, US Department of Transport
- Emmanuelle Maire, Head of EU-US Open-Skies Negotiations, EU Commission
- Andrew Lobbenberg, Analyst, Airlines & Airports, ABN Amro
- Rigas Doganis, Chairman, European Aviation Club, Non-Executive Director, Easyjet