Conference Schedule

Join us for the official opening of the 2024 Airlines & Airports Forum at the Bahrain International Airshow.

• HE Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications

Kamil Alawadhi, Regional Vice President for Africa and the Middle East, IATA

This high-level panel unites distinguished CEOs from leading airlines and airports to engage in a strategic discussion on the key issues and opportunities shaping the future of aviation. As the sector navigates a path to recovery, the conversation will delve into the dynamics, challenges, and performance of both airlines and airports, offering a comprehensive market outlook regionally and globally.

The discussion will also address how airlines and airports are innovating to stay competitive, with a focus on service enhancements, cost management, customer experience, and sustainable practices. CEOs will share insights into their strategies for addressing these challenges, detailing how they are positioning their companies to thrive amidst uncertainty. The panel will further explore how advancements in aircraft technology, airport infrastructure, and passenger services are helping both airlines and airports meet industry demands, with a look at future innovations designed to support growth and efficiency.

Moderator: Murdo Morrison, Head of Strategic Content, FlightGlobal
Jeffrey Goh, CEO, Gulf Air Group
Samer Majali, Vice Chairman of the Board, CEO, Royal Jordanian Airlines

This session will explore the latest insights from Airbus’ 20-year Global Market Forecast (GMF) for the period 2024-2043, offering a comprehensive view of air traffic and fleet developments. As the aviation industry recovers from the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, 2023 serves as the baseline year for forecasting, marking a return to pre-pandemic traffic and airline operations. The discussion will focus on key trends shaping the future of aviation, such as fleet modernization, sustainable growth, and the evolving demand for air travel across regions.

The session will also highlight the essential role of aviation in connecting people, supporting global trade, and fostering economic resilience. Participants will gain valuable insights into the future trajectory of the global aviation market, including challenges and opportunities, and how industry is poised to lead the way in shaping a more connected and sustainable world.

Usman Mastan, Vice President Sales Africa and Middle East, Airbus

Aviation is responsible for approximately 3% of global CO2 emissions, making sustainability a critical focus for the industry. As one of the most advanced regions in the world, the Middle East has been at the forefront of efforts to combat climate change, exemplified by landmark achievements such as the Emirates SAF- powered flight in 2023. However, with global aviation emissions projected to rise by 22% by 2050, the urgency to accelerate sustainable practices has never been greater.

This panel will bring together experts and industry leaders to explore the next advancements in sustainable aviation within the region. Discussions will focus on the entire aviation ecosystem, identifying where strategic investments are needed and what actions must be taken to meet global climate goals.

Key topics to be explore will include the scaling and widespread adoption of SAF; an exploration of cutting-edge technologies including electric, hydrogen and hybrid propulsion systems. The panel will identify the critical areas within the ecosystem that require investment, including infrastructure, R&D and the creation of partnerships between public and private sector.

This panel will provide a comprehensive overview on how the region’s unique position as an aviation hub offers opportunities to pioneer new approaches and technologies and the pivotal role the region will play in shaping the future of sustainable travel.

Moderator: Haldane Dodd, Executive Director, Air Transport Action Group
Grainne Van Den Berg, Head of Airline Marketing Middle East North Africa, Airbus
Jeff Ovens, COO, SAF One
Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah is the Chief Executive Officer of Bahrain Airport Company (BAC)
Marina Evans, General Director & Co-Founder, Voltaero
Shannon Scott, Vice President Sustainability & Environment, Emirates

As the aviation industry enters a transformative era, “Future Flight” is rapidly approaching with the growth of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). This panel brings together industry leaders to explore the impact of AAM technologies on the future of air travel, with a focus on eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing), Urban Air Mobility (UAM), and Regional Air Mobility (RAM).

Panelists will define the scope of Future Flight, highlighting how these innovations will reshape the passenger experience by reducing congestion and enhancing connectivity in urban and regional settings. They will also address the regulatory and operational challenges, including airspace management, safety protocols, and certification processes, necessary for the safe integration of AAM into current systems. The session will emphasize how the wider ecosystem can collaborate to ensure a smooth transition into this exciting new era of aviation.

Moderator: Murdo Morrison, Head of Strategic Content, FlightGlobal
Romain Favennec, UAM Strategic Program Lead, SITA
Mohammad Kushan, Senior Representative Middle East, Federal Aviation Authority (FAA)
Satya Chakravarthy, Founder, CEO & CTO, ePlane
Jean-Christophe Drai, Sales Lead EMEA, Volocopter

This session will explore how the rising demand for fast, reliable air cargo services is transforming global value chains, reshaping air routes, and driving airport infrastructure development. With disruptions across global trade and logistics, airfreight is emerging as a key enabler of resilience and growth.

Our expert will provide insights into recent initiatives and partnerships aimed at meeting this demand, including the development of Bahrain Airport’s Express Cargo Village, with FedEx as an anchor tenant. The discussion will cover how these developments are positioning Bahrain as a hub for efficient cargo handling and will examine broader trends in the airfreight industry that are influencing the design and capacity of airports worldwide. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of how strategic investments in airfreight infrastructure can create new opportunities in global trade and logistics.

Ishaq Ishaq, Head, Business Development – Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics, Economic Development Board of Bahrain

Dive into the fascinating world of remote sensing! This workshop, focusing on practical applications, explores how satellite technology is revolutionizing fields like environmental monitoring, geology, agriculture, and others. Learn how remote sensing data is acquired and analyzed to address critical challenges in these sectors. The workshop kicks off with a 15-minute presentation by NSSA on “Earth Observation applications for civilian purposes in Bahrain.” Gain valuable insights from expert Ayman Salem and discover the power of this cutting-edge technology.

Ayman Salem, Executive Director, Brilliant Remote Sensing Labs

The Opening of the Defence Forum at Bahrain International Airshow 2024

Major General Shaikh Hamad bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Commander, Royal Bahrain Air Force

In this session, Gen. Gary L. North, USAF (Ret.), Vice President for Customer Requirements at Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, will explore the future of combat airpower and the pivotal role of advanced technology in shaping defense capabilities. As modern threats evolve, innovations such as next-generation aircraft, autonomous systems, and enhanced sensor technologies are redefining how air forces operate on the battlefield.

Gen. North will discuss key trends in combat aviation, focusing on how advanced technologies will enhance mission effectiveness, survivability, and operational dominance. This talk will provide valuable insights into the strategic integration of these technologies, offering a forward-looking view on how air superiority will be maintained in future combat scenarios.

Gary L. North, USAF (Ret); Vice President for Customer Requirements, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co

Presented by Travis Ruhl, Director of International Business Development for Airborne Combat Systems at L3Harris, this session will delve into the critical importance of achieving electromagnetic spectrum dominance in modern warfare. As the electromagnetic spectrum becomes an increasingly contested domain, military forces must develop advanced capabilities to detect, disrupt, and deny adversarial communications and operations.

Travis Ruhl, Director of International Business Development, Airborne Combat Systems, L3Harris

This session will explore the cutting-edge developments in tactical unmanned aerial systems and their applications in modern defence strategies. Key Discussion Points: Customization and rapid deployment of drones for various defence scenarios; Advancements in flight endurance and operational capabilities; The role of unmanned systems in border monitoring and strategic intelligence gathering; Innovations in manufacturing processes for cost-effective, mission-ready drones.

Moderator: Rear Admiral Michael Hewitt, Co-Founder and CEO, IP3 (International Peace, Power, and Prosperity)
Andreas Mustert, CTO, Asterion
Justin Malott, Director of Business Development, RapidFlight

Peter McKenna, Vice President – Strategic Planning, Kallman Worldwide

The Honorable Steven Bondy, United States Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain – U.S. Department of State
H.E. Mr. Mohammed bin Thamer Al Kaabi, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications and Chairman, National Space Science Agency
H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Aseeri, Chief Executive Officer, National Space Science Agency

Jane Hoskisson, Director of Talent, Learning, Engagement and Diversity, IATA

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are vital components for achieving sustainable business success, driving talent retention, enhancing employee well-being, and fulfilling Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments. Research from McKinsey indicates that companies in the top quartile for racial and ethnic diversity are 25% more likely to outperform their competitors financially, underscoring the competitive advantage that DEI initiatives can provide.

In the MENA region, the post-2020 business boom has attracted a diverse workforce, making DEI efforts increasingly important. This panel will explore how the MENA region is cultivating a more inclusive business climate. Industry leaders will discuss:

Leadership and Representation: The role of leadership in shaping DEI initiatives, the importance of board-level diversity, and how these factors influence company culture and business strategy.
Effective Hiring Practices: The impact of hiring managers and best practices that promote meaningful DEI outcomes.
Future Outlook: Emerging trends and strategies for creating an inclusive culture that fosters career growth and equal opportunities. What lies ahead for DEI in MENA?

This panel promises to deliver valuable insights into the current state and future trajectory of DEI in the region, offering attendees practical takeaways on fostering a more inclusive and successful business environment.

Moderator: Hannah Irfan Siddiqui, Founder & Managing Principal, Kaleidoscope- DEI Consulting
Vasiliki Christidi, Group General Manager, Aviareps Hellas SA
Sheriza Bazari, Diversity, Integration & Belonging Manager, Etihad Airways
Mervat Sultan, President, Women in Aviation Middle East Chapter

This panel will explore how the diversification of the aviation sector—including full-service airlines, budget carriers, and both general and military aviation—creates unique opportunities for talent development in the region. We will focus on the implications for early-career professionals and those aspiring to enter the field, highlighting how companies are responding to the need for a workforce equipped with skills essential for sustainable aviation and future flight technologies.

As the industry embraces innovations such as artificial intelligence, new propulsion systems, and greener technologies, including hydrogen fuel, the demand for specific skills is evolving. This panel will address the skills gap and the urgency for training programs that prepare professionals to meet these challenges.

Attendees will gain insights into how the future of work in the aerospace, space, and defence sectors is being shaped by these dynamic forces. The discussion will provide a comprehensive overview of in-demand skills and competencies, strategies for building a robust and diverse workforce, and the emerging career paths created by advancements in sustainable aviation and future flight technologies.

Moderator: Jane Hoskisson, Director of Talent, Learning, Engagement and Diversity, IATA
Qadar Sarfraz, CEO, Airmans Ground
Nada Al-Saeed, Chief of Strategy, Economic Development Board Bahrain
Fahad ibne Masood, Faculty, Modern College of Business and Science; Senior Analyst, Advanced Air Mobility Institute

Dive into the fascinating world of remote sensing! This workshop, focusing on practical applications, explores how satellite technology is revolutionizing fields like environmental monitoring, geology, agriculture, and others. Learn how remote sensing data is acquired and analyzed to address critical challenges in these sectors. The workshop kicks off with a 15-minute presentation by NSSA on “Earth Observation applications for civilian purposes in Bahrain.” Gain valuable insights from expert Ayman Salem and discover the power of this cutting-edge technology.

Ayman Salem, Executive Director, Brilliant Remote Sensing Labs

H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Othman, Space Science Advisor

Rosanna Margarita Hoffmann, Associate Legal Officer (Space Law), United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)

In an era where space has become an integral part of our daily lives, it is crucial to establish comprehensive space laws that can effectively govern this domain. This session will showcase the significance of space laws in shaping a strong and harmonized space framework at both the national and international levels.

Our esteemed panellists will explore the comprehensive aspects of space laws and their role in ensuring responsible and sustainable space activities. They will discuss the challenges faced in maintaining a successful space industry within their respective countries or regions and the strategies being implemented to address these challenges

Furthermore, the panel will emphasize the importance of international cooperation and collaboration in establishing a unified framework for space governance. They will highlight the need for clear guidelines and regulations to facilitate peaceful exploration, commercialization, and utilization of space resources while ensuring the long-term preservation of the outer space environment.

Moderator: Ms. Rosanna Margarita Hoffmann, Associate Legal Officer (Space Law), United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)
Hesa bint Ali Al Khalifa, Senior Legal Researcher, National Space Science Agency (NSSA).
Marlène M. Losier, Principal, Legal Expert in International Law, Losier Gonzalez.
Ilgar Abdullayev, Space law advisor to the Chairman of the Board, Azercosmos (Space Agency of Azerbaijan)
Professor Sergio Marchisio, Professor of Space Law, University Sapienza of Rome
Hamda Al Hosani, Specialist in Space Policies and Legislation, UAE Space Agency (UAESA)

Simonetta Di Pippo, Professor of Practice of Space Economy – Director SEElab

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a framework for addressing critical global challenges and achieving a more sustainable future. This session will explore how the Middle East region is imposing the power of space technology and applications to advance the SDGs.

Our distinguished panellists will discuss the unique opportunities and challenges faced by the Middle East in utilizing space assets and satellite data to address the SDGs. They will showcase the various applications of space technology, such as remote sensing, satellite communications, and Earth observation, in areas such as climate action, sustainable agriculture, water resource management, disaster response, and more.

By harnessing the potential of space, the Middle East region has the ability to gather vital data, monitor progress, and implement evidence-based policies to accelerate sustainable development. The panel will discuss innovative initiatives and successful case studies where space technology has been instrumental in driving positive social, economic, and environmental outcomes, contributing to fulfil SDGs, with a focus on the below SDGs:

Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger

Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being

Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy

Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action

Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land

Moderator: Mr. Pieter van Beekhuizen, Bexperience
Ms. Roaya Rashid Bubshait, Head of Geospatial Analytics, National Space Science Agency (NSSA).
Dr Driss El Hadani, Deputy Director, UNOOSA
Simonetta Di Pippo, Professor of Practice of Space Economy – Director SEElab
John S. Latham, Visiting Professor, University of Southampton
Garvey McIntosh, Senior Director International Government Business, Axiom Space

09:50-10:00 – Welcome (Theatre 1)

10.00-10:20 – Keynote: Aviation and Global Performance: Practical Strategies for Unlocking Potential (Theatre 1)

10:20-11:00 – CEOs Insight (Theatre 1)

11:00-11:20 – Leading the Way: Global Aviation Market Outlook and Future trends (Theatre 1)

11:20-12:05 – Panel – Advancing Sustainable Aviation: What’s Next for the Region’s Path to Net Zero (Theatre 1)

12:05-12:50 – Panel – Shaping Tomorrow’s Skies: The impact of AAM on Airlines and Airports (Theatre 1)

12:50-13:05 – Keynote – From Disruption to Opportunity: Strategies for Rewiring Global Value Chains (Theatre 1)

13.45 – 15.15 – Mastering Remote Sensing, Satellite Image Analysis, and their Applications (Theatre 1)

10:00-10:10 – Opening Address (Theatre 2)

10:10-10:30 – Keynote: The Future of Combat Air and the roles of Advanced Technology (Theatre 2)

10:30-10:50 – Electromagnetic Spectrum Dominance (Theatre 2)

10:50-11:30 – Elevating Defence: Innovations in Drone Technology (Theatre 2)

12:00-13:00 – Endeavour Scholarship Award Ceremony (Theatre 2)

10:00-10:20 – Opening Keynote (Theatre 1)

10:20-11:05 – Panel – Opening the Door to Success: Advancing DEI in Aerospace, Space and Defence Industries (Theatre 1)

11:10-11:55 – Panel: Future Workforce – Trends and Opportunities across Aerospace, Space and Defence sectors (Theatre 1)

13.45 – 15.15 – Mastering Remote Sensing, Satellite Image Analysis, and their Applications (Theatre 1)

10:00-10:05 – Welcome Address (Theatre 2)

10:05-10:15 – Opening Keynote (Theatre 2)

10:15-11:15– Space Laws: A tool to implement space frameworks nationally and internationally (Theatre 2)

11:25-11:35 – Keynote (Theatre 2)

11:35-12:35 – Harnessing space to meet UN SDGs in the Middle East (Theatre 2)