Africa Aviation Trails: Week 11, 2026

Introduction.

The first African Air Transport Convention and Exhibition 2026, hosted by the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) in Lomé, Togo from June 15–19, will bring together governments, aviation leaders, and investors to advance the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and the Single African Sky vision. With the theme “Connectivity and Sustainable Development of Air Transport,” the five-day event aims to accelerate liberalisation, improve intra-African connectivity, reduce airfares, and boost tourism and trade. The convention will feature high-level forums, route development marketplaces, cargo and logistics labs, innovation expos, and networking opportunities, providing a platform for policy dialogue, partnerships, and actionable solutions to foster a more integrated and competitive African aviation sector.

Conferences/Events/Exhibitions

African aviation leaders gathered in Luanda for a safety and operations workshop that took place on 18 March 2026, bringing together industry stakeholders to address the growing need for integrated air traffic management across the continent. Organized under the umbrella of CANSO, the event emphasized breaking down traditional silos between safety and operations, as highlighted by Safety Working Group Chair Maureen Isika. Key discussions focused on Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM), cybersecurity, safety culture, and human performance, alongside a strong emphasis on Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), particularly the safe integration of drones and unmanned systems into existing airspace. Through joint and parallel sessions, including frameworks such as the Complete Air Traffic System (CATS) CONOPS and regional ATM strategies, the workshop reinforced Africa’s commitment to collaborative, innovation-driven aviation development.

The Nigerian Aviation Hall of Fame will host its 2026 induction ceremony in May, honoring distinguished aviation professionals for their contributions to the country’s aerospace sector. Now in its second edition, the event will recognize innovators and leaders whose achievements have shaped Nigerian aviation, with portraits of inductees displayed at major airports and a commemorative magazine documenting their legacies. Organized in collaboration with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, the ceremony aims to celebrate excellence, inspire future aviation professionals, and bring together policymakers, airline executives, and global stakeholders, with nominations currently under review by a panel of industry experts.