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African Air Transport Convention & Expo 2026: A Landmark Event for African Aviation

The inaugural African Air Transport Convention & Expo 2026 has set a significant milestone in the journey to reform and elevate aviation across the African continent. Organized by the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC), the AfCFTA Secretariat, and AUDA-NEPAD, this premier event brought together over 950 attendees, including dignitaries, aviation executives, governmental officials, and international partners.

Held in Lomé, Togo, under the esteemed patronage of H.E. Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, the President of the Togolese Republic, the convention took place over five intensive days filled with dialogues, strategic collaborations, and resolutions aimed at pioneering an aviation transformation in Africa. Noteworthy participants included H.E. Paul Kagame, the President of Rwanda, and Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of Nigeria, who added significant political clout to the discussions.

The agenda of the Convention revolved around several critical points focused on advancing the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) initiatives. Key topics included improving affordability in air travel, enhancing air cargo systems, and creating robust trade corridors. A particular emphasis was placed on mobilizing investments towards infrastructural development, advancing sustainability efforts in aviation, and fostering digital transformation within the sector. Notably, discussions also highlighted the need to provide opportunities for women and youth within the aviation industry, creating a holistic approach to growth.

One of the most impactful outcomes of the convention was the adoption of the Lomé Declaration. This declaration serves as a roadmap to advance aviation liberalization, enhance connectivity, and lower air transport costs across Africa. It underscores the commitment to mobilizing investments necessary for the development of sustainable aviation fuel initiatives while strengthening human capital and innovation within the aviation ecosystem.

The event also created an African platform in preparation for the ICAO Air Transport Conference, emphasizing aviation’s role as a critical driver in advancing the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and aligning with the 2027 AU Theme of the Year. This strategic positioning highlights air transport as an integral part of trade, tourism, regional integration, and overall economic growth.

In her remarks, Adefunke Adeyemi, Secretary General of AFCAC, expressed optimism, stating, "The African Air Transport Convention & Expo 2026 demonstrated that Africa is ready to move from commitments to implementation. The partnerships forged, the political momentum generated, and the furthering of the Lomé Declaration provide a clear path to establish a more connected and sustainable aviation sector that offers tangible benefits for African citizens and economies."

The successful conclusion of this convention signals the start of a fresh phase of unified progress in African aviation, with AFCAC and partners dedicated to realizing the outcomes of the Lomé Declaration. The focus now shifts towards enhancing connectivity, raising investments, and fostering a genuinely integrated African aviation market, which is vital for the continent's prosperity.

About AFCAC
The African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) acts as the continent's regulatory body responsible for civil aviation policy and development in Africa. As the implementing agency for the SAATM, AFCAC steers efforts towards liberalizing air transport in line with Africa's broader integration and sustainable developmental objectives, reflecting the goals of Agenda 2063.