Leaders in Aviation Convene in Dubai for 80th IATA AGM

The 80th IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit, organised by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), are set to take place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from June 2nd to June 4th, 2024. This marks the UAE's first hosting of this prestigious event, with Emirates Airlines as the gracious host. Anticipated to draw over 1,500 attendees, including industry leaders, government officials, and media representatives, the event promises significant insights and discussions.

H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy for the United Arab Emirates, will inaugurate the gathering with an opening keynote address to the AGM, extending a warm welcome to delegates from across the globe.

“Dubai’s world-leading connectivity places it at the crossroads of the planet. And it will soon be the centre of the airline industry’s leadership as it hosts the 80th IATA Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

“We look forward to hosting our industry colleagues in Dubai, Emirates’ home and hub. This is a city that has forged its place in global aviation and prospered, thanks to its visionary leaders and progressive policies that recognise air transport’s role as a key economic enabler. In line with this, last year aviation contributed 27% to Dubai’s GDP and supported $37 billion in gross value added. There are always exciting new developments in Dubai, and I hope visiting delegates will get a chance to experience this buzzing city and the UAE’s renowned hospitality for themselves,” said Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airlines.

World Air Transport Summit

Following the AGM, the World Air Transport Summit (WATS) will commence, offering a robust agenda addressing critical challenges in aviation. Moderated by CNN’s Richard Quest, the CEO Insights Panel will feature esteemed personalities such as Vanessa Hudson of Qantas, Sir Tim Clark of Emirates Airline, Scott Kirby of United Airlines, and Shai Weiss of Virgin Atlantic Airways.

“The commitment to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 will top the agenda of the 80th IATA AGM and World Air Transport Summit. We will explore solutions to accelerate progress, particularly with the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and the potential for carbon removals. We’ll also take stock of our progress on safety, financial sustainability, and other key industry topics. It’s important that we put these challenges on the table so that all stakeholders, including governments, have a clear understanding of what airlines need to connect people and economies safely, efficiently, and ever more sustainably,” said Walsh.

Key themes to be explored during WATS include the evolving landscape of the airline industry amidst changing energy markets, geopolitical complexities, and shifting trade patterns. Discussions will also delve into the potential of AI in aviation, advancements in sustainability through Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and carbon removal, synergies between aviation and tourism, and the outlook for air cargo. A notable aspect of the program will be the fifth edition of the IATA Diversity and Inclusion Awards, acknowledging entities and individuals championing gender balance in aviation through the 25by2025 initiative. Central to the discussions will be the global significance of connectivity facilitated by aviation. With direct employment for 3 million individuals worldwide, aviation plays a pivotal role in the travel and tourism sector, supporting approximately 320 million jobs and contributing to 10% of global economic activity. Additionally, air cargo facilitates $8.3 trillion in trade annually, constituting 35% of total international trade. Aviation holds substantial economic importance for Dubai, contributing 27% to the city's GDP in 2023 and generating $37 billion in gross value added. This contribution is projected to surge to $53 billion by 2030, aligning with Dubai’s growth trajectory. Furthermore, aviation significantly contributes to achieving 15 of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), emphasising its role in fostering sustainable global development.