A unified African sky... Lomé to host the first African Air Transport Conference 2026

Written by Omnia Hassan

The Togolese capital is witnessing LumiFrom June 15 to 19, 2026, the first edition of the “African Air Transport Conference and Exhibition 2026” will be launched, in an event that is considered one of the most prominent specialized events in the aviation industry in the African continent, amidst wide participation from decision-makers, experts, and representatives of airlines, airports and African civil aviation authorities.

The event is jointly organized by the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) and the African Union Commission, under the theme “One African Sky: Connectivity and Sustainable Development of Air Transport”.

A continental platform to support the African air transport market

The conference and exhibition represents the first specialized continental platform that brings together governments, regulators, airport operators, airlines, investors and development partners to discuss the future of African aviation.

The event aims to accelerate the implementation of the “Single African Air Transport Market” (SAATM) project, which is one of the most important economic integration projects on the continent, by promoting freedom of air movement and improving connectivity between African countries.

High-level Egyptian participation

As part of the extensive African presence, a high-level Egyptian delegation, headed by the Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority and including the Egyptian Ambassador to Togo, is participating in the conference and exhibition activities.

Egypt's participation comes as a confirmation of Cairo's pivotal role in supporting efforts to develop the African civil aviation sector and enhance joint cooperation between African countries in the areas of air safety, sustainability and regional connectivity.

A packed agenda and strategic issues

The five-day event includes high-level ministerial sessions, bilateral meetings, and specialized dialogues on digital transformation, environmental sustainability, airport infrastructure financing, and the development of air navigation services, along with an exhibition showcasing the latest innovations and technological solutions in the aviation sector.

The conference also provides ample opportunities for establishing business and investment partnerships between various industry players.

Towards a more interconnected and sustainable future

The conference comes at a time when Africa is seeking to strengthen air connectivity between its countries and transform air transport into a major driver of trade, tourism and investment.

Observers believe that the success of the first edition of the African Air Transport Conference and Exhibition could represent a turning point in the continental integration process, and support the vision of building a more efficient, sustainable and globally competitive African aviation network.