WOCFA will delve into priorities under IATA's Focus Africa initiative to strengthen aviation's contribution to the continent's economic and social development, along with improving connectivity, safety and reliability for passengers and shippers.

"Africa's aviation market holds immense untapped potential, with expectations for traffic to double in the next 15 years. The Focus Africa Initiative has identified key priorities that, if addressed collaboratively and effectively, will bolster Africa's aviation industry and enhance its socio-economic impact. A year into the Focus Africa Initiative, we have seen progress in areas such as safety, but there is still a long way to go. This year's IATA's Wings of Change Focus Africa Conference builds on this progress by addressing critical areas such as safety, security, sustainability, economic development, and the overall resilience of the industry," said Kamil Alawadhi, IATA's Regional Vice-President for Africa and the Middle East.

 Professor Malesela John Lamola, Chief Executive Officer of South African Airways will deliver an opening keynote address.

 "We are delighted to host IATA's Wings of Change Focus Africa Conference and welcome the aviation industry to our home, Johannesburg. Advancing the air transport industry is critical for Africa's economic growth. The conference will allow industry leaders to join forces and drive the agenda for a stronger, more resilient African aviation industry," said Prof. Lamola. 

Speakers & Sessions

Prof. Lamola and Mr Alawadhi will be joined by industry leaders from the various areas of aviation in addressing the event, including session tracks on topics such as:

• Safety
• Security
• Boosting Regional Traffic 
• Airport Infrastructure
• Modern Airline Retailing
• Sustainability with a focus on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
• Air Cargo 
• Skills and training