AFCAC

African Air Transport Convention & Expo 2026 — Concept Page
Champion of SAATM Lomé, Togo Dates: 15 – 19 June 2026

African Air Transport Convention & Expo 2026

The African Air Transport Convention & Expo 2026 will serve as the premier continental platform bringing together policymakers, regulators, airlines, airport operators, investors, maintenance, repair and overhaul (Mro) providers, aviation training institutions, aerospace manufacturers, air navigation service providers (ANSPs), ground handling companies, cargo operators, logistics providers, development partners, industry stakeholders, and innovators to accelerate the growth and modernization of Africa’s air transport sector. Anchored in the principles of SAATM and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, the Expo will promote strategic dialogue, showcase innovation, and catalyze investment aimed at bridging infrastructure gaps and building a resilient, sustainable, and competitive African aviation ecosystem.

Rationale

Context and why the Convention & Expo matters for Africa’s air transport ecosystem.

Policy priorities highlighted
    The AFCAC EXPO 2026 will take place from June 15 to 19, 2026, in Lome, the capital city of the Republic of Togo. This prestigious event will be hosted at the Hotel 2 fevrier , a premier venue located in the heart of the city. Lome is a vibrant city situated on the Togo River, known for its rich cultural heritage and dynamic atmosphere. The nearest international gateway is Aéroport International Gnassingbé Eyadema Lomé Togo , conveniently located at approximately 4 kilometers from the city centre and the event venue. Delegates are advised to utilize Aéroport International Gnassingbé Eyadema Lomé Togo . Aéroport International Gnassingbé Eyadema Lomé Togo Airport accommodates a variety of aircraft and provides daily flights operated by numerous international and regional airlines.

Hotel 2 fevrier

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Hotel 2 fevrier Map

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Objectives

What the Convention & Expo will deliver—actionable commitments, reforms, corridors, investment, and innovation.

12 objectives (a–l)

a
SAATM

Secure high-level commitments to accelerate SAATM implementation through actionable ASA alignment and route development packages.

b
Costs

Reduce the cost of air transport and improve competitiveness by progressing TFC transparency/reduction and competition-aligned reforms.

c
Facilitation

Advance seamless mobility for passengers and cargo through visa and process measures, including API/PNR and Annex 9-consistent actions.

d
Cargo

Prioritize bankable air cargo corridors aligned with AfCFTA value chains, with jointly owned workplans and corridor “owner” arrangements.

e
Finance

Mobilize investment for airports, ANSPs and cargo logistics using PPP and blended finance, supported by a credible project preparation pipeline.

f
Readiness

Strengthen regulatory, safety and sustainability readiness, including SAF/LCAF actions and implementation support frameworks.

g
Roadmap

Adopt a Ministerial Communiqué and Roadmap with milestones, leads, and a monitoring mechanism anchored by AFCAC and RECs.

h
Innovation

Showcase aviation innovations and technologies across safety, security, sustainability, infrastructure and digital transformation.

i
PPP

Promote business and investment opportunities by presenting viable projects, investment climates, and PPP opportunities.

j
B2B/B2G

Facilitate strategic partnerships and meaningful engagements that support cross-border cooperation and market access.

k
Skills

Encourage capacity building and knowledge sharing through expert-led conferences, panels, technical tours, and inclusion (youth & women—AWAYA).

l
Green

Advance sustainability and green aviation aligned with ICAO’s long-term aspirational goals on carbon emissions and sustainable air transport.

Participants

Government & Development Institutions

National aviation authorities Diplomatic missions Multilateral development orgs Donor agencies UN agencies AU institutions CSOs

Industry Players

Airlines Airport operators Aircraft/parts manufacturers MRO providers ANSPs Ground handling

Innovators & Academia

Training schools & universities Youth innovators Aviation tech startups R&D centers Software firms

Business & Commercial Sector

Private aviation & aerospace Tour operators Travel services Duty-free & retail Hospitality & tourism Sponsors & partners

Expected outcomes

  • Lomé Ministerial Declaration on accelerated SAATM implementation.
  • Continental TFCs Policy Framework.
  • Updated ASAs or side letters operationalizing 5th freedom opportunities.
  • Top Cargo & Trade Corridors endorsed with joint workplans.
  • Bankable project pipeline for airport and ANSP modernization.
  • African Route Development Platform (ARDP) launch and onboarding plan.
  • Finance commitments and MoUs.
  • SAF/LCAF framework actions.

Registration

What happens next?
  • You receive a confirmation email (to implement).
  • Access to concept note / sponsorship deck.
  • Updates on agenda, speakers, and exhibition booking.

Contact

Secretariat
secretariat@afcac.org
Smusa@afcac.org
Sponsorship & Exhibition
jdridi@afcac.org
Media & Communication
rsombacke@afcac.org