The AfBAC EXPO, Africa’s first
three-day event dedicated to business aviation and RPAS, exceeded organiser’s
expectations with just under 1000 delegates registering to attend the event held
in Johannesburg, 29 November to 1 December.
Attendees came from as far afield as
New Zealand, Canada, the USA, Europe and the Middle East, to participate in
three days of conference, exhibition, workshops, and static display held at
ExecuJet’s Lanseria Airport facility.
Taking off with a one day
conference 170 delegates from across the spectrum of business aviation debated
the theme of African Business Aviation Evolution. Officially opening the event,
Founding Chairman Tarek Ragheb
highlighted the advancement of the Association as it marks its fifth year,
explaining how it has become an organisation that helps grow business inside and
outside the continent. He explained how initial scepticism has been replaced by
genuine enthusiasm as demonstrated by the interaction and dynamism of event
participants.
Ragheb also announced that he
would be stepping down as Chairman as the search for a replacement begins. He
explained, “When I first started putting this Association together I wanted to
ensure that we had transparent and institutionalized corporate governance. I
believe this is fundamental for any institution to grow and prosper. As such and
in keeping with our charter I have established this institution, and faithfully
guided it over the last five years, but it is time to hand over to a new
Chairman.” The Association is now putting a process in place to establish a new
Chairman, a role it anticipates filling within the next six months.
The event was given the
gracious support of the South African Civil Aviation Authority with
Poppy Khoza,
the SA CAA Director, making the event’s key note speech. Talking about how
Africa had moved from being a “hopeless” to “hopeful” continent with many
opportunities for business aviation, Khoza urged the business aviation sector to
think creatively about evolving the opportunities presented. “The need for
stronger regulators and supportive governments are key for creating an
environment for business aviation to thrive,” said Khoza. Her speech called for
a consultative approach towards creating regulatory environments, improved
standards, infrastructure development, and the need for consistency across the
sector.
The recent addition of the
Association to IBAC was underlined by a presentation from IBAC DG
Kurt Edwards
who presented the benefits of the CORSIA environmental programme, why and how it
will impact the sector. Panels also debated issues relating to the theme of
African Business Aviation Evolution. Case studies afforded an opportunity to
establish pragmatic solutions for common challenges, discussion about
stimulating market demand and the value of RPAS on the continent all made for a
vibrant meeting.
The two days of EXPO saw 43
international exhibitors welcome visitors from across the industry. A series of
workshops provided the opportunity for attendees to find out more about specific
contemporary topics, whilst the static display showcased 11 rotary and fixed
wing aircraft. Looking to the future Design Aviation thinking workshops inspired
local school children considering aviation as a career. The event concluded with
a typical South African Braai, which was attended by speakers, exhibitors,
workshop hosts, and delegates alike.
“It is AfBAA’s role to
bring together executives from across the sector to share and exchange valuable
knowledge and information. We wanted to prove there is demand for a rounded
convention in Africa, and what we have created is an outstanding foundation for
years to come. We received a lot of positive feedback from delegates, exhibitors
and conference attendees. I am extremely proud that we doubled our registration
targets and delivered a professional experience,” said
Rady Fahmy,
AfBAA CEO. |