The
International Air Transport Association (IATA) is preparing to
welcome more than 600 airline, aviation partners and government
delegates from around the globe to attend the second IATA World
Passenger Symposium (WPS). The event will be held on 16-18 October at
the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Hotel, Abu Dhabi.
“The
World Passenger Symposium is an opportunity for all aviation
stakeholders to explore ways to strengthen the industry in terms of
its profitability and its value to passengers. As uncertainty
dominates much of the global economy, aviation’s proven ability to
generate jobs and growth is critical,” said Tony Tyler, IATA’s
Director General and CEO.
“Global
passenger numbers are nearing 3 billion annually. Providing value
that meets the changing needs of these passengers is a catalyst for
innovation. And in a complex industry, innovation requires
cooperation and partnerships across the value chain that is supported
by a strong common vision. The World Passenger Symposium plays a
vital role in bringing the industry together to build the future,”
said Tyler.
“Together
with our partners in the travel and tourism industry, we are very
proud to be hosting IATA’s World Passenger Symposium. The
symposium’s location in the Middle East for the first time
recognizes the successful emergence of the region as a significant
global aviation center and hub of innovation. I am sure this meeting
will provide an excellent opportunity to evaluate our collective
progress and address the ongoing challenges to growth and innovation
we face as an industry. I look forward to welcoming delegates in the
best tradition of Abu Dhabi’s unique hospitality,” said James
Hogan, President and Chief Executive of Etihad Airways, the lead
sponsor of the event.
The
WPS will open with a keynote speech from His Highness Sheikh Abdullah
bin Zayed, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAE. Further keynotes
will follow from James Hogan and Tony Tyler. The CEO panel of the
World Passenger Symposium, moderated by CNN Anchor Nina dos Santos,
will feature leading aviation, regulatory and academic figures,
including:
· James
E. Bennett, CEO, Abu Dhabi Airports Company
· Olivier
Bijaoui, Executive Chairman President and CEO, Worldwide Flight
Services
· John
S. Pistole, Administrator, United States Transportation Security
Administration
· Dr.
Mustafa Sani Şener, CEO and Executive Board Member, Tav Airports
Holding
· Nawal
Taneja, Professor Emeritus, Ohio State University
· Willie
Walsh, CEO, International Airlines Group
· Montie
Brewer, former CEO, Air Canada
