Doha:The 59th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Arab Air Carriers' Organization (AACO) officially began on Monday under the patronage of HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani. Hosted by Qatar Airways, the meeting runs from November 2-4 and focuses on enhancing regional cooperation and addressing key challenges that impact the future of air transport in the Arab world.
According to Qatar News Agency, the event brings together over 200 senior aviation executives and stakeholders, including chief executive officers of AACO member airlines, partner carriers, and representatives from leading organizations in the aviation industry. Hamad Al Khater, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer and AGM Chairman, emphasized the importance of regional cooperation amidst geopolitical developments disrupting global connectivity, highlighting the role of Arab airlines in connecting people and economies across continents.
The aviation sector in the Middle East supports 4 million jobs and contributes approximately USD 290 billion to the region's economic activity. By 2043, this economic contribution is expected to rise to USD 730 billion, with employment in the aviation sector across the Arab region projected to grow rapidly. AACO Secretary General Abdul Wahab Teffaha noted the importance of the AGM as a platform for exchanging views and strengthening cooperation to address shared challenges and enhance the competitiveness of Arab aviation.
The AGM's working sessions, scheduled for Tuesday, will begin with the AACO Secretary General's ‘State of the Industry’ report, followed by a speech from Khalid Cherkaoui, Director General of the Arab Civil Aviation Organization (ACAO), and a presentation by Bloomberg on the global economic outlook. The program will also include the Arab Aviation Summit, featuring a high-level panel discussion on pressing industry issues, and a closed-door session for AACO members to discuss strategic challenges.
Qatar Airways, as the host of the AGM, continues to support industry collaboration and expertise exchange within the region's aviation sector. The airline's global network, connecting Doha to more than 170 destinations via Hamad International Airport, underscores the significance of international connectivity for regional economic growth and global trade. Established in 1965, AACO serves 39 member airlines and has 5 partner airlines, operating a significant number of daily flights and serving airports worldwide.
Source Qatar News Agency