71st ACI Africa Board Meeting kicks off in Cairo with prominent aviation specialists in attendance

CAIRO – 25 February 2024: The 71st meeting of the Airports Council International (ACI) Africa Board began in Cairo on Sunday, focusing on enhancing the aviation sector both regionally and internationally.

Prominent aviation specialists from Africa have gathered for discussions on the role of airports in economic development, the future of air transport, and collaboration with regional stakeholders to improve the sector.

The meeting emphasizes the importance of sustainability and environmental preservation in the aviation industry.

Mohamed Saied Mahrous, CEO of the Egyptian Holding Company for Airport and Air Navigation (EHCAAN), highlighted Egypt's significant role in ACI Africa, especially as the country has been chosen as Africa's representative in ACI World.

"Hosting the conference in Cairo this year provides a great opportunity for exchanging insights and ideas, particularly as air traffic returns to normal rates after the COVID-19 pandemic," added Mahrous.

The meeting is part of the ACI Africa Regional Conference and Exhibition, which commenced on Saturday in Cairo, featuring over 250 delegates and 30 exhibitors.

The event, held from February 24 to March 1 under the auspices of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, focuses on the theme "Airports: Levers of Socioeconomic and Sustainable Growth."

The conference serves as a collaborative platform for discussions on challenges and opportunities in advancing the aviation sector in Africa.

It includes more than 15 sessions, workshops, and side events, with over 40 speakers contributing to the discussions.

The event is sponsored by more than 20 companies, including EgyptAir, the Egyptian Airports Company (EAC), and the Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Civil Aviation.

Coinciding with the conference, the Regional Committee Meetings, representing the six regional committees, are also taking place.

The second day witnessed meetings of the Safety and Technical, Human Resources, and Security regional committees, while the first day focused on the Safety and Technical, Facilitation and Technology, Environment and Sustainable Development, and Economics committees.