Istanbul Aviation Forum

More than 800 aviation professionals are expected in Istanbul on 27-28 April 2027, bringing together decision-makers and industry leaders from across the global aviation ecosystem. Attendees include executives and specialists from airlines, airports, MROs, OEMs, lessors, technology companies and service providers, among them 400 buyers from around the world.

The audience covers the whole aviation value chain, from operations and maintenance to digital technology, airport development and strategy. With more than 70 speakers, more than 50 exhibitors and ten panel discussions on the programme, the forum gives delegates plenty of opportunity to exchange ideas and build new business relationships.

The Istanbul Aviation Forum program is built around the questions that matter most to airlines, airports and their suppliers today. Over two days, ten panel discussions will bring together senior industry leaders and specialists to share practical experience and views on where aviation is heading.

The agenda covers digital transformation, workforce development, safety and operational resilience. Sessions will look at how airlines and airports are changing their operations, how AI is moving from proof of concept to real-world use, and how data supports better decisions. Maintenance and engineering will also be in focus, with discussions on automation, robotics and smart hangars, as well as engine availability, longer turnaround times, parts shortages and rising maintenance costs.

Further sessions will focus on airports, including capacity, infrastructure and the technology that helps terminals handle growing passenger numbers, as well as the passenger journey from booking to arrival. Longer-term topics include future aircraft, alternative propulsion and what aviation will look like beyond 2040.

The program is designed to combine strategic vision with real-world application, so participants leave with ideas they can use and have the chance to talk directly with industry peers. One session, “Biggest Win, Biggest Mistake,” invites aviation leaders to share lessons from their own careers.

More than 50 exhibitors will present their products and services at the Istanbul Aviation Forum, covering a wide range of solutions for the aviation industry. The exhibition brings together aviation companies, technology providers, suppliers and service partners, giving attendees a view of what is available across different areas of operations.

The exhibition is designed to put solution providers in direct contact with airlines, airports and other industry decision-makers. Visitors can explore new technologies, compare offerings and look for practical answers to the operational and strategic challenges they face today.

Meeting the right people is made easier by the forum’s matchmaking app, which lets attendees arrange meetings before and during the event. Exhibitors also have meetings arranged with pre-selected attendees at their stands, which are fully prepared by the organizers.

With so many companies in one place, the exhibition gives attendees a clear overview of current innovations and a good opportunity to start conversations about future partnerships and collaboration.

The Istanbul Aviation Forum will include a cocktail party, giving participants a relaxed setting to meet outside the conference sessions. After a full day of panels, presentations and exhibition visits, it is a natural moment to continue conversations in a more informal atmosphere.

Delegates, exhibitors, speakers and panelists are all invited, so it is a good chance to get to know people from airlines, airports, MROs, OEMs and other parts of the industry, follow up on meetings arranged through the matchmaking app and start new business relationships.