In November, we’re convening the Seventh Worldwide Air Transport Conference (ATConf/7) from 16 to 20 November 2026 at ICAO Headquarters to discuss the future of international air transport. The event is the highest-level global forum we dedicate to the long-term strategic direction of international air transport. Under the theme, Air Transport: Powering Global Connectivity, Economic Development and Resilience in a Dynamic World, ATConf/7 will examine the trends, opportunities and challenges shaping aviation and help define priorities for the decade ahead.
But alongside this, another important event will take place, with a vote that will change the ICAO Council.
This meeting is open to all Member States, with each Member State is entitled to one vote. Every Contracting State which intends to stand for election may at any time so inform, in writing, our Secretary General who will, during the opening of the Session, publish a list showing the names of all the States which notified him.
The timing of this is being aligned with ATConf/7, the event that will bring together senior government officials responsible for aviation policy—including representatives working across transport, infrastructure, finance, economic development and tourism—alongside invited international and regional organizations and industry stakeholders engaged in the economic development of air transport. Discussions will address policy issues ranging from economic regulation and infrastructure financing to innovation, resilience and sustainable growth, with these specific goals to:
- Advance economic regulatory frameworks to adapt to evolving market trends and technologies by leveraging data
- Enhance industry resilience by addressing workforce, supply chain, market access, emergency response gaps and consumer protection
- Mobilize blended financing to support civil aviation infrastructure
- Shape economic policy foundations for innovation and emerging technologies
- Strengthen institutional and human capacity
- Enable sustainable and inclusive growth in air transport
As a policy conference, participation in ATConf/7 is limited to ICAO Member States and invited participants. To complement these discussions, we will host an exhibition alongside the Conference, providing organizations with an opportunity to showcase technologies, services and initiatives that support the continued development and resilience of international air transport.
We are welcoming organizations that work in areas like innovation, financing, infrastructure, digitalization and other initiatives that contribute to the future of air transport. For exhibitors, the event offers a unique opportunity to engage with the international aviation community gathered for one of ICAO’s most significant policy conferences, while demonstrating solutions that can help shape the future of global aviation. Organizations interested in exhibition or sponsorship opportunities can find additional information here.
As preparations continue, ATConf/7 is expected to provide an important forum for advancing international cooperation and helping ensure that air transport continues to support global connectivity, economic development and resilience in an increasingly dynamic world.