Lomé hosts landmark African air transport summit to unite skies
From June 15 to 19, 2026, the Togolese capital will play host to the inaugural African Air Transport Convention and Exhibition. The five-day event is set to become the continent’s most pivotal gathering for aviation stakeholders, with the ambitious goal of accelerating the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) initiative.
Under the patronage of President Faure Gnassingbé, this high-profile convention is co-organized by the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) and the African Union. It marks a historic milestone in Africa’s aviation sector, bringing together heads of state, transport ministers, airline executives, investors, and aviation regulators to shape the future of intra-African air travel.
Breaking down borders for a unified African aviation sector
The convention’s central theme, “A Single African Sky: Connectivity and Sustainable Air Transport”, underscores the urgent need to dismantle outdated colonial-era airspace restrictions. The SAATM, launched in 2018, aims to liberalize Africa’s skies, slash exorbitant flight costs between neighboring countries, and enhance connectivity across the continent.
With these objectives in mind, the Lomé event serves as a critical catalyst to turn policy into action. Discussions will focus on harmonizing aviation regulations, fostering public-private partnerships, and showcasing cutting-edge technologies that can revolutionize air travel efficiency and sustainability.
A high-level platform for transformative decisions
Over five days, Lomé’s conference halls will buzz with strategic dialogues among policymakers, industry leaders, and technical experts. The agenda includes:
- Plenary sessions to align national aviation policies with continental standards
- An exhibition showcasing breakthroughs in aviation technology and infrastructure
- B2B networking opportunities to forge new financial and operational alliances
- Roundtable discussions on sustainable aviation fuels, safety protocols, and cross-border airspace management
This gathering is not just a talk shop—it’s a decisive step toward making the SAATM a reality, ensuring that African airlines can operate seamlessly across the continent without bureaucratic hurdles.
Why Lomé? The strategic hub for Africa’s aviation future
Lomé’s selection as the host city is far from arbitrary. As the operational base of Asky Airlines, one of West Africa’s most integrated regional carriers, the Togolese capital already functions as a vital air transit point. Asky connects over 20 African destinations, making its hub the perfect testing ground for SAATM’s principles of open skies and seamless connectivity.
The convention in Lomé symbolizes Togo’s rising influence in African economic integration. By championing this initiative, the country reaffirms its commitment to positioning itself—and the entire continent—as a global player in sustainable aviation and regional cohesion.
