Lomé hosts historic african air transport summit to boost connectivity

From June 15 to 19, 2026, the Togolese capital will take center stage as the host of the very first African Air Transport Convention and Exhibition. This landmark event is set to become the driving force behind the continent’s vision for a unified and sustainable airspace.

For five days, Africa’s aviation industry will converge on Lomé, transforming the city into the nerve center of continental air travel. Under the distinguished patronage of President Faure Gnassingbé, this groundbreaking initiative is spearheaded by the Civil Aviation Commission for Africa (CAFAC) in close collaboration with the African Union.

Breaking down borders for a single african sky

The convention’s central theme, «A Single African Sky: Connectivity and Sustainable Air Transport Development», underscores a bold ambition. The goal is clear: to fast-track the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), a transformative initiative launched by the African Union in 2018.

The SAATM aims to dismantle outdated aerial borders, fostering a more open and interconnected aviation sector. By liberalizing the industry, the initiative seeks to slash exorbitant inter-country ticket prices and dramatically improve connectivity across Africa. This convention stands as the critical catalyst to turn this vision into a tangible reality.

A high-level gathering shaping the future of african aviation

This event is poised to be a premier networking and policy-making platform. Over five days, Lomé’s conference halls will welcome heads of state, transport ministers, aviation authority leaders, airline executives, investors, and equipment manufacturers from across the continent.

In addition to high-level discussions, the program features expert-led sessions on sustainable development and logistics. Attendees can expect plenary discussions to harmonize regulations, a cutting-edge exhibition showcasing technological innovations, and business matchmaking opportunities to forge future financial partnerships.

Why Lomé? A strategic hub for african aviation

The decision to host the convention in Lomé is deliberate. The Togolese capital has emerged as a pivotal crossroads in West Africa, home to the regional carrier Asky Airlines. This airline, a model of sub-regional integration, already connects over twenty destinations, making its Togolese hub the ideal testing ground for the SAATM’s ambitions.

By hosting this historic event, Togo reaffirms its role as a key player in Africa’s integration, proving that the continent’s economic future is increasingly taking flight.