Aviation Industry Association Conference 2024 – Sponsored by GOfuel Aviation
We are excited to share highlights from the recently concluded Aviation Industry Association Conference 2024 held in Te Pae Convention Centre, Christchurch on 25 – 27 August 2024. This year’s event brought together industry leaders, suppliers, innovators, and enthusiasts for a dynamic exchange of ideas and insights over three days of networking. With more than 300 people attending this year, there was a real vibe at the Conference that had not been seen for several years.
Plenary Sessions and Keynote Speakers
The conference kicked off with a keynote address from Keith Manch, Director of CAA, on Aviation and Health and Safety at Work Act; What it means and its implications, followed by a robust Q&A panel discussion moderated by Qwilton Biel aided by the ability to submit questions through the Slido app. The recent media coverage concerning workplace culture issues at CAA was canvassed during the Q&A session.
This was followed by an address by Garth Gallaway from Chapman Tripp Lawyers, who discussed the implications of Whakaari White Island for commercial aviation operators.
The remaining plenary sessions on Monday covered AIANZ’s work on District and Regional Plans and the research presentation of the Workforce Insights project on supply and demand issues for pilots and engineers.
On Tuesday, we heard from the Minister of Transport, Hon Simeon Brown (speech available here). Inspirational speaker David Downs, sponsored by Tavendale and Partners gave an inspirational speech on his cancer journey. QBE Insurance sponsored the session featuring the recently published paper from Dr Isaac Henderson and Claire Walton on their research into mid-air collisions.
Exhibitors and Networking Opportunities
The exhibit hall was a hive of with activity, showcasing innovative products and services from leading companies in the field, and many thanks go to our sponsor Textron Aviation for providing a barista for the duration of the conference, we heard that this was greatly appreciated by all attendees.
Attendees had the chance to connect with exhibitors who demonstrated their latest technologies and solutions. The networking functions on Sunday evening sponsored by CAA and Monday evening sponsored by Aspeq, allowed participants to forge new connections and strengthen existing relationships.
With thanks to our lunch sponsors Austinsure, Gallagher Insurance and morning tea from Aon, we were able to provide a great culinary experience throughout the conference. We are grateful for the support of our sponsors, which allowed us to create such a memorable experience for all participants.
Good times, tall stories and important conversations over drinks and snacks took place over the two days of plenary and divisional sessions. Our thanks also go to sponsors Air BP, Ringa Hora Workforce Development Council and of course the generous support of Grant Stewart from HeliSupport NZ.
Engaging Workshops and Breakout Sessions
Attendees had the opportunity to participate in a variety of workshops and breakout sessions, for each of AIANZ’s six divisions. Each division ensured their members got the most out of their attendance with key topics, workshops and discussions.
Looking forwards to 75 years of the Aviation Industry Association – Conference 2025
Due to the success of this year’s conference, we already have interest from sponsors and exhibitors ahead of our 75th Anniversary conference next year, so if you are interested in getting involved in sponsorship or exhibitor ideas, ready for next year, get in touch now!
Link to our conference survey
Did you attend the conference and want to help us deliver the best experience for next year? Take part in our survey here. All responses go in the draw to win a $50 MTA petrol voucher (email address will be verified against attendee list).
[Thanks to all those who took part – the survey is now closed]
