A summit aimed at resolving persistent challenges in air transportation across Africa, particularly in West and Central Africa, is set to take place as industry experts and investors unite under a collaborative platform. Jet Afrique Aviation Services Limited, in partnership with the West Africa Tourism Organisation (WATO), will host the AeroWest 2026 summit, bringing together a diverse array of stakeholders including airlines, airport authorities, aircraft manufacturers, lessors, financiers, aviation associations, policymakers, regulators, and travel industry players.
Summit Details and Objectives
The event is scheduled to occur in Lagos from September 2 to 4, 2026. Mr. Theodore Chikelu, Chief Executive Officer of Jet Afrique Aviation Services Limited, emphasized that the summit aims to foster meaningful dialogue and drive actionable outcomes. He noted that Africa's aviation industry, especially in West and Central Africa, has long been trapped in prolonged discussions with limited tangible results.
Chikelu stated: "AeroWest 2026 is focused on shifting from dialogue to delivery. It provides a platform for collaboration, innovation, and practical solutions that will redefine the region's aviation landscape. Anyone committed to the future of air transport in Africa should be part of it."
Alignment with Regional Integration
Ola Wright, CEO of WATO, highlighted that the summit aligns closely with WATO's goal of advancing regional integration and cooperation. She explained that AeroWest 2026 forms a key component of WATO's West Africa Integrated Travel (WAIT) initiative, which aims to promote seamless mobility, trade, and tourism across West and Central Africa.
"Aviation is the backbone of that vision. Without efficient air connectivity, we cannot unlock the full potential of intra-African travel. AeroWest will help bridge that gap and drive real, sustainable progress," she added.
Key Issues to Be Addressed
The summit will spotlight critical issues such as aviation finance and leasing, safety and insurance, regulatory harmonization, sustainable aviation, MRO development, and the impact of air transport on the success of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
