BizAv Talks Agenda
Unlock over 10 hours of content with 55+ industry-leading speakers across three days, diving into critical topics such as sustainable growth strategies, innovative breakthroughs, data-driven insights, evolving regulations, and emerging trends in the aviation sector.
BizAv Talks Agenda
TUE 10 DECEMBER
The Next Frontier of Business Aviation
11:30 - 11:45Chair opening remarks
Abhishek Sengupta | Founder & Chief Executive Officer | Middle East Media Corp
Speaker :
11:45 - 12:00Opening Keynote: Aligning for sustainability impact - Business Aviation leadership
Join us for a high-impact keynote exploring how IBAC's comprehensive plan is aligning industry stakeholders and driving measurable progress towards a sustainable future.
Kurt Edwards | Director General | IBAC
Speaker :
12:00 - 12:35Opening Panel: Middle East BizAv and the global equation
This session dives into how the region’s strategic investments in infrastructure, forward-thinking policies, and economic diversification efforts are reshaping the industry. With insights from leading operators and regulators, the discussion will explore the Middle East's unique strengths, challenges, and contributions to the global BizAv market. Join us to uncover how the Middle East is redefining business aviation, leading global conversations on innovation, and setting new benchmarks for a sustainable future.
- Kurt Edwards | Director General | IBAC
Moderator :
Holger Ostheimer | Managing Director | DC Aviation Al-Futtaim
Hanna Hakamo | Chief Executive Officer | Valo Aviation
Samir Talhouni | Managing Director | Arab Wings
Captain Abdullah Alhaider | Advisor to CEO | Dammam Airports Company
Speakers :
12:35 - 13:00Fireside Chat: Positioning Dubai as a global center of private aviation
- Abhishek Sengupta | Founder & Chief Executive Officer | Middle East Media Corp
Moderator :
Ramandeep Oberoi | Chief Executive Officer | Falcon Aviation Services
Speaker :
13:00 - 13:35Regional dynamics: The rise of Saudi Arabia - Exploring the boom and opportunities
What's driving the boom in Saudi business aviation? How does Saudi Arabia see the future of general aviation? What role is the regulator playing in infrastructure development? What exciting possibilities are unfolding in the sector, including EVTOL and air mobility? How are regulations evolving to facilitate business operations? We'll discuss potential hurdles like maintenance concerns and service quality, along with strategies to overcome them.
Ribhi Husseini | Executive Director | OK Engineering Consulting
Moderator :
Mohammed Al Bokhari | Chief Executive Officer | Aviation Horizons
Capt. Khalid Alnatour | Chief Executive Officer | Aloula Aviation
Eng. Imtiyaz Manzary | General Manager for General Aviation | General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Saudi Arabia
Hardy Bütschi | VP Regional Operations Middle East & GM Dubai | Jet Aviation
Speakers :
13:35 - 14:05Regional dynamics: India in focus - The next growth story
This session delves into the untapped potential of India’s business aviation market, exploring key factors shaping its future, including eVTOL advancements, investment opportunities, regulatory shifts, fleet trends, and joint ventures. We’ll address challenges, strategies for growth, and the Middle East's influence on aviation innovation across India.
Lovejeet Singh | Partner | Chandhiok & Mahajan
Moderator :
Kanika Tekriwal | Co-founder & CEO | JetSetGo
Sanjay Julka | Chief Executive Officer - Technical | Club One Air
Speakers :
14:05 - 14:45Panel: What's next for VVIP business jets? Anticipating future trends in customisation
Analyze the evolving needs and desires of BizAv clientele including the Middle East's VVIP segment. Discover strategies for developing aircraft configurations, amenities, and services that resonate with new buyers in the region. Explore effective collaboration models between completion centers and OEMs to cater to the specific demands of emerging markets.
Warja Borges | Founder, Interior Architect | Unique Aircraft
Moderator :
Shafiul Syed | Chief Executive Officer | RoyalJet
Andrea Zanetto | Chief Executive Officer - Comlux Aviation & Chief Operations Officer | Comlux Group
Oren Katzen | Marketing Director | Boeing Business Jets
Eugen Hartl | Managing Director | EH Aviation Advisors
Speakers :
14:45 - 15:20Panel: Making smart choices in business aircraft ownership
This panel discussion delves into the complexities of business aircraft ownership. Owning a business jet offers flexibility, but comes with ongoing challenges like registration, maintenance, fuel, insurance, and crew. Gain valuable insights to navigate the investment landscape and optimize your business aviation strategy.
Aoife O'Sullivan | Partner | The Air Law Firm
Moderator :
Joanne Goodall | Chief Executive Officer - Europe | TAG Aviation Europe
Graham Williamson | Managing Director of Aircraft Management & Charter | Gama Aviation
Sir Jorge Colindres Marinakis | Founder, Owner and Executive Chairman | Aviation Registry Group of Companies (ARG)
Bernard Van Milders | President & CEO | FlyingGroup
Speakers :
15:20 - 15:30Startup Spotlight: Learn how you can get an exclusive discounted holiday package!
Discover how Crew Maldives Holidays is transforming travel for airline professionals
Martin Moncmann | General Manager | Crew Maldives Holidays
Tomas Andel | Head of Business Development | Crew Maldives Holidays
Speakers :
15:30 - 15:35Closing remarks
WED 11 DECEMBER
Driving a Sustainable Future for Business Aviation
11:45 - 11:50Chair opening remarks
- Abhishek Sengupta | Founder & Chief Executive Officer | Middle East Media Corp
Speaker :
11:50 - 12:10Industry Report: Future casting BizAv: Key trends and forecasts
This fast-paced presentation will equip you with a global snapshot of the business aviation (BizAv) industry, with a special focus on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Rolland Vincent | Creator/Director | JETNET iQ
Speaker :
12:10 - 12:50Panel: Global BizAv outlook: What's on the horizon?
This panel unpacks the key trends shaping the industry, from game-changing innovations to evolving regulations. Gain insights into the specific opportunities and challenges presented by high-growth regions for business aviation.
- Rolland Vincent | Creator/Director | JETNET iQ
Moderator :
Douglas Carr | Senior Vice President, Safety, Security, Sustainability & International Operations | NBAA
Robert Baltus | Chief Operations Officer | European Business Aviation Association- Kurt Edwards | Director General | IBAC
Jenny Lau | Vice Chair, Asian Business Aviation Association (AsBAA) & Founder and Vice Chair, | Sino Jet
Speakers :
12:50 - 13:25What has changed in the evolving BizAv landscape?
As the business aviation industry evolves, operators are leading the charge in redefining fleet management and driving sustainable aviation practices. How are operators addressing the rise of alternative fuels, adapting to emerging business models, and meeting changing customer expectations? This session will delve into how market demands, sustainability goals, and technological advancements are reshaping fleet strategies and operational priorities, offering insights into the key trends that will shape the future of business aviation.
- Kurt Edwards | Director General | IBAC
Moderator :
Youssef Mouallem | Executive Vice President-International | Vista
David Van Den Langenbergh | Chief Industry Affairs Officer | Luxaviation Group
Speakers :
13:25 - 14:00Regional dynamics: Unlocking BizAv potential across the Asia-Pacific
This session explores into the untapped potential of the business aviation market in Asia and analyze the factors shaping the future of this market. We will identify, eVTOLs and recent developments, investment opportunities, shift in regulatory landscape, what is happening to the region’s fleet?, potential hurdles and strategies to overcome them and the role of joint ventures influencing these regions spotlights. We will also focus on how Middle East are influencing business aviation growth and innovation across the Asia-Pacific.
Molly McMillin | Managing Editor, Business Aviation | Aviation Week Network
Moderator :
Darren Broderick | Chief Executive Officer | ACAM- Jenny Lau | Vice Chair, Asian Business Aviation Association (AsBAA) & Founder and Vice Chair, | Sino Jet
Daniel Wu | Vice President | Business Aviation Asia Limited (BAA)
Speakers :
14:00 - 14:25Presentation : Fly high, stay grounded – Navigating Mental Health in Aviation
Join Dr. Surendra Sodhi, Aerospace Medicine Consultant and former Chief Medical Officer of Etihad Airways, and Dr. Dinesh Bhugra, Emeritus Professor of Mental Health and Cultural Diversity at King's College London, as they explore the impact of mental well-being on flight operations, how it influences crew performance, and why addressing these challenges is essential for enhancing both flight safety and passenger experience.
Dr. Surendra Sodhi | Chief Advisor of Aeromedical Services | MD ONBOARD
Prof. Dinesh Bhugra CBE | Professor Emeritus of Mental Health & Cultural Diversity | King's College London
Speakers :
14:25 - 14:55Sustainability dialogue : What’s needed for BizAv to balance sustainability and compliance?
Explore essential steps business aviation must take to achieve a balance between overall sustainability and regulatory compliance. This session will cover strategies for integrating sustainable practices across operations, navigating diverse regulatory landscapes, and addressing both environmental and operational challenges. Gain actionable insights and learn from real-world examples to effectively align your business aviation practices with sustainability and compliance goals.
Nicola-Jane Sellers | Group Head of Sustainability | Luxaviation Group
Kennedy Ricci | President | 4AIR
Speakers :
14:55 - 15:30Panel: SAF and the future of BizAv: Is the path to sustainability clear?
Join industry experts as they delve into the facts behind the headlines. What are the challenges to widespread adoption of SAF? Are there viable alternatives or complementary strategies for sustainable business aviation? How to get more SAF in the region? Is SAF financially viable for business aviation operators, and what strategies can make it more cost-effective? How can the industry collaborate to accelerate the development and deployment of SAF?
- Douglas Carr | Senior Vice President, Safety, Security, Sustainability & International Operations | NBAA
Moderator :
Andrew Thomas | Director of Sustainability | Vista- Kennedy Ricci | President | 4AIR
Simon D'Oyly | General Manager | Victor
Speakers :
15:30 - 16:10Panel: Beyond the hype: Practical solutions to launching Urban Air Mobility for BizAv
The business aviation markets like UAE are on the cusp of a revolution. Urban Air Mobility (UAM), powered by e-VTOL vehicles, promises to redefine point-to-point travel. However, navigating the complexities of airspace integration, infrastructure development, and cost considerations remains a critical hurdle. The panel discussion brings together industry leaders with diverse expertise to tackle the most pressing hurdles facing UAM implementation.
- Molly McMillin | Managing Editor, Business Aviation | Aviation Week Network
Moderator :
Anthony Khoury | UAE General Manager | Joby Aviation
Mikhail Alenkin | Founder & CEO | ArcosJet
Daniel O'Neill | General Manager, Middle East | Skyports
Khaled AbdulRahman Al Awadhi | Director, Transportation Systems Department | Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)
Speakers :
16:10 - 16:15Closing Remarks
THU 12 DECEMBER
The Business of Business Aviation
10:50 - 11:00Chair opening remarks
- Abhishek Sengupta | Founder & Chief Executive Officer | Middle East Media Corp
Speaker :
11:00 - 11:30Regulatory outlook: Zero Government Bureaucracy
Explore the 'Zero Bureaucracy' initiative: a federal drive to simplify processes, enhance services, and reduce requirements for a more efficient and seamless experience.
Walid Alrahmani | Assistant Director General Strategy & International Affairs | General Civil Aviation Authority, UAE
Speaker :
11:30 - 12:00Aviation Week network market analysis: Trends driving the future of Business Aviation, What’s in store?
Recent abrupt trend changes in used prices, utilization, OEM backlogs, supply chain issues and lack of maintenance availability are in the works. What important market factors are driving these and other dynamics impacting the look of the future fleet and aftermarket? Where do these trends lead us into the future? Listen as Aviation Week Network’s forecaster reviews the crucial performance factors driving the market today and discover AWN’s views on the emerging trends pushing the future. Hear about recent used aircraft values, their impact to the market ecosystem and what this means for financiers and operators. See the nuances in utilization trends, global economic trends, future delivery projections (worth $288 billion), and market shares. Hear how the MRO aftermarket (worth $125 billion) is expected to react to these various changes.
Learn where the business aviation market is going in the Middle East and globally; and what this means for your future strategy.
Brian Kough | Senior Director, Forecasts | Intelligence & Data Services | Aviation Week Network
Speaker :
12:00 - 12:30Fireside Chat : A word from Airbus Corporate Jets President
- Robert Baltus | Chief Operations Officer | European Business Aviation Association
Moderator :
Chadi Saade | President | Airbus Corporate Jets
Speaker :
12:30 - 13:00Panel: Inside the deal: Trade secrets and insights for Aircraft owners
Discover key insights into aircraft ownership, from choosing between new and pre-owned jets to financing options, maintenance programs, and legal considerations. Gain practical tips to navigate today’s evolving aviation market with confidence.
Wassim Saheb | Managing Partner UAE | Opus Aero
Moderator :
Chad Anderson | Chief Executive Officer & Board Member | Jetcraft
Nadav Kessler | Managing Director | Asian Sky Group
Paul P Jebely | Chairperson, The Hague Court of Arbitration for Aviation, Partner & Vice Chair, International | Sterlington
Speakers :
13:00 - 13:20Sky's the Limit
As HNWIs move beyond traditional portfolios, alternative assets—from real estate to luxury investments—offer fresh growth potential. This panel explores how these unique opportunities are reshaping wealth strategies and the role of innovation in securing and scaling modern investment portfolios
Fadi Dabbagh | President of the Board | AIX Investment Group
Khalid El Mikhi | Director | AIX Investment Group
Speakers :
13:20 - 13:50Panel: Streamlining transparent Charter operations in a high-demand market - How can Brokers and Charters adapt?
Soaring demand in the charter market brings both opportunity and challenge. This session equips brokers and charter operators with the tools to navigate this busy landscape. We'll explore emerging trends, from tech advancements to shifting client needs, grey charter and strategies to stay ahead of the curve. Unlock tips for maximizing aircraft utilization, efficiently filtering requests, and identifying ideal clients. Learn about dynamic pricing models that balance profitability with client satisfaction and discover best practices for building trust through transparent communication.
- Molly McMillin | Managing Editor, Business Aviation | Aviation Week Network
Moderator :
Eymeric Segard | Chief Executive Officer | LunaJets
Justin Bowman | Group Chief Executive Officer | Air Charter Service
Kevin Macnaughton | Managing Director - Charter | Air Partner
Speakers :
13:50 - 14:15Panel: Supply chain imbalance & role of digital MRO for connected maintenance challenges
Join our discussion about the issue of supply and demand imbalance in business aviation. Discover how data-driven maintenance and predictive strategies are transforming business aviation operations.
Ziad Al-Hazmi | Chief Executive Officer | Lufthansa Technik Middle East
Thomas Gierlich | Chief Executive Officer | Nomad Technics
Jorge Montes Del Pino | Presidente | Montes y Asociados Consulting
Speakers :
NextGen Leaders
14:15 - 14:25Career insights in Business Aviation
Join us for an inspiring session where MEBAA Chairman, Mr. Ali Alnaqbi, will engage students with insights into the dynamic and rewarding industry of business aviation. Discover exciting career opportunities, learn from industry leaders, and explore the future of business aviation. Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable knowledge and prepare for a successful journey in this thriving field.
Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi | Founding and Executive Chairman of the | Middle East & North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA)
Speaker :
14:25 - 15:30Panel: BizAv career insight for the NextGen
Join us for an exclusive session where top HR leaders from the industry will share their invaluable insights and experiences. This session is designed to provide you with practical advice, essential skills, and a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges in business aviation.
Frederico Fernandes | Deputy Chief Executive Officer | IAE
Moderator :
Nazeer Ahmed Khan | Chief Financial Officer | Lufthansa Technik Middle East
Nasrin Qurashi | Director of HR and Legal | Aviation Services Management
Caroline Cresp | Managing Director | LunaJets 
Monali Sharma | HR Director | UAS International Trip Support
