CONNECT Aviation - Route Development Forum

CONNECT is a route development forum for the aviation industry. The event is held once a year over three days. It was started in 2004. The 2027 edition is set for 23 to 25 February in Trieste, Italy. It brings together airline, airport, tourism and destination leaders from across Europe.

Route development means finding and starting new air services between cities. The forum helps airlines and airports meet and plan such routes. The site describes the mood as friendly, with a strong business focus. Meetings range from set sessions to informal talks. The site calls the event a good return on investment for those who attend.

The program mixes expert panels, strategic talks and interactive sessions. It also includes one-to-one meetings and evening functions. The schedule is built so delegates can use each day well. Trips are planned too. These excursions let guests see the host region and meet others in a relaxed setting.

Several groups attend. Delegates include airlines, airports, tourism operators, ground handlers, aircraft makers, data suppliers and consultants. The site lists how each group can gain. Airlines can meet new airports, find suppliers and work with tourism groups. Airports can raise their profile and open new routes.

Consultants can win new business from airlines and airports. They can also take a stand at the event. Cities, regions and tourism boards can meet airline decision makers face to face. The site says this can help them secure new air services that boost connections and local tourism. Suppliers can find sales leads, build new ties with airlines and show their services to a focused crowd.

The site also describes the host city. Trieste sits on the northeast edge of Italy, near the border with Austria and Slovenia, where the Adriatic Sea meets Central Europe. The city is known for a large seafront square and a strong coffee culture.

The website holds details of the program, the excursions, the delegate groups and what past delegates say.