CONNECT Aviation

CONNECT Aviation runs the CONNECT Route Development Forum. It is an annual three-day event for airline, airport, tourism and destination leaders in Europe. The aim is to plan new air routes and services. The event was started in 2004.

The site says more than 4,000 meetings happen at each event. These include structured meetings, informal meetings and one-to-one meetings. The site lists more than 75 airlines, 280 airports, 40 speakers and 60 countries. Past attendees include airlines and airports from many countries.

Attendees include airports, tourism operators, ground handlers, aircraft manufacturers, data suppliers and consultancies. The site says the event helps airlines expand their routes. Airports can raise their profile, meet airlines and build new routes. Consultants can find new business with airlines and airports.

Destinations, such as cities, regions and tourism boards, can meet the airlines that decide where they fly. Suppliers can meet airlines and airports to sell services. Each of these groups can book a stand to raise awareness of its business.

The 2027 event is set for 23 to 25 February 2027 in Trieste, Italy. The site describes Trieste as a city on the northeast edge of Italy, on the Adriatic Sea, near Austria and Slovenia. It also describes the nearby region of Friuli Venezia Giulia.

The programme includes expert panels, strategic discussions and interactive sessions. Evening functions and excursions are also part of the event. The excursions are designed for informal networking and cultural discovery. The site has pages on the venue, hotels, getting there and the official carrier.

The website also has past attendee lists, videos, podcasts and a registration page.

Services

• Route development forum
• Networking and one-to-one meetings
• Conference programme
• Evening functions
• Excursions
• Exhibition stands
• Sponsorship
• Videos and podcasts
• Attendee lists
• Hotel and travel planning