The International Council of Tourism Partners (ICTP) has held a very active panel discussion at the 18th World Route Development Forum in Abu Dhabi.

Routes and ICTP further strengthened their partnership for upcoming Routes events.

In front of a larger than expected audience, ICTP president professor Geoffrey Lipman, together with top executives from Ethiad Airlines, the World Bank, and the Seychelles government, conducted an active panel discussion about airline connectivity, which was attended by top airline and tourism executives.

Rotes, which takes place over four days, will attract 2,800 senior professionals who represent over 300 airlines and 750 airports as well as numerous governments, destinations, and tour operators.

There are more airline delegates registered this year than at any previous event, representing all leading airlines including Lufthansa, British Airways, Air France/KLM, Etihad, Emirates, United Airlines, LATAM, COPA, South African, Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and Qantas as well as airports from around the globe.

David Stroud, executive vice president, Routes commented: “This year’s World Routes might well be the largest commercial aviation event ever held, and it is more than appropriate that it takes place in the Middle East, the fastest-growing aviation market in the world.

“The event demonstrates in an impressive way how dynamic the global aviation sector is, despite the challenging economic and regulatory environment.

“The format is unique, as it is the only event which brings together hundreds of airlines and airports from all corners of the world. Delegates meet for tightly-scheduled, face-to-face discussions over three days with the aim to discuss and agree on new air services. In total, around 16,000 meetings will take place in Abu Dhabi.”

This year’s event program has been extended to include full days on both Saturday, September 29th, and Sunday, September 30th, with delegates invited to “Experience Abu Dhabi;” attend the World Route Development Strategy Summit; and further enjoy the unique one-to-one networking, briefing, and meeting opportunities.

Exclusive Route Exchange Airline Briefings by airlines such as Etihad, Air Canada, Southwest, Iberia, and Aeromexico will also allow airlines to brief airports directly on their requirements and various market opportunities.