The city of Valencia has been confirmed as the inaugural host of AviaDev Europe, the aviation development forum geared towards Europe’s regional airports and airlines.

The event will take place on December 3rd-5th 2018 at the Palacio de Congresos (Conference Centre) in Valencia, Spain.

Jon Howell, managing director, AviaDev, said: “This event brings together airlines, airports, suppliers and tourism professionals with an ambition to increase connectivity and facilitate growth.

“When we launched AviaDev in 2016, our focus was on the African market. We are delighted to be bringing our expertise of delivering successful aviation development events to Europe to focus on the expansion of regional airports, airlines and destinations.”

AviaDev Europe unveiled the theme of the December edition to be Regional Is Rising, the big opportunity in aviation is shifting focus.

Sandra Gómez, deputy major from Valencia and president of Valencia Tourism said: “AviaDev will be an important gathering for all European regional hubs, it is clear the demand for air travel is growing and the capitals airports are operating at maximum capacity therefore the expansion for tourism, business and leisure will come at a regional level.

“Valencia Tourism has been active in the promotion of its airport – through the Fly Valencia programme - having grown 16 per cent last year and 25 per cent in quarter one of 2018.”

Gómez added: “High connectivity is strategic for increasing demand in urban tourism destinations, as València, during all year.”

With over 300 regional hubs operating in Europe, passengers benefit from fewer delays, shorter waiting times at security and immigration; while airlines can negotiate better and more cost-effective slots.

Combined, this paves the way for a bright future for regional airports across Europe.