Business Travel Market (BTM) has this week announced that James Hogan is to open the event as keynote speaker, bringing more than 30 years of travel industry expertise to the event.

Hogan is chief executive of Ethiad Airways, which last year scooped the title of World’s Leading Airline at the World Travel Awards.

The announcement of Hogan’s participation reflects the increasing importance of BTM in the industry events calendar, argue organisers.

Now in its third year, the conference and exhibition for European travel buyers has already announced a number of big names who have committed to this year’s event, which takes place June 22nd-23rd at London’s ExCel.

James Hogan

Hogan was appointed chief executive of the Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways in September 2006.

In four years, he has overseen rapid growth, adding 33 new destinations, 35 new aircraft and an increase in passenger numbers from 2.7 million to 7.2 million, making him the ideal person to offer an insight into the market.

Paul Robin, event director, Business Travel Market, said: “We are thrilled to have James Hogan on board as he’s a major industry figure and we very much value the experience which he brings with him from his time at bmi, Hertz, Forte Hotels, Gulf Air, and now, Etihad.

“There is a huge focus on the Middle-East at the moment and it will be fascinating to hear his thoughts about the future for the region and to share his experiences with our attendees.

“The interest in the Middle-East is certainly something which is reflected by our exhibitors and sponsors this year and it is great to have such an influential and knowledgeable speaker to open our two-day event.”