The Romanian Airline Companies Association (RACA) participated in Airlines 2024, one of the most prestigious events in the aviation industry, held at The Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre in London. Organized by Airlines UK, IATA, Board of Airline Representatives in the UK (BAR UK) and FlightGlobalthe event on November 25, 2024, brought together global aviation industry leaders, government representatives, and innovation experts to discuss the future of global aviation.
A Historic Moment for Romanian Aviation
RACA informational materials distributed at the event
RACA was the only non-UK airline association invited to participate in this event, a testament to the international recognition of our role in promoting Romanian aviation. During the conference, Marius Popescu, President of RACA, emphasized the importance of Romania’s connectivity in the international market and the need to adopt sustainable and innovative solutions to maintain competitiveness.
"Attending Airlines 2024 was a great opportunity to present our members, represent the interests of Romanian airline operators, establish strategic partnerships, and learn from the best practices of global leaders," stated Marius Popescu.
Additionally, RACA distributed informational materials to attendees, increasing visibility for the association’s initiatives in the relevant market.
Strategic Dialogues and Collaboration Opportunities
The event was marked by essential meetings and discussions with key aviation industry figures. Tim Alderslate, CEO of Airlines UK, highlighted the potential for collaboration between our organizations, emphasizing the importance of supporting connectivity and sustainability. At the same time, Shai WeissCEO of Virgin Atlantic, expressed interest in strategic partnerships with Romanian airline operators, particularly in light of the gap left by the national carrier’s suspension of flights to Heathrow.
Marius Popescu, President of RACA, alongside Tim Alderslade, CEO of Airlines UK
Key connections were also established with industry leaders such as:
- Ali Gayward, Country Manager, easyJet;
- Louise Haigh, UK Secretary of State for Transport;
- Jim Fairlie, Minister for Agriculture and Connectivity, Scotland;
- Thomas Woldbye, CEO Heathrow Airport;
- Stewart Wingate, CEO Gatwick Airport;
- Simon McNamara, Director Heart Aerospace.
These discussions opened new perspectives for expanding air route networks, establishing commercial partnerships, and implementing innovative solutions in the Romanian aviation sector.
Sustainability and Innovation at the Forefront
Sustainability and innovation were central themes of the event, essential elements for the future of aviation. The "Net Zero Journey" debate explored strategies for reducing carbon emissions, while presentations on electric and hybrid aircraft developed by Heart Aerospace provided a clear perspective on the future of air mobility.
Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, alongside Marius Popescu, President of RACA
The presence of top companies such as Airbus, Boeing, IAG Cargo and Google created an ideal setting for exchanging ideas and identifying practical solutions for the industry's challenges. Romania has the opportunity to embrace these innovations, laying the foundation for a sustainable aviation sector that supports both connectivity and environmental protection.
A Significant Step for the Future of Romanian Aviation
Our participation in Airlines 2024 demonstrated RACA’s commitment to representing Romania on the global aviation stage. The event provided an opportunity to learn from the experiences of other nations, promote Romanian airlines, and create new dialogue opportunities.
For the Romanian Airline Companies Association "Carpathia", this presence is just the beginning. We are committed to continuing to promote Romanian aviation, supporting the adoption of innovations, and contributing to the development of a thriving aviation industry in Romania.