AAA runs a number of events through the year which provide professional development opportunities for AAA members and non-members, as well as a range of engagement opportunities for industry stakeholders.
If you have any questions regarding AAA events such as how to engage through speaking or partnership opportunities, contact events@airports.asn.au
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Below is a list of the events you can expect, and time of year they are held.
AAA Division Meetings
- AAA members only
- Held twice a year in approximately March and August/September
- Can be virtual or in person
- Agenda designed and facilitated by Division Chairs and Deputy Chairs of each state and territory
The AAA host state and territory based divisional meetings throughout the year; they are exclusive to AAA members, and free to attend, to discuss the latest technical and operational industry issues impacting their airports.
The AAA arranges for airport related regulators and government agencies to attend divisional meetings to provide members with direct access to decision-makers.
Airport Operations OPS SWAP Forum
- Open to AAA members and non-members
- Held biennially in even years (i.e. 2026, 28)
- Partnership and exhibition opportunities
- Speaker nomination opportunities
- Two-day Forum, with pre and post activities, rotates around Australia
The OPS SWAP Forum deep dives into the critical aspects of airport operations, offering practical insights and solutions for the challenges airports face every day. From airfield maintenance and safety management systems to emerging technologies, regulatory compliance, and operational resilience, the Forum covers the full spectrum of issues impacting both regional and major airports.
The Forum features:
- Plenary sessions and expert-led panels addressing detailed operational topics such as airside efficiency, terminal operations, and emergency preparedness.
- Case studies and best practices from leading airports to help you improve performance and streamline processes.
- Interactive discussions on innovations in automation, sustainability, and passenger experience.
- An exhibition space showcasing cutting-edge technologies and solutions designed to enhance airport operations.
Pavements and Lighting Forum
- Open to AAA members and non-members
- Held biennially in odd years (i.e. 2025, 27)
- Partnership and exhibition opportunities
- Speaker nomination opportunities
- Two-day Forum, with pre-workshop, rotates around Australia
The Pavements and Lighting Forum forms part of AAA’s commitment to provide the aviation industry with comprehensive technical training.
The Forum is a specialised event addressing technical issues as well as challenges facing Australian airports and aerodromes. The event provides a learning environment dedicated to the exchange of ideas, identifying solutions, showcasing industry best practice as well as providing networking opportunities throughout the Forum and at the evening networking functions.
This Forum is the only event of this nature head in Australia and is an invaluable opportunity to come together with regional and major airport representatives and key stakeholders throughout out Australia.
Airport Retail and Commercial Forum
- Open to AAA members and non-members
- Held annually in July
- Partnership and exhibition opportunities
- Speaker nomination opportunities
- Awards program
- Three-day Forum, rotates around Australia
Since its launch in 2022, the Airport Retail and Commercial Forum has rapidly become the premier gathering for leaders shaping the non-aeronautical airport industry across Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific Islands, and Southeast Asia.
This vibrant event brings together an extraordinary mix of industry influencers from duty-free operators and specialty retailers to food & beverage innovators, foreign exchange providers, ground transport specialists, advertising concessionaires, and more. It’s where ideas meet opportunity, and where the future of airport commerce takes flight.
The Forum is proudly hosted in partnership by the Australian Airports Association (AAA) and The Mercurius Group. Each year, the event moves to a new destination, teaming up with a Host Airport to deliver a unique experience that reflects the local flavour while fostering global connections.
Airport Safety & Emergency Management Forum
- Open to AAA members and non-members
- Held biennially as a stand-alone Forum in odd years (i.e. 2025, 27)
- Held in conjunction with the Airport Operations OPS SWAP Forum in even years (i.e. 2026, 28)
- Partnership opportunities
- Speaker nomination opportunities
- One-day Forum, rotates around Australia
The AAA Airport Safety and Emergency Management Forum is a valuable opportunity for aviation safety and emergency management professionals to hear keynote presentations from industry experts and regulatory bodies, participate in interactive plenary sessions, as well as come together to network and discuss challenges related to airport operational safety and emergency response and disaster management across the Australian aviation industry.
National Conference and Industry Expo
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- Open to AAA members and non-members
- Held annually in November (early December)
- Partnership opportunities
- Industry Expo opportunities
- Speaker nomination opportunities
- National Airport Industry Awards
- Four-day Conference rotates around Australia
- Includes the Women in Airports Forum
As the preeminent aviation event in the Asia-Pacific region, the National Conference and Industry Expo is a dynamic and forward-thinking gathering offering a unique platform for thought leaders, industry experts, and key stakeholders to share insights, explore the latest developments, and continue to redefine the passenger experience.
With an immersive three-day program packed with plenary sessions, case studies, and collaborative breakout discussions, attendees will gain unparalleled access to the industry’s brightest minds as they delve into the most pressing challenges facing the aviation sector. This event is a must-attend for all aviation professionals seeking to stay ahead of the curve and drive the industry forward.
Preceding the National Conference and Industry Expo is the ever-popular Women in Airports Forum.
As the airport sector continues its ongoing commitment to promoting equity and inclusion, the Women in Airports Forum presents a remarkable opportunity for airport and aviation professionals to come together and drive meaningful change. Packed with insightful panel sessions, engaging workshops, and networking opportunities, the Women in Airports Forum is a must-attend event for those passionate about advancing women’s roles in the industry. Prepare to be inspired, empowered, and equipped with the tools necessary to contribute to the ongoing efforts to make aviation a more equitable and diverse landscape.