Qatar Airways has hosted the 59th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Arab Air Carriers’ Organization (AACO) in Doha, Qatar, bringing together more than 200 senior aviation executives and industry stakeholders to discuss regional cooperation and the future of the aviation sector. Held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, the three day gathering is taking place from November 2 to 4, 2026, at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel.
The annual meeting provides a platform for airline executives, industry partners and aviation organisations to address challenges affecting air transport across the Arab world. Discussions are focused on regional connectivity, geopolitical uncertainties, operational pressures and environmental sustainability. The gathering also aims to strengthen cooperation among airlines and identify practical approaches to improving the resilience and competitiveness of the aviation industry.
Qatar Airways Opens Major Regional Aviation Gathering in Doha
The 59th AACO Annual General Meeting officially opened on November 2, with addresses from Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer and AGM Chairman Hamad Al-Khater, and AACO Secretary General Abdul Wahab Teffaha. The event has attracted chief executives from AACO member airlines, partner carriers and representatives of leading organisations across the aviation industry. More than 200 senior executives and stakeholders are participating in the gathering, making it an important platform for regional aviation discussions.
In his opening remarks, Al-Khater highlighted the role of Arab airlines in connecting people, businesses and economies across six continents. He noted that geopolitical developments continue to disrupt global connectivity, making regional cooperation increasingly important for the industry. He also emphasised the need to build on partnerships and strengthen the resilience of the region’s aviation sector. Qatar Airways welcomed the opportunity to host the assembly and contribute to discussions on the future of Arab aviation.
AACO Highlights Cooperation Amid Global Aviation Challenges
AACO Secretary General Abdul Wahab Teffaha welcomed participants to Doha and expressed appreciation to the State of Qatar and Qatar Airways for hosting the annual meeting. He highlighted the challenges facing aviation, including geopolitical uncertainty, operational pressures and the growing importance of environmental sustainability. According to Teffaha, Arab airlines have continued adapting to changing conditions while maintaining their contribution to international air connectivity. He described the AGM as an opportunity to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships and identify practical solutions to shared industry challenges.
The meeting is expected to support discussions on the competitiveness and long-term resilience of Arab aviation. Cooperation among airlines is particularly important as the industry responds to changing market conditions and operational demands. Through the annual gathering, member airlines and industry partners can share experience and explore areas of common interest. The discussions also underline the importance of maintaining reliable air connections that support economic activity and international travel.
Industry Sessions to Examine Aviation Trends and Strategic Priorities
The AGM’s working sessions, scheduled for November 3, will begin with the AACO Secretary General’s State of the Industry report, covering recent developments, challenges and opportunities across the aviation sector. The programme will also include an address by Arab Civil Aviation Organization Director General Khalid Cherkaoui. Bloomberg is scheduled to present an overview of the global economic outlook and its potential implications for aviation. These sessions will provide participants with perspectives on the wider economic and operational environment affecting airlines.
The programme also features the Arab Aviation Summit, including a high-level panel discussion involving airline chief executives and aviation leaders. Participants will examine major issues shaping the industry’s future and discuss possible approaches to shared challenges. A closed-door session for AACO members will follow the summit, focusing on internal and administrative matters as well as strategic issues affecting member airlines. The programme is designed to encourage discussion and cooperation among aviation leaders from across the region.
Qatar Airways and AACO Emphazise Global Connectivity
Qatar Airways’ role as host reflects its continued support for collaboration and the exchange of expertise across the aviation industry. The airline operates an extensive international network connecting Doha with more than 170 destinations through Hamad International Airport. This network highlights Doha’s role as an international aviation hub and demonstrates the importance of air connectivity to regional economic growth and global trade. Hosting the annual meeting also provides an opportunity to bring industry leaders together in Qatar.
Established in 1965 within the framework of the Arab League of States, AACO represents the common interests of Arab airlines at regional and international levels. The organisation has 39 member airlines and five partner airlines. In 2025, its member airlines collectively operated approximately 4,604 daily flights, serving 502 airports across 129 countries. The 59th AGM provides a platform for these airlines and their partners to discuss cooperation, industry challenges and the future development of regional and international air transport.
