Dead Sea, Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan – October 30, 2024 – Under the Royal Patronage of His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein, the Arab Air Carriers’ Organization (AACO) convenes its 57th Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar on the shores of the Dead Sea. This prestigious event, held from October 29 to 31, 2024, is hosted by Royal Jordanian, the national carrier of Jordan, with an impressive turnout of over 200 distinguished guests, including CEOs of AACO member airlines, global aviation partners, and key stakeholders from sectors ranging from aircraft manufacturing to information technology.
The AGM, situated at the lowest inhabited point on earth, underscores Jordan’s unique geographical and cultural role as a bridge between East and West and stands as a testament to the Kingdom’s steadfast progress in the aviation sector. The opening ceremony, held on October 29, featured a welcome address by Eng. Samer Majali, Vice Chairman and CEO of Royal Jordanian, who proudly acknowledged the support of His Majesty King Abdullah II and the Jordanian government. Majali emphasized Jordan’s resilience in an increasingly complex global market and highlighted Royal Jordanian’s role as a pivotal player in regional and international aviation.
“Hosting the AACO Annual General Meeting here in Jordan, at the heart of the Dead Sea, symbolizes not only Jordan’s resilience but also our continued success and strategic importance,” Majali stated. “With the steadfast backing of His Majesty King Abdullah II, Royal Jordanian has evolved into a leading force, one that not only strengthens Jordan’s tourism and economic landscape but also reinforces our role in the global aviation community.”
Eng. Wesam Tahtamoni, Minister of Transport, attended the opening on behalf of His Majesty, lending government support to the AGM and underscoring the commitment to fortify Jordan’s position within the aviation industry. Majali extended gratitude to H.E. Lina Annab, Minister of Tourism, and H.E. Mohannad Shehadeh, Minister of Economic Affairs, whose presence highlighted the Jordanian government’s investment in the aviation sector’s potential to drive tourism and economic development. Majali also commended the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority, which sponsored an exclusive excursion to Petra, underscoring the critical role of partnerships in the event’s success.
In his speech, AACO Secretary General Abdul Wahab Teffaha expressed gratitude to His Majesty King Abdullah II for his patronage and praised Minister Tahtamoni for her presence. He lauded Jordan’s aviation sector as a vital player in the regional market, noting that AACO’s efforts to address global challenges in the industry have been consistently supported by the Kingdom’s vision for growth and excellence.
Following the opening ceremony, the AGM’s agenda on October 30 will feature multiple working sessions at Kempinski Hotel Dead Sea, including a tribute to H.E. Mr. Akbar Al Baker, Advisor to the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar, recognizing his contributions to aviation. AACO Secretary General Teffaha will present an industry report, followed by an address from Mr. Mohamad Rahma, Director of ICAO’s Air Transport Bureau, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the historic Chicago Convention that paved the way for modern aviation.
The three-day event will culminate in the Arab Aviation Summit, where leading figures, including Royal Jordanian’s CEO Samer Majali, will engage in panel discussions on pressing industry challenges. The Summit is expected to foster strategic dialogue and partnership building, enabling the regional aviation sector to navigate global uncertainties and economic shifts. A closed session will conclude the AGM, allowing AACO members to address key administrative, financial, and strategic initiatives for the coming year.
The 57th AACO AGM, hosted by Royal Jordanian, exemplifies Jordan’s commitment to advancing regional aviation excellence. Through collaboration, vision, and innovation, Jordan remains a central force in fostering regional connectivity and contributing to a more resilient and robust Arab aviation industry.–News Desk