Next week’s Aviation Africa 2015 will underscore the immense potential of the African aviation market, organizers said.

The two-day event is slated for May 10 at Le Meridien Hotel, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

“If you look at the sheer potential of just a handful of African airlines, routes and airports, you realise just how enormous an impact Africa can have on the future of aviation, and moreover you can clearly see just how beneficial a progressive aviation industry can be for the socio-economic future of the continent,” said Alan Peaford, event organiser and summit Chairman.

He said geographically, Africa was ideally located right next to well-established hubs in the Gulf, and is able to capitalise on the passenger and cargo traffic already streaming through the region.

“Aviation Africa 2015 will fill a void in the aviation calendar and give Africa a real chance to progress quickly, effectively and safely,” said Peaford.

Aviation in Africa currently supports more than 6,9 million jobs and over $800 billion in gross domestic product across African nations.

However, annually, a further 155 000 jobs and $1,3 billion in GDP can be added through the effective liberalisation of 12 key markets, including Ghana, Kenya and South Africa among others, according to an independent report published by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Speakers confirmed from African and Middle East airlines already include Girma Wake, chairman, RwandAir (formerly CEO, Ethiopian Airlines); Yves Naninque, CCO ECAir; Many other CEOs and COOs are attending including Africa’s leading cargo operator Astral Aviation, South African Airlines and Daallo Airlines.