It was great to catch up with Jon Howell, CEO and Founder of AviaDev Africa, at the recent BARSA event, where he moderated two panel discussions covering infrastructure, investment and innovation, followed by leadership.
But the real focus of our conversation was what comes next: AviaDev Africa 2026, taking place in Botswana from 10 to 12 June.
Jon shares what participants can expect this year. The event will bring together more than 500 delegates from across the aviation industry, including over 50 commercial airlines of all sizes and ownership structures, alongside airports and key stakeholders, with around 1,500 pre-arranged B2B meetings.
This year also sees the introduction of a dedicated finance and leasing forum, reflecting increased participation from financiers and OEMs, and creating a focused platform for investment and aircraft financing discussions.
Alongside a packed programme, don’t forget your running shoes. See you in Botswana.
P.S. You can watch the BARSA leadership session here https://youtu.be/Xz-uA5UdPWw?si=dsCL_Qe-sDkko45T
P.P.S. To get more information on AviaDev Africa 2026 – go here: https://www.aviadev.com/











