As the countdown begins for the highly anticipated AviaDev Africa 2026, taking place from 10–12 June in Botswana, African Pilot Magazine caught up with Jon Howell, CEO and Founder of AviaDev, for an update on the latest event developments and what participants can expect.
In this interview, Jon outlines the structure of the 2026 programme, including the dedicated Finance Forum, which will bring together African airlines, aircraft lessors, banks, OEMs and finance institutions to discuss aircraft access, leasing, ACMI, wet leasing, funding sources and fleet planning.
He also discusses how AviaDev Africa continues to position itself as a platform where the business of African aviation is done, connecting airlines, airports, tourism authorities, civil aviation stakeholders, investors and route development decision-makers through targeted one-to-one meetings.
The conversation covers Botswana’s role as host country, the work of Botswana Air Access, Air Botswana’s regional connectivity strategy, the participation of more than 50 airlines, and the growing interest from international carriers looking at Africa as a key aviation growth market.
Jon also previews some of the major programme highlights, including CEO-level airline discussions, unserved route reports from Airbus and Embraer, sessions on fuel supply, international markets, aviation finance, market access, and the Lifetime Achievement Award, which this year will be presented to Aaron Munetsi of AASA.
With around 500 delegates expected and more than 1,500 targeted meetings planned, AviaDev Africa 2026 is set to bring together the people shaping the future of African aviation.
Watch the full interview for insight into the event programme, confirmed participation, finance and leasing discussions, and the route development opportunities expected to take centre stage in Botswana. You can also visit the website for more information: https://www.aviadev.com/
