Why it matters
Aviation Africa is the primary annual forum where African civil aviation authorities, airline CEOs, and airport procurement decision-makers convene in one venue, making it the most efficient single touchpoint for suppliers and OEMs targeting African fleet, MRO, training, and infrastructure contracts. The 2026 Nairobi edition carries strong government backing and an expanded drone/autonomy programme, opening new procurement conversations in the fast-growing African low-altitude economy. SMEs and startups with Africa-market ambitions can benchmark against 100+ exhibitors and engage directly with 30+ Directors General of Civil Aviation.
About
Aviation Africa is Africa's longest-running annual civil aviation summit and exhibition, bringing together airlines, cargo operators, regulators, airports, OEMs, MRO providers, lessors, training organisations, and aviation service companies from across the continent and globally. The two-day format combines a multi-track conference programme with a co-located trade exhibition. The 2026 edition is the 10th, hosted in Nairobi under the official patronage of Kenya's State Department for Aviation & Aerospace Development, the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, Kenya Airports Authority, and Kenya Airways. A dedicated Drone and Autonomous Systems Track and the inaugural African Drone Regulators Forum have been added for 2026 in partnership with the African Drone Forum.
Market intel
Moderate pricingmedium confidence
The 2025 Kigali edition attracted approximately 2,100 delegates and 120+ exhibitors, with 30 Directors General of Civil Aviation in attendance, reflecting the event's strong regulatory and government draw. The 2026 Nairobi edition expands the programme with a dedicated drone and autonomous systems track and the inaugural African Drone Regulators Forum. Confirmed exhibitors and sponsors for 2026 include Bell Flight, Diamond Aircraft, and Simaero, among a broad mix of OEMs, MRO providers, and training organisations.
Notable exhibitorsBell FlightDiamond Aircraft IndustriesSimaeroDeutsche AircraftAviAssist FoundationAfrican Drone Forum (ADF Pavilion)DAR Al-Handasah (Platinum sponsor, 2025)
AI-researched Wed, 2 September 2026. Estimates from public sources. Verify with the organizer.
Topics
AirUAS / DronesAutonomy & RoboticsSimulation & TrainingProcurement
Who it's for
PrimesSMEsStartupsInstitutions