Malta Aviation Conference and Expo 2025 – MACE

Malta Aviation Conference and Expo 2025 Charts a Path for the Industry’s Next Chapter

The seventh edition of Malta Aviation Conference and Expo (MACE) has drawn to a close following three days of workshops, discussion, and collaboration among global aviation leaders, innovators, and policymakers.

Held on 28–30 October 2025 at the Corinthia, St George’s Bay, this year’s conference, themed “Navigating New Frontiers”, explored how the aviation industry is redefining itself amid rapid technological change, regulatory evolution, and renewed sustainability commitments.

MACE attracts over 300 delegates and features more than 30 expert speakers that represent various facets of aviation, including airlines, aircraft manufacturers, airports, suppliers, and service providers.

Opening

The event was opened by the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure & Public Works, Hon. Dr Chris Bonett, alongside representatives from Transport Malta – MACE’s main sponsor since inception, setting the tone for an engaging two-day programme that brought together operators, regulators, investors, and service providers from across Europe, Africa, and the United States.

Now firmly established as a key fixture on the international aviation calendar, MACE 2025 offered a dynamic platform for networking, debate, and the exchange of best practices. Sessions examined the transformative impact of artificial intelligence, access to finance, and geopolitical trends, while also addressing the people challenge, training innovation, and sustainability goals shaping the industry’s future.

AI (artificial intelligence) on aviation

MACE 2025 features a key topic this year: impact of AI (artificial intelligence) on aviation. AI continues to revolutionize industries worldwide, and aviation is no exception. From air traffic control (ATC) and autonomous aircraft to predictive maintenance and customer service, AI is paving the way for significant advances in efficiency and safety.

Paolo Sommariva, CEO and Co-founder of FL3XX, a global leader in business aviation management, discussed the challenges of AI for aviation together with Gege Gatt, CEO of EBO, Rachel Shutere, and Marton Kravalik of NERD.aero in an interesting meeting entitled: “Is AI a Challenge or an Opportunity”

Speakers

Among the speakers of 2025 edition, some important names from the world of global aviation stand out:

Dr. Chris Bonett – Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works
Adefunke Adeyemi – Secretary General of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC)
Charles Pace – Director General for Civil Aviation, Transport Malta
Kurt Farrugia – CEO Authority of Transport in Malta
Federico Ricci Buffetti – EU Affairs Manager at European Business Aviation Association (EBAA)
Cate Bichara – Ambassador for Diversity in Transport, DG MOVE
Louise Dowson – CEO of Flypeople

Pre-MACE workshops

This year also marked an expansion of the programme, with pre-MACE workshops led by NERD.aero and Gogo Air, followed by networking events that fostered stronger engagement across all sectors of the aviation ecosystem. Throughout the conference, participants benefitted from opportunities to connect with peers, explore collaboration prospects, and contribute to forward-looking discussions on growth, safety, and innovation.

“With over 30 international speakers and nearly 300 attendees, MACE 2025 reflected the spirit of transformation currently reshaping the aviation industry. From digitalisation and decarbonisation to market expansion and workforce development, the conversations highlighted the importance of adaptability and partnership. We are proud that MACE continues to serve as a hub where global insights and Maltese expertise converge to help the industry navigate new frontiers.” – MACE co-founders Stanley Bugeja, Jonathan Dalli, and Joshua Zammit in a joint statement.

Conclusion

As the event closed, participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration and innovation across the sector, positioning Malta as an increasingly influential hub for aviation excellence and regulatory leadership.

MACE 2025 is increasingly becoming a platform where aviation professionals can meet, share knowledge, and collaborate on solutions that will shape the future of aviation.

With the ongoing changes and evolution of the civil aviation sector, MACE remains a leading industry event, where experts and professionals present innovative solutions, build new relationships, and contribute to the growth of the global aviation industry.

from BSA HQ Switzerland: Daniele Maiolo
Photos courtesy of Malta Aviation Conference and Expo