Routes Americas 2018

The route development forum for the Americas

Quito, Ecuador
13 – 15 February 2018

Conference Programme

This year’s conference programme will run across the three days of the event comprising CEO interview sessions, panel discussions and airlines briefings. All delegates are invited to attend the conference program, which will bring together high-level speakers and will explore the challenges and opportunities for the aviation industry in the America's region.

Tuesday, 13 February 2018

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    Fireside Chat – A life in aviation and facing new Latin American challenges

    In frank and informal conversation, Viva Air’s Declan Ryan will outline how he visualises the continent’s growth prospects and the potential that exists for his airline.

    Ryan has been involved with establishing or managing six low-cost carriers over the past 30 years, including Ryanair, VivaAerobus, Tiger Airways of Singapore, and Allegiant Air in the US.

    In this conversation, we will explore the projects he has led and the challenges he has faced over the years. We will also find out why he is focused on trying to revolutionise the Latin American market.

  • In the aviation world, competition is not only between airlines but also between airports. It is therefore key to keep discovering new ways of increasing your competitiveness.

    Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority has enhanced its marketing efforts in recent years, actively promoting Washington Dulles International (IAD) to passengers and airlines. In this session, the authority gives insights on ways to make airports more competitive and stand out from the competition.

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    Networking Break

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    Panel Debate – Recovering from disasters

    From hurricanes to flooding, earthquakes to landslides; there have been some deadly natural disasters in recent months, shaking the Americas and the Caribbean and causing mass disruption for airports and airlines alike.

    Last August Hurricane Harvey became the first major hurricane to strike the US for more than a decade, with Hurricane Irma following a month later and causing devastation, including to the world-famous airport in St Maarten. During the same month, Hurricane Maria devastated the island of Puerto Rico, forcing American Airlines and JetBlue to cancel scores of flights.

    The effects of air transport disruption can be felt worldwide, with economies often taking years to recover from the destruction caused. So what can the industry do to help mitigate the damage and minimise losses? What lessons can be learned from the recent disasters? How can tourism organisations reposition destinations after major incidents? What are the long-term implications for airlines and airports?

Wednesday, 14 February 2018

Thursday, 15 February 2018

* Please note like all events, the programme is subject to change.