Northern Ireland has welcomed leaders from major airlines and some of world’s top aviation businesses this week, as ICC Belfast hosts the European Regional Airlines Association (ERAA).
The conference and exhibition on 7-8 October is being attended by representatives from many of the ERAA’s 58 airline members along with delegates from over 220 businesses across the aviation ecosystem.
The event programme is focused on what’s next for regional aviation. It features topics including aviation security, ground-breaking new aircraft developments, airport infrastructure, digitalisation, operational efficiency and technologies powering the aviation industry’s green energy transition.
Speakers have included airline bosses from Emerald Air and Loganair and leaders from the Civil Aviation Authority, the Irish Aviation Authority and the European Commission’s Head of Aviation Policy.
The event also attracted top executives from global aviation giants, including the European head of ATR, the world’s leading manufacturer of regional aviation aircraft, and a senior executive from Brazilian aerospace firm Embraer, the third largest producer of civil aircraft after Boeing and Airbus.
The theme of the European Regional Airlines Association event was The future of regional aviation: connectivity at a crossroads. Along with a full conference programme, senior airline and airport CEOs convened for a closed-door discussion on the evolving landscape of regional connectivity. This high-level gathering will help shape a shared vision for how aviation will adapt and thrive in the years ahead. Leaders discussed the strategic challenges shaping their businesses, from emerging threats to long-term resilience.
European Regional Airlines Association
Speaking at the event, Northern Ireland Minister for the Economy, Caoimhe Archibald MLA said: “As an island economy on the edge of Europe, strong air connectivity is vital to our economic future. It connects businesses to markets, supports tourism and investment and creates opportunity.
“That is why I have led the development of the north’s first regional aviation policy, with a clear focus on strengthening domestic and international connectivity and supporting sustainable growth. Working in partnership with airports, airlines and industry, including the ERAA, will be key.”
The Minister repeated her continued call for reform of Air Passenger Duty, adding: “My position on APD is clear. It is an unfair tax imposed by the British Government which disproportionately impacts the north of Ireland and our ability to compete for connectivity, tourism and investment. I will continue to press for reform and ensure its impact is recognised.”
Matthew Hall, Chief Executive at Belfast City Airport, said: “Belfast City Airport is a proud supporter of the ERAA General Assembly 2026 as it comes to Belfast for the first time. This is a significant milestone for Northern Ireland’s aviation sector, demonstrating the vital role regional airports play in connecting communities, supporting development and creating opportunities for economic growth.
“Our Master Plan 2040 sets out a clear vision to strengthen Northern Ireland’s connectivity for decades to come, in a sustainable and responsible way. Key links to the UK and Europe will remain essential, and our proposals are designed to ensure Belfast City Airport can continue to strengthen those connections while enhancing regional competitiveness and attracting investment.
“As the aviation industry comes together in Belfast, the General Assembly provides an opportunity to demonstrate how regional airports can balance connectivity, growth, and sustainability, and the important role our Master Plan will play in delivering those benefits for future generations.”
Montserrat Barriga, Director General, European Regions Airline Association (ERAA) said: “We are delighted to bring the ERAA General Assembly to Belfast. Regional aviation plays a vital role across the island of Ireland, supporting economic growth, tourism and essential connectivity – making Belfast a fitting place to discuss the future of our sector. It was a privilege to welcome Dr Caoimhe Archibald, Northern Ireland’s Economy Minister, to deliver our keynote address as we consider the challenges and opportunities facing regional connectivity.”
Ross Moffett, Sales Director at ICC Belfast said: “Connectivity is critical to any venue in the international events industry. Ease of access to venues like ICC Belfast is critical in the make-or-break decision making process of awarding a contract to any city destination. We are lucky to have Belfast City Airport just ten minutes from our venue and Belfast International Airport only 25 minutes away. Strong relationships with regional airlines are not only crucial to the success of our business, but to the many other suppliers and businesses who support our hospitality ecosystem.”
