IATA launches world maintenance and engineering symposium | News
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced the launch of the World Maintenance & Engineering Symposium (WMES). Under the theme “Reviving the Supply Chain,” the event will address supply chain disruptions and other maintenance and engineering challenges. The symposium will take place in Madrid, Spain, on June 24 and 25, 2026.
“Supply chain instability, engine maintenance bottlenecks and aircraft delivery delays are holding back efficiency and driving up costs. The first WMES is an opportunity for industry to jointly explore and implement practical solutions to restore reliability and strengthen resilience,” said Willie Walsh, Director General of IATA.
Speakers and sessions
Walsh, Andre Schneider, Head of Engineering & Maintenance, Airbus, Aman Sandhu, Director of Systems, Service Engineering, Boeing, Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President, Operations, Safety and Security, and Stuart Fox, IATA’s Director of Flight and Technical Operations, will be among the keynote speakers at the event. The symposium will include two tracks focused on practical solutions in the most critical areas impacting the aerospace supply chain:
The Supply Chain Track examines delays in aircraft and engine deliveries, parts availability, maintenance planning and cost management.
The Operational Efficiency Track will explore measures to improve maintenance performance, reliability and cost control, including through artificial intelligence, maintenance information systems, eTechLog, digital records and predictive maintenance.
WMES also includes sessions on serviceable materials used, disposal of disabled aircraft and the future of the workforce, reflecting the wide range of operational, technical and workforce challenges shaping aircraft maintenance and engineering.
This symposium will bring together global aviation engineering operations professionals and industry leaders to address current challenges, explore emerging technologies, regulatory developments and best practices shaping the future of aircraft maintenance.
WMES is open to accredited members of the press.
