The Future Opportunities for Seaplanes and Amphibious Aviation (FOSAA) conference, organized by Quaynote Communications and Arena Group, successfully debuted in Venice on March 20, 2024, confirming the growing demand for a dedicated event focusing on the resurgent seaplane and amphibious aviation sector.
The one-day conference attracted commercial stakeholders from across the globe, including Asia, Europe, and the USA, bringing together industry entrepreneurs and experts determined to bring amphibious aviation into the mainstream aerospace sector.
With ten prospective OEMs in attendance, the event highlighted the potential offered by new propulsion technology, composite materials, innovative aerospace design, and the sustainable imperative. Participants agreed that collaboration would generate continuity and longevity for the industry.
Calls for standardization in global operations, passenger expectations, regulations, and infrastructure requirements were also debated throughout the meeting. Educating industry regulators, investors, and mainstream aerospace colleagues was deemed essential to change the perception of the sector as a niche industry.
Representatives from various applications, including aerial firefighting, commuter services, experiential and tourist operations, medevac, and regional and business aviation, confirmed the multiple uses the sector currently serves. The event also highlighted opportunities presented by new and emerging markets that would optimize the benefits of sustainable amphibious airframes, welcome economic stimulation, and create untapped prospects.
Lorna Titley, Director of Quaynote Communications, said, “We learned that amphibious aviation offers a perfect combination of flexibility, access, and secure operations that serve first and last-mile sectors, regional needs, and communities otherwise disconnected by large tracts of water. With more than 70% of the planet covered in water and millions of miles of coastline and river attracting communities, cities and metropolises, there is no doubt that as we look to the future, this group of professionals will add a vital new offering to the global air transport network.”
The oversubscribed event received positive feedback from delegates, with discussions already underway for next year’s location. Sponsors included connectivity provider Satcom Direct, Shinmaywa Industries of Japan, next-generation OEMs JEKTA and Elfly, industrial designer MBVision, and Aeropuerto Nicelli.
