More than 1000 aviation delegates will descend on Melbourne for the 151st International Air Transport Association (IATA) Slot Conference later this year - delivering a multi-million dollar boost to the economy.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula today confirmed the 151st IATA Slot Conference will welcome more than 230 airlines to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 15-18 November 2022.
The conference - backed by the Andrews Labor Government - is set to attract more than 1,000 delegates, filling more than 2,300 hotel room nights and injecting an estimated $4.7 million into the economy.
The Melbourne Convention Bureau worked in partnership with Melbourne Airport to secure the conference, in which the world's airlines come together to finalise global flight schedules and airport slot allocations - the authorisation to take-off or land at a particular airport on a particular day during a specified time period.
Slots are a tool used around the world to manage air traffic at extremely busy airports and are critical to an aviation market that is returning to full capacity.
The bi-annual conference is one of IATA's largest events, bringing airlines and airports together to negotiate slots that will give them the best possible schedule to offer their passengers.
The conference also provides an opportunity to showcase Melbourne's strengths as a business events and visitor destination.
As stated by Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula
"Attracting global business events to Melbourne delivers a big boost to our hospitality and tourism sectors, while supporting local jobs."
"Being the host city for this major aviation conference will help keep Melbourne front of mind for airlines to boost their flight services to Victoria."
As stated by Melbourne Airport Chief of Aviation Jim Parashos
"Melbourne is competing for airline attention with cities around the world, and this conference is a fantastic opportunity to show the decision makers at major global carriers what an attractive destination we are.
