The Cook Islands welcomed airline executives, aviation specialists, tourism leaders and industry partners from across the Pacific last week for the 81st instalment of the Association of South Pacific Airlines (ASPA81).
The conference was hosted by Air Rarotonga and Cook Islands Tourism Corporation and held in Rarotonga from 18-20 May 2026.
Following the theme ‘Island Economies in Flight: Strategic Partnerships Aviation–Tourism’, delegates took part in a program of industry presentations and panel discussions.
Speakers and organisations featured during ASPA81 included International Air Transport Association (IATA), South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), Boeing, Airbus, Embraer, Brisbane Airport Corporation, Gallagher Aerospace, CAPA, DA Aerospace, Airway and ASPA member airlines from across the Pacific.
ASPA Chairman and Air Rarotonga managing director Sir Ewan Smith said the conference highlighted the importance of partnerships across the Pacific aviation sector.
“Pacific aviation operates in a unique environment, and forums like ASPA remain incredibly important for sharing ideas, addressing common challenges and strengthening regional connectivity,” Sir Ewan said.
“The Cook Islands was proud to host delegates from across the Pacific and demonstrate the value of partnership between aviation and tourism.”
Creating connections and exposure
The timing of this year’s conference was particularly notable as Jetstar launched its inaugural Brisbane to Rarotonga service last week, creating a major gateway from Australia to the Cook Islands.
Next week will see the commencement of the airline’s Christchurch to Rarotonga service.
Cook Islands Tourism Corporation CEO Karla Eggelton said hosting ASPA81 created valuable exposure and long-term opportunities for the Cook Islands.
“Hosting ASPA81 allows the Cook Islands to showcase not only our destination, but also the way we think about aviation, tourism and regional partnership,” Eggelton said.
“For small island states, connectivity is critical – but sustainable connectivity requires collaboration, shared commitment and strong destination demand. ASPA81 has provided an important opportunity to share experiences, strengthen relationships and continue building partnerships across our region.”
Beyond the conference, delegates also experienced Cook Islands culture, hospitality and tourism offerings through networking events, cultural performances, local cuisine and island experiences hosted throughout the week.
ASPA secretary general David Tohi said the islands made a strong impression across the event.
“For many of these well-seasoned and well-travelled aviation professionals, this was their first time visiting the Cook Islands and judging by the feedback, it certainly will not be the last,” Tohi said.
“The Cook Islands has left a lasting impression on many delegates through its hospitality, strong tourism offering, and the way the country has demonstrated the close connection between aviation, tourism and community.”
The next ASPA event is scheduled for November 2026 in Tahiti, French Polynesia.
