Domestic and now international rivals Virgin Australia and Qantas will headline the CAPA Airline Leader Summit Australia Pacific held from 31 July to 1 August, and hosted for the first time in Cairns, Queensland.
The flagship aviation event, held at Cairns Convention Centre, will bring together hundreds of aviation, tourism, and travel industry leaders from across the Asia Pacific and beyond.
A highlight of CAPA summits, attendees will gain access to some of the industry’s biggest names. Key speakers include new Virgin Australia CEO David Emerson and the CFO from its new partner airline, Qatar Airways, Duncan Naysmith, as well as Qantas Domestic CEO Markus Svensson.
Joining them will be Race Strauss, CFO, Virgin Australia; Richard Barker, CEO, North Queensland Airports; Margy Osmond, CEO, Tourism & Transport Forum; Jeremy O’Brien, Acting Chief Commercial Officer, Air New Zealand; and Christian Bennett, Chief Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Officer, Virgin Australia.
CAPA – Centre for Aviation (CAPA), part of Aviation Week Network, is the leading provider of independent aviation market intelligence, analysis and data services covering worldwide developments.
Key themes for 2025
- Navigating geopolitical tensions and their impact on market access and airline networks
- The role of AI and emerging technologies in aviation
- Shifting traveller behaviours and spending patterns
- Sustainability and the transition to low-carbon aviation
- Strengthening local and international aviation partnerships
Content panel discussions
Exclusive airline leader interviews
Hear from Virgin Australia, CEO, David Emerson; Air New Zealand, CCO, Jeremy O’Brien; and Qantas Domestic, CEO, Markus Svensson Find out more.
Geopolitical Tensions and Market Access
How shifting global politics are shaping airline strategies, market access, and operational resilience across the Asia Pacific. Find out more.
AI and Emerging Technologies in Aviation
Exploring how artificial intelligence and innovative tech are transforming efficiency, customer experience, and the competitive landscape. Find out more.
Aviation Sustainability and Low-Carbon Transition
Examining the aviation industry’s progress toward decarbonisation, regulatory requirements, and the challenges of implementing sustainable practices.
