WATS 2024
The World Aviation Training Symposium
30th April - May 2nd, 2024.
Rosen Shingle Creek Resort, Orlando, Florida, US
Get ready for the World Aviation Training Summit (WATS) 2024, the premier gathering of aviation training professionals from around the globe. Hosted by Halldale Group, WATS is the world's largest event dedicated to aviation training, serving airlines, aircraft manufacturers, regulators, training providers, and the training industry at large.
This year, we have new exhibitors, new speakers, new breakout sessions, new sponsors, next technology and much more, make sure you plan your visit to get the most out of the event!
Speaker Highlights
US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Michael G. Whitaker will keynote the 2024 World Aviation Training Summit (WATS) in Orlando, kicking off proceedings before we split into pilot, cabin crew and maintenance streams.
The pilot conference is packed with industry experts ready to share best practice and showcase new solutions. Among those is esteemed author, Erika Armstrong, who wrote the bestselling book A CHICK IN THE COCKPIT. Erika, a seasoned aviation professional with a diverse career spanning 30 years, will be shedding light on a crucial aspect often overlooked in pilot training—the pilot's own brain.
In the Cabin Crew Conference, moderator Ian Mitchell, Lead Cabin Crew Designer at Air Canada, has coordinated an eye-catching conference full of interactive sessions, to enhance the learning experience for WATS attendees.
One such workshop will be held by Jose Alfonso, formerly of the Boston Police Department, who promises an action packed time as he puts attendees through their paces in his threat response session.
We are delighted to have George Perrin leading The Maintenance Conference for the first time. George, in 2023, was awarded the Charles Taylor Master Mechanic Award, the most prestigious award the FAA issues to persons certified under Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 65.
Expanding our offering, we have brought in a fourth stream dedicated to Ab Initio training. This will be spearheaded by Paul Preidecker, a former chief flight instructor, examiner, and captain with over 30 years experience in the airline industry, and will cater for providers and potential employers seeking graduates from Approved Training Organizations (ATOs).
WATS Sessions
What makes WATS stand out is its unique focus on bringing together leaders across the entire airline training community. From training organizations and equipment suppliers to academia, airlines, regulators, and NGOs involved in airline training, WATS offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with peers, explore new technologies, and stay ahead of industry trends.
Adding to this, we have four specialised breakout meetings.
- The Heads of Training Meeting - Monday 29th April - 1600-1800 - Wekiwa 6/7
- LATAM & Caribbean Training Leaders Meeting - Wednesday 1st May - 1400-1600 - Wekiwa 4/5
- Women in Aviation Training - Wednesday 1st May - 0730-0900 - Wekiwa 4/5
- And a special session dedicated to Training Generation Z and younger Millennials - Tuesday 30th April - 1630-1830 - Wekiwa 4/5
All four meetings require pre-registration to attend, so make sure you do before arriving in Orlando.
And to ensure you have the smoothest entry into the conference, make sure you collect your WATS badge as soon as possible.
This year, we have send you a quick scan QR code to ensure your badge can be retrieved.
Immersive Trade Show
Over three focused days, WATS 2024 will feature a comprehensive trade show where equipment manufacturers, eLearning providers, flight training organizations, maintenance and cabin crew suppliers, and selection providers will showcase their latest products and services. This curated exhibition is tailor-made for a dedicated airline simulation and training audience.
We are delighted to welcome a number of new exhibitors for 2024
Connect with the decision makers
WATS provides a unique opportunity to engage with key decision-makers within the international airline training community. Attendees can explore the latest training technologies and techniques, fostering discussions that drive operational safety and efficiency. The summit creates a relaxed yet professional environment, enabling the development of new and existing relationships. Experience the ability to 'do three months of business in three days' at a fraction of the cost of traditional travel and meetings.
We have networking events each day to ensure you get the chance to speak with attendees. Kicking off with the Icebreaker reception on Monday evening.
