(Posted 02nd June 2026)
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the launch of the World Maintenance & Engineering Symposium (WMES). Under the theme “Reviving the Supply Chain” the event will address supply chain failures and other challenges in maintenance and engineering. The Symposium will take place in Madrid, Spain, on 24–25 June 2026.
“Supply chain instability, engine maintenance bottlenecks, and aircraft delivery delays are holding back efficiency and driving up costs. The first WMES is an opportunity for the industry to collectively explore and action practical solutions to restore reliability and reinforce resilience,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
Speakers and Sessions
Walsh, Andre Schneider, Head of Engineering & Maintenance, Airbus, Aman Sandhu, Director, Systems, Service Engineering, Boeing, Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President, Operations, Safety and Security, and Stuart Fox, IATA’s Director Flight and Technical Operations, will be among the keynote speakers at the event. The Symposium will feature two tracks aiming for practical solutions in the most critical areas affecting the aerospace supply chain:
- The Supply Chain Track will examine aircraft and engine delivery delays, part availability and maintenance planning, and cost management.
- The Operational Efficiency Track will explore measures to improve maintenance performance, reliability and cost control, including through artificial intelligence, maintenance information systems, eTechLog, digital records, and predictive maintenance.
WMES will also include sessions on Used Serviceable Materials, Removal of Disabled Aircraft, and the Future of Workforce, reflecting the wide range of operational, technical, and workforce challenges shaping aircraft maintenance and engineering.
This symposium will bring together global aviation technical operations professionals and industry leaders to address current challenges, explore emerging technologies, regulatory developments, and best practices shaping the future of aircraft maintenance.
