General Assembly 2026, June 12th, Bari
The 2026 Air Tech Italy General Assembly, hosted by Airports of Puglia in Bari, marked an important milestone in the continued growth of Italy’s aviation ecosystem. Bringing together member companies, airports, institutions and industry stakeholders, the event highlighted the increasing role of collaboration in shaping the future of airports and air transport.
Throughout the Assembly, one message emerged clearly: the future of aviation will be built through innovation, partnerships and the integration of technologies across the wider airport ecosystem.
Airports as Platforms for Innovation
A central theme of the Assembly was the transformation of airports from transport infrastructure into hubs for innovation, sustainability and economic development.
Airports of Puglia showcased how airports can become living laboratories for the aviation sector through initiatives such as Italy’s first spaceport at Grottaglie Airport and the national aerial civil protection base at Foggia Airport. The airport network continues to create opportunities for technology testing, validation and certification, supporting both industry and regional development.
The Assembly also welcomed insights from airport leaders, including presentations by Airports of Puglia and Tirana International Airport, further strengthening the dialogue between airport operators and the aviation supply chain. These exchanges highlighted the importance of close cooperation between airports and industry in delivering the next generation of airport infrastructure and services.
Strengthening Institutional Collaboration
A key highlight of the Assembly was the strengthening of Air Tech Italy’s collaboration with national institutions.
ENAC presented the forthcoming framework agreement with Air Tech Italy, establishing structured cooperation on technical and regulatory topics, innovation initiatives and policy development. The agreement will create new opportunities for working groups and knowledge exchange between regulators and industry.
The association also confirmed further collaboration with the Italian Air Force, reinforcing its ambition to build bridges across the broader aviation ecosystem.
Expanding the Airport Ecosystem
Reflecting the increasingly interconnected nature of modern infrastructure, members approved the creation of a new Airport Ecosystem segment within the association.
This new segment recognises that airports are increasingly linked with sectors such as digital technologies, energy, logistics, mobility and intermodal transport. By broadening its scope, Air Tech Italy aims to support innovation across the entire airport value chain and create new opportunities for collaboration.
The introduction of a new Supporter category will also allow organisations from complementary sectors to contribute expertise and strengthen cooperation with the association.
Internationalisation Remains a Strategic Priority
Supporting Italian companies in expanding internationally remains one of Air Tech Italy’s core missions.
The association continues to organise trade missions, participate in leading international exhibitions and develop partnerships with peer organisations across Europe. These initiatives help members access new markets, identify business opportunities and showcase Italian expertise on the global stage.
By creating stronger international networks, Air Tech Italy contributes to positioning Italy as a global leader in airport technologies and services.
Thought Leadership and Digital Transformation
The General Assembly also highlighted several initiatives aimed at increasing the visibility and influence of the association.
These include:
- The launch of a redesigned website to improve member visibility and engagement;
- The publication of white papers and industry insights;
- Enhanced digital tools and member services;
- Greater focus on communication and thought leadership.
Together, these initiatives reinforce Air Tech Italy’s ambition to become the leading voice of the Italian aviation supply chain.
The New Board of Directors (2026–2029)
The General Assembly elected a new Board of Directors representing the broad expertise of the Italian aviation industry:
Airfield – Carlo Criscuolo, Tecno Engineering 2C
Air Traffic Management – Roberto Weger, SITTI
Construction & Services – Alessia Forte, Forte Secur Group
Engineering & Consulting – Giulio De Carli, One Works
Ground Support Equipment (GSE) – Andrea Cesarini, Aviogei
Information Technology (IT) – Gabriele Ruggeri, Custom
Terminal – Marco Gaspari, Poltrona Frau
Airport Ecosystem – Guido Guidelli Guidi, OCEM Airfield Technology
Together, the Board will guide Air Tech Italy through its next phase of growth, focused on innovation, internationalisation and stronger collaboration between industry, airports and institutions.
Each of the Board Members are introduced on our specific page, check this out here.
Looking Ahead
The closing message of the General Assembly was clear: Italy possesses world-class aviation expertise, but future success will depend on collaboration and active participation.
As airports evolve and new technologies emerge, Air Tech Italy remains committed to creating opportunities for its members, fostering innovation and strengthening Italy’s position in global aviation.
By connecting companies, airports and institutions, Air Tech Italy is helping shape the future of aviation—together.
Interested in becoming a Member and changing the future of aviation with us? Get in touch with us here.