RAAA shows strength through community - Australian Flying

RAAA’s 2026 convention reinforced how regional aviation benefits from community-driven collaboration, even as key political participation was limited. Senator Bridget McKenzie was unable to attend Cairns and instead delivered a pre-recorded video, but the event still underscored the Regional Aviation Association of Australia’s rising significance for the sector’s nationwide health. Over two days, delegates heard from politicians, aviation regulators, technology and mental health experts, and industry figures. Topics in plenary sessions spanned multiple issues for all aviation sectors, with AI highlighted by an Adam Spencer presentation and a follow-on panel featuring Qantas’ Rachel Yangoyan, CASA’s Reece Clothier, and Basair’s David Trevelyan. RAAA CEO Rob Walker said strong feedback came from 300-plus delegates and that 50-plus exhibitors and the social program contributed to the convention being “the best ever.”