With less than a month to go, delegate, sponsor and exhibitor numbers are up compared with last year for the annual Future Opportunities for Seaplanes and Amphibious Aviation conference (FOSAA25).
The organisers believe the strengthened interest demonstrates the growing importance of the amphibious and seaplane segment. The event provides a platform where stakeholders can address the needs, challenges and opportunities for the sector.
FOSAA25 will be held on 11 February 2025 at the Biltmore Hotel in Miami, Florida. It is appealing to delegates across the globe.
“We know this industry meeting makes a difference to the expanding seaplane sector,” said Lorna Titley, director of Quaynote Communications, who organises the event with Arena Group Associates. “Bringing together participants from around the world results in genuine action as delegates learn, share experiences, network and initiate deals. We’re aware that at least three signed agreements originated at FOSAA24. FOSAA is the only dedicated seaplane and amphibious aviation conference globally. For any stakeholder operating, working in or looking to launch, this is a vital event to attend.”
This year’s conference will explore how the sector intersects with other industries, such as luxury tourism, special missions and yachting, to explore opportunities that already exist and that could be created as the next generation of seaplanes comes to market.
Opening the event is Rob Ceravolo, CEO and founder of Tropic Ocean Airlines. Ceravolo will discuss what it takes to create a successful seaplane operation and how to approach the challenges presented. The day’s first panel will dive deeper into the topic with panellists discussing where the opportunities are, what to consider when starting up and how to understand and meet customer expectations. The programme will also include presentations, discussions and debates across a range of themes, including regulations, finance, retrofitting and propulsion.
A new feature for this year’s event is the addition of a comprehensive roundtable session that allows delegates to engage in informal conversations about a diverse range of topics. Each table will be hosted by a subject matter expert, leading discussions on maintenance, medevac interiors, environmental impact, pilot training, cybersecurity and cargo applications. The roundtables complement the formal panels and presentations delivered by industry figureheads.
Companies supporting the event include Anatra, Elfly, Gogo|Satcom Direct, Hartzell Propellors, Jekta, Monte, Textron Aviation and VBL Aviation.
“Without our sponsors, enthusiastic speakers, and passionate delegates, the event would not happen and we’re pleased to welcome them to the event,” said Titley. “Being held against the backdrop of Miami, Florida, where seaplanes play an important part in the local travel network, this event promises to showcase the flexibility, multiple operating parameters and diverse applications for these aircraft. We are excited to showcase that this sector is far from niche and is increasingly influential in supporting a sustainable, accessible global air transport network. With more than 70% of the world covered in water, the opportunities are infinite.”
Image: Tropic Ocean Airlines
