CONNECT 2027 heads to Trieste

The Airport Agency, creator of the CONNECT Route Development Forum, has announced that Trieste will host the 23rd edition of CONNECT from 23-25 February 2027. The event will be held at the Generali Convention Center in the city’s historic Old Port.

Organised in partnership with the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, PromoTurismo FVG and Trieste Airport, the forum is expected to attract over 800 aviation industry decision-makers from more than 65 countries, including airlines, airports and tourism bodies. The programme will feature pre-arranged meetings, a conference agenda and networking events focused on route development and industry collaboration.

Trieste’s selection reflects its position as a gateway between Central Europe and the Mediterranean, supported by strong transport links and a growing regional economy. The Friuli Venezia Giulia region has also seen rising tourism demand, welcoming over 3.3 million visitors in 2025.

Local officials said hosting CONNECT represents an opportunity to boost the region’s international visibility, attract investment and further develop air connectivity.

Trieste Airport, which handled 1.7 million passengers, has recorded strong growth in recent years and continues to expand its network. Its CEO, Fabio Gallo, said: “We are very pleased that Friuli Venezia Giulia will host CONNECT 2027 in Trieste. This is one of the most important commercial aviation events, which will bring to our region hundreds of delegates and representatives of airlines, airports and operators from all over Europe.”

CONNECT is an established industry forum aimed at supporting the development of new air services and strengthening partnerships across the aviation sector.