14th Annual MBA Mediterranean Business Aviation
The 14th Annual MBA Summit, organized by Aeropodium, serves as a cornerstone event for the business aviation industry, combining strategic analysis with practical insights into emerging trends.
This year’s theme, “Elevating Regional Connectivity Through Innovation,” emphasizes the transformative potential of air taxi services, sustainable infrastructure investments, and regulatory harmonization across Mediterranean markets. Delegates will engage in dynamic panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions designed to address operational challenges, technological advancements, and market expansion strategies.
The summit’s agenda reflects the Mediterranean’s unique position as a hub connecting three continents, with Malta’s strategic location providing an ideal venue for cross-regional collaboration. Topics will include fleet modernization, regulatory frameworks for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, and the integration of artificial intelligence in air traffic management. These discussions aim to bridge gaps between manufacturers, operators, and policymakers, fostering partnerships that enhance regional competitiveness.
Event Dates
Start Date: March 28, 2025
End Date: March 28, 2025
The summit will follow a single-day format, running from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM local time, with pre-event networking opportunities available on March 27, 2025.
Venue Overview: Grand Hotel Excelsior
Location and Facilities
Situated at Great Siege Road, Floriana FRN 1810, Malta, the Grand Hotel Excelsior is a 5-star luxury property renowned for its blend of historical charm and modern amenities. The hotel overlooks Marsamxett Harbour, offering panoramic views of Valletta’s UNESCO World Heritage fortifications. Key features include:
Conference Spaces: The venue boasts 12 meeting rooms equipped with advanced audiovisual technology, accommodating up to 500 delegates in theater-style seating.
Accommodations: 276 rooms ranging from classic suites to presidential accommodations, all featuring high-speed internet, ergonomic workstations, and Mediterranean-inspired décor.
Dining and Wellness: Multiple restaurants serving local and international cuisine, a full-service spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and a private sandy beach.
Sustainability: Certified under the Malta Sustainable Tourism Standard, the hotel implements energy-efficient lighting, water recycling systems, and waste reduction programs.
Strategic Advantages
The Grand Hotel Excelsior’s proximity to Malta International Airport (8 km) and Valletta’s cruise terminal ensures seamless accessibility for international attendees. Its historical significance and state-of-the-art facilities align with the summit’s mission to merge tradition with innovation in business aviation.
Keynote Speakers
While the 2025 speaker lineup remains under development, past summits have featured influential figures such as:
Panagiotis Panagopoulos (CEO, Aeropodium): A visionary in aviation event curation, Mr. Panagopoulos will discuss Malta’s role as a nexus for Mediterranean air mobility and emerging market opportunities.
Dr. Edward Zammit Lewis (Former Maltese Minister for Tourism): Expected to address regulatory advancements, including Malta’s aircraft registration framework and tax incentives for aviation enterprises.
David Velupillai (Airbus Corporate Jets): Anticipated to present on cabin innovation trends and the integration of hydrogen propulsion systems in business jets.
Roland McKay (Kayway.Aero): Slated to lead a workshop on blockchain applications in aircraft leasing and maintenance logistics.
Additional speakers will include representatives from EUROCONTROL, ICF SH&E, and leading Mediterranean operators, providing diverse perspectives on operational safety, fleet optimization, and market forecasting.
Complete Agenda
| Time | Session | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00–9:30 AM | Registration & Welcome Coffee | Delegates collect badges and network over refreshments in the harbor-view lounge. Sponsored by AVIS Malta. |
| 9:30–10:00 AM | Opening Keynote: “Mediterranean Air Mobility 2030” | Aeropodium’s CEO outlines the summit’s objectives and unveils a roadmap for regional air taxi adoption. |
| 10:00–11:30 AM | Panel 1: Regional Air Taxi Market Dynamics | Experts analyze demand projections, eVTOL certification challenges, and public-private partnership models. Features case studies from Malta, Greece, and Morocco. |
| 11:30–11:45 AM | Networking Break | Sponsored by San Marino Aircraft Registry, featuring interactive displays of next-gen air taxi prototypes. |
| 11:45 AM–1:00 PM | Workshop: Infrastructure Investment Strategies | Hands-on session exploring airport modernization, vertiport design, and EU funding mechanisms for sustainable aviation projects. |
| 1:00–2:30 PM | Lunch & Exhibition Tour | Gourmet meal at the hotel’s Triton Restaurant, followed by guided tours of exhibits from Airbus, Fenech & Fenech Advocates, and Medavia. |
| 2:30–4:00 PM | Panel 2: Business Model Innovation | Leaders debate hybrid ownership structures, fractional jet programs, and AI-driven charter platforms. Includes a cost-benefit analysis of Malta’s 9H registration system. |
| 4:00–4:15 PM | Afternoon Coffee Break | Sponsored by BrandAir, showcasing sustainable in-flight catering solutions. |
| 4:15–5:30 PM | Roundtable: Regulatory Harmonization | Policymakers and operators collaborate on draft proposals for standardized safety protocols and cross-border airspace management. |
| 5:30–6:00 PM | Closing Remarks & 2026 Preview | Summary of key takeaways and announcement of the 15th Annual MBA Summit in Cyprus. |
Event Information
| Event Date | 03-28-2025 |
| Event End Date | 03-28-2025 |
| Event Website | https://www.aeropodium.com/mba |
| Location | Grand Hotel Excelsior |
Venue Information - Grand Hotel Excelsior
The Grand Hotel Excelsior in Malta is a luxurious 5-star hotel just two minutes from Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's known for its stunning views of Marsamxett Harbour and its historical fortifications. The hotel offers a range of accommodations from classic to deluxe rooms and even presidential suites, all designed to blend classic comfort with modern elegance. Guests can indulge in various dining options, enjoy extensive wellness facilities, including a spa and indoor and outdoor pools, and take advantage of a private sandy beach and state-of-the-art fitness center.
The hotel also prides itself on its environmental consciousness, holding a sustainability certification that ensures it meets high ecological standards in its operations. For those looking to host events or meetings, the hotel provides elegant spaces suited for any occasion, from business conferences to weddings.
Visitors have praised the Grand Hotel Excelsior for its exceptional service, cleanliness, and luxury experience, making it a standout option for those seeking a premium stay in Malta.