The LiT Aero Conference brings together the aviation innovation community to reflect, connect and accelerate progress. This years programme is aligned around the theme: Forging our Future - Smart. Secured. Sustainable. 

The LiT Aero Conference 2026 offers:
• Keynotes and talks that inspire and challenge
• Thematic breakouts for deeper discussion
• In-depth updates on breakthrough technologies and projects
• Plenty of space to connect with peers and new partners

08.30 - 09.00 Registration and light grab-and-go-breakfast
09.00 - 10.00 Breakfast session

The future of aerospace is being shaped today, but who gets to shape it? Women still remain underrepresented within the aerospace sector, particularly in senior and leadership positions. Although the need to give special attention to this topic is sometimes questioned, persistent underrepresentation shows why this conversation remains necessary. During this interactive breakfast session, Tineke van der Veen, CEO of Royal NLR, will share her perspective in a keynote, followed by a panel of voices from the industry to explore what it takes to close this gap. The full panel line-up will be announced in the coming week. Together with the audience, we will discuss the role that women, allies and the next generation can play in building an aerospace sector where equal representation is no longer an ambition, but the norm.

We would also like to emphasise that this session is not only for women. Everyone who considers themselves an ally and wants to contribute to greater gender balance in aerospace is warmly invited to join.

Former head of cabinet European Commission

Few people understand better how Europe can turn major societal challenges into opportunities for innovation, competitiveness and strategic strength. As one of the architects of the European Green Deal, Diederik will share his perspective on how aviation can accelerate its transition and strengthen its position in a rapidly changing world.

Sustainable aviation: from moral ambition to strategic necessity
The European Green Deal began in 2019 as a largely moral ambition. Since then, the world has changed dramatically. While climate ambition has come under pressure, the need to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels has become even more urgent.

Meanwhile, technological innovation is opening up new pathways at unprecedented speed. Aviation must seize these opportunities and accelerate its transition. If Europe leads this transformation collectively, the sector can also rely on strong European backing.

Team Managers '26 and '27 - AeroDelft

Where Innovation Takes Flight
We often think innovation begins with a breakthrough. In reality, breakthroughs are simply the moments we remember. The real work happens long before: when students, researchers, industry, airports and governments come together around a shared ambition, build trust and commit to creating something that does not yet exist.