# Austrian aviation industry strategic development > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/austrian-aviation-industry-strategic-development > Updated: 2026-09-25T04:55:03.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 3. The Austrian aviation industry held its 24th Aviation Industry Austria (AIA) symposium at Vienna Airport on September 24, 2026. Approximately 250 representatives from the political, scientific, and industrial sectors gathered to discuss the ‘Austria Aviation Strategy 2040+’. During the event, the AIA presented a position paper detailing ten strategic priorities designed to bolster the competitiveness and resilience of the nation’s aviation sector against global crises. Organizational leadership changes were announced, with FACC CEO Robert Machtlinger succeeding Julian Jäger as President; Jäger will remain as Vice President. Economic challenges were a central theme, specifically regarding declining passenger volumes. Data from Vienna Airport showed that passenger numbers from January to August were 4% lower than the previous year, following a 6.9% decrease in August. Stakeholders identified the state aviation levy as a major barrier to recovery, advocating for its reduction or abolition to ensure competitiveness against foreign hubs. Furthermore, operational costs and flight routing continue to be impacted by airspace closures resulting from the war in Ukraine and instability in the Middle East. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-25: Aviation Industry Austria holds symposium to discuss 2040+ strategy At the 24th AIA symposium, industry leaders discussed the Austria Aviation Strategy 2040+ and addressed declining passenger numbers and the impact of the state aviation levy. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aviation-industry-austria-holds-symposium-to-discuss-2040-strategy ### 2026-09-11: Aviation Industry Austria to host symposium on national strategy Austrian aviation leaders will convene in 2026 to discuss national strategy and geopolitical resilience, following recent industry networking events at Vienna Airport. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/aviation-industry-austria-to-host-symposium-on-national-strategy ### 2026-09-07: Technology Talks Austria 2026 to address innovation and research Technology Talks Austria 2026 will convene government officials and industry leaders in Vienna to discuss European technological leadership, innovation, and industrial competitiveness. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/technology-talks-austria-2026-to-address-innovation-and-research --- Cite as: Austrian aviation industry strategic development. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/austrian-aviation-industry-strategic-development