World Overflight Risk Conference returns in 2026 to address growing risks in flight operations

Malta, 01 February 2026

The World Overflight Risk Conference (WORC^TM) is returning in 2026 for its second instalment following the success of its inaugural edition, bringing together the global aviation community to address the evolving and increasingly complex risks facing international flight operations.

WORC2026 is designed to confront threats including international overflight challenges, geopolitical instability, cybersecurity, hybrid warfare and the impact of unmanned systems. As global tensions intensify, overflight risk is no longer confined to specific geopolitical hotspots, evidenced by increased drone activity in Europe and a volatile environment in the Middle East. It has become a global issue affecting millions, one that demands urgent attention from the wider aviation community.

Providing a vital platform for the industry to collaborate through practical solutions and shared strategies, the conference will spotlight the role of real-time intelligence, automation and cross-sector cooperation in enhancing aviation safety, resilience and regulatory compliance.

Charles Pace, Director General for Civil Aviation, Transport Malta CAD, says: “WORC2026 in Malta represents a landmark moment for global overflight-risk management, bringing together the world’s foremost experts at a time when collaboration and innovation are essential.”

WORC2026 will take place from 20–22 April 2026 at the Corinthia Hotel, Malta, offering an exceptional, closed-door setting for two days of high-level discussion, insight exchanges and partnership building.

Andrew Nicholson, CEO, Osprey Flight Solutions, adds: “As uncertainty accelerates across the aviation industry, whether through geopolitical issues or new technologies, it is an important time for sector leaders to come together and tackle these changes head-on and there is no other platform like WORC^TM that does this.”

“As a non-profit event, our goal with WORC^TM is to foster open dialogue in a safe space for genuine and honest discussions on how to improve the aviation industry, ensuring knowledge and outcomes serve the wider community rather than commercial interests.”

The WORC2026 agenda will feature keynote sessions and expert panels comprising aviation operators, insurers, regulators, intelligence providers and government representatives. Topics will include:

• Quantifying the cost of geopolitical risk in aviation
• The next era of overflight risk intelligence
• Hybrid warfare and drone-driven disruption
• Mitigation strategies and operational decision-making
• Crew confidence, communication and compliance

Nicholson adds: “Following the success of the inaugural WORC^TM in 2024, this year’s event builds on the insights and recommendations discussed, creating an opportunity to directly apply them to today’s risks and tomorrow’s threats.”

Early bird discounts are available until the end of February 2026. For further information, please visit: https://www.worconference.com

Delegates and stakeholders are encouraged to review the WORC2024 summary whitepaper: https://www.worconference.com/resource/worc2024-summary-whitepaper/

About WORC^TM 2026

Jointly organised by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), Transport Malta, University of Southampton and Osprey Flight Solutions, WORC2026 is more than a conference, it is a growing global community of professionals committed to supporting safer skies through smarter decisions. The event will be taking place from 20-22 April at the Corinthia Hotel in Malta, featuring keynote sessions and expert panels with leaders across the industry. WORC2026 is proudly supported by leading industry sponsors, including Gallagher Aerospace, Tourism Malta, HDI, Tokio Marine Kiln and the International Flight Operations Academy (IFOA),