The airline sector will be taking centre stage at this year’s World Travel Market with two ‘head to head’ interviews as Steve Ridgway, Chief Executive of Virgin Atlantic Airways and Mike Forster, BAA Strategy Director are interviewed on the WTM Conference Set on Monday 12 November by air transport consultant John Strickland.

Steve Ridgway joined Virgin Atlantic in 1989 when he was appointed Managing Director of Virgin Freeway launching the UK’s first automated frequent flyer programme. Since then he has played a major role in Virgin Atlantic Airways becoming the second longest longhaul airline in the UK and the third largest European carrier over the North Atlantic. The airline’s route network has grown rapidly to include destinations in the US, Caribbean, Far East, India and Africa.

Mike Forster, BAA Strategy Director is responsible for determining how Heathrow airport’s business should develop into the future. He has played a key role in developing the vision for Terminal 5 and will be providing key insights into the new terminal’s development.

On Tuesday 13 November John Strickland will also be chairing an ‘Airlines 2008’ panel discussion with seven leading seasoned executives from the sector: Jonathon Counsell, Head of British Airways, Terminal 5 project; Christine Ourmiers, General Manager UK and Ireland, Air France/KLM; Paul Charles, Communications Director, Virgin Atlantic; Glyn Jones CEO London Luton Airport; Marvin Tan, General Manager UK & Ireland Singapore Airlines, Kevin Bruce, Director Western Europe Marketing, Boeing and Colin Stuart, Vice President Marketing, Airbus.

Taking in a wide range of topical issues including emerging markets, new generation of aircrafts, customer loyalty, security and low cost carriers, the hour long discussion is bound to provide challenging debate and discussion. It takes place from 14.00hrs in North Gallery, Rooms 6/7 level 2.

Commenting on the airline programme Fiona Jeffery, World Travel Market Chairman said: “Over the past two years we have listened to both exhibitors and visitors who have wanted the airline sector to have a greater presence at the event. This year we are delighted to welcome such a strong line up of industry heavyweights from both leading airlines and airports. I have no doubt that the these events will provide fascinating insights into the future of a sector which plays such a vital role in the tourism industry.”