Building a stronger aviation future: key outcomes from the 2024 Hoefslag meetings

On 18 November, the final Hoefslag meeting of 2024 took place, concluding this year’s series of gatherings. The theme for 2024, chosen by members during the General Assembly, was ‘What makes a strong aviation ecosystem? – Understanding our roles, strengths, and weaknesses to build a better future together’.

The 5 most important points that came through in all the sessions were:

• Facilitate better access for SMEs to large companies and government opportunities through targeted programs and reduced bureaucratic barriers.
• Develop a clear and cohesive value proposition for the Dutch aerospace ecosystem, emphasising national pride and branding, such as a “Made in the Netherlands” quality mark.
• Promote cross-sectoral collaboration and innovation by linking aerospace developments with other industries to broaden application and impact.
• Strengthen stakeholder engagement by creating platforms for inclusive networking, better tender distribution, and collective proposal-making.
• Enhance lobbying efforts to focus on equitable policies, industry growth, and a balanced international and national focus to attract investment and talent.

These insights and outcomes will be incorporated into the project aimed at strengthening the ecosystem. NAG extends its sincere gratitude to all participants for their valuable contributions during these gatherings. We look forward to your continued engagement and invite you to participate in next year’s Hoefslag meetings. The topic for the upcoming year will be determined by you as a NAG member at the first General Assembly of 2025. Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to fostering a robust aviation ecosystem.