Leiden in Chicago commemorating 80 years of the Chicago Convention: A historic celebration in aviation
Last week, aviation professionals and leaders from around the world gathered in Chicago to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Chicago Convention, the landmark treaty that laid the foundation for modern international civil aviation and established the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The commemorative events took place in the historic Grand Ballroom of the Hilton Chicago—formerly the Stevens Hotel—where the Chicago Conference was originally held in October and November of 1944, as war raged on in Europe, Japan and the South Pacific.
Steven Truxal, Professor of Air and Space Law and Director of the Leiden IIASL was among the attendees, adding a personal and scholarly perspective to the occasion. Professor Truxal, who has spent nearly two decades educating future air lawyers about the Chicago Convention and its enduring relevance, described the experience of standing in the iconic venue as 'nothing short of magical'.
The 80th anniversary celebration was notable for its exclusivity, as each participating country was permitted to send two official delegates to the commemorative event and an Extraordinary Council session. This echoed the historic significance of the original Chicago Conference in 1944, which brought together representatives from 54 nations. At the conclusion of the conference, 52 countries signed the Chicago Convention when it was opened for signature on 7 December 1944, marking a pivotal moment in the establishment of international civil aviation governance—a legacy still celebrated today.
The event brought together notable figures, including ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar, Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano, representatives from ICAO Member States, regional and international organizations, and industry leaders. A highlight of the celebration was a roundtable discussion titled 'Building the Future of Aviation: Overcoming Challenges, Securing Investment, and Achieving Sustainability' which was moderated by Professor Truxal who led a discussion with industry innovators such as Jennifer Holmgren (LanzaTech), Bertrand de Lacombe (Airbus), Shane Munroe (MBJ Airports Limited, Jamaica) and David Hone (Shell).
Reflecting on the significance of the Chicago Convention, Professor Truxal emphasised its role as a 'beacon of cooperation, innovation, and respect for the rule of law in aviation'. Representing the Kingdom of the Netherlands alongside the Dutch Representative to ICAO Richard Ossendorp, he expressed pride in contributing to the Convention’s enduring legacy and its vision for safe and sustainable skies.
As the aviation community celebrates this historic milestone, the event underscored the importance of international cooperation and innovation in addressing future challenges and advancing sustainability in the skies.