Your Invitation

I am very pleased to be able to invite you to join us in my hometown for the 2007 Annual Conference and Exhibition of the International Flight Services Association (IFSA) in Houston, Texas. Here we will gather to discover what’s new in the industry and share knowledge and ideas as we outline strategies for our success.

Houston is the nation’s fourth largest city, home to 2 million people and a hub of international businesses. It is a vibrant international city that heartily enjoys its tradition of being a place of firsts. General Sam Houston, the city’s heroic namesake, was the first president of the Republic of Texas. Houston, the city, was the first word spoken from the surface of the moon and the first to build an air-conditioned sports stadium.

I am also pleased to announce that Larry Kellner, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Continental Airlines will be our keynote speaker at this year’s Conference and Exhibition. During Kellner's 12 years at Continental, the carrier has won more awards for customer satisfaction than any other airline. In 2007, FORTUNE magazine ranked Continental the No. 1 airline on their annual airline industry list of "Most Admired Global Companies" for the fourth consecutive year. Continental was also named the most admired U.S. airline on FORTUNE's 2007 list of "America's Most Admired Companies.".  We are excited to have Mr. Kellner speak at our conference and look forward to hearing from him.

Additionally, we have many exciting educational sessions planned for the Conference, sure to provide valuable information necessary for today’s onboard industry activities. You’ll have the opportunity to attend panel and round table sessions featuring leading industry executives who will discuss the state of the industry, current trends and what we can look forward to in the future. All sessions will include extended question-and-answer periods for attendees to obtain information specific to their situation or company.

Our Host hotel this year for the Conference and Tradeshow is the Hilton Americas-Houston and is the largest convention hotel in Houston, Texas, and proud winner of the 2006 Pinnacle Award from Successful Meetings Magazine. 

Please join us as we take on our mission of “Mission Possible 2007 – Mastering Transformation” at IFSA’s 2007 Annual Conference and Exhibition. I look forward to seeing you there.

Sandra Pineau
IFSA President