Aircraft Interiors Expo announces Archana Dharni as Event Director
Archana Dharni, Event Director of AIX and PEC
RX Global has appointed Archana Dharni as the new Event Director of Aircraft Interiors Expo (AIX) and Passenger Experience Conference (PEC), to oversee the delivery of these events.
Dharni brings more than 20 years of experience in event management, with roles across marketing, strategy, commercial and operational delivery. During this time, she has worked in a diverse range of sectors, including technology, aviation, packaging, manufacturing and alternative energies.
At RX, Dharni managed AIX’s co-located event, World Travel Catering & Onboard Services EXPO (WTCE) from 2013 to 2020, during which the event grew year-on-year, becoming the world’s leading platform for inflight catering, onboard services and passenger comfort, the October 17 press release said.
Over the last few years, she has worked on various strategic projects to grow AIX and WTCE. Most recently she was responsible for the marketing of AIX, as well as delivering the Cabin Space Live and PEC educational programs.
In her new role, Dharni will “work to solidify AIX and PEC’s long-term status as the most important event in the aircraft interiors and passenger experience calendar.”
The growth of AIX
Dharni succeeds Polly Magraw – AIX’s Event Director from 2015 to 2024 – who has moved into a new strategic role at RX. As Portfolio Director of Transport, she becomes responsible for the strategic vision and direction of a number of global events, specifically AIX, WTCE, the Airport Show Dubai, Inter Airport Europe, Railtex and Sifer Expo.
Under Magraw’s stewardship, AIX grew in strength and size, boasting more than 350 exhibiting companies and attracting more than 12,000 international attendees in 2024. Since the show originally launched more than two decades ago, the show has run 23 editions and grown to become the largest and most comprehensive passenger experience event globally.
“It’s a privilege to step into this role after a decade working closely with AIX, PEC and all of its partners. I’ve witnessed firsthand how the event has grown and become increasingly important to the global cabin interiors industry, which is down to Polly’s exceptional vision and leadership. I’m excited to build on that strong foundation and further enhance the event’s global reputation. We’re already deep into planning for 2025 and can’t wait to present the next edition with new features and themes,” Dharni said.
AIX will take place in Halls B1 to B7 at the Hamburg Messe, in Hamburg, Germany, from April 8 to 10, 2025. The event will be co-located with the WTCE in Halls A1 and A4, following the PEC on April 7.
