Event Tip: International Laser Technology Congress

The AKL'26 will take place in Aachen from April 22 to 24, 2026.

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Keynote by the then head of the institute, Prof. Constantin Häfner, at the International Laser Technology Congress AKL'24 in Aachen. © AKL e.V. / Andreas Steindl.

Aachen will become the meeting point of the international laser world: The Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT will host the 15th AKL – International Laser Technology Congress. Users, manufacturers, and developers will meet at AKL'26 to discuss the latest trends and practical solutions in applied laser technology for production. With over 500 participants, more than 80 expert presentations, and around 50 exhibitors from industry and the supply sector, the congress is considered the leading forum for applied laser technology in Europe.

With a significantly expanded program, AKL'26 is even more focused on users of laser technology, offering them a comprehensive overview of the latest developments, proven applications, and strategic trends.

AKL'26 – The World of Laser Technology in Aachen. © Fraunhofer ILT, Aachen.

The congress traditionally starts on Wednesday with the Technology Business Day, which provides in-depth insights into global photonics and laser markets. Market data, strategic analyses, and industry-specific perspectives are on the agenda, along with reports from laser users in sectors such as automotive engineering, aerospace, energy, microelectronics, quantum technology, and medical technology.

On Thursday and Friday, the Technological Conference takes center stage, with four parallel sessions taking place daily. They cover the entire spectrum of laser material processing, laser beam source development, system technology, and digitalization. New areas at the forefront of application-oriented research – including high-energy lasers for fusion and secondary sources, as well as the use of artificial intelligence in photonics – show the way to the production of tomorrow. CEOs and CTOs of renowned companies will discuss the diverse applications of high-energy and high-performance lasers in industry in a panel discussion.

More than 500 participants of AKL'24 utilized the accompanying exhibition for professional exchange and networking. © AKL e.V. / Andreas Steindl.

From market strategies to state-of-the-art laser applications, AKL'26 offers a future-oriented platform specifically tailored to the needs of the industry – with the goal of informing, networking, and inspiring.

Contact:

www.ilt.fraunhofer.de