Aviation Business - Dec 2009 by ITP Business Publishing

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THE MA MAGAZINE AG GA AZ AZ ZIINE FOR AV AVIATION EXECUTIVES IN THE MIDDLE EAST | DECEMBER 2009

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INTE LINES AIR

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Dubai Airshow It’s a wrap for the biggest event in the global aviation calendar

TIME TRAVELLER

Royal Jordanian’s new CEO maps out the company’s future

AVIATION AWARDS WINNERS REVEALED INSIDE DE

CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2009 VOLUME 08 ISSUE 12

31 DUBAI AIRSHOW Exhibitor numbers fell a little short of expectations and the static park was not as full as in previous years, but visitor numbers remained impressive and the show had a positive buzz amid the economic downturn. Regional airline announcements were sorely lacking, but a number of companies did take the opportunity to reaﬃrm their ongoing projects and plans for the future. Turn to our Airshow wrap for an at-a-glance look at the ﬁve-day event.

06 REGIONAL NEWS Aviation experts are billing 2010 to be a year for mergers. It is no secret that airlines in the Middle East, though they have held up well to the economic crisis, have seen a signiﬁcant drop in yields and ﬁnancial gain. A recent survey has revealed that aviation executives are expecting to see an increase in acquisitions and take-over bids, while the analysts are more cautious, citing some insurmountable obstacles.

26 AVIATION BUSINESS AWARDS We reveal who made it on to the shortlist, and who walked away with an Aviation Business Award in 2009.

46 MOVERS & SHAKERS Qatar Airways appoints a new VP of cargo. AJW hires a chief exec for its aviation division. Rizon bolsters its London and Doha teams and the Airports Council International (ACI) elects its chairman. www.arabiansupplychain.com

ROYAL JORDANIAN We ask Hussein Dabbas what the future holds for Royal Jordanian, or RJ as it is better known. He took over as the airline’s chief in June this year and has been quietly securing the future success of the carrier. Sealing new supplier contracts, reaﬃrming existing relationships and considering moves toward consolidation have all taken place in a matter of months.

JET AIRWAYS You could argue that it has not been a good year for India’s premium airline, Jet Airways. Mounting debt, staff walkouts, and cancelled flights have all taken their toll on the carrier’s performance in 2009. But it is a different story for the airline’s low-cost subsidiary. Jet Airways general manager for Dubai and the Northern Emirates Shakir Kantawala provides an update on the airline’s direction for 2010. December 2009

EDITOR’S COMMENT

BUSINESS Registered at Dubai Media City PO Box 500024, Dubai, UAE Tel: + 971 4 210 8000, Fax: + 971 4 210 8080 Web: www.itp.com Offices in Dubai & London ITP Business Publishing

Dubai Airshow busy, despite downturn

CEO Walid Akawi Managing Director Neil Davies Deputy Managing Director Matthew Southwell Editorial Director David Ingham VP Sales Wayne Lowery

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s the industry geared up for day one of the Dubai Airshow, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum commented that the expected high attendance figures showed that Dubai continued to play an important role in global aviation. However, there were still reservations as to how busy and significant this year’s Airshow was going to be against the backdrop of a struggling industry. Prior to the event, its organiser, F&E Aerospace, said it was confident that some big announcements would be made, but as expected the headline-grabbing aircraft orders that were plentiful in 2007, never materialised, and, instead, organisations attempted to fill the gaps with the news of engine orders, finance deals and manufacturing agreements. In fact, it was the latter that generated the most amount of interest as the investment arm of the Abu Dhabi government, Mubadala Aerospace Company, signed agreements with both Boeing and Airbus in a bid to establish itself as a global aerospace manufacturer.

Despite the lacklustre news content, visitors flocked to the event’s opening day, and during the five-day event, numbers did not fall far short of the expected 50,000 visitors. However, as in previous years, car parking was tricky, and unfortunately the new Dubai Metro did little to ease traffic congestion around the Airshow site. Some 890 companies from 47 countries exhibited in the halls, which although was an increase on the 2007 airshow, the numbers still fell short of the organiser’s expectations of 10% growth, however the mood remained buoyant. Emirates Airline chairman Sheikh Ahmed summed up the outlook for the week saying that he felt the panic in the industry had subsided, and he was quick to add that forward bookings for his airline looked positive.

Editorial Editor Sarah Cowell Tel: +971 4 4356286 email:sarah.cowell@itp.com

Commercial Director Fareed Dubery Tel: +971 4 435 6339 email: fareed.dubery@itp.com Sales Manager Nick Lowe Tel: +971 4 435 6364 email: nick.lowe@itp.com European Sales Manager Stephané de Rémusat Tel: +33 53 427 0130 email: sremusat@aol.com Studio Group Art Editor Dan Prescott Art Editor Simon Cobon Photography Director of Photography Sevag Davidian Chief Photographer Khatuna Khutsishvili Senior Photographer Efraim Evidor Staff Photographers Lyubov Galushko, Thanos Lazopoulos, Jovana Obradovic, Ruel Pableo, Rajesh Raghav Production & Distribution Group Production Manager Kyle Smith Production Manager Eleanor Zwanepoel Production Co-ordinator Louise Schrieber Managing Picture Editor Patrick Littlejohn Image Retoucher Emmalyn Robles Distribution Manager Karima Ashwell Distribution Executive Nada Al Alami Circulation Head of Circulation & Database Gaurav Gulati Marketing Head of Marketing Daniel Fewtrell ITP Digital Director Peter Conmy ITP Group

Sarah Cowell, Editor sarah.cowell@itp.com

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Rivals ‘will never accept’ Emirates success

Dubai World Central ‘almost complete’

Truth and reality bites one and all! All truly said by the chairman of Emirates Airline, Sheikh Ahmed. All staff of the Emirates Group is proud of their boss and the company … Bravo! Simon, Dubai

I nearly dropped my coffee when I read this. There doesn’t appear to be much on that huge site right now. The roads in that area are already inadequate too. And there is one very significant thing; not a single airline has confirmed that it plans to use the airport. Bob D, Dubai

Saudi Arabian airlines receives ﬁrst new A320 Congratulations to Saudia. This was a very important step badly needed to improve the services. Khalid Badawi, Saudi Arabia

December 2009

Air Arabia launches loyalty card This is good news. It will change the travelling concept in the UAE. Ashwani Kumar Singh, Dubai

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06 Visit www.arabiansupplychain.com for the latest Middle East aviation news Vis

Mergers could be only option for Middle East airlines Consolidation talks show regional airlines continue to feel the crunch BUSINESS

In addition, experts have said that Royal Jordanian’s new CEO has said that mergers between Middle Eastern and Euthe airline will merge with another carrier ropean carriers are likely. within the next two years, and experts “In recent privatisation processes in have predicted that the move could spark Europe, Middle Eastern carriers have ala trend in the Middle East. ready shown interest, and the European Speaking to Aviation Business, Royal market is highly attractive to them,” said Jordanian CEO Hussein Dabbas, Oliver Wyman aviation partner who succeeded Samer Majali in Niko Herrmann. June, said that due to the im“While ownership restricpact of the recession on the tions are an obstacle, aviation market, consolidathey are not insurof executives said airline tion was the only way forward mountable – and mergers and acquisitions for the airline. I believe we could would increase in 2010 “We need to merge with very well see a MidSource: Terrapinn another airline in order to grow, dle Eastern carrier and we will explore this option next buy into one of the smaller year,” he said. struggling European flag carriers.” The news confirms the findings of a Herrmann added that new survey by global business research although not all of the company, Terrapinn, which revealed that proposed mergers the Middle East aviation industry would would be successful, witness an increase in mergers and acqui- they would go some sitions next year. way to addressThe survey, Aviation Outlook MENA ing the problem of Survey 2010, said more than 50% of the overcapacity in the 1000 respondents were of the view there shrinking market. would be an increase in mergers and acIn Europe quisitions in the region next year, given and the US a the slowdown in the global air travel in- number of condustry due to the economic crisis. solidations have The respondents comprised executives occurred duracross regional airlines, airports and serving the past few ice providers and showed that the mergers months. Deutsche would not come from the GCC but more Lufthansa AG now from emerging carriers looking to grow, owns Lufthansa such as Royal Jordanian. German Airlines,

50%

December 2009

Austrian Airlines, bmi and 45% of the shares in Brussels Airlines. The buy-outs cost the Lufthansa Group some €56 million (US$83 million) and this, combined with the economic downturn of 2008/09, meant that the group’s profits fell by €728 million ($1 billion) in the first nine months of 2009, when compared to the same period last year. But despite the financial losses, Herrmann went on to say that the move had made Lufthansa more resistant to the competitive pressures of Middle Eastern carriers, and, therefore, similar benefits could be seen here. “In the Middle East, while the mega-carriers continue to grow at impressive speed, some of the smaller carriers are struggling to reach profitability. Clearly there is a lot of national pride with many of these flag carriers, but eventually they will be likely to seek sustainability in economies of scale through merger agreements.” Read full interview Hussein Dabbas says Royal Jordanian is with Royal Jordaplanning to strike a nian CEO Hussein merger deal in 2010/11 Dabbas on page 22. www.arabiansupplychain.com

REGIONAL NEWS

Etihad bolsters its UK network

Emirates half year revenue drops 13.5% BUSINESS

NETWORK

Etihad Airways has signed a codeshare agreement with Flybe, the biggest regional airline in Europe. The deal paves the way for the Abu Dhabi-based airline to fly to a number of regional airports within the UK. The agreement also gives air travellers in the UK greater and easier access to Etihad’s network of more than 55 destinations. Under the deal, Etihad will place its two-letter ‘EY’ code on a number of services operated by Flybe between Paris, Frankfurt and Manchester and 35 regional airports within the UK. In turn, Flybe will place its ‘BE’ code on Etihad’s flights between the same three destinations and its Abu Dhabi home base. Etihad Airways’ chief commercial officer Peter Baumgartner, said: “The UK is a key market for Etihad Airways and one which we are extremely keen to develop further. Flybe is a well-established and well-run operator with great reach within the UK and mainline Europe. “This gives air travellers access to a range of regional destinations within the UK, while also giving UK fliers greater and much easier access to Etihad’s own expanding international network.” Flybe operates flights to 180 destinations across 13 countries. It has its largest base in Southampton, with other bases in Manchester, Birmingham and Belfast. December 2009

Emirates Airline has reported total revenues of AED19.8 billion (US$5.4 billion), for the first-half of its financial year 2009/10. The figure was 13.5% lower compared with AED22.9 billion (US$6.2 billion) recorded last year, largely reflecting significantly lower passenger and cargo yields. The revenue loss was softened by total expenditure being cut by 15.8% at AED19 billion (US$5.2 billion), compared to last year, through cost containment measures and lower jet fuel prices, the airline said. The carrier’s net profit jumped 165%, at AED752 million (US$205 million), during its current financial year ending September 30, 2009, compared to AED284 million (US$77 million) for the same period in 2008. During this period, the airline carried more than 13

million passengers and over 700,000 tonnes of cargo. Capacity measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), grew by 22%, whilst passenger traffic carried measured in revenue passenger kilometers

Sheikh Ahmed says the global meltdown has tested the airline’s mettle

(RPK) was up 21%. The passenger seat factor dropped 1.2% at 77.5%, compared to last year. The volume of cargo uplifted was in line with last year. Between March and September, 2009, Emirates added eight new aircraft to its fleet, launched two new destinations and upped route frequencies. Emirates Airline chairman and chief executive HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed AlMaktoum, said: “Emirates remained focused on its longterm strategy despite the global economic slowdown. We have continued to invest in our eco-efficient aircraft fleet; in strengthening our global route network; and also in supporting the infrastructure for our growing business. “The months since the global meltdown have really tested our mettle, but unlike others in the industry, Emirates did not cut back on its product, service or people.”

Gulf Air CEO joins industry board BUSINESS

a selection of airlines around Gulf Air’s CEO Samer Majali the world including British has been re-elected as a mem- Airways CEO Willy Walsh, ber of the Board of Governors American Airlines chairman, of the International Air Trans- president and CEO Gerard port Association (IATA) - the Arpey and Lufthansa chairglobal airline industry’s man and CEO Wolfrepresentative body. gang Mayrhuber. Majali, who Cathay Pacific served as the chairCEO Tony Tyler airline CEOs will sit on man of the IATA will take over the International Air Board of Governors as chairman of Transport Association’s from June 2008 to the IATA Board governing board June 2009, will of Governors. join the board once Majali said the again at the Board board’s role was to of Governors’ meeting “share, exchange and harness scheduled to take place the collective knowledge and in Montreal, Canada on wisdom among other members December 4, 2009. of the board so that the global He will join 30 aviation community can benCEOs elected from efit from it”.

Samer Majali served as the chairman of the IATA board in 2008/09

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REGIONAL NEWS

GCC investments in aviation seen at $45bn $14

billion - Qatar’s total investment in aviation to 2014

Once complete, Al Maktoum International will be the world’s largest airport

STRATEGY

Investment in the GCC’s civil aviation sector is expected to total more than US$45 billion over the next five years, according to new research. The UAE is seen leading the way with its new Jebel Ali Airport project expected

to expand the country’s capacity by 120 million passengers, Kuwait Financial Centre (Markaz) said. It said the UAE’s total investments to 2014 were likely to be $22.3bn, with Qatar spending $14 billion and Saudi Arabia $5.3 billion.

Its report said that while many international airports have seen steady or decelerating growth in air passenger traffic, the GCC - and particularly the UAE - had seen a growth of 13% between 2002-2008. Qatar has also bucked the global decline with 25% growth over the same period and now accounts for nearly 15% of GCC air passenger traffic, compared to just 7% in 2002. Markaz said total GCC passenger traffic grew at an annual rate of 10% between 2002-2008 to 126 million. According to MEED, there are currently more than $50 billion worth of aviation infrastructure projects in the Middle East.

Air Arabia and Mashreq launch loyalty card

BUSINESS

Air Arabia and Mashreq bank have launched a new credit card, offering travel rewards to users in the region. The Classic and Platinum co-branded cards award free flights on Air Arabia for every AED25,000 (US$6800) spent. Air Arabia group CEO Adel Ali, said the airline was committed to offering value-for-money services to its passengers.

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December 2009

REGIONAL NEWS

Airlines’ safety record called into question

Dubai government repays US$1 billion aviation bond BUSINESS

DATA

The Middle East’s “accident rate is six times worse than the global average”, said International Air Transport Association (IATA) director general Giovanni Bisignani. During the Arab Air Carriers Organisation’s annual general meeting in Jeddah, Bisignani said that Middle Eastern airlines needed to focus on their safety record, and added that the assessment included many of the smaller airlines in the region, including the Yemen Airways crash off the Comoros islands and the Caspian Airlines flight in Iran in July. The Yemen Airways crash, which came from a fleet based in one of the poorest countries on earth, was an aircraft that had been deemed unfit for use in Europe. In addition to his remarks on safety, Bisignani also called for more airlines to implement IATA’s Operational Safety Audit programme. Despite an agreement proposed in 2006 only Syria and Egypt have implemented the internationally recognised and accepted evaluation programme as a standard requirement. The programme has been designed to assess the operational management and control systems of an airline. Bisignani also cited recent statistics by IATA showing that despite impressive growth figures, profits were still low with capacity outstripping demand by 5%. December 2009

The Dubai government has repaid a US$1 billion Dubai Civil Aviation Authority sukuk that matured on November 4. “Investment in infrastructure is essential for Dubai’s economic success and the development of our world leadDubai’s debt ing airport faciliobligations in Q4 ties central to this strategy,” said Department of Finance director general Abdulrahman Investment in infrastructure is necessary, says Dubai’s Department of Finance Al Saleh. Dubai issued a twoAccording to reports, the tranche, $1.93 billion sukuk region was hit by the internaAbu Dhabi government is set on October 28 for which 300 tional recession last year. Since the move, Dubai has to bail out the stricken emirinvestors placed orders in excess of $6.3 billion equivalent, hit international headlines ate but is said to be demandfollowing a “highly successful” when it asked creditors of ing a stake in key assets, such international roadshow, the Dubai World and Nakheel to as Emirates Airline in return. agree to a standstill on billions The airline’s president Tim department said. The issuance was the big- of dollars of debt as a first step Clark, told the UK’s Sunday gest Islamic bond sale in the to restructuring. At the time Telegraph newspaper that the GCC in the year to date, and the UAE central bank inter- carrier’s fi nances would not marked the emirate’s return vened, setting up an emergen- be affected by the restructurto the bond market after the cy liquidity facility for lenders. ing at Dubai World.

$6.8 BILLION

ﬂydubai launches more services NETWORK

flydubai expanded its network into the former Soviet Union on November 20, when it commenced flights to the Azeri capital, Baku. The low-cost carrier, which launched six months ago, has also named Bahrain as its second GCC destination, after commencing services to Doha in October. flydubai’s CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith, said Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, added a new dimension to flydubai’s network. “Baku is our first route into Asia Ghaith Al Ghaith says the first six months of and a prime flydubai’s business has experienced ‘some hitches’ opportunity

because of its rapid expansion as a business and tourism centre. There is currently only one other airline operating direct flights between Dubai and Baku so we anticipate strong demand for our service.” Flights to Bahrain will commence on December 13, and the announcement takes the airline’s route network to 10 destinations. Al Ghaith admitted that during 2009, the airline had experienced “a few hitches”, but went on to say that overall, he was pleased with the progress flydubai had made, and added that he was looking forward to the next six months. www.arabiansupplychain.com

12 Visit www.arabiansupplychain.com for all the latest airport news

Abu Dhabi airport posts 7.5% growth in 2009 Eight new airlines have started operations from UAE capital this year

DATA

Abu Dhabi International Airport announced its traffic figures for the first three quarters of 2009, recording steady passenger growth at 7.5%, over the same period last year. Speaking from the ACI World Annual General As-

sembly, in Kuala Lumpur, Abu Dhabi Airports Company acting CEO John Stent said the growth was due to a number of airlines choosing to fly from the airport in 2009. “Abu Dhabi International Airport has maintained consistent traffic growth, throughout

the global downturn, which is testament to the robust network and frequency expansion of Etihad Airways, as well as a continuing number of airline operators commencing operations to and from Abu Dhabi. “To date, we have already welcomed seven new carri-

ers, in 2009, and with Malaysia’s Air AsiaX becoming the eighth to start operations to Abu Dhabi later this month, we can be nothing short of pleased with the way the airport has maintained solid growth, despite difficult times for the industry globally.”

Budget cuts will not delay DWC ‘almost complete’ new technology: SITA TECHNOLOGY

Some 80% of the world’s leading airport operators intend to make passenger self-service the primary channel for check-in, according to the results of a new global survey. But the SITA Airport IT Trends report revealed that IT budgets for airports in 2008 were down 0.3% on 2007 figures, and while some 45% of the survey respondents expected an increase in budgets in 2010, 14% expected budgets to drop further. Catherine Mayer says airports will spend budgets on global trends

December 2009

Despite the cuts, the survey, found that 52% of the 106 respondents believed the use of bar-coded boarding passes sent directly to mobile phones would be the main driver for airports to make the switch to paperless travel in the future. “This year’s survey confirms that self-service is a global trend with almost 80% of respondents planning to make it the primary means for check-in by 2010, as is already the case at 40% of the world’s top 100 airports,” said SITA vice president of airports Catherine Mayer.

Dubai World Central will house the US$33 billion Al Maktoum International Airport

STRATEGY

Dubai World Central, a multiphase development which will include the world’s biggest airport, was “almost complete” and on track to be operational next year, the project’s chairman has confirmed. Khalifa Suhail Jumaa Al Zaffin, executive chairman and managing director of Dubai World Central (DWC), said the development “is nearly al-

most complete” and planned to be operational by the summer of 2010. DWC is a 140 square kilometre development, the anchor of which will be the US$33 billion project, Al Maktoum International Airport, which will have a capacity for 140 million passengers a year. Al Zaffin confirmed that the control tower was almost ready, while the runway was “ready to go.” www.arabiansupplychain.com

14 Visit www.arabiansupplychain.com for the latest Middle East private jet news

Supersonic business jet ﬁrm seeks partner Aerion generates orders for multi-million dollar jet at Dubai Airshow BUSINESS

Aerion confirmed that it was engaged in talks with a number of potential partners during the Dubai Airshow to get its supersonic business jet into production. The US company is looking to partner with an established airframe manufacturer that could certify and brand the airplane, said the company’s CEO Brian Barents.

“We have said publicly that reduces drag at supersonic, as by the second half of 2010 we well as high-subsonic speeds, will form a joint venture. and the jet will be fuel Following that we are efficient at cruise looking at a fivespeeds just below the year development speed of sound. programme that The jet costs will result in US$80 million and cost of Aerion’s aircraft deliveries to on the second day of supersonic jet customers in 2016.” the Dubai Airshow, The research Barents confirmed company has developed wing that the company had taken technology that substantially one order.

$80 MILLION

In fact, the company has taken a number of orders for its supersonic business jet over the past two years and has a backlog of some $4 billion dollars. Around 30% of those orders are from Middle East customers, Barents said. Across the US, supersonic flight is prohibited, which Barents said was “due to political reasons, rather than anything else”.

Airbus plans regional growth Rizon delays London hangar development

John Leahy says demand for VVIP charters in the region remained strong

STRATEGY

Airbus announced its plans to introduce new standards of comfort and luxury to VIP and business jet travel in 2010. December 2009

During the Dubai Airshow the European plane maker said its corporate jetliners division was preparing to build on its presence in the region and it would continue to work closely with AJA, the largest single Airbus corporate jetliner customer in the Middle East. “Our Airbus ACJ family aircraft will bring greater comfort and space to a broader Middle East market through VVIP charters,” said AJA chief operating officer Dr Mark Pierotti, AJA will begin flying the first of these aircraft, an A318 Elite, in the coming months. Airbus chief operating officer, customers John Leahy added that the demand for top-end VVIP charters was holding up well amid the economic downturn.

BUSINESS

Rizon, the Middle East and UK-based executive aircraft charter and management group, is working toward a February 2010 completion date on its new US$16 million facility in London Biggin Hill Airport, a little later than expected, said the group’s new CEO Patrick Enz. “The change in management and our simultaneous

Rizon’s new terminal facility in London

commitment to a parallel hangar and FBO/VIP terminal development in Doha, Qatar, due to open in the second quarter of 2010, means that we are a little bit later than originally scheduled, but both projects are advancing well,” said Enz. In Doha, Rizon is gearing up to introduce two new jets – a second Hawker 900XP, which arrived in November and a Challenger 605 which is due to come on line in December. Rizon now has five business jets based in Doha and one aircraft in London. The aircraft charter company has made a number of changes to its London and Doha management teams (see Movers & Shakers, page 46). www.arabiansupplychain.com

PRIVATE JET NEWS

Empire Aviation to launch travel division STRATEGY

Empire Aviation Group used the Dubai Airshow to announce the launch of its ‘Lifestyle@Empire’ luxury travel division. additional aircraft ‘Lifestyle@Empire’ is an extension to the will be added to Dubai-based company’s Empire’s fleet before luxury charter operathe end of 2009 tions, and will offer specialised travel packages to a number of destinations. The first packages will focus on high profile global sporting and themed events. In addition, the division will work alongside the development Paras Dhamecha is confident that the company faces a solid financial future of its remote/third party aircraft management operations, which Not only that, the gen- be added to its managed fleet includes the Tourism Develop- eral aviation company, which of 15 aircraft before the end of ment & Investment Company launched its business at the the year. This will include the (TDIC) in Abu Dhabi, for which Dubai Airshow 2007, is set to management of two further Empire supplied and operated become the region’s largest Hawker 4000s, following Empire becoming the first operator air taxi services between the corporate fleet operator. UAE and other TDIC destinaIn a statement, the company in the region to take delivery of tions in the emirate. said at least five aircraft will a H4000 in August, 2009.

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“Empire Aviation Group has had a fantastic start-up period over the last two years, despite challenging global and regional market conditions,” said Empire Aviation Group joint executive director Paras Dhamecha. “The asset management model we adopted from the beginning has proved to be effective and robust and, with a strong aircraft sales pipeline and active interest in our management and charter operations, we are very confident about the prospects for the company’s future.” Empire Aviation Group’s joint executive director Steve Hartley added, that due to the current low price of business jets coupled with aviation fuel prices at less than half their peak levels in 2008, the company expected 2009 to be its best year so far.

December 2009

16 Get up-to-date supplier news at www.arabiansupplychain.com

AJ Walter wins more Middle East contracts Jordan and Iraq sign agreements with MRO specialist

MRO

AJ Walter is supporting aircraft operated by Jordan Aviation and by the Hajj Commission of Iraq operating its aircraft under Amman’s Royal Falcon Airlines. Jordan Aviation has chosen AJW to manage the repair requirements for its mixed fleet

of 13 narrow and wide body a consigned home base kit. Airbus and Boeing aircraft. The Hajj Commission is the The Hajj Commission has responsible Ministry in Iraq opted for a power-byfor transporting Iraqi the-hour agreement pilgrims and Umrah with the MRO comIraqi nationals to pany for its two Saudi Arabia durB767-300 aircraft ing the religious IsAJW’s annual spend on operated by Royal lamic season. AJW 24,000 individual Falcon, including commented that it

$100 MILLION

had seen a rise in the number of requests from customers for PBH programmes, reflecting the financial and logistical framework of individual operators amid the financial crisis. AJW has a current spend of more than US$100 million annually on around 24,000 individual repair orders.

repair orders

L-3 provides 3D GAC wins contract for Bahrain Airshow bomb screening BUSINESS

TECHNOLOGY

L-3 Security & Detection Systems eXaminer 3DX explosives detection product has been ordered by 10 airports across the globe, including some in the Middle East. The eXaminer family, which includes the compact SX explosives detection system (EDS), securely screens baggage for explosives and other threats, generating full 3D images of entire objects in seconds. December 2009

GAC Bahrain has secured a freight forwarding contract for the inaugural Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS), 2010. Under the contract, which was awarded by the Kingdom of Bahrain’s Civil Aviation Affairs, GAC Bahrain will handle a considerable amount of cargo arriving by air and sea from all over the world. In addition, the logistics company will oversee transportation of cargo and equipment to and from the air base. “Bahrain is acknowledged as a pioneer of aerospace business in the region. With significant opportunities in the civil, defence and business aviation markets, this event will further enhance its reputation as a preferred destination for major global businesses, said GAC Bahrain managing director Peter Gronberg.

“We are honoured to have been awarded the appointment as official logistics provider by the Civil Aviation Affairs, as this reinforces and demonstrates our commitment to the Kingdom of Bahrain and establishes us as a preferred business partner. It is an exciting project which will demand the highest

service levels we can provide – through our local knowledge and global reach – to meet the needs of both organisers and participants alike.” The Bahrain International Airshow, 2010 will be held under Royal patronage at the Sakhir Airbase in Bahrain from January 21-23.

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SUPPLIER NEWS

Airport cabling under pressure

TECHNOLOGY

Swiss cabling specialist, Reichle & De-Massari (R&M), has highlighted the importance of installing high-performance data cabling in airports across the Middle East. R&M Middle East and Africa managing director Jean Pierre Labry said: “R&M passive cabling solutions support the rapid growth of Middle East airports to ensure high quality communication networks.” Cabling solutions are based on optical fibres and copper transmission media.

RJ signs with Amadeus TECHNOLOGY

Royal Jordanian and technology provider, Amadeus have announced a 10 year IT partnership that will see the airline using the Altéa customer management and e-commerce suite of solutions. The investment forms part of RJ’s drive for modernisation and growth in the Middle East, and the system will enable the carrier to manage all reservations, inventory and departure control from a single technology platform. “The main focus for Royal Jordanian, following the completion of privatisation is to increase operational revenue,” said Royal Jordanian president and CEO Hussein Dabbas. “The decision to move to Altéa was made because we can ensure all our customer management functions are based on a future-proof plat-

form that can deliver on our commercial priorities.” The platform is used by more than 60 airlines, and was selected

by RJ in a bid to increase its codeshare links and revenue through tie-ups with other carriers.

The new deal with IT provider, Amadeus will help RJ to cut its operational costs

GCAA embarks on change with Booz STRATEGY

rector general Saif Mohammed The General Civil Aviation Al Suwaidi. Authority of the UAE will The three-phase programme carry out a transformation pro- began in November and is expectgramme with the help of global ed to take two years to complete. management consultancy firm, Booz & Company. Booz will advise the GCAA on leadership practices, enhanced technology and service innovation processes. The transformation programme also aims to streamline the existing GCAA structure. “We are definitely excited by the unprecedented growth the aviation sector across the UAE is seeing; however along with this success comes the Al Suwaidi says the growth of challenge to enhance the industry and aviation services and enhanced services increase safety standgo hand in hand ards,” said GCAA diDecember 2009

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19 Visit www.arabiansupplychain.com for the latest news

Midex Airlines announces US$500 million investment fund Cargo company plans numerous acquisitions amid global downturn BUSINESS

Midex Airlines has launched an investment fund worth AED1.8 billion (US$500 million), aimed at boosting its regional and global presence in the air freight sector. The cargo specialists said the new fund will help to create opportunities for the company in fields related to the aviation market. “The setting up of the Midex Investment Fund to invest

in the aviation sector comes as a major step to explore the promising investment potentials in the aviation sector and to support the strategy of the company that aims at enhancing its position on the air freight map, not only in the region but all over the world,” said Midex Airlines director general Jasem Albastaki. He added that the company would invest in expanding its logistics infrastructure in both

the Middle East and North Africa, and went on to say that the financial crisis had opened up new opportunities to the airline. “Through taking measures like launching this fund, the company is determined to develop its capacities in the air freight sector by making acquisitions to acquire shares in global firms that operate in the aviation field. “Air freight is the best, fastest and at the same time, the

least costly means of transport in the United Arab Emirates, which at present is witnessing rapid economical growth that has made it the optimal destination to attract foreign and overseas investments.” He also emphasised that the new fund will contribute to the development of airport services and stimulating the role of the private sector in investments of airport facilities and services.

Maximus hails regional industry A330-200F ﬁrst test ﬂight STRATEGY

Fathi Hilal Buhazza, president and CEO of Maximus Air Cargo, has predicted that freight traffic will triple in the Middle East over the next 20 years. The senior executive, who was speaking at the World Freighters Conference in Spain, prov ided an insight into Max-

Fathi Hilal Buhazza says the future looks bright for Maximus Air Cargo

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imus’ business model during a keynote speech on ‘Start-up and Survival’. “In just four years we have achieved so much, and despite the global downturn, the future looks bright,” said Buhazza. “The Middle East has clear advantages over other regions to reach European, Asian and African markets. Added to this, we also expect freight traffic to triple over the next twenty years. All these advantages combined with a sound business model mean that Maximus Air Cargo is confident and optimistic.” The airline, a part of Abu Dhabi Aviation Group, was established in 2005 and specialises in outsized cargo and wet leasing aircraft.

Etihad Airways will be the launch operator of the A330-200F in summer 2010

FLEET

The new dedicated Freighter variant of the A330 family took to the skies in November, during a four hour maiden flight over Toulouse. This milestone paves the way for the first delivery of the type to launch operator, Etihad Crystal Cargo, in the summer of 2010. The new A330-200F will, according to Airbus, offer freight customers greater range

and a higher maximum payload with lower unit costs than its closest competitors. The aircraft has gained 67 firm orders with nine customers. A 10th customer – Turkish Airlines – has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for two A330-22Fs. Airbus COO, customers, John Leahy, said the A330200F was well adapted to today’s market dynamics. December 2009

ARABIAN SUPPLY CHAIN.COM

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Most popular headlines

1 Top 10 reasons to visit the Dubai Airshow

2 Dubai World Central ‘almost complete’

GCC to centralise air traﬃc control?

ubai is looking at the option of centralising air traffic control in the Gulf region in a bid to reduce congestion, an industry leader has announced. HE Mohammed Abdullah Ahli, director general of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, confirmed that a committee had been set up to investigate ongoing problems in the region’s aerospace sector. One possible option is to develop a centralised air traffic control agency, similar to that in Europe. “We have a committee working to solve the problems within the UAE first and then we are negotiating with neighbouring GCC countries to have maybe five aerospace controls,” he said. He also added that studies had shown that there were many new airways that could be opened up which could help to ease air traffic in the region. However, in order to achieve these goals he believes it was important that there was communications between the various aviation

authorities in the region to address the issues. “We have started and will reach a good agreement to solve the problems of aerospace in the Arab world. We will start with the UAE, then the GCC and then we will look to the other Arab countries,” he stated. He added that the issue was particularly important in Dubai as Dubai International Airport currently accounts for nearly three quarters of air traffic in the UAE. Separately, the UAE government is developing a new licensing regime to regulate foreign passenger and airfreight airlines. The new licensing law will be implemented next year and will be followed by the publication of a blacklist of airlines that are banned from using the country’s aviation services, General Civil Aviation Authority director general Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi said. Al Suwaidi said 30 operators were banned from operating in the country and more would be outlawed in future if they failed to comply with regulations and standards.

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5 New ﬂag carrier unveiled at Airshow

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EDITOR’S CHOICES ONLINE ANALYSIS

SPECIAL REPORT

Transportation Emirates Airline chairman Sheikh Ahmed reﬂects on the challenges of the past year.

Dubai Airshow Ten reasons why the Airshow attracted almost 50,000 visitors.

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December 2009

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NEWS ANALYSIS

TIME

T R AV E L L E R Royal Jordanian CEO Hussein Dabbas maps out the company’s future

ith 30 years experience at Royal Jordascheduled services to three additional Iraq destinations; Basra, nian under his belt, you would think that Erbil and Sulaymaniyah, and the airline is busy conducting marHussein Dabbas would be oozing confiket research to begin operations to Musel. dence in his new position as president and But 2009 has been a year for rival airlines to re-enter the Iraqi CEO. Having worked in nearly every demarket. Ironically it has been Gulf Air, under Majali’s leadership, partment at RJ since joining the airline in that has implemented the most aggressive re-entry programme 1979, he was the obvious choice to take over into the country. To date, the Bahrain-based carrier has launched from current Gulf Air chief, Samer Majali. flights to three Iraq cities in as many months, and two more desThe handover took place in June this year and tinations are expected to be announced before the end of the year. at the time, Dabbas saw the job offer as a great opportunity, but So is Dabbas worried by his former boss’s latest moves? fast forward five months and he remains realistic as to the chal“Look, it helps the market to grow when new airlines enter lenges that lie ahead. markets. It is part of the business. It makes life more difficult, but “It was my luck to have been chosen by the board, but I bekeeps us on our toes.” lieve I am taking over during very difficult times; difficult times He is also quick to point out that RJ maintained its services to for the entire airline industry. I need to work very hard to adapt Iraq when other airlines were swiftly exiting the market. “If you the business to withstand the economic challenges we face.” don’t take risks then you don’t do business. It was an expensive Despite his anxieties, Dabbas is well-prepared to deal with risk. At the beginning, we were not even allowed to operate any unexpected surprises. In 2002, he was part of the our own planes, so we had to wet-lease planes to operteam that built the airline’s current strategy; low-cost, ate. This was during the times when the Iraq operation high yield routes that have established the airline’s was very foggy and we didn’t know how secure the form of travel we are familiar with today. passengers would really be.” “We focus on a three-pronged approach – the But all that has changed and RJ has been instruRoyal Jordanian’s inaugural home market, the support market and the external mental in establishing Iraq as a key destination. “We ﬂight from Queen Alia market. Home is the Levant; Syria, Lebanon, Iraq used Jordan as a gateway to the country and brought International Airport and this is the core of the operation.” Back then, RJ about a major transformation in the quality of servto Baghdad changed the whole concept of air travel in the region ices, timings and rates,” Dabbas explains. by offering multi-frequencies – small airplanes covering IBA Group aviation expert Usman Ahmed says the small airports – “this is why we opted to get the Embraer airairline should continue on this path. craft added to our fleet,” Dabbas explains. “Back then, multi-fre“By connecting local and regional destinations it can tap into quency routes were almost unheard of in the Middle East, but by both the transit and tourism market. increasing frequencies we generated new business, and continue “Royal Jordanian has one distinct advantage; that it can save to do so today.” passengers up to two hours by transiting through Amman.” The airline now operates multi-frequency routes to destinaBut, while Iraq remains of importance to RJ’s business, its tions such as Beirut, Dubai, Alexandria and Sharm El Sheikh, new CEO is currently scrutinising other segments of the combut it is by operating services to Iraq where it has established pany too. itself as the market leader. In 2004, RJ began to make a profit. Under Majali’s leadership In 1970, RJ’s inaugural flight to Baghdad left its home base the airline had been privatised and the good times were to conat Queen Alia International Airport. Since then, it has launched tinue until 2007. But 12 months later, the airline incurred a net

1970

December 2009

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NEWS ANALYSIS

I am taking over during very diďŹ&#x192;cult times; diďŹ&#x192;cult times for the entire airline industry

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December 2009

NEWS ANALYSIS

loss of JD3.8 million (US$5.4 million) due We need to merge with another airline to its fuel hedging policy. “Last year, most airlines took a slap in the region in order to grow, and we will from their fuel hedging policies,” Dabbas explains. “All indications were it would explore this option next year rise to $200 barrel, but when it was $145 we were all running around like headless chickens trying to find solutions. to ensure the best possible deal. Most im- falls far short of the 26-28 bridges Dabbas “But we anticipated the crash of the oil portantly RJ needs to achieve high levels of anticipates will be needed. As a conseprices and the level we have now is very fea- staff efficiency to stay above the water in quence, he plans to fully exploit the airsible for both the consumer and the airline.” the current economic conditions.” lines affiliation with the oneworld alliance Add to that a struggling economy and the So, what about job cuts? On his exit, and the airline will soon be codesharing airline has done well to record a net profit RJ’s former CEO, Majali admitted that he with Cathay Pacific, and on routes to Lonof JD25.5 million ($36 million) in the first had made some 500 employees redundant don with British Airways. But it is merger nine months of this year, helped, in part, to in his last remaining weeks. But Dabbas, plans that Dabbas is keen to discuss. a 20% reduction in operational costs. it seems, does not have the same meth“We need to merge with another airline “We cut capacity and frequency on some odology. “I’m not here to chop heads and in the region in order to grow, and we will flights and sent airplanes to hangars for C- deprive people of livelihoods. I have not explore this option next year.” checks, but when demand dropped we had initiated any job cancellations since I took But Ahmed warns that mergers can to see what could be done to ensure seats over as CEO, although we are not hiring bring many challenges. were being sold at the right price.” But, un- new staff either. But I have told employees “Internal management needs to adapt fortunately, many airlines did the same, and that I am here to improve the business pro- to complement working ethics. In addiRJ was forced to slash its ticket fares, lead- ductivity and I encourage people to save tion, fare structures and network optimiing to a 14% drop in passenger yield. paper and turn off lights.” sation can become key issues. “The Middle East has remained particSo where to next? Dabbas says the air“The biggest challenge for any airline ularly strong throughout this year and the line has exhausted the region in terms of will always be its competition. At least by market was, and still is, vibrant. Where we new route launches, and he will continue merging, RJ will have one less competitor took a beating was on the Far East routes. to re-examine the airline’s strategy. and gain a partner.” And when it comes to Yields fell through the floor, and it was the “We have to look at where we want to finding a partner, Dabbas says he would same story for North Atlantic routes.” be by 2012, 2015 and 2020; we need to be consider looking to airlines in Europe. But cutting capacity is just one method creative, assess our successes and change “We would like to find an airline that to bring the airline into order, says what is lacking.” fits our ambitions and we would not rule IBA Group’s Ahmed. “Royal But the business strategy out the possibility of partnering with a EuJordanian needs to assess other doesn’t end there. Dabbas has ropean carrier. areas of operations; such as concerns that the current ex“We have had our peaks and valleys ground operations, network, pansion project at Queen Alia and I won’t deny that the economic slowservices contracts, suppliers, International Airport will not down has made us think that we cannot Royal Jordanian’s net lease contracts and maintefulfill his ambitions for RJ. carry on the business alone, but consolidaproﬁt for ﬁrst three nance operations. These must With just 14 bridges open- tion is the future and we will use alliances quarters of 2009 be reviewed on a regular basis ing in 2013, the infrastructure as a means of facilitating travel.”

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AVIATION BUSINESS AWARDS 2009

CENTRE STAGE We reveal the nominees and winners of the hotly contested Aviation Business Awards 2009

December 2009

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AVIATION BUSINESS AWARDS 2009

he Aviation Business Awards is here to celAirline has seamlessly moved its entire operations into the new ebrate and pay tribute to the people that have facility. In addition, Dubai International has consistently recordestablished the GCC as an industry leader on ed double-digit growth in passenger traffic throughout the year. the global stage, and a region that many elsewhere in Abu Dhabi-based rival, Etihad Airways saw its chief comthe world can only gaze upon with awe. This year, acmercial officer, Peter Baumgartner take home the award for sales colades were given to 12 individuals to recognise their and marketing manager of the year. During the past 12 months outstanding achievements in the industry. the airline has become recognised as a world class global brand One of the most high profile titles, airline CEO of and it is Baumgartner’s unrelenting focus on product and service the year, was won by Air Arabia CEO, Adel Ali. The offerings that made him the judges favourite. six-year old airline has undergone several developments this year Mastering the complex issue of airport security saw Harib Bin including network expansions and the launch of a second hub in Ghannam Al Hameli, acting vice president of airport operations at Morocco. In addition, the airline has announced the start-up of a Abu Dhabi International Airport be named as airport security manthird hub in Egypt, which is expected to launch in March, 2010. ager of the year. In April 2009, the airport opened its new terminal, Meanwhile, Emirates Airline secured three prestigious which enables it to handle more than 12 million passengers a titles: Patrick Naef scooped aviation IT manager of the year, an increase of more than 5 million passengers. year; Brian Jeffery, senior vice president, corporate Acknowledging his significant contribution to the treasury for Emirates was announced as financier private jet sector, Shane O’Hare, CEO of Royal Jet individuals awarded of the year and Ram Menen walked away with an was announced as business jet CEO of the year. For in recognition of their award to mark the outstanding success of the airline’s those who prefer a more private experience, Royal outstanding achievements Jet has proved the importance of this rapidly excargo division – Emirates SkyCargo – during 2009. in the Middle East Another Dubai-based firm, Dnata, saw one of its panding sector, which despite the present financial aviation industry employees named airport operations manager of the climate, is more profitable here than anywhere else in year. Ismail Ali Albanna has grown with the ground the world. services provider and being based at the city’s international Not only that, Royal Jet’s Amna Al Mansouri accepted airport, Ali Albanna has seen many changes take place. The the award for aviation training/HR manager of the year. It is her judging panel recognised that his skills have played a key part in commitment to a policy of Emiratisation that has seen the busiensuring a high level of quality and service has been provided. ness jet operator recruit 65 UAE nationals, as well as introducStaying with Dubai International Airport, Colm McLoughlin, ing a graduate trainee programme providing both on- and off the CEO of Dubai Duty Free, won duty free manager of the year. The job training. title came as no surprise to the retail division of Dubai Airports And it wasn’t just the airlines and airports who were celebratafter it announced record sales of US$1.1 billion for 2008, placing ing. Following the impressive rise in the number of aircraft operit ahead of London Heathrow and Seoul Incheon airport. ating in the region, MRO provider, AJ Walter saw its CEO, ConIt seemed highly appropriate then when Dubai Airports CEO rad Vandersluis named as MRO manager of the year. Vandersluis umber of methPaul Griffiths was hailed as airport CEO of the year. The airhas helped airlines reduce their costs through a number port chief was only a year into his post when he orchestrated the ods, including PBH contracts and one-stop-shop agreements, all launch of Terminal 3 in October 2008, and since then Emirates the while maintaining quality and service.

AVIATION BUSINESS AWARDS 2009 JUDGING PANEL NEL

Dr Cedwyn Ced Fernandes MBA programme progr coordinator at Middlese Middlesex University, Dubai

Tim Colehan Country manager for the Gulf and Kuwait at the International Air Transport Association

Niko Herrmann Partner in aviation at management consultancy ﬁrm, Oliver Wyman

The judge judges had an extremely difficult job picking the winners, with the calibre of entries incredibly impressive. We would lilike to thank them for their time, expertise and diligence in poring over all the briefs and nominations. www.arabiansupplychain.com

December 2009

AVIATION BUSINESS AWARDS 2009

AVIATION BUSINESS AWARDS 2009 NOMINEES AVI DUTY FREE MANAGER MANA OF THE YEAR Operators were aasked to provide evidence of exceptional performance, with examples of busin business innovation, profit figures, sales trans transactions, marketing campaigns and future futu growth plans. The short-listed nomine nominees were: • Colm Col McLoughlin, CEO, Dubai Duty Free • Mohamed Mounib M Managing director, Abu Dhabi Duty Free • Bill Maxwell Senior vice president, Qatar Duty Free

AIRPORT OPERATIONS MANAGER OF THE YEAR Encompassing excellent ground handling and passenger facilities the award goes to the manager that consistently enabled an airport to deliver world-class services across the Middle East during the past 12 months. The nominations were: • Ismail Ali Albanna Executive vice president, Dnata • Ahmad Al Haddabi Senior vice president airport operations, Abu Dhabi International Airport • Mohammed Ghuloom General manager traﬃc services, rvices, Bahrain Airport Services

AIRPORT SECURITY MANAGER NAGER OF THE YEAR Awarded to the airport security manager that has shown exampless of market-leading innovation and the ability to meet international security standards, while implementing cutting-edge technology, the finalists were: • Khalfan Belhul Security manager, DCA (Dubai Airports) • Harib Bin Ghannam Al Hameli Acting vice president of airport operations, Abu Dhabi International Airport • Naoufel Tlemsani Aviation security standard manager, ADAC

MRO MANAGER OF THE YEAR Recognising the company that has upheld an excellent package of integrated supply chain solutions and offered fast and reliable services, the final shortlist came down to just two nominees: • Bashir Abdel Hadi, CEO, JorAMCo • Conrad Vandersluis MRO director, AJW Aviation

December 2009

BUSINESS JET CEO OF THE YEAR CATEGORY SPONSOR:

Honouring the people that are providing an increasingly important service to the region’s business travellers, the nominees were: • • • •

Paras Dhamecha, CEO, Empire Aviation ation Ammar Balkar, CEO, Elite Jets Shane O’Hare, CEO, Royal Jet Faris Deeb, CEO, Prestige Jets

AIRPORT CEO OF THE YEAR EAR b that consistcon This award honours the hub vice durently delivered a world-class service ing the past 12 months. It also acknowledges an airport that offered strong traffic figures, implemented the latest technology and contributed to the industry’s growth in this region. The nominees for this award were: • Paul Griﬃths, CEO, Dubai Airports • Khalifa Mohamed Al Mazrouei Chairman and managing director, ADAC • Akb Akbar Al Baker CEO, Doha In International Airport

AIR CARGO MANAGER OF THE YEAR The judges were asked to select the individual th that has steadily developed the presence of an air cargo division in the region. The nominees were: • Ram M Menen Divisional senior vice president, cargo, Emirates SkyCargo • Des Vertannes Executive vice president of cargo, Etihad Crystal Cargo • Ingo Roessler Vice president cargo, Royal Jordanian

AVIATION IT MANAGER OF THE YEAR Honouring the individual that has identified the best technology solutions to help the airline increase its efficiencies, the finalists were: • Arshad Khan Technical manager, Department of Civil Aviation (Dubai Airports) • Richard Dawson Executive vice president of IT, Etihad Airways • Patrick Naef Chief information oﬃcer, Emirates (Mercator)

FINANCIAL PERSON OF THE YEAR Recognising the people that have managed the airlines cashflow, allowing them to carry on expanding the business and providing customers with increased choice, the short-listed nominees were: • James Rigney Chief financial officer, Etihad Airways • Brian Jeffery Senior vice president, corporate treasury, Emirates Airline • Neil Mills, CFO, flydubai • Adel Ali, CEO, Air Arabia

AVIATION TRAINING/HR MANAGER OF THE YEAR ing Recognising the region’s leading training ion, and HR manager within an organisation, the winner will have significantly contributed to developing the skills of new recruits to the industry. The nomineess for this category were: • Amna Al Mansouri Aviation Training/HR Manager, Royal Jet et • Rick Helliwell Vice president recruitment, Emirates

SALES AND MARKETING MANAGER OF THE YEAR This accolade is awarded to the individual that has sourced fresh, innovative and profitable markets to develop an airline’s economic enterprise. The nominees were: • Peter Baumgartner, CCO, Etihad Airways • Mike Evans Head of sales and marketing, ﬂydubai • Saud Arab Vice president of cargo marketing, Saudi Arabian Airline Cargo

AIRLINE CEO OF THE YEAR This category was an extremely tough one to judge, with several candidates worthy of the accolade. The winner demonstrated excellent management skills and went beyond the call of duty to get the job done. He also oversaw the airline’s expansion and established the business as a leading Middle East carrier. The nominees were: • Adel Ali, Group CEO, Air Arabia • James Hogan, CEO, Etihad Airways • HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum m Chairman, Emirates Airline • Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO, ﬂydubai • Akbar Al Baker, CEO, Qatar Airways

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AVIATION BUSINESS AWARDS 2009

AVIATION BUSINESS AWARDS ARDS 2009 WINNER WINNERS ROUNDUP

DUTY FR FREE MANAGER OF THE YEAR

AIRPORT OPERATIONS MANAGER OF THE YEAR

AIRPORT SECURITY MANAGER OF THE YEAR

Colm McLoughlin CEO, D Dubai Duty Free

Ismail Ali Albanna Executive vice president, Dnata

Harib Bin Ghannam Al Hameli Acting VP of airport operations, Abu Dhabi International Airport

Shane O’Hare, CEO, Royal Jet

AIR CARGO MANAGER OF THE YEAR

AVIATION IT MANAGER OF THE YEAR

Ram Menen Divisional senior vice president, cargo, Emirates SkyCargo

Patrick Naef Chief information oﬃcer, Emirates

AIRLINE CEO OF THE TH YEAR

MRO MANAGER OF THE YEAR Conrad Vandersluiss MRO director, AJW Aviation via iation

AIRPORT CEO OF THE YEAR AIR Pau Griﬃths Paul CEO, D Dubai Airports

FINANCIAL PERSON OF THE YEAR

AVIATION TRAINING/HR MANAGER OF THE YEAR

SALES AND MARKETING G AR MANAGER OF THE YEAR

Brian Jeﬀery Senior vice president, corporate treasury, Emirates Airline

Amna Al Mansouri Aviation Training/HR Manager, Royal Jet

Peter Baumgartner Chief commercial oﬃcer, er, Etihad Airways

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BUSINESS JET CEO OF THE YEAR CATEGORY SPONSOR:

Adel Ali Group CEO, Air Arabia

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DUBAI AIRSHOW

UP, UP & AWAY AY Did the Dubai Airshow mark a revival in the aerospace industry’s fortunes? he Dubai Airshow got off to a promising start with Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum proclaiming that the industry was on the cusp of a business upturn. Some 890 exhibitors from 47 countries were relieved to hear the president of the Dubai Department of Civil Aviation and chairman of Dubai Airports and Emirates Airline, say that Dubai stands ready to be at the forefront of the economic upswing. “The Airshow comes at an important time for the aerospace industry as the world begins to see a revival in fortunes. During the past two years, the business has experienced unprecedented turbulence. However, I am very pleased that many of the organisations at the show this year were among those that continued to invest in the industry during the worst of times.” This year’s five-day event saw an increase of over 7000 square metres in

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exhibition space and 13 dedicated national and regional pavilions - a 10% increase on 2007. Add to that, more than 100 civil aviation leaders from 33 countries - a third of which were airline presidents and CEOs – and the event appears to have survived the impact of the global financial crisis. Airplane manufacturer, Boeing, was not feeling quite as buoyant, however. Its president and CEO of commercial airplanes, Jim Albaugh said it expects sales in the Middle East aviation market to be flat during the next few years, but added that the region would continue to have a good growth outlook in the long term. “If you look at the Middle East from a traffic standpoint it has grown about 12% per year over the last five years and it is one that we think will continue to grow,” he said. “If you contrast that to the rest of the world it has grown faster and is one that will continue to have very good growth prospects.” In the short term, Albaugh said he believes

December 2009

DUBAI AIRSHOW

The second day also saw Dubai’s first low-cost carrier, flydubai release details of two aircraft financing deals worth $160 million. The financing covers the first two aircraft that flydubai received in May of this year and secures all six aircraft the budget carrier will have by the end of 2009. One of the deals is with Dubai Ismanufacture of aileron composite panels lamic Bank and marks flydubai’s first fiand the production of assembled aileron nancing from within the UAE. shipsets for the A330/A340 aircraft series. Additionally, the low-cost carrier anThe cooperation with the European nounced a contract with Goodrich Corplane maker is expected to generate in ex- poration, which has been selected by cess of $1 billion of revenue for Mubadala the airline to supply wheels and carbon Aerospace during the next 10 years as it brakes for its 54 Boeing Next Generalays out its plans to establish the emirate tion 737-800 aircraft. The deal is expected as a global aerospace hub. to generate up to $22 million in revenue Staying with Airbus, and on day two over the life of the contract, including of the Airshow, the manufacturer struck support services. it lucky with Yemenia, the official Rumours were circulating pricarrier of Yemen, which signed or to the Airshow that Dubai a memorandum of underAerospace Enterprise (DAE) standing (MoU) to acquire would be making an an10 A320 aircraft. The airnouncement and the leascraft will be used to exing company did not disappand services on regional, point. A number of strucrevenue generated for African, Indian and Eurotural and management Mubadala Aerospace during pea pean routes. changes have occurred over

The Airshow comes at an important time for the aerospace industry as the world begins to see a revival in fortunes Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum

“next year’s [aircraft] sales will be fairly flat…. [and] are going to be off for several years”, however, he forecast enthusiastically that the 787 would be on display at the Dubai Airshow in two years time. Boeing has a backlog worth US$144 billion for the delayed 787 model, of which Qatar Airways has ordered 30, Dubai Aerospace Enterprise has ordered 15, Gulf Air has ordered 24 and Etihad Airways has signed up for 35. On a positive note, Boeing signed an agreement with Mubadala Development Company, that will see Abu Dhabi becoming a composite manufacturing base, however the announcement came a day after Boeing’s rival, Airbus signed two agreements with the government owned investment arm. The Airbus deals confirm the

US$1

BILLION

next 10 years through Airbus deal

December 2009

www.arabiansupplychain.com

DUBAI AIRSHOW

Hen d a d ith airlines i li i th Middl East E t and dA Henningsen also announced deall with in the Middle Africa reEtih Airways which will see the MRO gion over the next 20 years. In its recently Etihad provider installing new first class cabins published market forecast 2009-2028, in nine Airbus A340s from the airline’s Bombardier said it foresees deliveries of long-haul fleet. The project will be 870 aircraft from all manufacturers to completed by the end of 2010 and Middle East and African operaall work will be carried out at tors alike. Lufthansa Technik’s sites in Bombardier Business Hamburg and Malta. Aircraft displayed a midFurthermore, Lufthansize Learjet 60 XR jet, a sa Technik also expanded super-midsize Challenger its agreement with Qatar 300 jet, a Challenger 605 worth of contracts won by Airways to include cabin aircraft, a Challenger 850 engine manufacturer, CFM modifications for four Airjet and an ultra-long range during the Dubai Airshow bus A340-600 aircraft belongGlobal Express XRS jet at ing to the Doha-based carrier. the Airshow. Thales confirmed it would be Al Jaber Aviation (AJA) reworking with Abu Dhabi Airports Com- vealed plans to add to its portfolio of pany (ADAC) to provide a new air traffic VIP aircraft services. The VIP jet operacontrol system at its main airport. The tor will expand its offerings to provide decision comes as part of the airport’s US aviation services to customers including $6.8 billion redevelopment project. aircraft management, and a full range In the business jet arena Canada’s of technical and commercial consultancy Bombardier forecast steady growth for services. In addition, AJA CEO Mohammed Obeid Al Jaber, added that 2010 would witness the aggressive expansion of the company’s commercial operations, If you look at the Middle East from a traﬃc and the latter part of the Airshow week standpoint it has grown about 12% per year saw the operator secure funding for the acquisition of two Embraer jets. over the last ﬁve years and it is one that we think Last but not least, ExecuJet Middle East was appointed as an authorised will continue to grow dealer for Aircell, a global provider of airJim Albaugh, president and CEO, commercial airplanes, Boeing borne communications. the past few months and the company has abstained from making any significant deals. However, during the week of the Airshow, DAE signed a $270 million deal to buy CFM56-5B engines for 20 new Airbus A320 planes that it has on order. The 20 aircraft are part of a 70-plane order that the company announced in July 2008. The new engines are due to begin arriving in early 2011. CFM also bagged deals worth $275 million from Tunisair and Libyan Airlines. In terms of suppliers, Lufthansa Technik announced a joint venture with Oman Air to provide technical support for the airline’s fleet and for other customers in the region. Not only that, a new hangar is to be built at Muscat International Airport. From 2012, it will be possible for two wide body and two narrow body aircraft to be handled in the hangar, which is to be jointly funded by the partners. Lufthansa Technik CEO August Wilhelm-

www.arabiansupplychain.com

US$545 MILLION

December 2009

INTERVIEW

BRIDGING THE GA GAP For Indian carrier, Jet Airways, the end of 2009 does not mark the end of diﬃcult times

ndia’s aviation industry is expected to report losses of US$1.5 billion in 2009. That makes up 42% of total losses in the Asia Pacific region. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has said that “logically most of these losses will come from Air India”, but what do these predictions mean for the premium carriers, such as Jet Airways? It is safe to say that 2009 has been an ‘annus horribilis’ for the aviation industry as a whole, but Jet Airways has had to contend not just with falling passenger figures and rising debt, but also with staff walkouts, subsequent flight cancellations and the resignation of its CEO, Wolfgang Prock-Schauer. A number of moves have been made in an attempt to trim the airline’s massive net debt, which is reported to be in the region of $3.1 billion and the withdrawal of economically unviable routes, capacity cuts, aircraft leasing, a recruitment freeze and salary reductions, have all been applied to the airline’s business strategy. But, according to Jet Airways general manager for Dubai and the Northern Emirates Shakir Kantawala the measures have already begun to show results, and the aggressive strategy will continue well into 2010, he says. Of particular significance to the survival of Jet Airways has been the introduction of its no-frills service, Jet Airways Konnect, earlier in the year. The Jet Airways Konnect service capitalises on the downshift in demand to economy travel on several domestic www.arabiansupplychain.com

US$1.5 BILLION

Kantawala explains. “The two routes. In fact, Jet Airways, airlines have, so far, only conwhich controls a quarter cluded interline agreements, as of India’s aviation market, Expected losses of India’s are the normal practice in the directs 70% of its traffic to aviation industry in 2009, aviation industry, but there are the budget service, resulting according to IATA on-going discussions.” in a 2.5% rise in seating capacWhen it comes to Jet’s Dubai ity. Currently, the business runs 27 service, Kantawala is indignant that load planes on the Jet Konnect routes and the outlook is bright. Domestic traffic recorded factors remain at an “impressive” level and a global rise of 4.4% in September, according he insists that the Middle East is one of Jet Airways most important markets. “The to the latest figures from IATA. Kantawala does not stipulate precisely long-term potential of the aviation industry how long Jet’s business strategy will con- in both India and the Middle East is good. tinue to favour the low-cost market, but says However, the current economic downturn, that the flexible, all-economy, no-frills solu- global competition, and the ailing health of tion enables the airline to react quickly to the aviation industry in general, may pose a market changes. “We will only re-introduce few challenges, and more so in India where our premium services – a twin class configu- airlines have to deal with overcapacity and ration - on these routes if demand picks up.” infrastructural constraints.” The company says it expects to see yield Enhancing connectivity through codeshare and interline alliances is also being con- improvements, given the peak season as well sidered. Indian airlines reeled under mounting as premium demand revival, during the next losses as demand waned in the wake of the few quarters, and its focus will be on maxfinancial crisis last year and high operating imising revenues through higher seat factors. costs have forced them to look at fundraising Its low-cost Konnect service has consistently options. Jet and Kingfisher Airlines – which registered load factor percentages in the high launched flights to Dubai in June this year 70s, indicating that the firm’s future could – continue to consider forming an alliance, indeed lie in low-cost travel.

The current economic downturn, global competition, and the ailing health of the aviation industry, may pose a few challenges Shakir Kantawala, general manager, Dubai and Northern Emirates, Jet Airways December 2009

FACE TO FACE

MAKING THE MOST OF THE MIDD MI DDLE EAST ST Lufthansa Technik senior vice president for sales and marketing Walter Heerdt discusses the company’s regional development You made a number of announcements at the Dubai Airshow. Is it fair to say that business remains strong in the region for Lufthansa Technik? We have been affected by the global financial crisis, but only in a limited way. We did our investment and made a number of decisions a year or so ago, which have all been completed. In terms of the market, it is not growing, but luckily we have been able to secure as much business as we did last year. We had an exceptionally good year in 2008, and in 2009 we were confident we could reach similar levels.

$17.8 MILLI O N

hans a nt by Luft investme new building ra Technik fo to innovation te dedica d

December 2009

Can you be more speciﬁc? The company, which is part of the Deutsche Lufthansa group, last year generated a turnover of EUR5.5 billion (US$8.2 billion). Around 65% of this came from external customers and the remainder came from Lufthansa, so, as you can see, we are very much dependent on the external market, which is good as this is where we are successful. What is Lufthansa Technik’s market share in the MRO sector? We enjoy 12% market share globally, in this

area of business, and sales levels have not declined. People are parking aircraft that need a lot of MRO at the moment, so that is benefiting us. When do you think the global aviation market will begin to recover? In 2011 Lufthansa believes the market will return to 2008 levels, but with moderate growth only. How are you developing the customer base in the Middle East? We have a big customer base going from Oman to Lebanon, Jordan and into North Africa, and also Saudi Arabia. The Middle East market seems stable and we have not seen such drastic drops in demand as in other places across the globe. The region is not making deferrals on aircraft deliveries either. In commercial terms the region is very important for us and our new engagements with Qatar Airways, Oman Air and Etihad Airways confirm that. Are you entering any new markets? We are placing a strong emphasis on VIP and business aviation. We have done a lot of research into in-flight entertainment in this area, and have invested EUR12 million ($17,800,000) in a new building which is dedicated to innovation. Certain components of this can be applied to the commercial market too, and we are working on developments in cabin entertainment and cabin management systems. Furthermore, our Total Material Operations (TMO) product is proving to be very successful and shows we are continuing to develop our product spectrum. In fact, Safi Airways has just extended its contract with us to include its Airbus A340-300. www.arabiansupplychain.com

ASK THE EXPERT

Think outside the box Question: How can airlines beneﬁt from GDS merchandising solutions? Expert: Travelport GDS MEA , airline director Khalid Al Khalid

hanging economic conditions, fuel form for suppliers to promote and distribprice fluctuations and increasing ute their products the way they wish to sell competition have prompted air- them, and to enable its subscribers to gain lines to reconsider their revenue full access to product-related information generation model. Against the landscape so that they can offer their customers inof a rapidly transforming industry, airlines formed travel choices. are seeking new and innovative ways to Several major carriers have already boost sales and improve yields, including begun to increase their merchandising efthe distribution of optional services. forts with the support of the GDS platform. This new merchandising model not Low-fare airlines in North America and Euonly helps airlines protect revenues, but rope, for whom it is estimated over 30% of empowers customers by giving them revenue comes from ancillary services, the ability to pick and choose the have embraced the model, whilst a various ‘attributes’ they want to number of the legacy carriers are buy. Through the introduction also adopting this new form of of revenue comes of chargeable services, airlines revenue generation. from ancillary can not only increase revenue Air Canada is one carrier services at low-fare across their distribution chanwhich took a major technology airlines in Europe nels, but enhance the value they leap forward when it made ‘a la provide to their customers. carte’ pricing available through From premium seating and priority the GDS in June this year with the boarding, to special meals, extra baggage launch of Agencia, Travelport’s revoluor even entertainment services, nearly eve- tionary travel booking solution. This travel ry type of ancillary service can be unbun- industry merchandising first enables travel dled into a product of its own. In fact, the agencies to not only display and book all of new era of merchandising enables airlines Air Canada’s fares with real time access to to differentiate their product and move price and availability, but also away from the simple price comparisons to book any service from its ‘a commonplace in the industry today. la carte’ menu. With the internet prompting the need to These services include make pricing more transparent and com- among others, lounge acpetitive, airlines have much to benefit from cess, pre-paid on board café this new approach to selling. Cross and up- vouchers, checked baggage sell capabilities provide airlines with the op- and seat assignment. Travelportunity to increase yield through the com- port was able to help bring a parison of premium products, ensuring that blend of traditional airline travellers receive the most comprehensive content with the new mantravel choices throughout their journey. ner in which Air Canada GDS providers are incorporating these wants to sell its prodadvanced travel selling capabilities into ucts, together into merchandising solutions that enable air- one user experience lines to sell ancillary services through its for the travel agendistribution channels. cy community. Travelport has introduced its own merOur focus on chandising programme to provide a plat- adapting GDS

30%

www.arabiansupplychain.com

technology to reflect these new product attributes will continue to be a key part of our distribution strategy in 2010 and beyond. As well as continuing to display the lowest air fare, we believe the GDS model also needs to evolve to incorporate the same feature comparison capability as hotels. For travel agents, it means delivering information beyond fares, including more information related to the breakdown of products in order to support the needs of their customers. Agility, speed and simplicity are all vital for GDSs and other distribution systems to respond to the potential complexities of merchandising. At Travelport, we will continue to provide significant value by demonstrating we can distribute as, or more effectively than, other channels, and by providing the capability to promote and merchandise ancillary products and services through our desktop. We are therefore spending a lot of time and resources making sure this is a reality. While it is still early days for the merchandising model, it is already clear that ancillary revenues are increasingly being integrated into how an airline does business. Each airline is establishing its own version of merchandising, and we are enjoying a collaborative approach with the carriers. It is perhaps only a matter of time before we start to see merchandising become more widespread amongst Middle Eastern carriers as they continue to discover the benefits of this additional and potentially lucrative revenue stream. December 2009

FACE TO FACE

MOVING MARKETS Air Charter Service director, Middle East Dmitriy Korshunov explains how the charter company’s business is developing in a downturn How has Air Charter Service performed during the economic downturn? August and September 2009 were record months for Air Charter Service’s Dubai office. We witnessed the largest increase in ad-hoc charters since we started operations in 2006. According to our 2009 year-to-date figures, we have carried out over 2700 charter flights so far – 500 more than at the same time last year. ACS, worldwide, has experienced around 20% increase in sales so far in 2009, with our Dubai office leading the way in growth. How has this increase occurred? People prefer to fly ad-hoc now rather than own their own jets. When the fuel price dropped it was cheap to charter flights when compared to commercial flights, and now, those who were considering owning aircraft have dropped their assets but still need to use private air travel in place of a scheduled service, so they will consider chartering.

ACS, worldwide, has experienced around 20% increase in sales so far in 2009, with our Dubai oﬃce leading the way in growth Dmitry Korshunov, director, Air Charter Service

Time-share in aviation saw fast growth and then a huge collapse. It only took 10 years to fail but with tremendous losses of nearly US$300 million you wonder if it will ever make a come-back. With regard to ACS, it gives us the opportunity to explain that we do not have hidden charges post flight. An ad-hoc service often offers around 30-50% savings for the customer when compared to a jet card scheme.

Which markets will ACS be pursuing in the future? The region’s sports community is showing a lot of interest in private air travel. We moved a Middle Eastern football club for the Asian Are you surprised at the volume of growth Championship League earlier this year, and in the business? we also carried out numerous flights Correct methodology and a tried for the Champions League in May and tested model means that we and the Gulf Nations Cup. We ﬂights ACS has have not been affected by the are also serving executives wantchartered so far this economic turmoil. In August we ing to fly to Iraq. Oil and gas year - an increase of tripled our growth and although investors are flying in and out 500 from 2008 I am satisfied with our results, of Erbil for example, but we also there is always room for more. operate many flights to Basra and Baghdad for construction companies Is the sector damaged by larger compa- and logistics companies. nies like NetJets having to downsize? The NetJets phenomenon wasn’t in my Do you think Iraq will become a popular opinion based on concrete principles. I leisure destination? compare it to time-share apartments in We have not had any enquiries from peoSpain. Were people buying for a real need ple wanting to travel to Iraq for leisure or deluded by the concept of NetJets? purposes, but there are thousands of peo-

2700

December 2009

ple wanting to travel to Najaf for religious reasons. We have had numerous enquiries from the Indian community in particular. Will you be pursuing any new markets? We plan to expand our commercial jets offering and increase our sales force to serve the region’s executive jet market. Do you think the industry will recover from the global ﬁnancial crisis? We hear that we should be now coming to the bottom of the financial crisis and the upswing has already begun, and I have seen certain aspects of the industry changing. However, the regional economic growth over the last 10 years should have created a significant buffer for the industry to survive this period. www.arabiansupplychain.com

TOP 10

TOP P 10 INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES A look at the world’s top airlines by number of international passengers carried ny ranking of the world’s top airlines is inevitably skewed towards those that fly domestic routes in the US. The domestic US market is so big that Southwest Airlines, an airline that does not offer any international flights, is the world’s number one airline by total passengers carried. The next three on the world’s largest list − American Airlines, Delta Airlines and United Airlines − all derive at least 75% of their passengers from the domestic US market. We thought it only fair, therefore, that we should publish a list of 2008’s top international airlines to complement our earlier feature: The world’s top passenger airlines (October issue.) The airlines featured here are those that are most successful on routes in and out of their own country. Many of these are names that you will immediately recognise, though there are a couple of surprises here, and there is a place for a regional icon. The International Air Transport Association’s annual review of the aviation industry, World Air Transport Statistics, was used as the source for the rankings.

RYANAIR The world’s number one international airline in 2008 was Ryanair, the Ireland-based low-cost carrier that makes you pay for just about everything. Amongst its latest ideas: charging for the use of lavatories and offering standing-only options on flights. In a dismal year for the industry, Ryanair reported a Q1 2009 (April-June) net profit of EUR136.5 million (US$193.3 million), a 550% increase over last year’s Q1 figure. The airline attributed the international rise to a large drop in unit costs caused by lower fuel prices and passengers carried reductions in staff, airport and handling costs. Passenger numin 2008 bers also rose year on year in the quarter, from 15.0 to 16.6 million.

57.647

MILLION

December 2009

TOP 10

42.151

MILLION international passengers carried in 2008

LUFTHANSA The carrier reported a net loss of EUR216 million (US$306 million) for the ﬁrst half of 2009 (Jan-June). Group revenue fell 15.2% year on year and passenger revenue declined 19.3%. The airline aims to remove EUR1 billion ($1.5 billion) of costs from its passenger operations by the end of 2009. Last week, Lufthansa agreed to pay around EUR166 million ($2.5 million) to acquire over 90% of Austrian Airlines.

35.417

MILLION

EASYJET international easyJet operates some 170 passengers carried aircraft on over 400 routes across in 2008 Europe. For the three months ending on June 30 this year, easyJet reported a year-on-year increase in passenger revenue of 7.9%. It did not disclose proﬁt for the quarter, but predicted a ‘pre-tax’ proﬁt of up to US$82 million for the twelve months ending in September 2009.

32.508

MILLION international passengers carried in 2008

AIR FRANCE For the ﬁrst quarter of 2009 (April-June), Air France and KLM reported combined group results. Group passenger revenues fell 18.7% to EUR4.01 billion (US$6 billion) — on the back of a 5.8% drop in traﬃc. The group is reducing capacity in a bid to increase load factors and has revealed details of a voluntary redundancy plan to trade unions. www.arabiansupplychain.com

BRITISH AIRWAYS For the three months ended June 30, the airline reported an operating loss of GBP94 million (US$155 million) against a revenue fall of 12.2%. Delivery of its ﬁrst six A380 has been extended by an average of ﬁve months and the second batch of six aircraft international has been delayed by an average of two years. Headcount has passengers carried been reduced by almost 1500 since March 31 this year through rein 2008 duced overtime, increased part time working and redundancies.

29.054

MILLION

December 2009

TOP 10

EMIRATES It started in 1985, with US$10 million in capital and two borrowed planes. In 2008, it was the world’s seventh largest international airline. The UAE’s position on the East-West corridor, as well as the business and leisure appeal of Dubai, are just two key factors that have made it such a success. It has also invested heavily in marketing and has generated plenty of free PR over the years by placing some of the world’s largest ever plane orders. A lack of trade unions and pensioner liabilities also helps just a little bit when it comes to keeping costs down. Over the years, Emirates has been a proﬁt machine and it even managed to stay in the black in its last ﬁnancial year, which ended in June.

23.808

MILLION international passengers carried in 2008

KLM For the ﬁrst quarter of 2009 (AprilJune), Air France and KLM reported combined group results. Group passenger revenues fell 18.7% to EUR4.01 billion (US$6 billion) — on the back of a 5.8% drop in traﬃc. The group is reducing capacity in a bid to increase load factors and has revealed a voluntary redundancy plan to trade unions.

AMERICAN AIRLINES American Airlines ﬂew 22.8% of its passengers on international routes in 2008. The carrier reported a net loss of US$390 million for the second quarter of 2009 (April-June). Revenue fell 21% year on year. The airline is currently seeking US$450 milinternational lion in private funding.

21.154

MILLION

passengers carried in 2008

22.444

MILLION international passengers carried in 2008

19.142

SINGAPORE AIRLINES Singapore Airlines serves over 90 destinations in almost 40 countries and has the distinction of having been the first airline international to put the A380 into service. In the first quarter ending in June passengers carried 2009, SIA Group lost SG$307 million (US$260.8 million), with Sinin 2008 gapore Airlines accounting for SG$271 million ($194 million) of this loss. This was the group’s first quarterly loss since the SARS crisis in 2003. Several steps have been taken to contain costs, including a freeze on hiring, route modifications, unpaid leave, wage cuts and deferment of non-essential projects.

MILLION

CATHAY PACIFIC AIRWAYS The Cathay Pacific Group reported a profit of HK$812 million (US$104.77 million) for the first six months of 2009, as a result of a one off fuel hedging gain. Take that out, however, and it struggled like most of its peers. Group turnover fell 27.1% year and an operational loss of HK$765 million (US$98.70 million) was reported. In response to the crisis, it is deferring aircraft deliveries and cutting pasinternational senger capacity by 8%.

18.860

MILLION

December 2009

passengers carried in 2008 www.arabiansupplychain.com

AVIATION DATA

AVIATION FACTS & FIGURES A SUMMARY OF LATEST INDUSTRY STATISTICS FROM AROUND THE WORLD

Knowledge of passenger numbers is crucial to improving the aviation business, particularly during the current economic slowdown. Every month we bring you up-to-date industry ďŹ gures

he stabilisation trend of the last two months has continued into September with global passenger traffic rising by 1.6%. International traffic still comes in 1% below results in September 2008, but all regions are up on the lows

seen earlier in the year. Global freight, although 3% below traffic in September 2008, represents an accelerating upward trend. The year-to-date slump in freight has been much deeper than the passenger decline, but a recovery could be in sight.

AUGUST 2009/2008 CITY/COUNTRY

PASSENGERS (tonnes)

CARGO

% CHG

(tonnes)

YEAR-TO-DATE AUGUST 2009/2008 MOVEMENTS

% CHG

(tonnes)

PASSENGERS

% CHG

(tonnes)

CARGO

% CHG

(tonnes)

MOVEMENTS % CHG

(tonnes)

% CHG

MIDDLE EAST ABU DHABI, UAE

891,550

2.5

34,320

6.6

8802

12.4

6,417,349

7.6

243,472

2.3

66,473

8.3

BAHRAIN

891,819

2.8

30,470

(11.5)

8985

1.8

5,967,858

1.3

228,417

(8.4)

67,779

0.8 24.4

BEIRUT, LEBANON

612,956

12.0

6148

(0.1)

7122

23.3

3,321,918

25.4

47,206

9.6

43,374

3,729,879

10.7

163,428

3.0

23,215

5.1

26,878,331

6.7

1,198,546

(0.1)

183,201

2.1

KUWAIT

826,545

6.3

22,489

40.3

8852

16.6

5,532,461

11.0

130,461

8.1

65,276

9.5

MUSCAT, OMAN

410,577

8.3

5884

14.4

4885

25.7

2,956,102

8.3

39,796

1.4

35,136

16.0

SHARJAH, UAE

482,626

(1.8)

40,466

(1.1)

5609

(0.7)

3,739,710

4.4

267,676

16.5

42,052

1.3

ACCRA, GHANA

139,695

8.9

3683

(23.0)

1625

9.9

911,649

(0.1)

31,204

(8.6)

13,271

9.3

1,414,954

4.0

22,271

0.1

12,742

2.6

9,351,064

(1.7)

189,546

0.9

92,528

2.7

CAPETOWN, SA

604,451

(5.3)

*****

7461

(5.9)

4,991,163

(7.1)

*****

61,735

(5.1)

CASABLANCA, MOROCCO

682,129

(0.1)

3745

(8.0)

6949

2.3

4,226,851

0.2

37,520

(5.5)

47,135

(3.2)

DAR ES SALAAM, TANZ

148,415

(3.0)

1863

(9.9)

5864

(10.4)

922,632

(11.9)

12,447

(21.8)

37,728

(6.8)

DUBAI, UAE

AFRICA CAIRO, EGYPT

JOHANNESBURG, SA

1,560,130

(3.1)

16,213

(39.1)

17,528

(6.2)

11,498,680

(7.9)

158,155

(26.2)

133,355

(6.6)

MARRAKECH, MOROCCO

242,542

(7.4)

(19.5)

2277

(2.9)

1,971,346

(6.8)

1117

7.4

19,419

(10.5)

SHARM EL SHEIKH, EGYPT

654,669

0.6

*****

4725

(4.3)

4,680,740

(9.3)

*****

35,597

(10.1)

ASIA PACIFIC BANGKOK, THAILAND

3,554,707

5.5

92,734

(7.2)

22,076

5.1

25,846,141

(7.6)

642,268

(22.8)

168,940

(3.3)

BEIJING, CHINA

6,260,200

40.1

121,590

10.6

43,030

15.5

43,143,097

21.5

888,430

(2.5)

323,354

17.8

MANILA, PHILIPPINES

1,990,225

13.9

42,135

38.2

18,909

14.6

16,307,852

10.1

211,817

(12.2)

152,161

12.9

MUMBAI, INDIA

2,051,510

8.1

49,762

4.4

20,323

5.9

15,937,896

(6.4)

365,902

(4.0)

159,827

(3.5)

NEW DELHI, INDIA

2,083,879

20.9

42,058

10.4

20,953

10.0

16,200,435

1.3

302,922

(1.2)

160,346

0.3

SINGAPORE

3,162,960

0.5

143,028

(13.4)

20,883

5.1

23,621,863

(5.9)

1,054,031

(18.1)

159,613

2.8

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

2,771,962

1.2

*****

25,103

(1.3)

21,474,611

(2.8)

*****

191,154

(4.6)

TOKYO, JAPAN

6,042,354

(6.3)

66,179

(8.8)

28,692

(1.8)

40,522,846

(8.0)

484,956

(11.6)

223,442

(1.4)

FRANKFURT, GERMANY

4,894,872

(0.4)

159,628

(6.1)

39,663

(5.0)

33,950,534

(6.3)

1,168,360

(18.2)

307,969

(5.6)

LONDON, UK

6,393,321

0.2

116,368

(8.2)

40,190

(2.9)

44,181,322

(2.6)

848,219

(15.1)

313,893

(2.4)

MADRID, SPAIN

4,700,092

(1.3)

25,049

(6.1)

36,644

(4.3)

32,383,191

(8.4)

201,058

(15.3)

290,579

(9.8)

MUNICH, GERMANY

3,034,535

(3.1)

18,482

(12.0)

33,121

(8.7)

21,481,879

(7.8)

146,760

(16.9)

265,089

(8.9)

PARIS, FRANCE

5,711,714

(4.5)

152,000

(8.2)

45,717

(8.2)

39,087,419

(5.9)

1,170,100

(14.9)

355,556

(6.1)

ATLANTA

8,008,263

(0.4)

47,469

(11.0)

86,849

3.1

59,560,423

(2.5)

350,575

(21.6)

652,411

(0.9)

CHICAGO

6,065,232

(6.8)

100,990

(11.0)

73,081

(6.6)

43,558,491

(11.1)

697,477

(24.3)

551,553

(8.2)

DALLAS FORT WORTH

5,050,220

(1.4)

47,649

(7.4)

56,164

(3.8)

37,823,131

(3.2)

400,817

(11.2)

424,314

(4.2)

LOS ANGELES

5,437,442

(4.9)

127,501

(5.6)

48,448

(11.7)

37,999,841

(9.0)

936,020

(16.7)

363,740

(17.1)

EUROPE

NORTH AMERICA

Passengers = total passengers enplaned and deplaned (transit passengers counted once). Cargo = loaded and unloaded freight & mail. Source = Airports Council International *Growth rate > 200% or < -50% due to extraordinary circumstances, i.e. war, social and political unrest, major sports events, new routes.

December 2009

www.arabiansupplychain.com

AVIATION DATA

EMIRATES SKYCARGO FUEL PRICE INDEX

AIRLINE ONTIME STATISTICS & DELAY CAUSES: SEPTEMBER 2009 Ontime 86.17%

Cancelled 0.57% 23 October

387

390

13 November

378

360

2 October

332 330

Index 100 = 53.5 US cents per US gallon

300

Fuel Price Index The fuel index is based on the average price of aviation fuel in ﬁve key spot markets (Rotterdam, Singapore, New York, US Gulf and US West Coast)

270

Security delay 0.02%

Diverted 0.18%

240

Aircraft arriving late 3.38%

20 Nov 09

13 Nov 09

6 Nov 09

30 Oct 09

23 Oct 09

16 Oct 09

9 Oct 09

2 Oct 09

25 Sept 09

18 Sept 09

Air carrier delay 3.89% National aviation system delay 4.92%

Weather delay 0.37%

SOURCE: Bureau of Transportation Statistics (www.transtats.bts.gov)

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MOVERS & SHAKERS New N COO at BAE Systems

Qatar Airways appoints senior VP of cargo

L Linda Hudson has joined BAE S Systems plc as its new chief operatin ing officer and president and CEO oof BAE Systems, Inc. Hudson was p previously president of BAE Systtems’ Land & Armaments Operatin ing Group and succeeds general T Tony Zinni (USMC ret.), who was appointed as the acting president presid and CEO of BAE Systems Inc. in June 2009. Zinni will stay on to oversee the transition period and will continue to serve as the chairman of the BAE Systems, Inc. board. In addition, Hudson has been appointed as an executive director of BAE Systems plc and will continue to serve on BAE Systems’ executive committee.

Qatar Airways has appointed Dileepa Wijesundera to the position of senior vice president of the Doha-based carrier’s cargo business. Wijesundera will also continue his role with Qatar Aviation Services where he has served as senior vice president of cargo for the past three years, developing Doha International Airport’s cargo hub. Qatar Airways Cargo has also announced the appointment of a new vice president of cargo sales, Niek van der weide. He joins Qatar Airways Cargo from Cargo B and has previously worked with Martinair.

AJW announces new chief exec

Rizon bolsters its London and Doha teams

In line with its global business development, AJ Walter has appointed Boris Wolstenholme as chief executive of its aviation division. Based in the UK, Wolstenholme is tasked with managing AJW’s rapidly expanding component power-by-hour (PBH), p pooling, leasing, consignment and d day-to-day support solutions. Wolsstenholme is also keen to develop A AJW’s comprehensive repair manaagement services across its customeer base of more than 700 airlines in oover 100 countries. Wolstenholme’s b background is as divisional sales m manager and commercial director oof AJW.

In preparation for the opening of its new hangar and VIP terminal in London, aircraft charter company, Rizon has hired Jackie Nikolajsen as general manager at the Biggin Hill facility. He joins from ExecuJet Europe. To head up its operation in Doha, Faisal Alam, is newly named general manager. Alam is ex head of maintenance and development at BexAir and former COO of Delmun Aviation Services. Andrew Pearce, who joined Rizon UK in May has been promoted to head of aircraft management.

Airports Council International elects new chairman Max Moore-Wilton has been elected as the new chair of the Airports Council International (ACI). Moore-Wilton will serve a two-year term at the global trade association starting from January 1, 2010. Previously, he has served as a regional advisor and as a member of the ACI governing board and as vice chair of the board this year. In addition, Moore-Wilton is chairman of Sydney Airport Corporation, chairman of MAp Airports and chairman of Macquarie Media Group.

BAWC hires new ﬁnancial controller British Airways World Cargo (BAWC) has announced the appointment of Rachel Izzard as financial controller. She becomes a member of the BA World Cargo leadership team, replacing Sean Doyle who has been appointed financial controller, alliancees on the passenger side of the busin ness. Izzard joined British Airways tthirteen years ago and joins the ccargo division from the passenger sside. Prior to this, Izzard worked in supporting the development of H Heathrow Terminal 5, bringing ttogether a variety of programme sstreams and stakeholders to ensure a cohesive finance approach.

Please email your ‘movers and shakers’ information to sarah.cowell@itp.com P December 200 2009 00 09

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December 2009

01 1 02 2 03 3 04 EVENTS CALENDAR 06 07 08 09 11 12 133 14 16 177 18 1 21 22 223 24 26 27 28 29 48

EVENTS LISTING

05 10 15

A listing of trade shows, conferences and seminars relating to the Middle East aviation industry 7  9 DECEMBER 2009

14  15 DECEMBER 2009

14  16 DECEMBER 2009

Middle East Business Aviation

ATM in the Middle East

ATC Global Middle East

The fourth Middle East Business Aviation (MEBA) show takes place from 7 - 9 December in Dubai, amid recent upbeat predictions for the future of the corporate and business jet market in the region. Some 450 business aircraft are currently operating here, and in 2008 the show attracted some 250 exhibitors from 30 countries and more than 5500 visitors. Not only that, the event closed with more than US$1.5billion worth of deals struck. The event is organised by F&E Aerospace.

This two-day event is the conference stream of ATC Global Middle East, which is being held in Abu Dhabi. Speakers at the event include GCAA director general Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi; Emirates vice president fl ight operations Bob Everest; IATA regional vice president for the Middle East & North Africa Dr Majdi Sabri; ICAO regional director Mohamed Khonji and a number of leading figures from GACA, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain’s Civil Aviation Authority.

The organiser of the ATC Global Conference & Exhibition has created this event to specifically focus on the Middle East. As well as a two-day conference, the event includes a half day of workshops, a networking dinner and an exhibition for senior stakeholders from the Middle East, North Africa, Western Asia and surrounding areas. All delegates are invited to the gala dinner, hosted by the GCAA, on the evening of Monday December 14. Visit the website to view the full agendas for each day.

VENUE: Dubai EMAIL: p.damgaard@fairs-exhibs.com WEBSITE: www.meba.aero

VENUE: Abu Dhabi EMAIL: conferences@ubm.com WEBSITE: www.atcglobalme.com

17  19 JANUARY 2010

9  10 FEBRUARY 2010

Intersec

Business Travel & Meetings Show

For the fi rst time in its 12-year history, the Intersec conference will focus entirely on disaster management and dealing with disasters – be they natural or manmade. A line-up of speakers has not yet been released, but topics will draw on themes from the exhibition to include health and safety, disaster management and fi re and rescue. Timely topics such as the effects of global warming and how to deal with medical pandemics will also be explored.

VENUE: Dubai EMAIL: victoria.lee@uae.messefrankfurt.com WEBSITE: www.messefrankfurtme.com/ intersec

Online visitor registration has already opened for this London-based event and it could save you the standard entry fee of GBP30 (US$60) if you are quick to sign up. The website and the show have been revamped and updated in line with the show’s rebranding to incorporate more MICE content. It is billed as Europe’s leading travel and meetings event, and could be well worth a visit if you are involved in the corporate/busi- ATC Global gala dinner in Abu Dhabi ness jet and premium travel sector.

DECEMBER

VENUE: London EMAIL: charlotte@bastion.co.uk WEBSITE: www.businesstravelshow.co.uk

25 30

24  25 FEBRUARY 2010

28 FEBRUARY  1 MARCH 2010

23  25 MARCH 2010

Indian Business Aviation Expo

Aircraft Interiors Middle East

Passenger Terminal Expo

MIU Events, in association with local partners, is launching the first dedicated business aviation event for the Indian market. The event will provide participants with a detailed insight into how business aviation in India is likely to develop and how to fully understand the characteristics and needs of this vast market. It will be the role of the Indian Business Aviation Expo 2010 (IBAE) to set the agenda for the business aviation market and to provide and agree best practice.

Brought to you by the organiser of the Dubai Airshow, F&E Aerospace is holding its second Aircraft Interiors Middle East (AIME) event in Dubai. Located at the city’s Airport Expo, the two-day conference and exhibition is of use to operators seeking the ultimate in aircraft refinement, connectivity and efficiency, and gives suppliers direct access to airline decision-makers. The event will be co-located with MRO Middle East - F&E’s maintenance, repair and overhaul event.

The global event for 2010 will be held in Brussels, Belgium and will bring together more than 200 suppliers for airport and airline teams to meet. The conference agenda will include more than 200 speakers to discuss a number of subjects including terminal design; management and planning; baggage handling; security; border control and check-in, amongst others. As usual, networking events will include one-toone meeting opportunities, dinners and cocktail evenings.

VENUE: New Delhi EMAIL: admin@miuevents.com WEBSITE: www.miuevents.com/ibae-10

VENUE: Dubai EMAIL: p.damgaard@fairs-exhibs.com WEBSITE: www.aime.aero

VENUE: Brussels EMAIL: s.greenwood@ukipme.com WEBSITE: www.passengerterminal-expo.com

December 2009

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Finding your space

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+971 9 205 5552