Monthly Newsletter issued by Dubai Civil Aviation Authority
www.viadubaionline.com
Issue 54 November 2017
Inside DCAA Dubai Airshow higher 6 committee meeting held DCAA participates in 6 BravoConnect conference in Madrid Creativity Competition
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Brainstorming workshop 8
DCAA participates in ‘Day 9 without Service Centres’ initiative DCAA employees 9 participate in Dubai Fitness Challenge DCAA organises first 10 Unmanned Aerial Systems forum
Mohammed bin Rashid visits Emirates lab at Dubai Future Accelerators DCAA Interview
UAE in Focus SEAS reaches critical milestone
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Dubai Airshow expands wings in 14th edition
Abdulla Bin Khediya
20 We are committed
to making Dubai the world’s best Sharjah airport posts 20 and safest strong growth aviation hub UAE exempts aviation 21 from VAT coverage
Special Report 22
18 Brexit and aviation
Networks and the sustainability of small airports
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Middle East News 24
Angela Gittens
28
Cargo & Logistics 30
Andrew Haines
29
Technology 31
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Message
from the President
Flying high
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he aviation world is focused on Dubai as it hosts the remarkable and highly successful Dubai Airshow, which has stunned one and all with its mega business deals and attractive innovative features. The world’s most successful airshow is the result of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE’s Vice-President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and the ceaseless commitment of aviation industry stakeholders. The biennial show has grown multiple times since its launch as the ‘Arab Civil Aviation Show’. With over 1200 exhibitors expected, including around 100 participating for the first ever time and a strong international participation, this edition of the Dubai Airshow will be the largest in the history. The Airshow continues to add new sectors and features, including Space, UAS Summit; Cargo Zone and Airport Solutions this year.
Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum
The massive growth of this Show mirrors the growth of Dubai and the UAE’s aviation industry. Research shows that the aviation will contribute $53.1 billion to Dubai’s economy and 37.5 per cent to its GDP by 2020. As we look forward to creating another history in aviation with the remarkable success of Dubai Airshow 2017, I would like to thank all stakeholders in aviation industry, who have given their best and contributed to the success of this show and of the aviation sector in Dubai. These achievements inspire us to continue looking ahead and working to achieve greater heights.
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In 2007, the functions of the Department of Civil Aviation were restructured. Accordingly, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) was established as a regulatory body, by a decree of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, on proclamation of law No. 21 of 2007, as amended by law No. 19 of 2010, to undertake development of Air Transport Industry in the Emirate of Dubai and to oversee all aviation-related activities.
CONTENTS
Inside DCAA 06 Dubai Airshow higher committee meeting held
Via Dubai is the official bilingual monthly newsletter of DCAA, designed to highlight the initiatives and developments in the aviation industry and act as a knowledge-sharing platform for all the stakeholders and aviation professionals.
General Supervision Mohammed Abdulla Ahli Coordinator Hanan Al Mazimi Creative Manager Mohammed Al Jarouf
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Editor Shveta Pathak E-mail: viadubai@naddalshiba.com
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Brainstorming workshop
DCAA organizes first Unmanned Aerial Systems forumÂ
Legal Disclaimer
The views expressed in the articles are of the writers and not necessarily belong to DCAA. We take all reasonable steps to keep the information current and accurate, but errors can occur. The information is therefore provided as is, with no guarantee of accuracy, completeness or timeliness. The DCAA or Via Dubai does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the quality, accuracy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of any information. Via Dubai does not endorse or recommend any article, product, service or information mentioned in the newsletter. Any perceived slight of any person or organisation is completely unintentional.
DCAA Interview We are committed to making Dubai the world’s best and safest aviation hub
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Editorial, Production, PR & Marketing Nadd AlShiba PR and Event Management
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Abdulla Bin Khediya Our Vision
Dubai Civil Aviation Authority is driven by the vision of Dubai to become the global Aviation hub contributing to prosperity and enabling growth for Dubai.
Our Mission
Dubai Civil Aviation Authority is committed to support the aviation sector in:
E-mail: dcaa@dcaa.gov.ae Website: www.dcaa.gov.ae Tel: (971) 4 216 2009 Fax: (971) 4 224 4502 P.O.BOX 49888 Dubai, United Arab Emirates
u Capturing the full value potential as a global passenger, tourism, trade, cargo and logistic hub u Providing the capacity, connectivity and leveraging existing assets to meet the aviation sector and economic growth plans of Dubai u Ensuring sustainable and responsible growth committed to safety, health, environment and security u Providing and creating customer-focused services to gain competitive advantage from innovation, knowledge and efficiency u Building and retaining capabilities, for the aviation sector, while offering career opportunities for Nationals u Ensuring a transparent, effective and commercially balanced regulatory framework that reflects the interests of the aviation industry, Dubai and the UAE u Providing efficient and cost-effective services to the aviation sector
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Message
from the Director General
Success story
A
s the Dubai Airshow is all set to mesmerise the world with its unique features, business deals and spectacular flight displays, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA)takes honour in being associated with this prestigious international event and contributing to its success. Since its inception around three decades ago, the Dubai Airshow has recorded an unprecedented growth, mirroring the rise of Dubai’s aviation industry. The show has established itself as world class exhibition showcasing the latest and greatest in military, general and commercial aviation. Dubai Airshow enjoys boundless support on all public and private levels, starting with the leadership represented by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who always stresses on the strategic role of the aviation industry in achieving the comprehensive development of UAE and the Middle East Region.
Mohammed Abdulla Ahli
The DCAA, guided by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, in association with other government departments, plays an important role in ensuring the safety of skies during this mega event, which includes spectacular daily air displays from UAE and international aerobatic teams, airlines and airforce. I would like to thank all stakeholders and the employees of the DCAA, who ceaselessly work toward ensuring the success of the Air Show. I wish Dubai Airshow success.
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Inside DCAA
Dubai Airshow higher committee meeting held
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H Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) and Chairman of the Higher Committee of the Dubai Air Show 2017, welcomed the attendees and appreciated their active efforts in making the previous editions of the Dubai Airshow a remarkable success, during the recently held meeting of the members of the higher committee for the show. The meeting was attended by senior managers and officials from Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Armed Forces, Ministry of Defense, Dubai Police General Headquarters, Civil Defense, Dubai Air City Foundation, General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, Dubai Airports Corporation, Dubai
Foundation Airline Services, Engineering Projects Management, Health Authority, Ambulance Services Center and the exhibition organisers. The officials at the meeting presented the latest developments and preparations for the event which will be held next November at Al Maktoum International Airport. They gave a detailed presentation on the equipment of the exhibition, each in its area of competence and how to facilitate the entry and exit procedures of th o usands of
dignitaries, delegations, experts and visitors who visit Du b ai during the days of the exhibition to ensure the success of Dubai Airshow 2017. His Excellency Mohamm e d Abdulla Ahli, Director General of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, V i ce Chairman of the Supreme Commit t ee of the exhibition, thanked all members for their efforts toward t he success of the event. His Excellency stressed that working within one team is a guarantee of continuity of the success of the exhibition.
DCAA participates in BravoConnect conference in Madrid
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he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) participated in the BravoConnect conference in Madrid on procurement transformation, networking, product announcements and sharing procurement best practices, and was by represented HE Ali Majan,
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Procurement Manager. The participation was aimed at learning about the latest procurement systems and smart
planning in digital transformation and purchasing and contract strategies aligned with the vision 2025.
Inside DCAA
Year of Giving
Creativity Competition
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n line with the initiative of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for Government Innovation, to stimulate and enrich the culture of innovation within the government sector, the employees of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority participated in a ‘Dubai Innovation’ competition by presenting their creative ideas in response to a competition on ‘How we can make Expo the most exciting event in the world 2020’.
‘Spirit of Giving’
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preading the spirit of the ‘Year of Giving’, organisations in government and private sectors across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) continue with their remarkable initiatives. Among the major initiatives is the recently announced ‘Charity Oasis’, the world’s first community charity park in Dubai. Dubai Municipality announced the implementation of the park, which will involve community participation, where in people can plant trees from their homes and farms, and the returns from the park will be distributed to the needy. The park will also be a sustainable endowment in the name of the UAE community and a witness to the spirit of charity deeply rooted in the UAE. Another notable initiative was taken by the Dubai Police, who organised a five-day exhibition of handicraft and other items made by inmates. The exhibition was organised with the goal of helping the inmates sell their products and provide them with psychological and material support for their rehabilitation. It also provided an opportunity for the community to learn about the talents and crafts that inmates have learned in the Dubai Central Jail, who could see how the inmates have developed skills and are helping their families. The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) also took several initiatives with a strong commitment to promoting the culture, enhancing the spirit of volunteering and giving back to the community. DCAA’s activities related to children, elderly, and the youth alike, with the aim of reaching out to people from across all sectors. The continuous efforts across all sectors of the community reflect how deeply rooted the spirit of charity is in UAE’s culture.
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Inside DCAA
Brainstorming workshop
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he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority organised a brainstorming workshop (UAE Innovation Month) in the presence of the Innovation Team and a group of employees of the Authority to introduce innovative ideas and develop their spirit of creativity and innovation. Through this workshop, the Authority seeks to enhance the culture of innovation among its employees and to keep up with the best practices in the field of creativity and innovation. ď‚ƒ
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Inside DCAA
DCAA participates in ‘Day without Service Centres’ initiative
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he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has participated in the ‘Day without Service Centres’ initiative. The participation comes as a step to encourage more clients to use smart channels to finalise their transactions and receive regular services. Towards this, DCAA has formed a team from amongst its employees to devise the necessary plans to achieve the objectives of the initiative. On the day of the initiative and during official working hours, DCAA handled clients for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) registration cards and providewith the aim to their save time and effort, as they received these cards at their places of residence within the Emirate, in addition to DCAA providing them a brief about the UAS service and the important role of such service in maintaining the safety
of Dubai skies. Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, Director General, DCAA, said: “DCAA is committed to contributing to realising the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE’s Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and the authority’s support to the government initiatives is in line with this commitment.” The initiative is step towards achieving the strategic objectives in the framework of transforming Dubai to be the smartest city in the world and benefiting from technological advancements through accelerating and enhancing services offered to the public. “DCAA’s participation comes with the aim to provide awareness to clients about the transformation towards smart channels and regulation of services,
in addition to making clients happy by smoothly facilitating their transactions.” DCAA provides its clients with numerous aviation sector related advanced services by making these available at the Authority’s official website and smart applications. The ‘Day without Service Centres’ is an important initiative to highlight smart services and efforts aimed at facilitating the completion of services on offer to all clients, and providing an effective and smooth communication experience that contributes to enhancing smart applications and happiness of clients. The initiative also reflects the joint efforts made by all related authorities of Dubai to enhance cooperation with the aim to achieve Dubai Government’s strategic goals connected to the smart transformation process.
DCAA employees participate T in Dubai Fitness Challenge
he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) team participated in the Dubai Fitness Challenge, which included various sports activities and challenges. The women’s team also participated in the pink caravan to raise breast cancer awareness.
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Inside DCAA
DCAA organises first Unmanned Aerial Systems forum H
H Sheikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum inaugurated the first Unmanned Aerial Systems forum organised by the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Dubai Police. Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Director General of Dubai Police, HE Mohammed Abdullah Al Ahli, Director General of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World Group, officials and experts from the DCAA and Dubai Police
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participated in the two-day forum. Following the opening ceremony, His Highness inspected the pavilions at the exhibition, that was held alongside the forum, and was briefed on the latest technologies and developments in the UAV sector, which is characterised by its rapid and steady growth. Interactive sessions between decision makers at the strategic level of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Dubai Police in the presence of Mr. Khaled Al Arif, CEO of Aviation Safety and
Environment Sector and Major General Ahmed Bin Thani, Assistant Commander-in-Chief of Ports Affairs at Dubai Police. Discussions focused on optimal use and the benefits of implementing miniature UAV systems for monitoring, monitoring and 3D mapping tasks in various sectors. The sessions also focus on understanding the best ways to employ real-time data, employ innovations to serve the community, and highlight the latest innovations of unmanned aircraft systems ď‚ƒ
Inside DCAA
Khalid Al Arif, Chief Executive Officer, Aviation Safety and Environment, Dubai Air and Brigadier General Kamel Butti Al Suwaidi, Director General of Dubai Police Operations Department
During the Sessions
Exclusive flight demonstration of the Indago UAS by Lockheed Martin Corporation
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Inside DCAA
Media interviewed representatives of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority during the Unmanned Aerial Systems forum
Exchange of shields between Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Dubai Police at the closing ceremony of UAV forum
Group photo of the UAV team of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Dubai Police
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Our Smart Services DCAA Smart App will allow the customers the below services: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Issuance of Landing permissions Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Carriage of Restricted Articles Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Aerial Work Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Aircraft Warning Light Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Heliport Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Pyrotechnic Display Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Building Height (Below 300m) Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Building Height (Above 300m) Issuance of Approval for Heliports Certification Issuance of Approval for Crane Operation Issuance of Approval for GSM or other communication tower Issuance of Approval for Balloon Operations Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Sky Trackers / Space Cannon
Registration Requirements: • • • • • • •
Company Name Company Address Telephone Number Fax Number PO Box City Choose one secret questions
• • • • • • •
Username Password Email Address Name Mobile Number Emirates ID Number Category (Individual - Airline - Agency - Expert - Provider)
You can download the application
by searching in App Store and Play Store by typing DCAA or scan the QR code
For more information, please call technical support on: email:
+971 56 6810685
it.support@dcaa.gov.ae
www.dcaa.gov.ae
DCAA Interview
Abdulla Mohammed Bin Khediya, Director, Air Transport Department, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA)
We are committed to making Dubai the world’s best and safest aviation hub 100 per cent of the services by DCAA’s Air Transport Department are online
Abdulla Mohammed Bin Khediya, Director of Air Transport Department with the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has a rich experience of over 26 years in the UAE’s aviation sector. In his present role, he is responsible for aviation consumer protection, aviation related business affairs and air transport operations which include granting approvals for scheduled and non-scheduled flights ensuring compliance of all local and international regulations for safe operation of aircraft.
In an interview with Via Dubai, Khediya said that DCAA is the only civil aviation authority which grants permissions for non-scheduled operations within half an hour, and now, in line with the vision of our leadership to constantly improve and be 10X ahead of others, the department is working on further for reducing this time and making it even faster. Khediya discussed the important role played by his department and the use of latest technology toward ensuring a seamless customer experience.
Excerpts from the interview:
Tell us about the role of your sector in DCAA?
Our department is responsible for the issuance of no objection certificates for aviation related business in the city and Free Zones areas in Dubai for stakeholders such as travel agencies, aviation consultancies, air cargo service providers, aircraft spare parts businesses etc… We also grant traffic rights and landing approvals for scheduled flights to operate though Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum International at Dubai South (DWC), block landing clearance for private and business aircraft as well as nonscheduled flight approvals, while ensuring the compliance of national and international (DCAA, GCAA, ICAO and IATA) regulations in flight operations. Following the recent approval of Resolution No. 4 by His Highness
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DCAA Interview
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council (regarding fines and fee of DCAA), we are signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Economic Development (DED), under which, we will ensure that all stakeholders are complying with the regulations. As per the Resolution, anyone who seeks to perform an activity in the aviation sector in Dubai is required to get a NOC from Dubai Civil Aviation Authority. The Resolution, which specifies the fees associated with the services of the DCAA, includes fees for the issuance of NOCs for licenses related to the aviation sector, accreditation of aviation institutes, clubs and aeronautical programmes, landing fees for private jets, non-scheduled passenger and cargo flights. We will be starting an active campaign to ensure the compliance by these companies. As a part of the campaign, we are planning to visit these companies.
You are also responsible for Aviation Consumer Protection. Can you explain your activities in this area. We focus on educating the aviation
Air Transport Department to start active campaign to ensure compliance of aviation regulations consumers about their rights and responsibilities in order to ensure the protection of consumer rights in aviation. Toward this, we generate awareness among travellers on different issues such as travelling procedures, or airline practices. Passengers need to understand their rights and duties and we provide this information to them through various channels. We apply the best smart practices and applications for easy and smooth access and communication with travellers.
our services and procedures are online now, which helps us to achieve our goal of customer happiness.
Your department is also responsible for landing permissions for nonscheduled operations. Can you share the details.
Usually, the airlines operates as per its schedule. However, at times they might need to increase their flights or a non-designated airline might need to operate or there is a need to operate a flight for cargo or a private jet, particularly in case of the business people, our department deals with granting permissions for the same. Using the latest smart technology and our highly skilled and dedicated employees, we are pleased to say that the DCAA is the only civil aviation authority which completes these procedures within half an hour, while this may take 48 hours or even longer with most other countries.
How are you using smart technology to enhance your And now, in line with the vision of services? our leadership to constantly improve The DCAA has a culture of innovation and excellence, which has also driven the Authority to use the latest technology to ensure convenience and maximum customer satisfaction in all areas. The Air Transport Department also uses the latest technology and 100 per cent of
and be 10X ahead of others, we are working on further reducing this time. We are holding discussions to make this procedure even faster and safer. Our ultimate goal and commitment is to make Dubai the world’s best aviation hub. ď‚ƒ
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Cover Story
Mohammed bin Rashid visits Emirates lab at Dubai Future Accelerators
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is Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE’s VicePresident and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, visited Emirates Airline’s lab at the Dubai Future Accelerators facility in Emirates Towers.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council; H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai; and Mohammad bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and The Future, accompanied H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid during the visit. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed said the aviation sector plays a significant role in the comprehensive development of the UAE and supports other economic sectors, adding that the aviation industry must introduce
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innovative and sustainable solutions to enhance operations, procedures and the overall travel experience. Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer, briefed Sheikh Mohammed on Emirates’ participation in the third cohort of Dubai Future Accelerators, which includes three challenges designed to enhance the group’s services by using modern technologies. Al Redha said that Emirates’ initiatives reflect the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid to use artificial intelligence to enhance the customer experience across Dubai’s
airports. Emirates will lead the way in this field by introducing unique initiatives that will add value to the aviation industry worldwide, he added. Emirates is now working to complete the challenges outlined in Dubai Future Accelerators in partnership with leading global technology and artificial intelligence companies, Al Redha continued. Emirates’ first challenge is to develop a new fleet of autonomous vehicles that meet the specialised mobility needs of airport airside operations. This fleet should use 100 percent solar or electrical energy instead of fuel and
Cover Story
deliver 50 percent improvement in operational efficiency. The second challenge is to invent a solution to transform the way Emirates teaches cabin crew and the way they learn, while the third challenge is to develop a solution to integrate the personalised needs of Emirates passengers across the entire experience chain including chauffeur drive, meal selection and shopping. In the continued effort to achieve the vision of “UAE Centennial Plan 2071”, Emirates airline and a consortium of industry partners announced a partnership to build the world’s first sector-wide Experimental (X) Lab to co-create the next era of human transportation at Area 2071. The Aviation X-Lab is a historic effort to host airlines, manufacturers, ground logistics, regulators, engineers, academics, and startups under a single roof in order to envision a new transportation paradigm and seek solutions that no single organization or program has had the resources to deliver on their own. Starting this year, the Aviation X-Lab at Area 2071 will host industry
summits to co-create industry shaping challenges. It will then solicit applications from internal teams, independent engineering teams, academics, and startups, to help address these challenges by spending a full year working with the senior-most industry executives and regulators to ideate new technologies and business theories, run experiments, and develop prototypes. Finalist teams from around the world will meet in Dubai each April for an annual event where they will pitch their concepts. Winners of the pitch event will relocate to Dubai the following month along with their corporate and government counterparts to begin a rigorous curriculum co-created with the world’s top academic and innovation institutions. Area 2071 was launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai to become the experimental nucleus of the Centennial Plan 2071.
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UAE in Focus
Dubai Airshow expands wings in 14th edition
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o be held from November 12 to 16 at its exclusive site in the Dubai South, the biennial Dubai Airshow is returning to stun the world with its mega business deals and new features like the Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Summit, Space Pavilion, Cargo Zone and Airport Solutions, along with the fourth edition of the Gulf Aviation Training Event (GATE) and the Futures Day in a new format. Being organised by Tarsus F&E LLC Middle East in co-operation with the Dubai Airports, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP) and in collaboration with the UAE Armed Forces, the world’s global aerospace hub of the 21st Century will see an increase in pavilions and participation on track of this ever-growing industry. This year’s edition will have more than 1200 exhibitors including 100 taking part for the first time. There will be daily Flying Displays in addition to over 160 aircraft on static display, it will have an informal social gathering for
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exhibitors and the eighth edition of an international Air Chiefs Conference. Projecting 72,500 visitors attending across its five day run this year as compared to 66,346 in the 2015 edition, Michele van Akelijen, Managing Director, Tarsus F&E Middle East, expects 40 per cent of visitors to come from Arabian Gulf countries, 30 per cent from Europe, 20 per cent from the Americas and 10 per cent from the rest of the world. Almost one-fifth of the exhibitors at the five day event will be travelling from the Americas with the majority of
these hailing from the US and Canada. Among these are several first-time exhibitors including PBS Aerospace from the USA and Vector Aerospace from Canada. Other new exhibitors comes from around the globe including Lubair Aviation from Hong Kong, Taurus Systems from South Korea, Bertin Technologies from France and TBS from Bulgaria, plus plenty of new representatives from across the Middle East. “The Dubai Airshow has always represented the centre of the aerospace industry,” remarked Michele van Akelijen. “Seeing the geographical
UAE in Focus
representations of this year’s exhibitors, both new and returning, travelling to the UAE to be part of the show demonstrates that the Dubai Airshow really is the place for the industry to do business.” Last edition of airshow witnessed US$37.2 billion worth of orders - the fourth highest since records began. The 15th edition saw the attendance of 1,103 exhibitors from 61 countries. In 2013, the key Middle East legacy carriers - Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways - placed substantial orders Emirates then alone led the order book with 200 airplanes. That year, Emirates placed total order valued at US$99 billion with 150 Boeing 777 and 50 Airbus 380. In 2013, Dubai’s budget carrier flydubai ordered 111 aircraft from Boeing with a total order value of US$11.4 billion. The airshow’s phenomenal growth and future requirements prompted its 13th edition to be held for the first time at a purpose-built site in 2013 in Dubai World Central, now rebranded as Dubai South. That year, it welcomed 210 first time exhibitors with regional support from companies such as Saudi Aerospace. Canadian exhibitors increased to 23 companies reflecting a huge 100 per cent growth, while the US exhibitors went up to 145 companies, an increase of 10 per cent, and China with 15 new companies also posted a growth of 10 per cent. Sweden was the new addition to the list of country pavilions which stood at 11.
the activities during the Expo 2020, the year-long event that Dubai will host for the first time in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia (MENASA). The Expos are the world’s third biggest event after the Olympics and FIFA World Cup. The site for Expo 2020, to be held between October 2020 and April 2021 and expected to attract 25 million visitors during the six month period, covers a total of 4.38 square kilometres, including a 200 hectare gated area. The Expo’s total budget stands at AED25 billion. Dubai has come a long way since hosting its first airshow in in 1986. It was called Arab Civil Aviation Show, at the Dubai’s only MICE facility of that time, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) which was attended by 20 companies who displayed their aviation-related products and technologies. It was held two years later at the DWTC with the participation of 60 exhibitors. The two shows, simple and modest, had distinctive features that subsequently changed the future of the show. The first came a year after the launch of Emirates Airlines as a sponsor followed by the support of His Highness Sheikh
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, a trained fighter pilot. As the show grew bigger, it moved to the old cargo terminal at the Dubai Airport whose runway was used, a first in the industry worldwide, for the participating aircraft. The 1989 show witnessed the participation of 200 companies, in addition to 20 aircraft for the static display. Since then, the show has been held every two years. The 2009 show saw the biggest deal in the history of civil aviation, when Emirates Airlines signed a contract worth US$35 billion for purchasing aircraft and engines. In addition to this, 900 exhibitors from 48 countries participated in the show which also had 130 aircraft on display, thereby approaching the figures of the French Le Bourget show. The Dubai Airshow 1989 occupied seven thousand square metres and was attended by 200 exhibitors, with displays of 25 aircraft and 10,000 visitors. The 1991 event featured 400 companies from 40 countries with 67 aircraft on display. The size of the 1993 show increased to 28,000 square metres, with the participation of 450 exhibitors from 33 countries, eight national pavilions, and 84 aircraft.
The airshow site is part of an AED120 billion investment in the Dubai South, a 140-square-kilometer aerotropolis in Jebel Ali being developed to host the world’s biggest airport by 2022 when the project get fully completed with eight fully-integrated cities within the city. Dubai South will be home to the Exhibition City that will host most of
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UAE in Focus
SEAS reaches critical milestone
Sharjah airport posts strong growth
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he Sharjah International Airport has achieved a 3.29 per cent growth in passenger traffic during the first nine months of 2017. The total number of passengers that passed through the airport in the first nine months of 2017 grew to 8.611 million passengers, up from 8.336 million during the corresponding period last year.
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he Masdar Institute of Science and Technology’s (MIST) sustainable bioenergy research consortium (SBRC) – a non-profit entity supported by Etihad Airways, Boeing, Takreer, Safran and General Electric – has announced its flagship project - the seawater energy and agriculture system (SEAS), reaching a critical milestone in its development of sustainable aviation biofuels through the first harvest of the biofuel feedstock.
The airport handled 3.118 million passengers in the third quarter of 2017, a 4.08 per cent increase compared with the 2.996 million passengers reported during the third quarter of 2016. Aircraft movement rose to 21,000 in the third quarter of 2017, a 3.26 per cent increase compared with more than 20,000 during the same period in 2016.
Dr. Alejandro Rios G., Director of the SBRC, led a team of Masdar Institute researchers in harvesting the first crop of the biofuel feedstock Salicornia, which is a local salt-tolerant and oil-rich plant. The harvesting took place at a two-hectare SEAS pilot facility in Masdar City, where seafood and sustainable biomass are being cultivated using saltwater and desert land to contribute to the UAE’s sustainable food and fuel security.
Nepal to sign air services pact with UAE
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he Himalayan kingdom of Nepal is likely to sign an air services agreement with the UAE. Its civil aviation officials says the bilateral air service agreement (ASAs) with the UAE will be signed as soon as the Nepalese cabinet gives the goahead. The agreement is expected to be signed after the second phase of provincial and federal elections
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slated to be held in the first week of December 7. Nepal and the UAE signed a MoU in December 2007 which allows the designated carriers of the two countries to operate 28 weekly flights. The MoU was revised in April 2013 permitting 70 flights per week with any type of aircraft on a reciprocal basis. Moreover, the revised pact
has given unlimited traffic rights to operate cargo-only flights with any type of aircraft. Since 1963, Nepal has signed bilateral ASAs with 38 countries, New Zealand and Vietnam being the latest countries. Currently, 28 international airlines are operating flights from Kathmandu to 22 cities in Asia and Europe.
UAE in Focus
UAE exempts aviation from VAT coverage
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ir and other forms of international travel – including aircraft, fares and supplies – have been exempted from the value added tax (VAT) that the UAE will be introducing from the first day of 2018.
The UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan issued a federal decree regulating VAT, one of the lowest rates in the world – five percent on the import and supply of goods and services at each stage of production and distribution. The decree sets out several exemptions, where so-called “zero-rating” applies. Among the exemptions are international transportation of passengers and goods by air, sea and land, meaning international airfares will not be subject to the tax. In addition, goods required to service, supply and maintain the transport industry – including aircraft, new parts and on-board supplies such as catering – will be exempt from the tax. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and UAE Minister of Finance and Chairman of the Federal Tax Authority, said: “The Federal Decree law is the bedrock of the UAE’s planned tax system, which was designed to meet the most stringent of standards and best practices.” “VAT will bring a new revenue stream for the national economy and GDP. This, in turn, will ensure consistency in the high quality of government services, to mirror the UAE’s advanced position on
several global competitiveness indexes.” Other AGCC states are expected to introduce VAT within the 12 months between 1 January 2018 and 1 January 2019. The UAE will implement five per cent VAT on goods and services as part of a AGCC-wide agreement. The UAE is home to more than eight million expatriates from over 200 nationalities who fly regularly to their home countries in addition to
travelling to other destinations of tourism. Dubai International received 43 million passengers in the first half of 2017, an increase of 6.3 per cent. In addition, a record 8.06 million international overnight tourists arrived in Dubai during the first six months of 2017, a 10.6 per cent increase over the same period last year.
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UAE in Focus
Elevating best practices in aviation A
viation is ingrained into the bedrock that fortifies global economic growth. The technologies behind the theory of flight have evolved far beyond what Orville Wright could have imagined as he sat for 12 airborne seconds in 1903 to mark the world’s first sustained flight.
in terms of international passenger traffic. Emirates National Oil Company supported by it’s joint venture, EPPCO Aviation provides a robust supply chain for Jet Fuel supply from its Jebel Ali Refinery to airports in Dubai airports.
In just a decade, Dubai has established itself as a frontrunner in this highly competitive and demanding global industry. About 89 million passengers are expected to pass through Dubai International Airport this year alone, making the airport the world’s busiest
This along with its efficiency of fuelling aircraft are the cornerstones of the Group’s ability to support one of Dubai’s most important sectors; which accounts for around 30% of the emirate’s GDP. As an active participant in the operations and management
Dubai International Airport’s Joint Industry Fuel farm and the Hydrant fuelling system, ENOC assures the utmost safety and efficiency at Dubai International Airport, operating in conformance to the highest international standards. “Do it right every time is the cardinal rule in our business and it is a Zero Tolerance operation when it comes to safety and quality” - Burhan Al Hashemi, Managing Director, ENOC Marketing.
Elevating infrastructure:
ENOC has progressively augmented its Jet Fuel supply infrastructure to support Dubai Airport’s growth over the years. In 1998, the first Jet Fuel pipeline of a capacity of 6,000 cubic meters per day was commissioned, later augmenting the pipeline to 8,800 cubic meters per day. A second pipeline was commissioned in 2015 to provide an additional capacity of approximately 18,000 cubic meters per day. These Jet fuel pipelines from ENOC’s terminals that run underground across Dubai city to the Airport Fuel Tank Farm are interestingly known as ‘Snake’ and ‘Falcon’. The Jet Fuel must go through multiple Quality checks by trained staff before it is actually delivered to the aircraft. The construction of these pipelines has eliminated the need to use the 300+ aviation tankers that would be otherwise needed to transport this jet fuel to the airport. This has not only contributed to reducing congestion on Dubai roads and reducing carbon footprint, but has also contributed to safety and enhancing operational
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UAE in Focus
efficiency, providing the airport with a continuous and reliable supply of jetfuel round the clock. Technologies to enhance operations and elevate EHS standards: Up to 10 minutes of fuelling time is saved on the 100-plus flights a day of Boeing737 aircraft that are refuelled using a specially designed low bed hydrant dispenser-, which improves safety and efficiency by being positioned directly under the aircraft’s wing for refuelling. The use of a low bed truck also contributes preventing occupational health and safety incidents, such as climbing ladders, pulling heavy hoses and equipment. “Our key goals are to improve safety and efficiency while reducing costs – technology innovations help us achieve that. The professionalism of our on-ground operations team at the airport and adopting new technologies mean we can simultaneously assure a very high safety standard and efficient fuelling operations at Dubai International Airport on a 24/7 basis. This is a laudable balancing act.” – said Dr. Eng. Waddah Ghanem Al Hashmi, Executive Director, EHSSQ and Corporate Affairs, ENOC.
Partners in success:
ENOC has also spearheaded trainings for Dubai Airports staff on fire safety and management of change processes. In addition, trainings and workshops have also helped Dubai Airport identify accident prone areas on the Airport’s peripheral roads; which led to introducing signage and markings to prevent potential incidents.
Numbers:
55 per cent EPPCO Aviation fuels more than half of the flights leaving Dubai International Airport.
Global Snapshot: Around 4 billion passengers took to the skies this year – 53% of the global population. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) expects this figure to rise to 7.2 billion passengers in 2035. This marks rapid growth, especially considering the UN expects the global population to be 8.5 billion in 2030. Around 1,397 airlines operate a fleet of 25,000 aircraft serving 3,864 airports through a route network of several million kilometres that is managed by 173 air navigation service providers, according to the Air Transport Action Group (ATAG). Aviation could contribute $1 trillion to the world’s GDP by 2026 – less than a decade away – and the industry would rank 21st in the world today in terms of GDP if it were a country.
330 flights Every day, we manage around 15 million litres to support more than 330 flights from Dubai International Airport. 5 years ENOC continues to manage its fuelling operations without any major accidents since inception whilst offering a consistent and highly reliable services to its clients round the clock. The Group has a robust training programme with courses in safety, firefighting, first aid, manual handling and quality control.
6 aircraft A fuel operator on an average fuels up to 6 aircraft during their 8.5-hour shift. To bolster onsite safety and physical stamina, EPPCO Aviation has alleviated most of the manual handling of the 12kg fuelling hose with an automatic rewinding system. 22 team members A shift includes an average of 22 team members, who will have each undergone a three-month induction and certification training course that is in line with international standards.
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Middle East News
Middle East gains aviation market share T
he Middle East, a transcontinental region consisting of 16 countries, gained a five percent share of the global aviation market in 2016, flying 206.1 million passengers, an increase of 9.1 percent over 2015. The International Air Transport Association (IATA), a global body which represents 275 passenger and cargo airlines in over 117 countries carrying 83 per cent of the world’s air traffic, released latest growth ranking in September. It also named Emirates as the third biggest cargo carrier in the world with 2.5 million freight tonnes lifted in 2016. Only FedEx Express and United Parcel Service carried more
than Dubai-based Emirates, the world’s largest international airline by passenger traffic. Emirates carried over 56 million passengers and reported a passenger seat factor of 75.1 percent in the fiscal year of 2016-2017.
Its global network spanned 155 destinations in 82 countries. Operating the world’s largest fleet of A380s and the largest fleet of Boeing 777s, it continues to provide ever better connections for its customers across the globe.
Salam Air eyes 20 aircraft the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Mohammad Ahmad, CEO of Salam Air, remarked: “Today we have three aircraft — all Airbus A320s … For next year, we are putting a plan of bringing three to four more aircraft, and we are in negotiations to choose those aircraft. We will then add 4-6 aircraft per year starting 2019.”
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alam Air, the first budget carrier of Sultanate of Oman and one of six LCCs in the Middle East, plans to add at least three aircraft to fleet every year - 20 aircraft in its fleet within the next five years.
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The carrier, which launched operations in early 2017, also plans to be flying to around 30 short- and mediumhaul destinations in five years - mainly within the Arabian Gulf region, the broader Middle East, South Asia, and
Currently, it flies from Muscat, Salalah, and Sohar to cities that include Dubai, Jeddah, Madinah, Karachi, and Sialkot. And the carrier is planning to add more destinations to its network. It is aiming to add routes across the AGCC, and is also eyeing Egypt, the Levant, Iraq, and Iran.
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Middle East News
ADP Ingénierie-Dubai reinforces its footprint in Middle-East and enlarges its area of responsibility ADP Ingénierie has an ambition: be a 360° airport expert, customer driven, worldwide recognized, agile & innovative company. ADP Ingénierie is one-of-a-kind among its competitors, being a 360° Airport expert, a 100% dedicated to airports solution provider. With a clear understanding of the issues and trends, ADP Ingénierie is able to anticipate the expectations of its customers and to offer finely adapted solutions all along the airport life cycle. Proud of its history in Middle-East, and rich of its successful and most of them iconic references, ADP Ingénierie is resolutely turned towards the future. As it was already published in this magazine last May with the flow simulation, the company promotes innovation in all areas and paves the way for the airport of tomorrow.
The development relies on six strategic axis That is why, through an ambitious development project whose implementation just began, the company is: developing its customer geographical and cultural proximity; Exploring new market’s expectation focused on Asia and North America; Developing and investing in innovation; Valuing for its clients its synergy with Groupe ADP; Adjusting its organization and processes to achieve its client objectives; Extending its best-in class focus along the complete airport value chain with a renewed offer of services.
The experts are supporting
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the clients, extending its focus along the complete airport value chain
ADP Ingénierie can mobilize a great variety of expertise. Either collectively on a comprehensive project’s scope or individually in the framework of technical assistance or consulting missions. Whatever the problem that an owner or an operator faces, ADP Ingénierie can provide technical assistance. The ADP Ingénierie partnership approach applies not only during project’s development phase, but also “upstream” and “downstream”, being able to assist clients in defining projects and programs at the very early stage, and to stay present at the client’s side during operations or modernization phases.
A renewed offer of services
The offer of services is renewed to provide finely adapted answers to customers who are more and more demanding. In addition to the company’s trademark relying in its capacity to take into account all specific aspects, and
being the subsidiary of one of the world’s largest airport operators, ADP Ingénierie always keeps in mind the objective of its clients: enhance passenger experience and satisfaction, while controlling costs and maximizing revenues.
A reorganization of the company reinforcing the ADP Ingénierie footprint in MiddleEast
On the side of its renewed offer of services, ADP Ingénierie reorganizes. Its Dubai branch becomes a large Business Unit (BU), not only in charge of UAE and Gulf but also of the whole Middle-East, Central Asia and Eastern Africa. Its business development team increases its strength to be closer to the clients, more agile and reactive.
International News
Countdown to aviation emissions scheme begins
T Ban laptops in check-in luggage
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ban on large personal electronic devices (PEDs) such as laptops from check-in luggage is in the offing. It looks certain after various tests done by International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) showed in their results the probability of loss of an aircraft in case of a fire. The test results submitted by the fire safety branch of FAA in a paper concludes that fire in cargo could lead to the loss of the aircraft. The International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) dangerous goods panel is also examining a paper on “PEDs carried by passengers and
crew” that highlights the potential hazard of a fire in an aircraft. The FAA tests suggests that in case of a fire, the fire suppression system of the aircraft is compromised in some cases which might lead to the loss of the aircraft. Its report also mentioned that placing the PEDs in the passenger cabin is safer as immediate action can be taken by the crew members in case of a fire accident. Most of the consumer personal electronic devices including mobile phones, tablets and laptops are allowed by airlines as both carryon and checked-in baggage in the aircraft.
he countdown has begun for aircraft operators and governments to prepare for the new Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA). That was the key message at the Global Aviation Summit in Geneva to the delegates meeting to further define the programme. Creation of the scheme was agreed by governments meeting at the ICAO General Assembly last October. CORSIA has been designed to offset the growth in carbon dioxide emissions from international aviation after 2020. The first six years of the scheme will be voluntary for nations to join and then it will be mandatory “for all but the smallest aviation markets.” Operators included in CORSIA will need to offset their emissions from the first day of January 2021.
ICAO removes ‘red flag’ for Thailand
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hailand’s aviation sector is set to grow at a higher rate after the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) removed its red flag over safety issues, signifying the agency’s satisfaction with measures taken over the past three years to address concerns. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) said the ICAO officials had
inspected the Thai aviation regulatory and approved a total of 33 measures that tackled previously expressed safety and other concerns. On the ICAO website, which features safety audit results of more than 180 countries around the world, only five countries are currently red-flagged – Malawi, Kyrgyzstan, Haiti, Eritrea and Djibouti.
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Opinion
Networks and the sustainability of small airports
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he 27th ACI Africa/World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition successfully concluded last month in Mauritius with an attendance of over 500 industry delegates. Among the launch of ACI products and services that contributed to the conference’s favourable outcome was a new Policy Brief on airport networks and the sustainability of small airports. The new publication provides an overview of the state of airport networks worldwide, based on a robust dataset and inventory of the world’s networks. It reveals that an estimated 1,900 or nearly half (49%) of the world’s airports belong to airport networks of some kind and that together, they handle an overall annual traffic volume of 2.9 billion passengers, or 38% of global passenger traffic. Significant proportions of airports in the Middle East and Africa belong to airport networks—96% and 89% respectively, providing respective 83% and 78% regional shares of traffic. The Policy Brief proves that the sustainable operation and development of the world’s smaller airports remains a challenge. While the airport industry as a whole is profitable, as shown in the ACI Airport Economics Report, financial statements show that as many as 66% of the world’s airports—most of which are small—operate at a net loss. The airport network model is one management option to overcome this challenge. While airport operators should be permitted to operate under a wide range of management models to serve their specific missions, business needs and local circumstances, a network approach, which allows cross-subsidies from profitable larger airports, are often key to the sustainability of smaller airports, which in turn provide essential benefits in terms of safety, social and economic development, and positive externalities to airlines users of the network.
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Angela Gittens Director General, ACI World
Airport networks must thus continue to be able to cross-subsidize smaller airports in accordance with the ICAO framework. As such, the ACI Policy Brief puts forth practical policy recommendations to ensure that airport operation and development is sustainable and beneficial to airlines, passengers, communities and national economies. Learn more on and/or download the Policy Brief on airport networks and the sustainability of small airports at www.aci.aero/Publications.
Opinion
Brexit and aviation F
ew sectors have greater exposure to Brexit than aviation – it is intrinsically international. Coordination on a pan-European basis is actually in its third generation – it is not a creature of the European Commission. We have been working closely with our European colleagues on this for three generations. And, critically, there are no WTO rules to fall back on. Aviation should be allowed to flourish. London is the best connected city in the world. It is actually the most attractive airline destination in the world. We have the second largest aerospace economy in the world – second only to the US. And UK citizens enjoy the third best network of aviation in the world, bettered only by the US and China. The success of any Brexit deal, I believe, should be judged on the extent to which that is allowed to flourish. Twenty three per cent growth in the aerospace sector since 2010 – a good test for the success of the Brexit negotiations is what that growth figure looks like in 2020. The second principle for us is that as a country we ought to be prepared and able to be influential beyond our borders in ensuring safety and security of our citizens. Almost 90 per cent of flights from this country are to international destinations. The vast majority of our citizens are flying overseas. At any one time, half the aircraft in the sky above Britain are not UK-registered. So, we must maintain our influence over aviation safety and security in Europe and beyond. The CAA wants to remain full members of EASA. We are very uncompromising in our view that we should not be planning for a new independent aviation safety system in the UK. Indeed, we have consciously decided not to do that work as it would be misleading to suggest that’s a viable option.
Andrew Haines Chief Executive Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) United Kingdom
Our third principle is that it should result in fewer barriers, not more. We believe aviation consumers have benefitted enormously from choice and value. We should not be using Brexit as an opportunity to restrict competition. The fourth and final principle is that we believe EU protections with respect to the environment and consumers should be ring-fenced. If you take EC261 the piece of legislation that gives delayed or bumped passengers recourse to compensation – while there are genuinely legitimate questions about the detail of how this is operated, it has provided unrivalled levels of protection and compensation to consumers. We don’t believe that we should be using Brexit to dismantle consumer rights. If aviation wishes to grow, it has to be an exemplary neighbour. That has to be one of the lessons from the protracted attempts to build additional capacity in this country. That means honouring those environmental regulations around environmental noise and air quality standards. (Speech delivered at the UK TiE)
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Cargo & Logistics
Dubai is planning to introduce “virtual aquariums” for its airport security
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assengers flying through the city will soon walk through a virtual aquarium tunnel for security checks, rather than through a standard gate. The tunnel’s high-quality aquarium display will be far more interesting to look at than grey walls and metal detectors.
About 80 cameras will scan passenger’s face as he/she walks, matching the image with existing biometric data. Once they reach the end of the security tunnel, a screen will display either a green “have a nice trip” message or a red sign for further inspection. By 2020, over 124 million travellers are expected to pass through Dubai airports. The tunnel can display a variety of images, like a desert scene, with the idea being that you’ll look around at more interesting scenes, and thus give a better view to the cameras. Dubai International is the world’s busiest airport for international passengers. The face-scanning tunnel should expedite security screening, and along with recently installed explosivedetection equipment, should provide the same thoroughness. “We are trying to minimize disruption to the customer journey and develop new measures that will develop security standards, because obviously, the threat is increasing,” Dubai Airports’ chief executive Paul Griffiths told The National. It will become a reality starting in 2018. Details about the Smart Tunnel were revealed during the Gulf Information
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Technology Exhibition Technology Week 2017.
(GITEX)
“It is the first of its kind in the world and it’s a biometric system that allows passengers to simply walk through the tunnel without doing anything,” says Major Khalid Al Felasi, Assistant General Director of Smart Services in GDRFA-Dubai. “They don’t even need to show their passport. It works on face recognition technology and the passenger can finish entry procedure within 15 seconds.” Although the Smart Tunnel can display any number of videos, such as horses running through the desert, a flowered path surrounded by skyscrapers, or even advertisements,
the virtual reality tunnel in Dubai airport will display an aquarium similar to the walk-through tunnels at large tourist-attraction aquariums. “The fish is a sort of entertainment and something new for the traveller but, at the end of the day, it attracts the vision of the travellers to different corners in the tunnel for the cameras to capture his/her face print,” explained Major General Obadiah Al Hammer. “The virtual images are of very high quality and gives a simulation of a real-life aquarium.” Emirates is partnering in the security tunnel’s development and will be the first airline to use it in Dubai International’s Terminal 3.
Technology
Creating 100 per cent self-service airport using biometric technology
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ruba Airport Authority and Vision-Box, the two companies at the heart of the biometric-enabled “Aruba Happy Flow” airport experience, have announced an agreement to further develop the project.
Both parties have committed to invest in evolving the Aruba Happy Flow platform and to co-create and assess new solutions at Aruba Airport. The “Gateway 2030” initiative will make full use of the platform as a terminal-wide solution, essentially creating a 100% self-service airport experience underpinned by the use of biometric technology.
A “seamless travel” centre of excellence will also be established at Aruba Airport as part of the agreement. “The Aruba Happy Flow proof of concept has exceeded our expectations during these two years, paving the way for a new direction for the airport,” said James Fazio, CEO of Aruba Airport Authority. “On the other hand, with this new partnership with Vision-Box, we are now very excited to get the opportunity to establish a pioneering Centre of Excellence, where we aim to understand tendencies, develop new products and technologies in a real-life environment and support local economy. This combined effort will surely mark another milestone in the development of the future airport.”
Miguel Leitmann, Vision-Box CEO, added: “This is indeed a great partnership. Aruba Airport has already embraced the new era of the digital airport concept and it will soon benefit further from our game-changing technology for the Gateway 2030 project. “We are convinced that this partnership will be the ground base for the next generation of Happy Flow, reaffirming Aruba Airport as an innovation centre for passenger facilitation and projecting Aruba with a highly recognisable worldwide airport.” Aruba Happy Flow is the result of a cooperative consortium composed of the governments of Aruba and the Netherlands, Schiphol Group, KLM, Aruba Airport Authority and Vision-Box
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