Monthly Newsletter issued by Dubai Civil Aviation Authority
Inside DCAA CEO of Thales 6 International meets DG REV International participation
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Ramadan campaign
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DCAA team visits ExecuJet Aviation Group
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www.viadubaionline.com
Issue 62 July 2018
Dubai airports
All geared up to tackle the rush
“Let’s make this summer 11 green” campaign
DCAA INTERVIEW Nasser Mubarak Al Khater
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We have reduced the transactions processing time from 3 days to 15 minutes
Boeing 747s gets new life in air-cargo surge Australia conducts trial on satellitebased augmentation system
UAE News Titan Aviation secures 16 two AOCs Sharp increase in Russian air cargo traffic at DWC
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Emirates eyes transatlantic routes
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Abu Dhabi airport goes for digital transformation
ATM 28
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Opinion
ATC market to reach US$56.07 billion by 2022
Essentials for transformation of ATM systems
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Airlines 29
Philippe Merlo
Cargo & Logistics 30
Future growth requires efficiency 26
Angela Gittens
27
Technology 31
It is with education that a person raises his value and builds himself and there is no value for money without education and knowledge, because education is the foundation of progress and the basis of building.
Sayings by Late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan
Message
from the President
Business-friendly destination
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ubai has remained a preferred place for people to pursue their businesses – and dreams. It has remained ahead in better governance, innovative thinking and exemplary business policies. Dubai has an extensive and efficient aviation infrastructure. It has proved it right that change is the essence of life. It is the ‘ease of doing business’ for which the emirate is known well globally. Taking that spirit to a new high, the government has taken major decisions of granting 10-year visas for investors and waiving of fees in business activities related to aviation. The UAE Cabinet has approved new long-term visas for international investors and professional talents and 100 per cent ownership for foreign investors.
Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum
The vision of good governance has helped put Dubai on the international aviation map in a short period of time. Dubai has been an important hub for the aviation sector, both regionally and globally. We remain committed to taking the aviation sector to new heights in the coming years. The aviation sector is a key pillar of the national economy, so we are proud of everything that will enhance Dubai’s status as a global aviation hub.
This is in line with the UAE’s position as a prime destination for international investors and global talents. The UAE will remain a global incubator for exceptional talents and a permanent destination for international investors. Our open environment, values, infrastructure and flexible legislation are the best plan to attract global investment and exceptional talents.
July 2018
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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
CEO of Thales International meets DG
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DCAA team visits ExecuJet Aviation Group
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
06 REV International participation
Marketing Manager Fahed Rahmani E-mail: viadubai@naddalshiba.com 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.
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Editorial, Production, PR & Marketing Nadd AlShiba PR and Event Management
DCAA Interview Nasser Mubarak Al Khater
We have reduced the transactions processing time from 3 days to 15 minutes
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Our Vision
The World Airport, Dubai
Our Mission
Leading and sustaining Civil Aviation Sector by providing capacity, building a competitive edge through innovating, developing people and leaders and achieving customers’ happiness. Toll Free:80083222 Contact number:+97147770000 Fax:+97142244573 Email: info@dcaa.gov.ae; dcaa@dcaa.gov.ae http://www.facebook.com/dcaadubai
DCAA website:www.dcaa.gov.ae Working Hours:Sunday – Thursday, 0730 - 1430 (GMT+4) Location:Dubai International Airport, Terminal (1), Level (1), Gate no. (4), (Arrivals Side) P.O. Box:49888 Dubai - United Arab Emirates twitter.com/dcaadubai
youtube.com/user/dcaadubai
Message
from the Director General
Unbridled growth
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hen Dubai International overtook London Heathrow as the world’s busiest airport for international passenger traffic, it was the culmination of over five decades of double-digit average growth that the iconic facility had achieved.
Mohammed Abdulla Ahli
Dubai is working its way to be a global centre of aviation and has set the target of 665,000 aircraft movements by 2020. Dubai has always recorded commendable achievements and the more it achieves the more it wants to do better. Our leader His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, had rightly remarked that the world remembers only the Number 1 and Dubai wants to be at the top.
according to Oxford Economics, which says the industry will be worth US$44.5 billion by 2020. A strong aviation growth indicator is the 50 per cent rise in Dubai aircraft movements in the past eight years. We remain on the cutting-edge of the business as Dubai’s aviation bouquet widens.
The Dubai government, under the broader economic stimulus package, has decided to cancel a range of aviation-related fees to give a boost to the sector, which account for about 28% of Dubai’s GDP, and make it more motivating for air carriers and international airlines. The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) is working towards making the emirate more competitive and advantageous. Dubai’s aviation sector contributes more than US$22 billion to the local economy,
July 2018
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Inside DCAA
CEO of Thales International meets DG
H
E Mohammed Abdullah Al Ahli, Director General of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), received Mr. Brand Rocks, Vice President and CEO of Thales International, UAE. During the meeting, they discussed a number of topics related to aviation and the services provided by the company to all modern airports operators, and discussed the relations of cooperation between the two sides and the importance of strengthening and developing them to serve the common interests. The UAE-based company is a global company specialising in the field of radar and remote sensing and air control systems. The meeting was part of a series of ongoing meetings in which the Authority is keen to strengthen cooperation and partnership with all local, regional and international bodies.
REV International participation
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ubai Civil Aviation Authority participated in REV International 2018 held in Munich, Germany. The Authority was
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represented by Nawal Karamstji, Purchasing Executive. The aim of the participation was to learn about best practices, smart transformation
and the application of the highest quality standards in the management of procurement and contracting operations and future strategies.
Inside DCAA
Showcasing heritage and culture
T Ramadan Football Tournament
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he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCA) team participated in the 7th Ramadan Football Tournament held on the playgrounds of Al Ahli Club Dubai. The tournament was one of the most important Ramadan events organized in football at the state level.
NAS Night Challenge
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he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCA) sports team participated in the NAS Night Challenge in the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council.
he oldest museum in the country is the Al Ain National Museum, established in 1969 under the guidance of the UAE’s Founding Father and first President Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Charting the history of the oasis city of Al Ain from the Stone Age, the museum, which was once his in late 1930s, houses artefacts from archaeological sites across the region. Celebrating the country’s past, and preserving it for future generations, is something that was always close to Sheikh Zayed’s heart. He worked tirelessly and placed great value in preserving its culture and heritage. He set up the Department of Antiquities and Tourism as a precursor to establishing the Al Ain Museum. The UAE has invested massively in building and developing museums of all kinds that mostly reflect on the history, heritage, arts and culture. Today, the UAE is dotted with 47 museums. Also housed in the country is the prestigious and world famous Louvre Abu Dhabi. It’s the first Louvre museum to open outside Paris. Also in the capital is the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, a museum of modern art. The Etihad Museum in Dubai tells the story of the Union Agreement that paved the way for the establishment of the UAE as the Arab world’s first successful federal experiment. A one-of-a-kind museum in Abu Dhabi displays Sheikh Zayed’s most personal and valuable belongings. Abu Dhabi will soon have the Zayed National Museum. This museum, set to be the National Museum of the UAE, will feature multiple exhibitions that will tell stories of the Father of the Nation, and his process of unifying the UAE. Once visitors enter the Zayed National Museum, they are taken on a journey into the UAE’s culture and history.
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Inside DCAA
An event to instill brotherhood D
ubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) organised the Ramadan Iftar event in the presence of DCAA Director General HE Mohammed Abdullah Ahali, the Executive Directors and employees.
The Authority also hosted a charity donation platform in coordination with Beit Al Khair Association in line with Zayed 2018 , the Year of Zayed, and coinciding with Zayed Day for Humanitarian Action.
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HE Abdullah Ahli said: “This gathering is an opportunity to strengthen the social relations between the employees of the Authority away from the routine of daily work, and in a family atmosphere that enshrines the concept of harmony and social cohesion in the spirit of one team, and this in turn renews communication and instills affection and brotherhood. “We commend the decision of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE,
to make 2018 the Year of Zayed, to mark the centennial of the birth of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE, which embodies the unique status of every Emirati. He is the founding leader of the Union and sets the foundations of the modern development witnessed by the UAE at all levels. His legacy continues as exceptional modern leader who is appreciated by all peoples and countries of the region and the world.
10X Team
Happiness Camping
Dubai we learn team
SMS Audit
Judicial Jurisdiction Training
Innovation Training
July 2018
Inside DCAA
Government Games
Sport Committee
Internal Trainer Category
The Scientific Subject Of Training Of Trainers Program (Specialties) Years of Service Category – 10 Years
Employees Obtain academic degrees Special Awarding
Special Awarding
Kader Nainar For your incredible act in helping our colleague “Yaqoob Al Hayyas” when he faced an emergency situation.
Jassim Jawad For his assistance to the Corporate Marketing & Communication Office for handling the photography during events and exhibitions
DCAA honoured for Zayed charity
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n the occasion of the Zayed Day for Humanitarian Action, Al Bayt Al Khair Association honoured Dubai Civil Aviation Authority for sponsoring the Zayed Charity Center for two days in a fasting iftar initiative. The award was received from Mr. Faisal Abdul Jalil, Acting Head of Administrative Affairs.
Charity donations platform
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he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DACA), in coordination with Beit Al Khair Association, has hosted a charity donation platform at its headquarters Through this contribution, the Authority is keen to establish a culture of philanthropy and to provide good opportunities and partnerships with various sectors.
July 2018
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Inside DCAA
Ramadan campaign
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hawahin team of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Dubai Air Navigation Services, General Department of Airport Security – Dubai Police, General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, and National Center of Meteorology & Seismology (NCMS) arranged the yearly Ramadan Campaign. The campaign included various activities such as weekly quizzes (a weekly tour by the campaign’s
Shawahin team sponsors around the offices to ask questions) and prizes during the holy month of Ramadan. The yearly
campaign aims to break the barriers between the employees and change the daily routine during Ramadan.
Ramadan food project
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s part of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority's efforts to spread charity and in line with Zayed, the Authority
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participated in a Ramadan fasting food project at the Zayed Al Khair tent in cooperation with Beit Al Khair
Association. A number of employees of the Authority contributed to this voluntary and charitable work.
Inside DCAA
DCAA team visits ExecuJet Aviation Group W ithin the framework of the mutual visits between the competent authorities in the civil aviation sector, a delegation from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), represented by Mr. Abdullah bin Khudiyah, Mr. Mattar
Al-Ketbi, Head of Air Transport Operations and Mr. Abdullah Bb, Senior Air Transport Officer, visited the office of ExecuJet Aviation Group, which represents the largest private aviation operator. The visit is was aimed at exchanging knowledge
and expertise in the civil aviation sector and identifying future requirements and needs in order to facilitate the work procedures to serve the customers and provide the best services according to the highest standards.
“Let’s make this summer green” campaign T he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has hosted a campaign “Let’s make this summer green” as part of Dubai’s vision to achieve environmental sustainability, and to raise awareness
among all segments of the society about the importance of energy conservation and preserving the natural resources. The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) staff members were
present to oversee the event and to introduce the campaign to the DCAA staff about the importance of protecting the environment and reducing energy consumption.
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DCAA Interview
Nasser Mubarak Al Khater, Head of the Aviation Business Affairs and Consumer Protection Section at the Air Transport and International Affairs sector of DCAA
We have reduced the transactions processing time from 3 days to 15 minutes
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he Aviation Business Affairs and Consumer Protection Section at the Air Transport and International Affairs sector of DCAA operates in full swing to provide better services each day. The section operates according to an organisational measure by means of which new systems are put in place in order to develop the business and attract foreign direct investment. Based on the vision of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) to make Dubai the world’s airport and in line with its mission which focuses on civil aviation sector development by enhancing capacity, building a high competitive advantage through innovation, developing staff and leaders and making costumers happy to ensure leadership and sustainability, the Aviation Business Affairs and Consumer Protection Section at the Air Transport and International Affairs sector of DCAA operates in full swing to provide better services each day. Speaking about the mandate of this section, Nasser Mubarak Al Khater, Head of Aviation Business Affairs and Consumer Protection Section, said it relates to issuance of no objection certificates to practice all civil aviation business related activities in Dubai and its free zones, in addition to monitoring and inspecting operators of aviation activities in the emirate to ensure commitment of businesses to laws and guidelines issued by the authority in question. The section also receives complaints and coordinates with airlines and service providers to come up with appropriate solutions that satisfy passengers. Al Khater explained that the responsibilities of the section include raising the awareness of aviation sector consumers in relation
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to their rights and duties; coordinating and cooperating with strategic partners to ensure consumer rights; receiving and following up complaints, suggestions and inquiries pertaining passenger rights; monitoring and inspecting aviation sector business activities and service providers; and issuing no objection certificates to practice civil aviation business related activities in the emirate. Excerpts from the interview: What are the changes and advancements that have emerged lately in the section in line with the developments DCAA is generally witnessing? The Aviation Business Affairs and Consumer Protection Section was established in 2010 to issue the certificates required to practice commercial and industrial activities in the field of aviation. However, we started at the end of 2017 to work on changing or developing this role with a view to making it more interactive to better serve the individuals in the society and the aviation industry at large.
that our role is positive and provides value-added to them. We do this by listening to their problems, providing them the needed support to practice their activities and developing business activities commensurate with serving this sector. In addition, we are trying to attract some of the new business practices applied by other aviation authorities in the world including, for example, helium powered airships that we do not currently have. Nevertheless, we are trying to cooperate on such matters to implement this demand taking into account legislative and regulatory perspectives.
In this respect, we have currently started working on some benchmarking studies, in addition to conducting meetings with aviation companies licensing authorities. We are cooperating with companies operating in the field of aviation to ensure they benefit from what we provide and
What international entities have you benefited from? We conduct an all-round examination of all other international entities and benefit from their experiences should these excel what we have in terms of expertise, efficiency and development.
DCAA Interview
We review the benchmarking studies tackling legislative aspects and study international legislations. We are currently studying a new legislation implemented by the Civil Aviation Authority in the UK. It is about a system to protect consumers in case of bankruptcy of travel agencies. We are now studying the subject of this legislation and whether it suits the situation of the UAE in general and the Emirate of Dubai in particular, taking into consideration that the issuance of this draft law amending the law on consumer protection is now subject to proposals and amendments. We take this law and this special British study and match them to ensure the final regulation is in line with international best practices and local laws in force. On the other hand, we have conducted benchmarking studies with Singapore to examine the general legislations governing commercial civil aviation practices, which are in the interest of public companies. What is the mechanism employed by the team of the Aviation Business Affairs and Consumer Protection Section? We have an organisational measure by means of which new systems are put in place in order to reach final outcomes and attract foreign direct investment, while also reducing the burden on existing companies to practice commercial and industrial activities in line with Dubai Industrial Vision 2021. In addition, we have an active and effective team, and there are monthly graduation initiatives to develop the internal work mechanism, by means of which we keep in mind the service of the economy of the Emirate of Dubai in terms of civil aviation. We conduct internal workshops to educate some of the Authority’s employees about the role of the section and its work mechanism, so that the customer or client can access information at a record speed, taking into account that the Consumer Protection section is one of the most important sections that provide direct services to the civil aviation community.
What are the most recent achievements of the section? We are in the process of conducting some studies now, and will start during the coming six months to implement a number of initiatives the most important of which is cooperation with the private sector to develop radical solutions on the challenges facing this sector at present and in the future. However, one of the achievements we are in particular proud of is that prior to April our service we used to take 3 work days to deliver our services related to business activities that have no security or aviation safety links. We have been able now to reduce service time to 15 minutes through changing the internal procedures by lifting certain requirements, increasing the efficiency of our team and cooperating with licensing authorities. This has resulted in increased consumer happiness and investors’ confidence in relation to the capacities of the government of Dubai in line with the supreme government directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai; and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council; and His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group. There is in addition a new initiative we are in the process of implementing. It deals with establishing online connectivity between us and the licensing authorities to accelerate transaction processing time. What are the difficulties and challenges facing you at work? We often face challenges to deliver our services at the fastest and highest levels of efficiency and quality, which makes us always in the development stage. The
Nasser Mubarak Al Khater holds an International Relations Bachelor’s degree from the American University of Sharjah and a Master’s degree in International Business Law from Paris Sorbonne University. He holds a number of certificates from esteemed institutes, such the Harvard Business School and the International Court of Justice Academy, in addition to a number of technical certificates from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). aviation market is also one of the most competitive, which makes it vulnerable to the simplest economic and legal changes, and this reflects on our role of conducting research to make the aviation sector in Dubai an attractive market in cooperation with our strategic partners. What is the role of the Aviation Business Affairs Section? The role of the Aviation Business Affairs Section is to license all civil aviation related activities, including 69 commercial activities, on top of which is aircraft manufacturing, travel and tourism agencies, civil aviation consulting agencies, air cargo and many more. The second role is to find solutions to the challenges faced by the civil aviation market and to cooperate with strategic partners such as Dubai Airports, Dubai Economy, Dubai South, national carriers (Emirates Airlines and Fly Dubai), and DAFZA, as well as to overcome the difficulties of conducting business activities in the field of aviation from a regulatory and economic points of view. We are generally open; we listen to anyone with initiatives that may serve the aviation sector and try to find mechanisms to implement these initiatives based on their relevance and efficiency.
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Cover Story
Dubai airports
All geared up to tackle the rush T
he Dubai initiatives are aimed at leaving an indelible impression among the parting passengers that the emirate is a must-revisit destination and for those coming by to be amused with what’s in store for them in the city and elsewhere in the UAE.
School holidays and summer vacations have started in full swing and Dubai airports are witnessing a hight traffic of passengers traveling on their summer vacations. Dubai airports have rightly geared up to receive the summer rush, both exodus and influx, with a host of facilities for smooth and speedy movements and
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thus enhancing the experience of travellers that will leave a permanent mark in their minds. The interests of both the incoming and outgoing passengers are taken into consideration while lining up the facilities at the airports. Central to the schemes is the fortification of the image of Dubai as a safe and exciting
global destination for tourism and business. Dubai International airport is on course to achieving the projected target of 90 million passengers for the whole of 2018 with more than 45 million footfalls in the first half of the year alone. The passenger turnout at Dubai airports has witnessed steady growth in the first four months
Cover Story
of the year when the airport recorded 32 million passengers. In the month of May alone, the passenger number rose to 6.5 million and it is expected that June will see a much impressive figure of 7.5 million. Dubai is projected to overtake London for tourist arrivals by 2025 after seeing the highest growth rate in the top 10 of this year’s Euromonitor Top 100 City Destinations Ranking. Visitor growth will see Dubai attracting 20.27 million arrivals in 2020 and 26.78 million in 2025. The sustained growth is attributed to the continued attraction of Dubai as the most preferred destination for tourists as well as international investors. Innovative schemes and promotions to keep passengers happy and comfortable at airports contributed immensely to the increase of passengers to a greater extent. The attraction of Dubai as a tourist and shopping destination is augmented with more initiatives. Alongside making Dubai a business-friendly economy for international investors, the government and the private sector have implemented hundreds of tourism and hospitality projects which made Dubai the most sought after destination for business, leisure and entertainment. The draw is made more attractive and tempting with periodic relaxations in visa rules. Dubai is also offering a unique experience to transit passengers
Most guest-friendly airport
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ubai enjoys the unique reputation of being one of the most guest-friendly airports in the world. This is achieved by giving a personal touch in dealing with passengers at the airports.
HE Mohammed Abdullah Al Ahli, Director General of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), said: “We appreciate the aviation sector’s crucial role in making Dubai competitive in the world and attracting more passengers to the city is achieved by offering world class services in terms of safety, security, comfort and unique experience. We deem it our responsibility to keep our passengers happy and feel important and a personal with Dubai Airports, in cooperation with Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), developing the ‘Microcosm of Dubai’. Launched by Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the ‘Microcosm of Dubai’ is part of a series of initiatives developed under the umbrella of ‘Dubai 10X’, which aims to place Dubai 10 years ahead of other cities. The new initiative aims to make the city of Dubai an extension of the airport by offering passengers the freedom of leaving the airport and enjoying what the city has to offer. It also explores opportunities to showcase the city’s vibrancy, culture and innovation in
touch will take the experience to the next level. That’s why we formed our “May I Help You” team, to meet and greet our valuable passengers as part of our corporate responsibility. The team is always on hand to assist, from the moment someone steps into the airport until they board the plane – and vice versa. And we have excellent feedback on the satisfaction of our passengers.” the airport to entice transit passengers to visit the city. The ‘Microcosm of Dubai’ enables thousands of passengers passing through Dubai International Airport daily to experience the various facets of Dubai while they are in the airport through interactive experiences, virtual reality and cultural displays with our artDXB and musicDXB programmes. If their connection time exceeds four hours, they will have the option of taking a tour of Dubai. Passengers with transit time of more than four hours are allowed to take city tour but those who have less time can still take a virtual tour.
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UAE in Focus
Titan Aviation secures two AOCs
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itan Aviation has secured two Air Operator’s Certificates (AOC) as part of its global growth strategy. A provider of aircraft management, aircraft sales, and air charter services in the Middle East and India, Dubai-based Titan Aviation said that it had secured an AOC from San Marino as well as a US FAA Part 135 charter operator certificate, adding to its existing EASA, Cayman and Indian DGCA accreditations. This will allow the firm to open eight new bases across Europe and the US thus strengthening its operations team. Titan now has offices in San Marino, Italy, Germany, France, the UK, Florida, New Jersey, and New York, with 25 aircraft in its globally managed fleet, including Embraer Lineage 1000s, Bombardier Global 6000s, Legacy 650 and Gulfstream Aerospace jets. It is targeting to have 20 jets under management in Europe within two years and 50 in the US within the same timescale of 2020. Titan also expects to expand into the medevac field, particularly in the UAE where a gap in the market has arisen with the withdrawal of Abu Dhabi’s Royal Jet from the sector. As a first step towards a fully-fledged medevac operation, Titan is currently finalizing a partnership with a large hospital group in the UAE, to provide specialist medical care operations.
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Sharp increase in Russian air cargo traffic at DWC
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ubai Airports has announced that Al Maktoum International Airport has a projected annual capacity of 12 million tonnes of freight and 160 to 260 million passengers. The number of passengers from Russia and the surrounding countries using Dubai World Central increased by 217 percent during the first quarter of this year. The latest figures from Dubai Airports showed that passenger traffic from the Commonwealth of Independent State (CIS) grew to 191,026, when compared to the same quarter last
year, which the airport said was due to the increase in Russian charter aircraft operating to the airport following the waiver of visa requirements for Russian travellers to the UAE. Overall passenger traffic at the airport showed a marginal 0.2 percent growth in the first three months, reaching 334,455. Eastern Europe was the second largest contributor to the traffic at DWC with 60,592, followed by the Middle East (23,404).
Air Arabia profit up in Q1 2018
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ir Arabia has reported a seven per cent increase in its net profit for the first quarter of 2018 as revenues rose and expenses dropped. The Sharjah-based budget carrier’s profit reached AED110 million, up from AED102.5 million in the same quarter in 2017.
Its revenue also rose by eight per cent to reach AED877.3 million, up from AED810 million in the first quarter of 2017. Over two million passengers flew with Air Arabia in the quarter, in line with the passenger figures in same period last year. Adel Ali, Air Arabia’s Group CEO, earlier said he expected 2018 to be a “reasonable year,” and dismissed concerns about higher oil prices hurting the company’s finances by raising fuel costs. He said that higher oil prices boost economic growth, which in turn translates to stronger passenger demand for air travel. According to its statement, Air Arabia’s average seat load factor was 80 per cent during the first quarter of this year.
UAE in Focus
Emirates eyes transatlantic routes
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mirates, the world’s largest long-haul carrier, aims to grow its services to Canada on the back of proposals to increase the number of direct flights between the UAE and Canada and strengthen business ties. “We have made no secret that we would like to expand our operations
Etihad trials VR tech in AD airport lounge
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tihad Airways has begun a month-long trial to test the SkyLights Aero Virtual Reality (VR) entertainment technology in order to gather customer feedback before introducing the offering at the Midfield Terminal in Abu Dhabi International Airport. The trial takes place at its First Class Lounge and Spa and Business Class Premium Lounge. The technology could enable the airline to provide more personalised entertainment solutions. SkyLights, a provider of entertainment solutions, works with a number of airlines to transform their inflight and ground offering. It has offices in San Francisco, Paris and Toulouse.
in Canada to meet growing passenger demand. At this time, there are ongoing government discussions and we will evaluate all opportunities,” an Emirates spokeswoman told The National. The UAE and Canadian ministers have discussed joint co-operation in aviation and air services.
Abu Dhabi airport goes for digital transformation
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(IoT) and business intelligence that ensures efficient, smooth and proactive Airport operations.
The new technology will dynamically manage airport resources and ultimately increase capacity and passenger satisfaction. The airport adopts smart technologies which include the Internet of Things
The turnkey project included sensors installation, provision of infrastructure and integration between the Passenger Flow Management solution and different airport and airline’s operational systems. It entailed the design and implementation of a Desk Planner module that enables the airport to forecast “desk demand” for security and immigration areas.
bu Dhabi International Airport has announced the implementation of smart Passenger Flow and Queue Management technologies, to boost efficiency in day-to-day operations across check-in, security, immigration and baggageclaim in Terminals 1 and 3.
The SkyLights Allosky VR headsets deliver an immersive, HD resolution, cinematic experience in 2D and 3D. They feature easy-to-use intuitive technology and noise cancelling, as well as battery life of over six hours. Etihad staff will assist interested guests at dedicated areas throughout the trial, with each session ending with a short manual questionnaire.
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ADP Ingénierie
ADP Ingénierie: An airport’s life cycle partner
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n the recent years, operators of airports around the world have been seeking solutions from their engineering service providers to any problem they encounter. They look forward to have a 360-degree partner who will work alongside them over the long term.
There is a name which stands out towards this end. Its range of activities combined with its worldwide presence enable ADP Ingénierie, its engineering subsidiary, to offer airport authorities tailor-made solutions to all their problems throughout the entire airport’s life cycle. ADP Ingénierie has completed its 40-year presence in the UAE, supporting the country’s and Middle East airports development since 1978. Decidedly turned towards the future of airports, ADP Ingénierie is aiming at anticipating the needs of its clients, eager to
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assist them in making strategic choices or in conducting their operations. Groupe ADP is one of the world’s top ten airport operators. ParisAéroport, which includes the Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Paris-Orly and Paris-Le Bourget airport hubs, handled more than 100 million passengers in 2017. The group operates 26 airports worldwide, including Santiago de Chile, Madagascar, Mauritius, Prague and Amman. TAV Airports, part of Groupe ADP, manages the main airports in
Turkey but also airports including Tbilisi in Georgia, Enfidah and Monastir in Tunisia, and Madinah Airport in Saudi Arabia. Groupe ADP manages equity investments in many airports around the world, including Conakry in Guinea, Liège in Belgium and Skopje in Macedonia. ADP Ingénierie is a support to the decision-making process of the customers in order to anticipate the development of airports platforms, airport operations and maintenance, also to anticipate the traffic growth. Based on its unique approach as a
ADP Ingénierie
360-degree expert, ADP Ingénierie is focused on making long term relationships with its clients. ADP Ingénierie can be involved in all stages of an airport’s life, not only in engineering and architecture, but also, and increasingly, in consulting and strategic planning. ADP Ingénierie can select the site of a future airport, provide the design, ensure the supervision of the construction, support the operation of an airport, and improve existing airports during all their life cycle. Many expertise can be provided by ADP Ingénierie including airside
infrastructures, air navigation, air traffic control tower, special airport systems, sustainable airports, airport urbanism, operational audit and multi-flow navigation. ADP Ingénierie, for instance, designed the terminal at Amman airport in Jordan, and is continuing its partnership with Queen Alia International Airport for a project to extend the baggage handling system (BHS), including the implementation of a Standard 3 certified baggage security system. At the same time, Groupe ADP took the control of the Queen Alia International Airport. Groupe
ADP is now operating the airport. The exchange of employees, best practices and synergies cultivated with Groupe ADP, in particular in terms of innovation that is always core to developing tailor-made solutions, is what enriches ADP Ingénierie’s experience on a daily basis. This wealth of experience, resulting from its collaboration with Groupe ADP and its own projects around the world, makes ADP Ingénierie a natural long-term partner for airport authorities to manage today’s problems while preparing for tomorrow’s airport.
July 2018
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Interview
Jan Willem Hoopman:
We must always respond quickly to market changes I
n aviation, Foreign Object Debris (FOD) is any article or substance, alien to an aircraft or system, which could potentially cause damage. FOD is estimated to cost the global aerospace industry US$12 billion a year. In an interview with Via Dubai, Jan Willem Hoopman, owner of Hoopman Machines which makes Holaras brand FOD Airport Sweeper, speaks about FOD.
Holaras is a family company founded more than a century ago. Does it specialize in four specific agricultural niche markets? In 1911 my grandfather Jan founded the company Hoopman Machines. The company produced in 1958 the first ever turnip harvesting machine. This started off the agricultural branch of the Hoopman group, consisting
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of the current niche markets: Onfarm silage handling for dairy/beef operations, Onion field toppers, windrowers and post-harvest toppers, Brooms for street and airport cleaning and Equipment & technology for seed enhancement (The seed related activities run as a separate business unit Hoopman Equipment & Engineering B.V.)
Has it remained a leader in innovation at a time when technology is changing fast and wide? Even in times when technology is changing fast, we are able to be innovative and revolutionary in engineering, design and cost saving. The coming year we will launch various new and durable designs in our equipment.
Interview
You are the third generation of the Hoopman family. How big is the responsibility to keep up the business standing? With a company of > 50 employees the Management Team has to be alert on internal and external developments. We must always be able to respond quickly to changes in the market and the national/international economy. Luckily the whole team is committed and willing to go the extra mile if needed! Isn’t it surprising that the company, since 2000, have been designing and manufacturing high performance Foreign Object Debris (FOD) equipment for surface cleaning at airport runways? In fact, it isn’t. In the late 60’s we were already producing many road sweepers. During an exhibition early 2000 we came in contact with MRO-officers of Schiphol Airport-Amsterdam. They were looking for specific FODprevention sweepers to achieve maximum FOD-safety! Holaras being well known for robust and reliable sweeper equipment, convinced the MRO-officers of Schiphol Airport to agree to a co-makership relation. Together we designed the first prototype of the FOD Airport Sweeper. And even now, our design and equipment is actual, hence the purchase of a triangle Holaras Airport Sweeper by Düsseldorf Airport in Germany.
FOD is a common risk for aviation industry since a long time and it has contributed to several terrible incidents and fatalities. FOD can cause damage that could cost airlines, airports, and airport tenants millions of dollars every year. How big is the problem now and is going to be in the future? After the horrible accident in France with the Concorde in April 2000, International Airport Regulations have become stricter on FOD-prevention. This concluded in their advice to airports purchasing FOD-equipment to remove Foreign Object Debris in a professional and reliable way from Platforms and Runways. Accurate Analysis afterwards became more of an issue too! Till now, there is no IATA actual standard requirements/regulations, but the whole industry is getting more aware of the importance of FOD-prevention. With more and more increasing flight movements all over the world we think this should be a main issue on all Airport conventions/consultative bodies.
The subject should be higher on the agenda at all Airports around the world. FOD is estimated to cost the global aerospace industry US$12 billion a year. Many airports have programmes to minimize FOD and its effects. Is it helpful in reducing the problem? Of course all airports do their best in their own way, but a clear and strict regulation from consultative bodies like f.i. IATA, could allow Airports to deal with it in a standardised way. On the other hand, there will always be the danger of FOD. Organisations should be fully aware of the risks and act accordingly. It must never become a ‘bottom of the list’ issue. Therefore all attempts contribute to a safe and workable Airport environment. Is Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and South Asia on your marketing radar? Being a participant/exhibitor at the Dubai Airport Show 2018 gave us the opportunity to get (back) in contact with possible relations in the MENA and South Asia area. The Dubai Airport Show 2018 was for Holaras an inspiring and insightful experience. We received many new contacts at our stand and the B2B meeting was a welcome innovation to the Show. As a result of the many developments and changes in the MENA and South Asia area’s we are targeting to new business opportunities for our Holaras FOD Airport Sweepers.
July 2018
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Middle East News
Saudi Arabia sees rapid LCCs growth
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plans soon to place an order for 30 new generation narrowbody aircraft.
Saudi Arabia’s two LCCs, the privately owned flynas and Saudia subsidiary flyadeal, are planning rapid expansion. Flynas has placed orders for 80 A320neos, enabling the airline to triple its fleet over the next eight years, while flyadeal
The passenger aircraft fleet in Saudi Arabia has grown by 15 per cent over the past year, driven by rapid expansion at Saudia and flyadeal. The Saudia Group now accounts for approximately 80 per cent of the fleet and 75 per centof domestic fleet capacity. The group’s new two-brand strategy should enable it to maintain strong market share as competition intensifies and the market doubles in size over the next few years.
he Saudi Arabian airline market is poised for rapid growth over the next few years as the kingdom relies on aviation and tourism to diversify its economy. The Low Cost Carriers (LCCs) are particularly well positioned as low fares stimulate demand among a youthful population that is eager to travel more, a report said.
Gulf Air eyes Mideast routes to boost growth
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ahrain’s Gulf Air is counting on Middle East routes to help drive passenger growth and turn around the loss-making airline. The state-owned Gulf carrier is adding 8 destinations to its network this year, mostly to Middle East cities, as part of a strategy to fly to over 60 destinations by 2023. Flights to other cities outside the
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region are planned for following years, although a decision on which exact destinations and when they would be launched has not been made. Middle East air traffic is dominated by Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, and Emirates who focus on linking east and west traffic flows through their Gulf hubs.
Oman considers IPO for airports company by 2020
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he Sultanate of Oman is implementing phases of a strategy to boost visitor numbers to 11.7 million from 3.3 million currently and create 500,000 tourism jobs for Omanis by 2040.
The country is considering the sale of a partial stake in its airports management company by 2020 amid an Arabian Gulf-wide drive towards privatisation and fiscal consolidation in the wake of lower oil prices. The government has yet to make a decision on whether to proceed with an initial public offering of the state-owned company, Aimen Al Hosni, chief executive of Oman Airports Company, told The National. He declined to reveal the stake size or value. Oman is focusing on developing its aviation sector to diversify its economy beyond petrochemicals revenues. It is implementing phases of a strategy to boost visitor numbers to 11.7 million from 3.3 million currently and create 500,000 tourism jobs for Omanis by 2040. The Gulf state opened a new passenger terminal at Muscat International Airport in March with capacity to handle 20 million passengers annually. The country plans incremental capacity increases to handle 48 million, 70 million and 100 million passengers, respectively, in stages depending on demand.
July 2018
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International News
SureFly makes first flight
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he two-seat eVTOL SureFly has made its first untethered flight.
Four-year hunt for MH370 ends
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he four-year hunt for Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 has ended with the latest, privately funded search coming to a close. The US-based Ocean Infinity had been using a deep-sea vessel to survey a vast area of the southern Indian Ocean. But it found nothing and Malaysia’s government says it has no plans to begin any new searches. The plane disappeared on 8 March 2014 while flying from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing with 239 people on board. Official search efforts ended last year and there are still fierce debates about what happened to the flight. The MH370 departed for Beijing, but the plane lost contact less than an hour after take-off, with no distress signal or message sent. Initial search efforts focus on the South China Sea In January 2017, the governments of Australia, Malaysia and China announced that they are suspending the official search after failing to find anything in the area thought to be the plane’s final resting place In January this year, amid pressure from relatives, Malaysia signed a deal with a private company to resume the hunt. Ocean Infinity agreed to work unpaid but would have received a reward of up to US$70 million if it had found the wreckage
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The flight of its SureFly two-seat hybrid electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) urban passenger vehicle lasted approximately 10 seconds and the aircraft reached an altitude of four feet. This follows “hundreds” of tethered flights during testing for noise, as well as the battery and flight control systems, a company spokesman told AIN. The company plans to offer both piston- and turbine-engine versions of the aircraft, but declined to name engine manufacturers.
The SureFly has a two-person, 400-pound payload capacity and a range of approximately 70 miles. Target price is $200,000. The hybrid aircraft is powered by a fossil-fueled generator linked to a parallel bank of battery packs. Its electrical system powers motors linked to four propeller arms, each with two contra-rotating propellers. The batteries can power the motors if the generator fails. In addition, the airframe has a ballistic parachute. Last year Workhorse announced its intention to spin off SureFly into a separate company.
Australia conducts trial on satellite-based augmentation system
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irservices Australia will receive up to A$310,000 in funding from the Australian and New Zealand governments to fit SBAS technology into aircraft and testing it across regional Australia. A new satellite positioning technology currently being trialled by Geoscience Australia to improve aviation safety and efficiency. The aviation trial is one of 25 currently being run across the country. The Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS) project is led by Airservices Australiaon behalf of the aviation industry. Under the project, Airservices Australia is fitting SBAS technology into aircraft and testing it across regional Australia.
SBAS utilises space-based and ground-based infrastructure to improve the accuracy, integrity and availability of basic Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals, such as those currently provided by the Global Positioning System (GPS). SBAS already developed internationally include WAAS in the United States and EGNOS in Europe. Airservices Australia will receive up to A$310 000 in funding from the Australian and New Zealand governments to trial the technology.
International News
Concern over growing aeronautics mechanic shortage
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ointing to a helicopter industry study finding of a potential severe mechanic shortage over the next two decades, the Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA) is stressing the need to educate high schools students, as well as working professionals, about available training options. The study forecasts an even a shortage of 40,613 certified aviation mechanics by 2036. Conducted by the University of North Dakota in partnership with Helicopter Foundation International and Helicopter Association International, the study further found that 70 percent of operators find it harder to hire mechanics and 75 percent of those hiring mechanics were only able to find personnel with less than the desired experience.
Airlines slash profit forecast
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Chicago airport gets first new gates in 25 years
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’Hare International Airport in Chicago has some new gates for the first time in a quarter century. American Airlines has opened five new gates. The American’s investment of US$78 million to extend the concourse of Terminal 3’s L-Concourse is the first major step the airport’s US$8.5 billion terminal expansion plan. Between the new American gates
and the planned addition of dozens of more gates. In late February, American briefly withdrew its support for an US$8.5 billion expansion plan for O’Hare that would boost the gate count from 185 to about 220 by 2026. United countered on March 1 by calling American’s initial claim a “falsehood,” offering evidence that -- according to United -- showed American was previously aware of the provisions it labeled “secret.”
No takers for Air India’s divestment plan
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ir India has asked the Indian government to ‘restore’ equity infusion in the carrier, after it failed to find any takers for its disinvestment. The loss-making carrier has a debt burden of about $7.3 billion crore till March last year. It had been receiving about Rs3,000-4,000 crore equity infusion on an average per fiscal from the government till FY2014. However, after that the amount was gradually reduced. For 2018-19,
the airline has been allocated Rs 650 crore in view of its now failed disinvestment plan. The deadline for submitting expression of interest for Air India’s stake sale ended.The government will now go back to the drawing board to revise some of the key terms of its stake sale. The group of ministers, or the Air India Specific Alternate Mechanism, constituted to prepare a strategy for disinvestment of the national carrier is expected to meet within “a couple of weeks” to chalk out the future course of action.
lobal airlines have slashed their forecast for industry profits in 2018 on a spike in fuel costs, while warning higher interest rates and a host of geopolitical tensions would add to operating risks. The International Air Transport Association (IATA), which represents about 280 carriers, said the industry is expected to post a US$33.8 billion profit this year, 12 percent below a previous forecast of US$38.4 billion.
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Opinion
Essentials for transformation of ATM systems C ommunication, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS) is a key topic for Air Traffic Management (ATM) in general and in EUROCONTROL, an intergovernmental organisation with 41 member and two ‘Comprehensive Agreement’ states, in particular.
As traffic grows rapidly, the entire aviation sector is much more focused on how to improve performance. Significant progress have been achieved in CNS in recent years. At the forefront of it is the new CNS satellite systems. The new full constellation IRIDIUM/NEXT will be operational before the end of 2018 offering all kinds of Aviation Communication services. INMARSAT’s new SWIFTBROADBAND service has demonstrated its performance and has been selected by major aircraft manufacturers and that is already supporting OPS Safety Services. As for navigation, we have the European Galileo system. It will reach full capacity by the end of 2018 with 26 satellites. GALILEO will double the services already offered by GPS, enhancing GNSS redundancy and resilience to levels unknown at present. But the most promising satellite system probably goes to surveillance, with the emergence of space ADS-B as a potential game-changer.
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The AIREON system will soon provide the first ATM global coverage surveillance service by the end of 2018.
For the significant proportion of aircraft that are already equipped with the appropriate transponders, the tracking will be immediately available. We are thus witnessing a massive investment in CNS satellites. We are no longer talking prototypes here, but rather complete systems close to the operational stage. Major companies are in this area with strong investment capability and the willingness to offer global commercial services, in a competitive environment. It has the potential to bring about a radical change in CNS. This explains the present feeling that we may be close to a breakthrough. In the meantime, other CNS systems on the ground are achieving significant progress as well. In Europe, datalink has now overcome its initial difficulties. Multi-frequency capacity has been deployed. The coverage area has expanded to most of European airspace, enabling the digital transmission of control instructions, in particular for radio-frequency management, thus reducing the workload of air traffic controllers and freeing up voice communication. In the US, the ADS-B program continues to gear up and is on schedule to meet the January
Philippe Merlo Director-ATM EUROCONTROL
2020 mandate. It’s at the heart of the NextGen programme and essential for the transformation of their ATM systems. We need to go all the way for ADS-B and Datalink. Starting from 2020, the combination of these two systems will create a new basis on which additional developments will become possible. Excerpts from the keynote speech at the ICNS 2018
Opinion
Future growth requires efficiency A
s a system, air transportation works best when all stakeholders and partners work together. The air traffic demand is forecasted to double in the next 15 years. A question that needs to be answered is how airports are going to accommodate that level of growth. The Airports Council International (ACI) World has worked to introduce data-driven aerodrome design provisions to enable airports to gain more capacity with existing airfield infrastructure. We are working now with the IATA on a strategic review of the worldwide slot guidelines to bring airports into the decision-making to gain better use of existing airport infrastructure. Innovations in processing have already seen drastic reductions in passenger screening and passport control at airports where governments and airports have instituted pilot projects. The ACI and IATA have collaborated with governments on Smart Security programme to encourage and monitor such projects and to propagate the lessons learned to other governments, airports and airlines. Protection of the infrastructure, mainly against constraints on use due to concerns of noise,
emissions and other local impacts means working with communities and governments to keep airports as good neighbors as well as to encourage effective land use planning. The aviation industry has committed itself to tough environmental stewardship goals, with airports striving for carbon neutrality and dedicating considerable resources to reduce the adverse impacts of noise on surrounding communities and to avoid degradation of local air and water quality. At the same time, airports need to become more resilient in the face of adverse weather conditions due to climate change.
Angela Gittens Director General Airports Council International (ACI) World
Even with advances in efficiency and the protection of the use of current infrastructure, there will still be a need for additional infrastructure, as well as replacement of old infrastructure. Globally, airports project a need of some US$430 billion in capital expenditures to welcome the passenger of the future. Privatization is a useful means to fund needed infrastructure development. Securing the overall bankability and financial sustainability of a project requires setting the right legal framework from the very start of the privatization process and ensure transparent and competitive bidding processes to award the investor.
JulyJuly 2018 2018
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ATM
ATC market to reach US$56.07 billion by 2022
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he Air Traffic Control (ATC) market is projected to grow from US$30.77 billion in 2017 to US$56.07 billion by 2022, at a CAGR of 12.75 per cent during the forecast period, according to a report. This growth is mainly attributed to the modernization of Air Traffic Management (ATM) infrastructure, increase in the number of airports in emerging economies, and the need for efficient airspace management. As aircraft operators across the globe have realized the significance of improved Air Traffic Control (ATC) services, they are increasingly investing in the development of innovative air traffic control technologies. The air traffic control market has been segmented on the basis of airspace, application, sector, investment type, system, and region. Based on airspace, the market has been classified into Air Traffic Control System Command Centre (ATCSCC), Air Route Traffic Control Centre (ARTCC), Traffic Radar Approach Control (TRACON), Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT), and Flight Service Station (FSS).
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NASA, Uber share data for urban airspace safety
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he National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has entered into the first agreement specifically focused on airspace management, also commonly referred to as air traffic management/air traffic control (ATM/ATC), modelling and simulation for urban air mobility (UAM) operations.
They signed a space act agreement with Uber Technologies in San Francisco to explore UAM concepts and technologies to ensure a safe, efficient system for future air transportation in populated areas. NASA is partnering with Uber and others in the community to identify the key challenges facing
the UAM market, and explore necessary research, development and testing requirements to address those challenges. Urban air mobility could revolutionize the way people and cargo move in the cities and fundamentally change the lifestyle much like smart phones have. Under this agreement, Uber will share its plans for implementing an urban aviation rideshare network. NASA will use the latest airspace management computer modelling and simulation technologies to assess the impacts of small aircraft – from delivery drones to passenger aircraft with vertical take-off and landing capability – in crowded environments.
India begins modernising ATM system
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n American technology company has won an US$141 million contract from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to modernize India’s air traffic management (ATM) communications infrastructure. The AAI has chosen Harris Corporation as the prime contractor and systems integrator for its
Futuristic Telecommunications Infrastructure (FTI) initiative. Under the plan, Harris will upgrade 91 sites for ATC operations. Double-digit growth in passengers has made India the world’s fastestgrowing aviation market. By 2020, India is tipped to be the third largest aviation market, after the US and China.
Airlines
Saratov Airlines set to cease operations
Swedish airline files for bankruptcy
Airplane cabins are getting cramped
ussian carrier Saratov Airlines is set to cease operations, less than four months after a fatal accident involving one of its Antonov An-148s.
weden’s largest regional airline, Nextjet, has filed for bankruptcy. It has cancelled all its flights with immediate effect.
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The Federal air transport regulator Rosaviatsia, which had already put Saratov on a temporary licence, has instructed the airline “not to book and issue tickets” – on its own or on behalf of tour operators – for flights. The airline states that, in response, its management has opted to close the company from the end of May and dismiss employees from July.
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Nextjet CEO Magnus Ivarsson said: “We have done everything in our power to find a solution, but have unfortunately not succeeded. A liquidator will now be appointed to make a decision on the future of the company.” Sweden’s Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen) revoked Nextjet’s operating licence in August last year due to the company’s financial difficulties. However, it was still able to operate under a temporary permit and in October the Transport Administration approved a new licence for the company. Nextjet is based at Stockholm Arlanda airport. The majority of its destinations are in northern Sweden.
Six jets bought to revive Uganda airlines
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he six passenger aircraft for the defunct Uganda Airlines are scheduled to hit the skies in November.
The revival plans were recommended by a joint study by Uganda Development Corporation and National Planning Authority. The government has made an initial cash deposit of approximately US$1.2 million for the purchase of six passenger aircraft for Uganda Airlines. The cash deposit had been made for four Bombardier CRJ900 passenger jets from the Canadian Bombardier Aerospace and two wide-body A330-200 aircraft. The Bombardiers will be delivered first.
ver the past 40 years, airlines have cut seat pitch in order to fit more passengers on board, according to a report by CNBC. In the early days of commercial flights, in the 1920s and even in the 1930s, airplane seats were just wicker chairs. After that the chairs were made of aluminium. They looked nothing like the airplane seats used today, but more like a chair one could find in homes. During an economic boom after World War II, more travellers took to the skies and manufacturers introduced larger planes with big, cushioned seats to match. There was only one class of flying. The two-class cabin came a little later, as more travellers opted to fly over taking a bus or a train. Seat pitch, the distance between the back of one seat to the seat in front of it, was about 35 inches in the middle of the 20th century. The race to cut seat pitch began in earnest after the US deregulated the industry in 1978. While the smoke-filled cabins of the 1960s and 1970s were certainly roomier, air travel was very expensive. When they were regulated, the US government set airfares. A transcontinental flight cost more than US$1,000 in inflationadjusted dollars in the mid-1970s, while travellers could find tickets for around US$300 for the same route today. Airlines back then, however, did not charge for checked luggage, seat selection, or myriad other addons they do today.
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Cargo & Logistics
Boeing 747s gets new life in air-cargo surge
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nstead of being scrapped, the humpbacked planes are back in demand as workhorses of global shipping. Booming trade is stoking the need for big, long-range jets to haul time-sensitive goods, from Apple iPhones made in China to fresh flowers grown in Latin America.
Kenya to launch Africa’s first cargo drone operation
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enyan cargo airline Astral Aviation plans to launch the first cargo drone operation in Africa by the end of this year. Based in Nairobi and operating cargo flights in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, Astral Aviation has established Astral Aerial Solutions as a dedicated subsidiary to handle the Kenyan freight specialist’s expansion into the niche drone market in Kenya, Rwanda, and Ethiopia. The company also has established a drone technology academy in Kenya that trains youth to operate the vehicles. The company plans initially to operate three drones of various sizes and capabilities. The first drone, dubbed FlyOx and made by Spain’s Singular Aircraft, can carry 2,000 kilograms (4,400 pounds) of cargo and flies to a range of 1,300 kilometers (800 miles).
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Interest in Boeing’s 747-400 freighter family was already rebounding last year, even as Delta Air Lines and United Continental hosted nostalgic farewell tours to mark the end of US passenger service on the four-engine behemoth nicknamed the “Queen of the Skies”. With Boeing’s factory-fresh models sold out through 2021, cargo carriers are snapping up jumbo freighters that were built from 1993 to 2009 — if they can find them. Demand is strongest for used 747s originally built as freighters, since they have hinged noses that flip open to load oversized cargo such as oil-drilling equipment. Lease rates have rebounded for the aircraft. The resurgence is even
starting to extend to cargo-haulers converted from passenger jumbos, which are heavier and can load only via doors carved into the side. To be sure, the revival involves a small subset of the 1,544 jumbos that have flown away from Boeing’s Seattlearea factory since the four-engine 747 debuted in 1970. There’s no sign of a similar resurgence for brand-new passenger versions of the 747-8, or Airbus SE’s A380 superjumbo. The total number of permanently retired or scrapped Boeing jumbos more than doubled, from 442 in 2010 to 890 this year, according to a Bloomberg Intelligence analysis of Flight Ascend data.
Full year profit turnaround for SIA Cargo
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ingapore Airlines’ (SIA) cargo division has reported an operating profit of S$148.1 million in the 2017/18 financial year. Cargo revenue in the 12 months to the end of March 2018 grew S$264 million to around S$2.2 billion as cargo yield and freight carriage improved 8.9 per cent and 5.3 per cent respectively, “on the back of strong air cargo demand,” reported the carrier in its annual results statement. SIA Cargo, which was re-integrated into the parent company from April this year, will “continue to pursue charter opportunities and deploy capacity to match demand”. Currently, SIA Cargo’s freighter network covers 19 cities in 13
countries and territories, including Singapore. In its outlook, the airline said: “The overall demand outlook for cargo remains moderately positive, but is subject to geopolitical uncertainties which may have implications on global trade.”
Technology
Scientists creating innovative device to prevent aircraft accidents
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team of researchers at the Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) in Lithuania are designing an innovative device which will increase aircraft safety during take-off. The idea behind the innovation can be adapted both for small aircraft and large jets. During the first 10 seconds of the take-off roll, the device predicts if the aircraft will reach the sufficient speed for taking off. The idea behind the innovation can be adapted both for small aircraft and large jets. According to statistics provided by Boeing, but including all airliner accidents, 13 per cent of fatal aircraft accidents occur during take-off. One of the biggest challenges for the pilot is, when something bad happens during a take-off roll, to decide whether to continue the take-off and deal with the problem during the flight, or to stop the aircraft. Information provided by Eurostat indicates that 85 per cent of all fatal air accidents in 2016 were connected to general aviation aircraft. Experts claim that most general aviation - all civil aviation operations other than scheduled air services - accidents involve some kind of pilot error.
NATS takes equity stake in Aireon
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ATS, the UK’s air traffic management service provider has invested in Aireon, a pioneer in space-based air traffic surveillance services.
Through a network of 66 low earth orbiting Iridium NEXT satellites, AireonSM will monitor the location of Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) equipped aircraft flying anywhere in the world, transforming the way air traffic control services are provided. The service will offer global air traffic surveillance of aircraft. This means that oceans and remote regions like the poles, deserts and mountainous areas will have real-time aircraft surveillance for the first time.
Electric plane startup just sold 100 planes!
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n electric plane startup, backed by Boeing and JetBlue, has just sold 100 planes and the deal could spark a new era of air travel in the US. JetSuite will be the electric plane maker’s launch customer. JetSuite will take up to 100 planes from Zunum with delivery expected to start in 2022. Zunum is backed by JetBlue Technology Ventures and Boeing HorizonX venture capital funds. Zunum Aero wants its electric planes to make air travel cheaper, quicker, and more convenient for small
communities around the US. Zunum, the electric plane startup backed by JetBlue Technology Ventures and Boeing HorizonX, revealed that JetSuite will take up to 100 planes with deliveries expected to commence in 2022. The planes are expected to be used for JetSuite’s private jet charter business as well as its JetSuiteX regional airline. Zunum’s planes are expected to debut with a hybrid-electric drive system before moving to a fully-electric layout as battery technology improves.
The portable device created at KTU uses the parameters of the aircraft accelerometers, and the pilot of light or ultralight aircraft has to enter 5 additional parameters: magnetic course of the runway, wind direction and speed, approximate length of the runway, and the take-off speed (or, in aviation terms, v1 speed).
July 2018
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