Monthly Newsletter issued by Dubai Civil Aviation Authority
www.viadubaionline.com
Sheikh Mohammed launches 10X initiative
Inside DCAA DCAA to host World Aviation Safety Summit in Dubai
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DCAA celebrates International Women’s Day
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DCAA supports Sanad Academy
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Issue 46 March 2017
Employees honoured on 9 Mothers’ Day
UAE in Focus His Highness releases new book Reflections 14 on Happiness & Positivity
12 Cautious optimism
Alexandre de Juniac
Accident Investigation & Aircraft Oversight Department to be fully smart by 2018
Smart Security
29
Angela Gittens
28
The challenge of mega GE to set up shop at the17 airports newly opened Dubai South Aerospace Supply Chain
Opinions 28
Dnata opens new airside cargo facility in Australia 18
Airlines 30
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Ali Mohammad Abbas
Cargo & Logistics 34
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Technology 38
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: +971 56 6810685 March 2017 2 email: it.support@dcaa.gov.ae
www.dcaa.gov.ae
CONTENTS 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 AlMaktoum, 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.
Inside DCAA 06 DCAA celebrates International Women’s Day
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 Editor Shveta Pathak
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E-mail: viadubai@naddalshiba.com
DCAA supports Sanad Academy
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International Happiness Day celebrated
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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DCAA Interview Accidents Investigation & Aircraft Oversight Department to be fully smart by 2018
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Printed by Printwell Dubai
Our Vision Dubai Civil Aviation Authority is driven by the vision of Dubai to become the global Aviation Capital 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
http://www.facebook.com/DCAADubai
twitter.com/DcaaDubai
Marchyoutube.com/user/dcaadubai 2017
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CONTENTS
The challenge of mega airports 18
Smart Security
Fewer air accidents in 2016: IATA
28
Angela Gittens
Cautious optimism 29
Alexandre de Juniac
25
Airbus and Routehappy team up to enrich flight booking for passengers
Biometrics for travel identity management 38
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March 2017
Message
from the President
We are future-ready
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reat cities are built by great visionary minds. Dubai is all set to become a future-ready city, at least 10 years ahead of others, inspired by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. As His Highness often says inspiringly, “The race for excellence has no finish line.” This is leading us to another race. The unique Dubai 10X initiative, which sets the Government of Dubai on a mission to be 10 years ahead of all other cities. We, at Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, are honoured to be part of this initiative by virtue of the department’s crucial role in the aviation sector and its contribution to the economy. We, therefore, are earnestly embarking on an Action Plan to implement the 10X initiative, because it is not simply forecasting the future, but working smartly to shape the future. It is imperative on our part to form a highly capable and creative team to put to practice a strategy to realise the great vision. It is a pragmatic approach, that set the goal by forecasting future trends and take appropriate action to ride along with trend, but at the same time keep our lead in the race. Fortunately for us, this is not a challenging task, because we have been trained by His Highness to take up much tougher challenges and executed them with ease, at the same time putting in real hard work and dedication.
Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum
Now onwards we are setting out a new journey to begin a new phase in the development of Dubai as a City of the Future. The goal is to maintain our lead over the peers. The peculiarity of our goals is that we are not planning or preparing for tomorrow, but for many years ahead. For this, we pledge ourselves to channel our efforts and abilities towards meeting the future needs of our society and many generations to come. We are earnestly embarking on an Action Plan to implement the 10X initiative. The endeavours are all-encompassing, that active and whole-hearted participation by all our staff, top to bottom, will make doubly sure that we will reach our goal, probably much earlier than envisaged. So, let us join forces and show the world what we are capable of.
March 2017
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Message
from the Director General
10X and our march ahead
T
he relevance and importance of an organisation comes to fore when it is recognised as a major contributor to the growth of the economy. Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) is one such organisation that plays a crucial role in shaping the future of Dubai. In fact, it goes beyond that remit. The aviation sector’s contribution in making Dubai among the top in the world is emphasised further with recognition as part of the Dubai 10X initiative. We are stimulated with the recognition that DCAA is capable of taking forward to the world Dubai’s reputation as the number one. But Dubai 10X goes beyond that. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai , who steered Dubai to the top in numerous fronts in the world, no longer accepts being just number one. His Highness wants Dubai to be 10 years ahead of all other cities and launched Dubai 10X initiative which sets the Government of Dubai on a mission to be 10 years ahead of all other cities. Dubai is already number one in terms of international passenger numbers in the world. The ambitious growth plan, following the footsteps of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority President, and CEO of Emirates Group and Airlines, has shown us a clear direction
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Mohammed Abdulla Ahli
where DCAA should be 10 years into the future, because the future belongs to those who effect radical changes, not those who make minor, gradual improvements. DCAA has already reached that stature. We will put our team, involving the entire staff, in place and set structured plans to deliver breakthrough. We are inspiring our employees to embrace disruptive innovation and find new, creative and truly disruptive approaches and technologies to fuel our travel to the 10X goal. I urge all of you to join hands to produce and implement the specific initiatives, so that Dubai will remain 10 years ahead of others as envisioned by our leaders.
Inside DCAA
DCAA to host World Aviation Safety Summit in Dubai Local and international aviation experts to analyse essential safety measures
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he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) will be hosting the fifth edition of World Aviation Safety Summit (WASS 2017) on April 11 and 12, 2017 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
WASS 2017 will highlight key strategies for the safety culture of the future by engaging with local and international stakeholders from regulatory authorities, airline operators, airport operators, aircraft manufacturers, pilot associations, safety organisations and air traffic control service providers. The Summit will address how the aviation industry implements essential safety measures in order to efficiently manage the processes, threats and risks facing aviation safety professionals worldwide. The Summit will also closely examine best practices in crisis communications, reputation management, safety performance and wildlife management. H.E. Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, Director General of DCAA, said: “We are committed to the development of safety in the aviation sector locally, regionally and internationally. We are dedicated to backing the Summit and look forward to supporting the learning and innovations that come out of the global gathering. We believe that bringing global safety experts together will make a genuine difference to the industry, enhance performance levels and highlight
Dubai’s commitment to ensuring a safe and secure future for air travel.” Some of the sessions at WASS include enhancing safe and secure operations; overflight and handling a complex geopolitical environment; safety performance, monitoring, measurement and benchmarking; business continuity and air safety; cyber security for safety; and risk management and predictive safety. Nick Webb, Managing Partner at Streamline Marketing Group, the event organisers, said: “Returning for its 5th edition, WASS has established itself as an ideal platform for thought
leaders of the global aviation safety sector to come together and discuss essential safety measures. Air traffic is booming, and with such rapid growth it is critical that industry and safety experts discuss solutions to the challenges and ever-growing demands of the industry. We look forward to welcoming the world’s global aviation safety experts in Dubai for the fifth edition of the Summit.” As WASS’s Association Partner, experts from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) will provide attendees with updates on the latest industry safety trends and best practices.
March 2017
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Inside DCAA
DCAA celebrates International Women’s Day
T
he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority celebrated International Women’s Day with the attendance of all women employees of the Authority and Dubai Air Navigation Services.
the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to celebrate women and praise their outstanding role.”
to always be in the lead, and achieve the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, of achieving accomplishments to always emerge first.”
“Celebrating the International Women’s Day is an appreciation of your valuable efforts in work and community. We stand today in gratitude to every woman for her role in raising the next generations and achieving accomplishments,” said HE Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, Director General of DCAA and CEO of dans. He added that the UAE’s leadership plays a big role in supporting women and encouraging them in all fields.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, supports women. “Women today have accomplished a lot on the level of aviation and they have proven their merit by going through all aspects of life, to stand side by side next to men.”
“We hope to always remain in the top in all fields, and for God to help us all, men and women, to serve our beloved country.
“Our celebration today is held based on
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“We repeat our gratitude and invite everyone of you to put more efforts
Thank you Your Highness Sheihk Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and thank you Your Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed al Maktoum.” DCAA’s participation in this occasion comes in appreciation for the role of women in work and different field.
Inside DCAA
DCAA supports Sanad Academy
DCAA joins hands with several departments to make Year of Giving initiative a grand success
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he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for Sanad Academy.
The academy, the first in the UAE to get the NOC, is one of the first RPA (Remotely Piloted Aircraft) training as well as consultation providers in the Arab world. DCAA has contributed significantly to provide all the support for the Academy and follow-up on their proposed projects, where the goal of the academy is to be a technical and consultant reference to any government or private agency which use drones. The academy presented Sanad Smart Ring project with support and follow up of DCAA in The UAE Drones for Good Award, which is the only project that was presented with a support of a government entity, where it got the first place in the award. The academy works in cooperation with DCAA to provide all the support and information to amateurs, companies and government entities on the methods of using drones according to the laws and safety procedures, educating them with the best ways to use drones while preserving aviation safety. DCAA is looking forward to support such academies specialized in drone activity, and encourage an increase in the numbers of such academies, because of its importance and that of the role it plays in educating and giving consultations to everyone in the society.
he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) joined hands with several government departments to pledge its support to the National Strategy for the Year of Giving comprising more than 1,000 programmes and initiatives to be implemented by over 100 entities and strategic projects. The Year of Giving was declared by the UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and followed by a directive issued by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Rule of Dubai, to make the initiative successful. The initiative, the largest of its kind on a national level, is aimed at promoting philanthropic and humanitarian work across the public and private sectors, and place the culture of ‘Giving’ at the heart of the national agenda. It was formulated based on the outcomes of the Year of Giving Retreat, held in February in Dubai, that brought together more than 100 national dignitaries to share ideas on boosting charity and philanthropy. The DCAA, on its part, has announced several initiatives to be executed throughout the Year of Giving to make a difference to community development and well being of all. HE Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, Director General of DCAA, said: “We deem it our duty, as our commitment to the well being of the community, to do everything to make it a success. We have lined up several initiatives throughout the year, starting from organising charitable initiatives to spread the virtue of volunteerism, encourage volunteer opportunities, partnerships with different sectors to encourage anyone who wishes to make a positive impact on our country, coordinate and cooperate with charity organisations to execute joint initiatives.” The Director General reiterated the Authority’s support and commitment to the unique initiative to promote the spirit of volunteerism to strengthen the concept of serving the nation by the new generations. Some of the programmes include introduction of gifts for the limited income people on special occasions such as Ramadan and Eid; Conduct lectures for DCAA staff and stakeholders, to spread the culture of benevolence;Launch of charity exhibitions at DCAA and donate the collected amount in charity initiatives; and Participation in charity progamme shows on the TV channels. DCAA has also created an e-mail khair@dcaa.gov.ae to open the door of volunteerism and receive suggestions for the Authority’s staff to implement giving initiatives throughout the year.
March 2017
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Inside DCAA
International Happiness Day celebrated O
n the occasion of the International Happiness Day, the Corporate Marketing and Communication Office under the Corporate Support and Communication Department of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) received employees of the authority and presented them with copies of the new book titled Ta’mulat fi Asa’adah Wl Ejabia” (Reflections on Happiness and Positivity) written by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. The Authority also organized a lecture about the book’s content, which was conducted by Lt. Colonel Dr. Jasem Mohamed Al Mulla , Dubai Police. Abdul Rahim Al Mulla, Executive Director, Corporate Support and Communication Department presented an appreciation certificate and a memorial shield to Lt. Colonel Dr. Jasem.
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March 2017
Inside DCAA
Employees honoured on Mothers’ Day
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he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) organized an event on the occasion of Mothers’ Day in appreciation of their efforts. HE Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, Director General of DCAA, executive directors and other officials attended the event. HE presented gifts to all employees who are mothers in appreciation of their important role in the society.
March 2017
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DCAA Interview
Ali Mohammad Abbas, Accident Investigation Officer-Accident Investigation Section, Accident Investigation & Aircraft Oversight Department, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA)
Ali Mohammad Abbas is recipient of ‘Best Innovative Thinking Award’
Accident Investigation & Aircraft Oversight Department to be fully smart by 2018
T
he Accident Investigation and Aircraft Oversight Department of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) plays a highly important role towards ensuring safety of Dubai’s skies through detailed and timely analysis of accidents and issuance of safety recommendations to enhance preventive measures. “We work in coordination with other entities including the GCAA with the main focus on ensuring safety of Dubai’s skies in all possible aspects,” Ali Mohammad Abbas, Accident Investigation Officer from the Accident Investigation Section of the department in DCAA, told Via Dubai. The department is continuously working toward enhancing its operations and will soon incorporate drones in the purview of its operations, said Abbas. Abbas, who is the recipient of ‘Best Innovative Thinking Award’ from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE’s Vice-President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, for the firstever innovative idea of a radar that deals with the challenges posed by drones, said the work culture at the DCAA inspires all its employees to give their best at all times and in this encouraging environment, he continues to work on more innovative ideas and is firmly committed to give better than his best.
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Excerpts from the interview: You were recently awarded with the ‘Best Innovative Thinking’ award. Can you share with us the idea that brought the award. The DCAA has created a work environment for us that inspires us to be innovative and to contribute to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE’s Vice-President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. In November last year, I was awarded with the ‘Best Innovative Thinking’ award by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed. Having been involved with the challenges posed by drones to the safety of our skies, I came up with an idea to have a system, which is a combination of few radars, that can detect drones, get full specifications and stops them from disturbing the airspace. This idea was presented and was accepted by the Mohammed Bin Rashid
To incorporate drones into investigations soon Smart Majlis and redirected to the concerned parties. We were the first in the world to present this idea. The recognition that came through this award is a great inspiration to continue giving my best and I am working on more new ideas. I must say the encouraging work environment at the DCAA bring continuous motivation. How do you and your department contribute to the DCAA’s aim of ensuring the safety of Dubai’s skies. My responsibility is to attend the reported accidents and incidents in Dubai, Dubai Airports and Al Maktoum Airport.
DCAA Interview
We work in coordination with different entities including the GCAA, Dubai Airports and those concerned. We evaluate the scene, investigate How did the occurrence take place, , communicate with the entities involved, and finally generate a report with the related safety recommendations. As you know aviation industry is growing rapidly and safety is the top priority. Our reports support the pillar of safety. Through our recommendations, we try to help entities prevent something that could happen in the future. Through these reports we analyse as well as make suggestions. If we find, for instance, that the issue was related to process, we bring the attention of the concerned entity to the issue so they can improve. Our recommendations are based on an indepth observation and analysis and go far beyond the surface level. For example, a simple situation where a human error occurs can result in a safety recommendation that involves a full review of the entire entity’s operation in relation to the duty rostering and overtime limitations, in order to eliminate the root cause these preventive measures has to be looked at. Which are the most common types of accidents and what are the common reasons? The nature of accidents is very diverse, each accident is different. There could be major or minor accidents ranging from total loss of an aircraft to minor dents on a fuselage structure, the amount of damage is irrelevant in some cases, due to the fact that a safety barrier failed which resulted in the occurrence. The reasons also vary. It could be human error or a technical glitch. I must add that in Dubai, we have solid processes in place to help prevent these occurrences.
How strong is DCAA’s investigation department? For us, we consider ourselves as our competition. The focus is to continue improving from where we are. Having said that, our department is very strong and our contribution to the aviation safety clearly show that fact. Our section, in particular, has staff with different types of expertise- operational, investigation, engineering and other areas. Having this team prepared 24x7 to cover the entirety of Dubai including Dubai Airport and Al Maktoum International is very important. The DCAA’s stakeholders know that there is a department that backs them and prepares constructive reports for the industry. This is a trust that we honour. We try to constantly upgrade and improve ourselves and keep ourselves updated all the time. What are the plans to further enhance the operations of your department? We do have a plan of going fully smart in 2018 and we have started that in several aspects right now.
One of the innovative ideas that is implemented already is to incorporate drones in our investigations. The staff is already undergoing training for this. We will be able to present the reports in no time as the smart system will assist in reducing the time consumption in preparing safety reports the system will be very dynamic while being engaged in preparing the reports. Q. What is the best part of your work at the DCAA? Routine is not a part of our job, everyday there is something new, something exciting and stimulating. As our work has a big impact on the safety of the aviation industry, we get lots of opportunities to interact with the best minds from top organisations and entities, which I would say, is a blessing in itself. I feel that all of us in our section give our best at all times. We are ahead of our problems and feel empowered due to the support from our higher management. The work culture is very encouraging and always inspiring to continue toward excellence.
March 2017
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Cover Story
Sheikh Mohammed launches 10X initiative
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is Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched the 10X initiative to put Dubai ahead of other cities of the world in terms of innovation.
HH Sheikh Mohammed said every government institution will be tasked with coming up with at least three projects per year that will focus on out-of-the-box solutions. Government entities will be expected to embrace ‘disruptive innovation' and experimental thinking. Sheikh Mohammed said: “Traditionally, governments are known all over the world to be resistant to change and bureaucratic organisations that are last to adopt disruptive innovation. The future is a collection of ideas and ambitions that are made and tested in experimental
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laboratories, and today's initiative transforms Dubai into the world's largest laboratory for the governments of the future.” "The future will not be as patient with us as the present. The future belongs to those who effect radical changes, not those who make minor, gradual improvements. Today, I am calling on all government leaders and employees to embrace disruptive innovation and find new, creative and truly disruptive approaches and technologies to delivering their mission rather than incremental and minor improvements. We are a young
and energetic government who want to be leaders in disruptive innovation and technology.” Each participating department has been told to form highly capable and creative teams to implement the forward-thinking vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and secure the emirate's lead in the race to forecast future trends and apply today what cities around the world will be adopting 10 years from now. Dubai 10X initiative requires each department to form a creative team to implement the vision of His Highness.
Cover Story
The team will comprise experts, technologists, top management team, accounting and finance staff, planning and implementation and futurists, who will brainstorm and suggest measures how each department can achieve the great goal of taking the country to the top, much ahead of other countries. In line with this, DCAA will offer innovative models to take civil aviation to new heights. In a recent meeting the 10X Council discussed the tasks and responsibilities, as well as an action plan to implement the 10X initiative. The Council also explored related topics and assigned each government department a set of tasks it will be responsible for in terms of forming 10X teams that will propose creative ideas to test and implement in Dubai. The council set the criteria and standards to adhere to when appointing the 10X teams and their leaders who will work to come up with out-of-thebox ideas and implement them as well as the roles and achievements expected from each government department in the period leading up to the next edition of the World Government Summit.
Under the 10X initiative, the chosen departments such as DCAA are required to produce plans for the following three specific elements.
and hierarchies of government organizations and find new structures that facilitate creative innovation and disruption.
Independent X-Units for each government entity. Each X-Unit need to find ways to disrupt their own organization's practices and develop their own moonshot solutions to deliver beyond their mission.
Collaborating with and facilitating disruptive solutions and removing regulatory obstacles: Develop processes and methodologies to work with truly disruptive companies and start-ups that radically offer better services to Dubai's residents to enable them to lead a happier life.
Trial and scale radically disruptive organizational structures, systems and technologies to deliver on their respective missions. Each entity needs to also review and reconsider the traditional organizational structure
Regulatory obstacles facing such disruptive companies should also be removed to allow for their uninterrupted operations. ď‚ƒ
Workshop on futuristic ideas held The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) organized a brainstorming workshop for employees on future based on the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, that Dubai will always be the world’s first in all fields. Several futuristic ideas were discussed in the workshop and employees exchanged various innovative ideas.
March 2017
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UAE in Focus
His Highness releases new book ‘Reflections on Happiness & Positivity’
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is Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has announced the release of his new book titled “Ta’mulat fi Asa’adah Wl Ejabia” (Reflections on Happiness & Positivity).
Making the announcement, His Highness said: “The book includes lessons, examples and stories based on a different life philosophy: Positivity as a perspective, and happiness of people as a goal and a lifestyle.”This is his third book after publishing Flashes of Thought and My Vision.
His Highness said that through the book, he tried to answer profound questions about development in a rather simple storytelling style, to make the book relatable to the young generation. The book is an attempt to contribute towards transferring the UAE’s experience and creating hope to the rest of the region, to reignite development in the Arab World, His Highness noted. “Reflections on Happiness & Positivity is a book through which I pose a managerial and developmental vision using a different philosophy: Positivity as a perspective, and happiness of people as a goal and a lifestyle.” Through the book, His Highness posed a different vision of administrative, de-
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velopmental and civilised work, based on positivity, confidence and faith in citizens of the Arab World. In his new book, written in Arabic, His Highness answers questions about how the desert in the UAE was transformed into a tourism destination. He speaks about how Dubai International Airport was built and how the British Mandate rejected the ambitious project. In particular, the book explains his vision on how to form work teams, develop ambitious and innovative plans for the future, and build a culture of government that is based on appreciation, empowerment and the excellence of all. He also presents approaches for Arab governments to address civilisational, economic and intellectual downturn.
UAE in Focus
Hamdan approves Dubai Civil Aviation Authority fines and fees
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nyone who seeks to perform an activity in the aviation sector in Dubai is required to get a license from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority.
Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum approved Executive Council Resolution No. (4) of 2017 related to fines and fees of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority. As per the Resolution, anyone who seeks to perform an activity in the aviation sector in Dubai is required to get a license from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority. Licenses issued are valid for a renewable period of one year. The application for renewal should be submitted at least 30 days before the expiry of the license. The Resolution specifies the fees associated with the services of the Civil Aviation Authority. This includes fees for the issuance of licenses related to the aviation sector, accreditation of institutes, clubs and aeronautical programmes, landing fees for private jets, unscheduled passenger and cargo flights, approval for new runways for planes, and general services of the Authority as well as fees for issuing building permits. In case the Authority requires the services of a third party, the customer is liable for all the charges incurred. In this case, the customer should be notified in advance, and the Authority’s estimation of costs is final. A fine of AED5,000 is imposed on
those who carry out activities in the aviation sector without receiving a licence or a no-objection letter from the Authority. Activities covered also include fireworks and laser displays, aerial photography and advertising, balloon launches and air lights. Organising air shows without a no-objection letter will invite a fine of AED30,000, while organising an event that could affect air navigation will bring a fine of AED10,000. Conducting an activity that can seriously endanger air navigation will bring a fine of AED30,000. Using non registered drones for commercial activities will invite fines of between AED2,000 and 20,000. Using non-registered drones for other activities will bring a fine of between AED1,000 and 20,000. Using drones during events without a no-objection letter from the Authority can bring a fine of AED10,000. Establishing a warehouse to store dangerous goods in a navigation easement area will invite a fine of AED10,000. Failure to have aircraft warning lights, and conducting aviation sector related activity without meeting the terms and conditions of the Authority can bring fines of between AED5,000 and 10,000. Delay in renewing the licenses following expiry without an acceptable excuse will draw a fine of 10% of the fee every month.
Heavy fines to ensure safety
AED5,000
Fine for carrying out activities in the aviation sector without a licence or a no-objection letter
AED30,000 Fine for organising air shows without a noobjection letter
AED10,000 Fine for organising event that could affect air navigation
AED30,000
Fine for conducting an activity that can seriously endanger air navigation
AED2,000 – 20,000 Fine for using nonregistered drones for commercial activities
AED10,000 Fine for establishing a warehouse to store dangerous goods in a navigation easement area.
March 2017
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UAE in Focus
GE to set up shop at the newly opened Dubai South Aerospace Supply Chain
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ubai South and GE Aviation have signed a deal to set up MRO operations at the Aviation District Aerospace Supply Chain Facility.
The leading global provider of commercial and military jet engines, as well as avionics and mechanical systems, GE Aviation, GE’s aviation business, has an extensive global service network to support these products. The company is a crucial addition to fulfilling Dubai South’s bid to create a comprehensive aviation ecosystem, designed to service the aerospace industry. The Aerospace Supply Chain facility at Dubai South’s Aviation District is also in line with the focus of the Dubai Industrial Strategy, launched last June, by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which aims to make Dubai the aviation capital of the world and contributes to raising the industrial value of this growing sector. Speaking on the occasion, His Excellency Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman, Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South, said: “We are delighted to welcome GE as part of the swiftly growing aerospace supply chain at Dubai South. With global industry leaders, such as GE, deciding to set up operations we are steps closer in fulfilling our strategic vision of building an ecosystem dedicated to the aviation industry. “A pioneering model that lever-
ages its proximity to Al Maktoum International airport, the Aviation District is creating a comprehensive platform that will bring together advanced aerospace products and MRO service innovation through partnerships with leading aerospace companies, as well as educational and training academies, with the aim of capturing new opportunities and demonstrating the strategic viability of Dubai South,” added Al Zaffin. Dr. Dalya Al Muthanna, President & CEO, GE Gulf said: “The opening of this facility is a milestone for both GE Aviation, as well the Gulf region. The high technology maintenance work that will be performed at the new facility shows that the Middle East can truly be a hub for Aviation activity. Historically, we have serviced our customers including Emirates and Etihad on-site at their locations. We
will continue to do this as we always have; this facility is about global growth, and bringing engines from outside the UAE into the country for repair.” The new facility will serve as a maintenance and repair center for GE Aviation’s On Wing Support division. The facility will specialize in “Quick Turns” which are light to medium scale workscopes, where the goal is to fix a specific technical issue rather than a heavy shop visit where the engine is torn down to the piece part level. The center will service all GE/ CFM engine models, with a specific focus on the LEAP-1A and LEAP1B engines. These are brand new engines that will be installed on the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737MAX aircraft. The facility will also serve as a storage location for spare engines, strategically placed to deploy to customers in the MENA region.
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Special Report
The challenge of mega airports
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ith tremendous growth forecast in aviation, governments and airport authorities are investing significantly in airport facilities and infrastructure. Airlines are pursuing expansion plans and to maximise connectivity. By Jeffery Oboy, Soeren Bilet and Simon Kahle Cities across Latin America, the Middle East and Asia Pacific are experiencing tremendous growth in air traffic. Growth is especially being witnessed in those cities optimally located for connecting regions and continents such as Mexico City for those west of the Atlantic and Dubai for those east of the Atlantic. Welcoming this tremendous growth in aviation, governments and their airport authorities are investing significantly in airport facilities and infrastructure. Even as new terminals, concourses, parking positions and runways are built, many airports still lack the capacity to meet demand. Development in Traffic The world’s top airlines as well as those aspiring to be on the top are pursuing aggressive growth plans. The top 15 transfer-driven airlines (ranked by revenue passenger kilometres) are achieving year-on-year growth levels such as 10.1 per cent, 12.7 per cent and even 20 per cent. Large transfer-driven airlines are looking to grow the size of their
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arrival and departure peaks. Larger peaks mean more passengers will arrive and depart during the busiest times, which is a major challenge for most airports’ current airfield and terminal capacity limitations. Already 47 of 55 aviation mega-cities (more than 10,000 daily longhaul passengers) are schedule-constrained, according to Airbus Global Market Forecast 2016-2035. Growing Service Expectations Transfer-driven airlines are also pursuing higher service standards both on board and at their airport hubs. When it comes to growing capacity, and improving service levels, airports generally have five options: Expanding Facilities; Reconfiguring the Airport’s Setup; Increasing Equipment and Staff Levels; Increasing Resource Throughput; and Optimizing the Peaks. Expanding Facilities: Airport authorities have continued to expand facilities at their airports through new terminals, concourses, aircraft parking positions and, in some cases, runways. Reconfiguring the Airport’s Setup: Another strategy airports pursue to increase airport
capacity, especially for their main airline tenants, is reassigning terminal and terminal adjacent areas amongst current airlines. Some airports also work with airlines (especially freighters and general aviation) to shift their operations to nearby airports. Increasing Equipment and Staff Levels: Equipment and staff levels can most often be increased for strengthening terminal capacity and subsequently service levels. Increasing Resource Throughput: Capacity can be increased by strengthening the productivity of resources both in the terminal and on the airfield. This is achieved in several ways, such as increasing reliability, processing speeds and resource management effectiveness by using new methods and technology.
Special Report
Concept of Operations: Determine which bottlenecks can be relieved and how (i.e. future ways of working on the frontline and behind-thescenes) Future Capacity & Service Levels: Determine future levels of airport capacity and service that can be expected with changes made and the remaining spillover of air services if any. Development Strategy: Determine individual project plans, program setup and action plan for making the changes happen.
Optimizing the Peaks: Some transfer-driven airlines schedule their flights to arrive and depart within short periods of time, which is known as “banking.” For them to maximize their revenue and connectivity, they must drive greater growth in and closer proximity between their arrival and departure peaks. Airport authorities must look closely at the main drivers and constraints of its seasonal capacity. Future Bottlenecks: Determine where air services will be constrained and the underlying reason(s) such as processing times, reliability or desired level of service. Operational Benchmarks: Determine the current, industry best and potential performance levels of critical operational bottlenecks.
Shaping the Future When the time comes to shape the future ‘Concept of Operations’, one does not have to look far to find out what the latest technologies are for simplifying the aircraft, passenger, baggage and cargo journeys. Be it separation advancements for aircraft, self-service for passengers, RFID for baggage or going paperless for cargo, the opportunities seem endless. To optimise resource management, airports must leverage smart planning services supported by IT. Airports are supporting their resource planning, scheduling, and controlling teams with: Greater process automation: Increase planner and controller speed and productivity by eliminating manual data transfers and workflows; Scenario-based planning capabilities: Increase planner effectiveness by reporting changes to assumptions (e.g. schedule, capacity development plan) and their impact on the resource forecast;
Scenario-based controlling capabilities: Increase controller speed and effectiveness by preparing for potential changes to the plan (e.g. schedule, resource availability) and their impact on the operation; Continuous improvement: Share post-operation statistics on deviations between forecasted and actual resource count to create a learning environment; Operations as a service: Outsource IT intensive and/or non-continuous functions; Schedule stability: Reduce the number of schedule changes to allow the most optimal resource schedule to be generated; and Decision support: Increase planner and controller effectiveness by leveraging state-of-the-art optimizers and playgrounds. Maximise productivity While further facilities will come eventually, airlines and airport authorities must do more now to maximize the productivity of their current assets both in the terminal and across the airfield. This can be achieved by deploying resource management practices that embrace efficient and effective collaboration with airport authorities, airlines, ground handlers, air traffic control and government authorities.
Excerpted from a report “The Threat of Our Mega and Wannabe Mega Airports” by authors Jeffery Oboy, Soeren Bilet and Simon Kahle, of M2P (Mostert. Ploog & Partners)
March 2017
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Special Report
Integrated processes, technology to ensure safety
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rowing passenger numbers and resources needs call for a paradigm shift towards a collaborative effort between all stakeholders. Greater emphasis should be placed on automating and adoption of technology. It goes without saying that maintaining the safety and security of the travelling public is the top priority for airports and it involves multiple layers of integrated processes and technologies to detect threats and/or mitigate risks. The changing variables of threat, growing passenger numbers and limitations on resources calls for a paradigm shift towards a genuinely risk managed approach and a collaborative effort between all stakeholders. The key activities being undertaken by ACI all contribute to addressing these challenges, said Nina Brooks, ACI World’s Head of Security. The joint International Aviation Transport Association (IATA)/ACI Smart Security programme provides an example of how a more sustainable, efficient and effective passenger screening process can be implemented to strengthen security, increase operational efficiency and improve the passenger experience. One of the next key items on the agenda is to conduct further research into how different methods of risk-based differentiation can be best applied. Other technologies are also being tested such as automated systems to further enhance the screener’s threat detection capability.
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The need to protect landside areas has once again been brought sharply into focus. More screening is not the answer; moving queues to other areas of the terminal simply shifts the vulnerability. However, removing queues and crowds makes the target far less attractive. ACI plans to work with IATA on the smarter design of processes that reduce passenger touchpoints and eliminate queues throughout the passenger journey. “Alongside this project, we will also continue to work collaboratively with the ACI regions to develop guidance material in support of landside security, including behaviour detection, surveillance and security culture, as well as advocating for better intelligence and information sharing. “Our capacity building activities help to ensure that all of the layers of security are applied globally and consistently. A solid risk management approach, good training and a robust security culture is needed everywhere,” she said.
By raising the bar on security in all airports, the overall system becomes more secure and efficient as additional measures such as gate screening for specific flights and the rescreening of transfer passengers can start to be eliminated. Aimed specifically at airports, ACI World has recently completed the first pilot of its Airport Excellence (APEX) in Security initiative and hopes to be able to launch the programme in full early next year. The intention of the programme is to enable airports in need of assistance to benefit from the experience of others. Through actively working with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and its key working groups of the Aviation Security Panel, ACI will be able to represent airport interests and advocate for regulation that takes into account airports’ needs and limitations. “This is a key area of work and we will continue to contribute actively to ICAO standards, recommended practices and guidance material.
Special Report
“The development of airport best practices and provision of training enables us to support capacity building efforts. This will be a priority in coming years, enabling ACI to broaden its outreach and help airports to implement the most appropriate measures for their environment,” said David Gamper, ACI World’s Director of Safety. ACI’s strategy in security, focusing on the delivery of best practices, capacity building and collaboration between airport, airline and government stakeholders, aims to create a more sustainable and well-rounded security system that meets the needs of our airports for the future.
Drivers for change
A number of key areas have been identified as drivers for change and in many cases these are dependent on each other, such as process improvement for identity management, which needs a combination of regulatory change, the use of automation and the better use of data. There are already many initiatives that identify self-service solutions throughout the passenger journey, including check-in, bag drop, self-tagging, re-booking and boarding processes.
Automation and technology
Greater use of automation for processes such as the collection of biometrics, automated document verification and payment of departure taxes would enable processes to be implemented at remote locations, off-airport or using mobile technologies.
there will be no need to use any on-site check-in technology. Another area where technology is starting to play a key role is in the provision of timely information for passengers. Knowing security wait times in advance of travel courtesy of mobile applications, for example, can actually change the way people behave at airports. And this type of technology offers further opportunities to streamline passenger journeys and subsequently the habits of airport visitors. Knowing the approximate time it will take passengers to get from their arrivals gate to kerbside, for instance, could enable those picking them up to arrive at the airport/terminal at a more appropriate time.
Apex programme
In the context of airport safety, ACI has conceived and implemented a programme called ACI Airport Excellence (Apex) designed to provide assistance for ACI members to improve their level of safety and compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices. “Since the programme’s launch, we have had close to 60 reviews per-
formed worldwide and have built a pool of over 130 safety assessors from over 60 different airports and international organisations,” said Danny Boutin, ACI World’s Senior Manager, APEX Programmes. It offers host airports an on-site safety review performed by the ACI Safety Review Team, consisting of active airport professionals. The team identifies safety gaps and develops an action/ implementation plan to address these gaps, helping the host airport achieve certification if need be. ACI also assists throughout the implementation phase by providing support, training and access to a global network of expertise. “Apex will be placing more emphasis on data collection. While remaining confidential, collected data from our missions will help identify safety gaps and areas of improvement in each of the regions, enabling ACI to better target the needs for assistance and create the most appropriate training. “It will also provide valuable information for the ACI Safety and Technical Standing Committee to evaluate the need for handbooks and other tools such as best practices for the benefit of the industry at large,” he said.
Arguably greater emphasis should also be placed on either automating and eliminating processes or moving them away from the airport completely. Remote/mobile check-in and printing baggage tags at home already provide examples of this and perhaps one day
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Middle East News
Qatar Airways to set up airline in India
Q
atar Airways is reportedly planning to set up a short-haul airline in India with a fleet of 100 planes.The Doha-based carrier will make an application to the Indian authorities soon, CEO Akbar Al Baker was quoted as saying by a news agency.
Qatar Investment Authority would be the most suitable vehicle for establishing the airline, Al Baker said, adding that the fund could use his carrier to run the venture. In January, it was reported that India’s government had asked Qatar to start a dedicated airline for India during recent bilateral negotiations. Qatar Airways currently owns 20 per cent of British Airways parent IAG, 10 per cent of Latam Airlines Group, and 49 per cent of Italy’s Meridiana. “We will have a 100 per cent owned domestic carrier in India that will belong to both the Qatar Airways and our state investment arm, as India has now allowed foreign direct investment in domestic carriers within India,” Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker said at ITB Berlin.
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“We will soon be making an application to that effect, and from there we will proceed.” India has allowed foreign investors, except foreign airlines, to hold a 100 per cent stake in domestic carriers. Foreign airlines cannot invest over 49 per cent of their paid-up capital in Indian carriers. This means the Qatar Investment Authority, the state-run wealth fund, can potentially own the Indian venture. If the application comes through, Qatar will become the third global airline to set up shop in India in recent years, following Air Asia’s entry in 2014 and Singapore Airlines’ in 2015. Both carriers entered India through joint ventures with the Tata group. Etihad Airways has held a 24 per cent stake in Jet Airways since 2013.
Qatar’s proposed short-haul airline in India will operate on the back of 100 narrow-body planes, which would make it one of the largest fleets in the subcontinent. Jet Airways has a fleet size of 112 aircraft, state-owned Air India 118, and IndiGo 129. Qatar’s entry into India’s $16-billion aviation market comes at a time when the country’s domestic airlines are finally seeing some recovery after years of gloom. Between 2011 and 2015, barring IndiGo and GoAir, none of India’s seven airlines made any profits. In fact, two airlines—Kingfisher and Paramount—went bust during that time, even as another domestic carrier, SpiceJet, was on the verge of closing down.
Middle East News
Kuwait Airways to increase flights to ME
F
ollowing the recent announcement of a 15.9 per cent increase in frequencies across its entire network for the upcoming International Air Transport Association (IATA) “Summer Season”, starting 26 March 2017, Kuwait Airways has announced plans for how that will affect its Middle East destinations — a 41.7 per cent increase in the number of flights. Key routes to be directly affected by the official national carrier of Kuwait’s changes to its “Summer Schedule” include increased flight frequencies to: Dubai (18 – 25 flights, per week); Beirut (7-12); Bahrain (814); Istanbul (9-12); Amman (13-14); Najaf (2-3); Mashhad (2-3); Doha (914); and Tehran (4-5). Effective 1st June 2017, Kuwait Airways’ Dubai route will see a 38.9 per cent increase in frequency, over the
current Winter Schedule’s services. This will take the airline’s highest frequency destination increase further, from 18 to 25 flights per week. A key introduction of the additional services to Dubai will be the new night time service. This will further enable Kuwait Airways to offer greater connectivity on its European and New York services — to Dubai via Kuwait — in both directions. The new Dubai flights will
primarily deploy Kuwait Airways’ fleet of Airbus A320ceo aircraft, all of which come equipped with Wi-fiand the latest inflight entertainment, across all seating classes. An early morning Dubai–Kuwait service will now arrive in Kuwait at 7 am local time, which should prove popular with business travellers, commuting between these two key commercial centres, in the GCC region.
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Middle East News
Oman Air agrees new partnership with DHL Express
O
man Air, the national carrier of the sultanate of Oman, has entered into a partnership with DHL Express, a division of the German logistics company Deutsche Post DHL.
This trial builds on Oman Air’s promise to scrap high baggage charges. The arrangement will allow guests flying Oman Air to use DHL Express to deliver their baggage to their final destination at affordable rates in line with the new rates introduced by Oman Air in January of this year. The agreement signifies DHL and Oman Air’s commitment to strengthen cooperation and deliver better service and value to Oman Air’s customers within Sultanate of Oman, said a statement. The partnership will enable Guests, with confirmed Oman Air tickets to send baggage to any address within Oman Air’s network through drop off at any DHL service point
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in Oman, including Seeb, Al Khuwair, Sohar, Muscat, Qurum and Salalah. Guests will then be able to track their packages on the move via phone, sms, email or online through DHL.com.om Ali Thabet, Country Manager for DHL Express in Oman, said “We are pleased to be working closely with Oman Air. This new and strategic partnership with Oman Air reflects the common vision and brand promise of both companies in making sure that customers are offered great service quality that exceed their expectations. It is also a reflection of the strong ties that we have with Oman Air. This new partnership with DHL delivers an added benefit for anyone
flying with Oman Air. Using our unparalleled global network that extends to more than 220 countries across the world, DHL Express is able to provide Oman Air passengers with a unique and value for money service of securely shipping their luggage to any country they are flying to and delivering it to its final destination on time, offering them peace of mind and a hassle-free flight. Our support will aid Oman Air’s mission to exceed customer expectations with a safe, reliable and seamless flying experience. Oman Air guests will receive special DHL rates on production of a valid Oman Air ticket with specific rates for Inter GCC travel, Middle East, Africa and Indian Subcontinent and separate rates for travel to Europe and Asia Pacific.
International News
Fewer air accidents in 2016: IATA
T
he number of air accidents declined further in 2016, but more of them resulted in fatalities than in the previous year, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has said.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has said in its annual report on air safety that some 65 accidents occurred last year, compared with 68 in 2015 and an annual average of 81 over the last five years. Of 2016’s accidents, 10 were fatal, versus four a year earlier. “We did take a step back on some key parameters from the exception-
al performance of 2015; however, flying is still the safest form of long distance travel,” Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s Director General and Chief Executive, said in a statement. The accidents covered by the report killed 268 people, up from 136 in 2016 but below the five-year average of 371, according to IATA, which represents some 265 airlines or 83 per cent of the world’s total air traffic.
Among others, a plane crash in Colombia blamed on human error killed 71 people in November, including most of Brazil’s Chapecoense soccer team. An Egyptair flight crashed en route from Paris to Cairo in May, killing all 66 people on board. IATA said the 2016 global jet accident rate, measured in hull losses per 1 million flights, was 0.39, compared with 0.32 in 2015 and 0.36 in the previous five years.
March 2017
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International News
Airlines seek clarity from UK on post-Brexit flying
A
irlines are asking Britain to hurry up with plans for aviation following its vote to leave the European Union, as the deadline for preparing flight schedules in a post-Brexit Europe is fast approaching.
Airlines are demanding from Britain clarity on its aviation policy, rights to fly and other related issues in the post-Brexit scenario. Airlines need Britain to hurry up with plans for aviation following its vote to leave the European Union, because the deadline for preparing flight schedules in a post-Brexit Europe is fast approaching. European Union-based airlines have the right to fly to and from any country in the bloc or even within other member states thanks to the single aviation market created in the 1990s. The Brexit vote means Britain has to renegotiate that access to Europe’s skies. Luton-based easyJet is already seeking a new operating license in another EU member state, with Ireland or Malta seen as likely choices as their official language is English. Another issue is the flight schedules for summer 2019, when Britain is due to be out of the EU, and which carriers will start planning in a year’s time, according to Ryanair Marketing Officer Kenny Jacobs. “The message to London is please give us urgency and give us real options. And don’t give us options in 18 months’ time because we’re planning the summer of 2019 in 365 days,”
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Jacobs said at a press conference during the ITB travel fair.
like easyJet took market share in their regions.
Ryanair is already curtailing growth in Britain as a result of the Brexit vote, limiting capacity expansion to 6 percent this year against more than 10 per cent in previous years.
“(They) could be happy not to see some of the UK-based airlines having all the traffic rights to serve Europe,” Alexandre de Juniac, head of airlines association IATA and former CEO of Air France-KLM, said last month.
Prime Minister Theresa May has said she wants Britain to be free of European Court of Justice (ECJ) influence, ruling out access to the single aviation market using models employed by Norway and Switzerland. Those agreements include accepting the role of the ECJ as the final arbiter in disputes. Other industry experts say some countries may not be keen to give Britain the same level of access to their skies as before, after carriers
It is unclear at this stage whether Britain will seek to remain a member of the European Aviation Safety Agency, which oversees safety legislation. Leaving that body could impact firms providing maintenance or the certification of aircraft parts. Britain’s government has so far said only that the aviation sector is crucial to the country and that it will seek “liberal access”.
International News
Zero fatality in Sub-Saharan Africa I
ATA has said that airlines from Sub-Saharan Africa recorded no fatality in 2016 when compared to other years in the last decade. IATA made this known in its 2016 safety performance report of the commercial airline industry, saying that airlines from the region had zero passenger fatalities and zero jet hull losses. In the document, Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s director-general, said the all accident rate was 2.30 per one million departures, compared to 9.73
for the previous five years. He said that there was one nonfatal turboprop hull loss, putting the region’s turboprop hull loss rate at 1.56 (85 per cent lower than its 20112015 yearly average). “Sub-Saharan airlines delivered a very strong performance in 2016. But we must not rest on this success. Safety is earned every day. “The lesson from Africa’s improvement is that the global standards like the IATA Operational
Safety Audit difference.
(IOSA)
make
a
“African nations should maintain this strong momentum by making IOSA and the IATA Standard Safety Assessment (for those carriers that are not eligible for IOSA) parts of their airline certification process. “Regional governments also need to accelerate the implementation of ICAO’s safety-related standards and recommended practices (SARPS). “As of year-end 2016, only 22 African countries had at least 60 per cent SARPS implementation.” Juniac also said that all the 33 subSaharan airlines on the IOSA registry performed nearly twice as well as non-IOSA airlines in terms of all accidents. Globally, the all accident rate (measured in accidents per 1 million flights) was 1.61 per cent, an improvement from 1.79 per cent in 2015.
More Chinese airlines get business online
T
he Chinese government’s early-2016 directive, calling for China’s state-owned airlines to sell at least half of all tickets directly by 2018 and avoid online travel agency (OTA) commissions, pressured airlines to get much more aggressive about selling online. In 2015, just 16 per cent of overall
bookings went through airlines’ websites. Airline call centers account for a low-single-digit share, meaning that just over one-fifth of bookings come through combined direct channels. China’s airlines have been cutting commissions for years, and now only the biggest agents receive them.
But even in a segment dominated by three airlines, distribution partners continue to play a key role. Airlines need better tech to pursue state-mandated direct booking targets, while OTAs want to ensure access to content. Several OTAs formed alliances with airlines in the form of major investments.
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Opinion
Smart Security
I
t is with pleasure that I contribute my first monthly column to Via Dubai. Airports Council International (ACI) and Dubai Civil Aviation Authority share the common vision of ensuring the industry’s sustainable growth. One of ACI’s prominent areas of focus is the safety and security of the traveling public, a fundamental pillar of this vision. Recognizing the challenges of growing passenger numbers, continuously evolving threats and limited resources, ACI and the International Air Transport Association created the Smart Security programme to strengthen security, increase operational efficiency and improve the passenger experience. An increasing number of airports around the world are taking part in trials and implementing measures and processes recommended by the Smart Security programme. Airports include Amsterdam Schiphol, Dublin, Doha, Melbourne, London-Heathrow, Gatwick and Manchester. There is no one solution for all airports. Instead, the programme has identified a number of components that can be implemented, depending on the regulatory requirement, and the needs, facilities and risk profile of the airport. One example is Centralized Image Processing (CIP),the networking of X-ray machines, which has proven extremely beneficial in improving throughput and reducing processing times. Other innovations include a complete redesign of the checkpoint environment, automation of lanes (e.g., tray handling systems), advanced X-ray capabilities, resource optimization (e.g., parallel divesting) and automated checkpoint performance monitoring solutions. Such innovative technologies and processes not only benefit the airport taking part in trials, but
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Angela Gittens Director General, ACI World
also provide tangible examples and best practices that can be rolled out into other parts of the world. As an example, Nina Brooks, Head of Security at ACI World, testified on 2 February 2017, at a United States House Transportation and Protective Security Subcommittee hearing on the future of the Transportation Security Administration where she highlighted the benefits of Smart Security componentsbeing implemented globally. The Middle East has a unique opportunity, due to its location and rapid growth, to lead change and innovation in regards to security. Dubai International Airport for one, the next-generation travel hub, is implementing innovative practices such as automatic passenger identification and a seamless passenger journey. The successes seen by the Smart Security programme over the past year are a testament to ACI’s commitment to ongoing engagement with the industry both locally and globally, including information sharing and the exchange of best practices.
Opinion
Cautious optimism
T
his World Cargo Symposium is meeting at a time of cautious optimism, which is far too rare in the air cargo industry. After several years of virtually no growth, we are starting to see demand pick up. Freight volumes began to grow in the second half of 2016. And the momentum is carrying over into this year with January demand rising nearly 7 per cent over the previous year. There are some positive forces supporting growth. Export orders are strong. That’s a welcome development after world trade has essentially flatlined for the last several years. E-commerce, which depends heavily on air cargo, is growing at a double digit rate. The world continues to transform into a global cyber-store. Customers in the internet age are demanding almost immediate fulfilment of their orders. High-value specialised cargo is also showing great potential. The total global pharma market is expected to reach $1.12 trillion by 2022, creating significant opportunity for air cargo. A substantial part of this market is the transport of temperaturesensitive healthcare goods such as cold chain drugs and biopharma products - typically shipped by air. Currently $12 billion is spent worldwide on cold chain biopharma logistics. By 2020, it is estimated that this will rise to $16.7 billion. Of course, we all know that growth and profitable growth are very different concepts. And even though the year has started with some positive signs, we are still in a very tough business. Yields are under lots of pressure. Airlines are taking delivery of long-haul aircraft to meet growing passenger demand capacity. And each long-haul aircraft comes with a belly hungry for cargo.
Alexandre de Juniac Director-General and CEO, IATA
More broadly, we must all be concerned about the protectionist rhetoric that is spreading. Aviation is the business of freedom. The industry is premised on borders that are open to people and trade. That is at the heart of the important role that we play in globalisation. We must also pay attention to what our customers are telling us. Two of the fastest growing and most profitable parts of the business are focused on meeting specific customer needs—e-commerce as well as time- and temperature-sensitive cargo. That’s proof that we are successful when we are able to understand customer needs and create products to satisfy them.
Excerpted from a speech at the World Cargo Symposium in Abu Dhabi
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Airlines
Australian and New Zealand airlines unite to tackle rising airport fees T
he biggest airlines in Australia and New Zealand have formed a new industry advocacy group to combat rising airport fees charged by regional monopolies. Major airports in the two countries are owned by commercial entities such as Sydney Airport and Auckland International Airport, rather than being government-owned as in the United States and parts of Europe. The Australia and New Zealand governments do not have the ability to regulate fees. A report by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission said
price rises by Australia’s major airports had generated A$1.57 billion in increased revenue from airlines over the last decade.
offering fares at levels significantly cheaper than they were over a decade ago,” said the Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce.
The lobby group, which includes Qantas Airways, Air New Zealand, Virgin Australia and Regional Express, follows the creation of similar bodies in the United States and Europe.
The Air New Zealand chief executive Christoper Luxon said airlines’ ability to compete was being hampered by a legacy of under investment and over recovery at key airports.
The group, called Airlines for Australia and New Zealand (A4ANZ), will be chaired by the former head of Australia’s competition regulator, Graeme Samuel. “Airport fees and charges continue to increase while airlines are
The lobby group will also weigh into issues such as lowering government taxes on passengers and ensuring international market access by rivals was reciprocal, a source familiar with the matter said.
Airline appears to switch Boeing 787-9s for more 787-8s
BA redraws fleet plan T
he fleet plan outlined in International Consolidated Airlines Group’s (IAG) full-year results shows a total of 18 787-9s for BA, three fewer than the 21 listed in the half-year schedule. IAG, one of the world’s largest airline groups, is the holding company of Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia and Vueling. Sixteen of these aircraft have already been delivered. The latest IAG schedule appears to show that the three absent 787-9s have been converted to the smaller 787-8. IAG Chief Willie Walsh had previously stated, in 2015, that the
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company saw “better opportunities” with the 787-8. BA has eight 787-8s in service but the outstanding number on order has been raised from one to four. These four 787-8s, plus the two remaining
787-9s and the 12 787-10s on order are all scheduled for delivery between 2017 and 2021. Boeing’s order backlog figures for BA’s 787 fleet are consistent with the amended IAG fleet plan.
Airlines
United looks for 'different' alternatives to A350-1000
U
nited Airlines is considering “different alternatives” to the 35 Airbus A350-1000s that it has on order, according to Chief Financial Officer Andrew Levy.
United is amid a fleet review with the focus now on its widebody orderbook. It adjusted its narrowbody orders last November when it converted its order for 65 Boeing 737-700s to four 737800s due this year and 61 737 Max 8s due in the future. The airline is scheduled to take delivery of its first A350 in 2018. Speculation on the future of the A350 order has swirled following previous comments by United management that it was reviewing the order and the
January decision to replace its Boeing 747-400 fleet with Boeing 777-300ERs. The A350s were ordered in 2009 as a replacement for the venerable jumbo jets, and United has maintained that as the plan up until recently. One possibility is swapping the A350s for the Airbus A330neo as a replacement for the Boeing 767-300ERs in United’s fleet. Ordering A330-900s as a 767 replacement is not unprecedented. Delta Air Lines has ordered 25 of the re-
engined A330s to replace some of the 767-300ERs in its fleet. United could also tap the used widebody market. The official said United’s aim is to complete the fleet review, which includes anything with deliveries more than 12 months away, soon. United has widebody orders for 11 777300ERs, four Boeing 787-9s and 14 787-10s, in addition to the A350s, the Flight Fleet Analyzer shows.
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Airlines
Singapore Airlines orders 20 GE9X-powered Boeing 777-9 aircraft
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ingapore Airlines announced an order for 20 GE9X-powered Boeing 777-9 aircraft and five spare engines. The order for 45 GE9X engines is valued at more than $2.0 billion list price. “Singapore Airlines’ order for 20 GE9X-powered 777-9 aircraft demonstrates the airline’s confidence in the new engine-aircraft combination,” said Ted Ingling, GE9X general manager at GE Aviation. “The new GE9X engine has performed flawlessly through initial testing. With more than 700 engines on order, it has become one of the fastest selling widebody engines for GE Aviation.” The first GE9X engine completed testing in 2016 with flight-testing on GE’s flying testbed anticipated
later this year. Engine certification is scheduled for 2018. In February 2016, Singapore Airlines and GE signed an extension to its OnPoint solution agreement for the maintenance, repair and overhaul of GE90-115B engine that power 19 of its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. The GE90 engine provides the foundation for the new GE9X engine
that will power the Boeing 777-9 aircraft. The GE9X engine will be in the 100,000 pound thrust class. Key features include a 134-inch diameter composite fan case and 16 fourthgeneration composite fan blades; a next-generation 27:1 pressure-ratio 11-stage high-pressure compressor; a third-generation TAPS III combustor for high efficiency and low emissions; and CMC material in the combustor and turbine. IHI Corporation, Snecma and Techspace Aero (Safran), and MTU Aero Engines AG are participants in the GE9X engine program. Founded in 1972, Singapore Airlines operates one of the youngest aircraft fleets in the world to destinations spanning a network spread over six continents.
Air India takes delivery of first A320neo A
ir India has taken delivery of its first Airbus A320neo, becoming the ninth Asian operator of the type. The aircraft is the first of 14 that the carrier will be leasing from Aviation Lease and Finance Company (ALAFCO). The CFM International Leap 1A enginepowered aircraft, registered VTEXF, is also the first re-engined narrowbody for the lessor, which has ordered 85 A320neo family jets Last November, Air India also issued a tender seeking to dry lease up to
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seven new A320neo jets for up to 12 years. It had asked that the aircraft be powered by Leap 1A engines and be delivered before 30 June 2018.
Flight Fleets Analyzer shows that Air India has 110 aircraft in service, of which 68 are A320 family jets.
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Cargo & Logistics
ME carriers see 8.4% rise in cargo growth
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emand growth accelerated in January, bolstered by strengthening export orders. Major airfreight hubs continue to report significant gains especially in Dubai and Doha.
Airlines in the Middle East reported an 8.4 per cent rise in air freight volumes in January, according to latest figures released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Capacity increased by 3.3 per cent as seasonally adjusted cargo volumes continued to trend upwards during the first month of the year, supported by an increase between the Middle East and Europe.
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IATA said in a statement that despite this, growth has eased from the double-digit rates which were the norm over the past 10 years. This corresponds with a slowdown in network expansion by the region’s major carriers. Globally, IATA said that demand, measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTKs), rose 6.9 per cent in January compared to the year-earlier period. While this was down from the 10 per
cent annual growth recorded in December 2016 it still was well above the average annual growth rate of 3 percent over the past five years, IATA added. Growth in freight capacity, measured in available freight tonne kilometres (AFTKs), slowed to 3.5 per cent in January. The continued positive momentum in freight growth into 2017 coincides
Cargo & Logistics
with a steady rise in new export orders, which reached their highest level in February since March 2011, it said. “It’s been a good start to the year for air cargo. Demand growth accelerated in January, bolstered by strengthening export orders. And that outpaced the capacity growth which should be positive for yields,” said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s director general and CEO. Meanwhile, statistics released by Airports Council International (ACI) said Asia-Pacific and Middle East airports continued their “overall growth trajectory” for airfreight volumes in 2016.
crease was driven mainly by international airfreight demands. “In the Middle East, after a slow third quarter, overall airfreight growth picked up in the fourth quarter. Doha remained the bright spot where robust monthly growth was consistently above 20 per cent in the fourth quarter.” Airport cargo volume statistics for January 2017 continue to trickle in, with Dubai International Airport (DXB) recording a 3.4 per cent rise in airfreight throughput to 208,271 tonnes, compared with 201,483 tonnes in the same month of 2016.
Dubai, the home hub for Emirates SkyCargo’s bellyhold operations, was the sixth largest cargo airport in 2016, registering a 3.4 per cent increase to just under 2.6m tonnes. Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) achieved “steady growth” in all air traffic categories in the first month of 2017. Cargo traffic at the world’s top airfreight hub in 2016 at 4.6m tonnes, registered a January 2017 increase of 3.1 per cent over last year to reach 372,000 tonnes.
Cargo throughputs at airports in Asia-Pacific and Middle East grew 10.9 per cent and 10.4 per cent respectively in December 2016, with full year increases of 4.5 per cent for Asia-Pacific and a rise of 5.8 per cent in the Middle East. ACI said that December’s growth in Asia-Pacific cargo traffic was largely driven by increased demand for the “year-end rush in perishables, electronics and e-commerce”. In the Middle East, major airfreight hubs continued to report significant gains during the year end month, especially in Doha (22.6 per cent) and Dubai (5.4 per cent). It added that the top three freight hubs all delivered “robust increases” in December: Hong Kong (11.3 per cent), Shanghai Pudong (14.3 per cent) and Seoul Incheon (3.8 per cent). For the year 2016, overall airfreight growth in Asia-Pacific recovered steadily from June and accelerated gradually towards year end. The in-
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Cargo & Logistics
IATA integrates cargo messaging system
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argo XML makes it easier for airlines, freight forwarders and shippers to ensure that they are complying with the WCO and local regulators
IATA’s Cargo-XML messaging standard has now been fully integrated into ASYCUDA World, an automated customs management system developed by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and used by 90 countries worldwide.
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lines, freight forwarders and shippers to ensure that they are complying with the World Customs Organization (WCO) and local regulators.
The integration of Cargo-XML in ASYCUDA World standardizes the electronic communications between airlines and customs authorities using the program.
“Having a standard air cargo digital messaging system between customs authorities, airlines and other air cargo stakeholders is fundamental to enhancing efficiency, driving trade growth, and maximizing safety and security across the industry,” said Glyn Hughes, IATA Global Head, Cargo.
The new data standard reduces message duplication and simplifies communication across the supply chain. Cargo-XML makes it easier for air-
“The successful partnership with UNCTAD means that airlines, freight-forwarders, shippers and border agencies in over 90 countries can
March 2017
now talk the same digital language. “It takes the industry one step closer to achieving the global adoption of a standard air cargo messaging system.” Shamika N. Sirimanne, Director of UNCTAD’s Division on Technology and Logistics, said electronic data interchange is an integral component of customs modernization programs. “We’re delighted to support IATA Cargo-XML standards in the ASYCUDA system, which ultimately will help trade efficiency, improve custom clearance and enhance security through risk assessment procedures,” she added.
Cargo & Logistics
Dnata opens new airside cargo facility in Australia
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argo handler dnata, owned by the Emirates Group, has opened a new airside cargo facility at Adelaide Airport, increasing the airport’s role for cargo the South Australian market.
The 1,500-square-metre facility has the capacity to handle up to 80 tonnes of cargo per day, a significant upgrade from dnata’s old 400-squaremetre off-airport facility. Adelaide is an important stop for Qatar Airways, China Southern Airlines and Virgin Australia, and dnata’s expansion coincides with steady increases in exports of Australian agricultural products to China.The Adelaide facility is a remodel of an existing cold-storage facility, upgraded to meet increasing
demand for South Australian exports and imports. The facility also is fully accredited by the Australian Office for Transport Security (OTS) and the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to screen cargo destined for export. Refrigerated and ambienttemperature product options run between 15-25°C, while the freezer rooms can hold cargo at as low as -18°C.
“Our customers have been calling for an airside facility,” said Daniela Marsilli, CEO, dnata Australia. “It has been a significant investment for us and we are committed to growing our business in Adelaide by opening this tailor-made, expansive airside facility.” The facility is located near the passenger terminal and the new freighter apron at Adelaide Airport, said the Dubai-based air services provider, “enabling quick movement of cargo.”
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Technology
Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines join as launch partners
Airbus and Routehappy team up to enrich flight booking for passengers
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ould you book a hotel room without seeing pictures of one? It’s unlikely. In an age where consumers have more information than ever before to make the smartest purchasing decisions, airline passengers still have little visibility into their inflight experience before booking a flight. Leading aircraft manufacturer Airbus has teamed up with Routehappy, the merchandising content platform for flight shopping, to accelerate the transformation of flight shopping from commoditized to differentiated. The Airbus Routehappyalliance helps airlines create compelling, targeted merchandising content showcasing unique Airbus offerings such as seat width, personal space, inflight entertainment, connectivity, and jetlag-friendly ambient lighting when searching for flights on all sales channels.
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Technology
Joining the Airbus Routehappy alliance today are four of the world’s leading carriers: Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Lufthansa Group and Singapore Airlines. Speaking at the ITB travel trade fair in Berlin, Airbus’ Head of Market and Product Strategy Bob Lange said: “Study after study shows the ever-growing importance of the inflight experience for the more than 3.5 billion people who travel by air every year.In a 2016 surveyAtmosphere Research Group found that 53 per cent of leisure passengers and 61 per cent of business passengers pay attention to the type of aircraft they will fly on. And yet passengers have little information to go on when booking their flights.Finally this is changing.” Airlines participating in theAirbus Routehappy alliance will receive support in their use of Routehappy Hub, a powerful content management platform that creates and distributes targeted airline merchandising content across sales channels. UPA (Universal Product Attribute) is a standardized content type in Routehappy Hub that differentiatesairline product offerings with rich descriptive and visual content. „As airlines differentiate, so does flight shopping. Flyers need better information to navigate ever changing options, and the industry needs a platform that helps them showcase the products they offer,” said Robert Albert, CEO at Routehappy. “Our alliance with Airbus provides airlines an added incentive to create and distribute rich content that is becoming a key feature in how we shop for flights.” The key requirement for airlines par-
ticipating in the alliance is the inclusion of “branded UPAs” highlighting Airbus A380 and A350 XWB product features among the airline’s selling points. Joining the allianceXavier Lagardère, Head of Distribution Lufthansa Group Hub Airlines, said: “Empowering customers to choose the right offering is core to our distribution strategy. An initiative like Airbus and Routehappy’s supports the much-needed transformation of air travel retailing from commodity to feature-based shopping, by providing passengers with additional rich content. Over the past few years, we have taken our inflight experience and service to completely new levels, and are ex-
cited about presenting them to travellers from around the world. “This is a fantastic initiative that will empower passengers,” said Paul Starrs, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Global Sales. “We will be delighted to showcase the on-board service and comfort of our world-leading A380 fleet to the flying public in this innovative way.” With the announcement Airbus branded UPAs are being integrated into leading sales channels for launch soon. In the meantime, a demonstration of Airbus branded UPAs may be viewed at routehappy.com. The Airbus and Routehappy program is expected to expand to additional airlines and Airbus aircraft later this year.
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Technology
Biometrics for travel identity management
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he ultimate goal is to have the single identity token permanently and securely stored on mobile phones so that passengers simply swipe his device at each step of the way at any airport in the world.
The emergence of single token travel over the next few years is one of the most exciting developments for travel.
around the world for some time. Today, this is possible using secure biometrics to create a single travel token.
A true walkthrough experience, from check-in to the aircraft door, has been an ambition of the best airports
Biometrics is enabling a new era in travel identity management, said SITA’s Vice President for Airport
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Solutions, Matthys Serfontein. This is complex technology delivering a remarkably simple solution. It allows a passenger’s biometric details to be captured through a facial scan at the first touchpoint in their journey.
Technology
The biometric record is checked against the passenger’s travel documents and a secure single token is created. Travellers can then use this single digital token as identification at every additional step in the journey. Whether it’s during self-bag-drop, at border control or aircraft boarding – passengers simply complete a facial scan to verify their identification without having to provide their passport or boarding card. It will also provide the ability to combine some travel steps into a single interaction, speeding up the time needed to complete these formalities. Fast-tracking passengers through the airport checkpoints will benefit passengers and airports alike. It’s not difficult to see why passengers, airports and airlines would embrace this technology so enthusiastically. It will improve security oversight and elevate the passenger’s travel experience while speeding up passenger processing and reducing the resources needed to manage the travel journey. When the passenger goes to board their connecting flight, the biometric information can be cross-referenced with government systems, providing a clear and accurate entry and exit record. A mobile system could also capture biometric details from e-passports using a hand-held smart device, allowing checks to be conducted anywhere in the airport by roving immigration agents. This will particularly help with travellers connecting to another flight, while the use of a single token would dramatically improve security
oversight by providing a verified exit check for transfer passengers.
Single token travel in action Numerous products using single biometric tokens are being trialled and tested around the globe. These include SITA Smart Path, which has already been trialled at a major airport hub in the Middle East with further proofs-of-concept planned for other major international airports. A key advantage of the new technology is the ability to use and integrate it with existing airport infrastructure – including industry standard common-use self-service equipment, such as check-in kiosks, bag drop units, gates for secure access, boarding and automated border control.
Future technology
This is just the start for this nascent technology. Looking to the future, the technology could become more convenient and nuanced.
The ultimate goal is to have the single identity token permanently and securely stored on your mobile phone so you simply swipe your device at each step of the way at any airport in the world. Using blockchain technology – the technology behind bitcoin – SITA’s innovative research imagines passengers creating a verifiable ‘token’ on their mobile phone, which contains biometric and other personal data. In this vision of future travel, no matter where in the world you go, any authority can simply scan your face and scan your device to verify you are authorised to travel. Blockchain technology means this can be done without any agencies ever controlling or storing your biometric details or personal information, removing the major concerns associated with the provision and storage of such sensitive data.
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