Monthly Newsletter issued by Dubai Civil Aviation Authority
www.viadubaionline.com
Issue 36 May 2016
Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum:
Inside DCAA
Future of tourism and hospitality in Dubai is promising
DCAA successfully participates in DIGAE
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DCAA implements ‘Coffee Break’ with Director General
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DCAA-GDAS identify special e-process to issue NoCs
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Sheikh Ahmed:
flydubai to shift to Al Maktoum International by 2017
UAE in Focus Dubai International 24 named Best Airport in the Middle East ACI releases preliminary world airport traffic rankings
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Airport Show 2016, the biggest ever
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Airlines get a royal reception at DXB’s Concourse D
Sharing knowledge and experience for safer skies
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Khalid Al Arif
Technology 68
Arabian Travel Market
DCAA successfully hosts World Aviation Safety Summit (WASS)
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Cargo & Logistics 65
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Airlines 58
Opinions 56
Our Smart Services DCAA Smart App will allow the customers the below services: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
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For more information, please call technical support on: +971 56 6810685 May 2016 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.
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.
Inside DCAA 05
DCAA successfully participates in DIGAE
06
DCAA implements ‘Coffee Break’ with Director General
General Supervision Mohammed Abdulla Ahli Coordinator Hanan Al Mazimi Creative Manager Mohammed Al Jarouf Editor Shveta Pathak
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Team work to spread culture of excellence
E-mail: viadubai@naddalshiba.com Legal Disclaimer The views expressed in the articles are of the writers and not necessarily belong to DCAA. We take all reasonable steps to keep the information current and accurate, but errors can occur. The information is therefore provided as is, with no guarantee of accuracy, completeness or timeliness. The DCAA or Via Dubai does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the quality, accuracy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of any information. Via Dubai does not endorse or recommend any article, product, service or information mentioned in the newsletter. Any perceived slight of any person or organisation is completely unintentional.
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DCAA Interview
Editorial, Production, PR & Marketing Nadd AlShiba PR and Event Management
‘Encouraging and supportive work environment at the DCAA helps employees give their best’ 18
Alia Abdulrazzaq Majjan
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
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twitter.com/DcaaDubai
Mayyoutube.com/user/dcaadubai 2016
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CONTENTS
Sheikh Aimen Ahmed Al Hosni
‘Aim to make Oman one of the top 20 airports in the world’ 42
48
We need to constantly evolve in our approach 56
Baggage mishandling rate down 10.5 per cent to lowest ever recorded
Michael Huerta
Predictability is the key to enhancing safety 57
IATA projects 1 million jobs from European Airspace modernisation by 2035
Frank Brenner
JetBlue Airways announces expansion of Mint service 46
Game-changing trends revealed in DHL’s 2016 Logistics Trend Radar
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66
Solar plane resumes round-the-world flight 68
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UAE’s Smart City Initiatives exemplary for economies worldwide
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May 2016
Message
from the President
A Promising Start
D
ubai’s aviation industry has made a promising start to the year, which confirms that the year 2016 will be an exceptional one in all spheres. The year started with the official opening of the Concourse D, which entailed an investment of over a billion dollars and increased the capacity of the Dubai International Airport to 90 million passengers a year, and is now used by more than 60 international carriers serving over 200 destinations around the world. The operations of flydubai will be shifted to the Al Maktoum International Airport by 2017 and this comes at a time when the expansion of the passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International is going on at full swing to raise its capacity from about 7 million passengers to 26 million a year, in response to the needs of flydubai and to provide better services to users of the airport, which will become the world’s largest airport with a capacity to handle up to 240 million passengers and 16 million tons of freight annually. We will soon be announcing the annual results for the Emirates airline, and we are expecting an exceptional financial performance. Furthermore, the Dubai Airports has witnessed a record growth rate in the first quarter of this year as more than 21 million guests passed through the airport within the first three months of the year. At an average growth rate of 10 per cent, Dubai International will become the largest airport in the world in terms of total passenger numbers within the next two years.
Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum
plished great heights within a short period of time and has become a model of success and excellence. All these achievements would not have been possible without the extraordinary support and guidance of our visionary leader His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, who has led the aviation sector in Dubai from strength to strength since the mid-seventies. We are optimistic about the future, especially of the aviation sector, which contributes over 27 per cent to Dubai’s GDP and we will continue this success journey to meet the aspirations of all the stakeholders in this vital sector.
This is no ordinary achievement, because inspite of being a small city in terms of size, Dubai has accom-
May 2016
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Message
from the Director General
Successful World Aviation Safety Summit
I
am pleased to announce that the recently-concluded 4th World Aviation Safety Summit, hosted by the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), has had the desired effect to highlight the challenges facing the global aviation industry and suggest remedial measures.
Mohammed Abdulla Ahli
The wider participation was a testament to the importance, the stakeholders accord to safety. While announcing the Summit, we had said that we would bring together international decision makers in aviation safety, regulatory authorities, airport and airline operators and other stakeholders. On conclusion of the Summit, we are proud to say that we have delivered on the promise and the stakeholders could immensely benefit from the insights gained. As discussed during the Summit, aviation is the best transport industry in the world in terms of safety and flying continues to remain safe. The Summit took place against the backdrop of the UAE continuing to make its mark in aviation safety. It’s already known that the UAE achieved the world’s highest score for aviation safety in the history of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
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However, there should not be any place for complacency. All segments of the industry should share knowledge, experience, effective ideas for reducing fatal accident rates in the shortest possible time. A broader collaboration in the aviation industry is vital for transport safety. Let me reiterate that, as the aviation industry continues to grow and become more complex, it is important that we reinforce an effective and transparent safety culture. All stakeholders should share knowledge, information and experience to learn from others and collaborate for the advancement of aviation safety. ď‚ƒ
Inside DCAA
DCAA successfully participates in DIGAE T
he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) successfully participated in the Dubai International Government Achievement Exhibition 2016 (DIGAE) organised by the Dubai Government Excellence Program, to showcase the achievements of all government departments and authorities in the Emirate. The participation is in line with the vision and directions of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to highlight the leadership of the government of Dubai in the area of government excellence and creativity. By participating in DIGAE, the DCAA aims at generating awareness about the application of excellence concepts in the areas of its operation as well as highlight the regulatory body’s achievements in the field of civil aviation. H.E.
Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, DCAA Director General, said: “Our participation in DIGAE stems from our keen interest to highlight the achievements of Dubai and DCAA in the field of civil aviation, and our ongoing quest to apply excellence concepts to all DCAA activities and operations, while constantly seeking to develop the aviation sector and ensure enhanced excellence with a view to face future challenges. During the exhibition, the DCAA showcased its smart services catering to its customers and in line with the vision and plans necessary to realise the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai.” During the exhibition, the DCAA has showcased a number of civil aviation specialised smart services that aim to facilitate transactions and satisfy
worldwide customers, while smoothly keeping up with global technology. Smart services serve the DCAA’s ambitions, future vision and plans aimed at supporting Dubai to become the capital of global aviation, in line with the DCAA’s strategy, which seeks to direct the path of the aviation sector, boost Dubai’s role and qualify it to become the most active global aviation hub. This can be achieved thanks to a number of fundamental pillars that respond to DCAA’s ambitions aimed at building a sustainable future for this vital sector, while ensuring commitment to best applicable international standards. In a first of a kind initiative, DIGAE enabled visitors to meet government leaders and decision-makers. During the exhibition, H.E. Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, DCAA Director General meet visitors, answered their queries and listened to their suggestions.
May 2016
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Inside DCAA
DCAA implements ‘Coffee Break’ with Director General
H
is Excellency Mohammed A. Ahli Director General, had a meeting with a group from Corporate Support Department, as a part of the initiative “Coffee Break”. The idea of this initiative, which was suggested by Alia Majjan – Procurement Senior Executive, is to encourage DCAA junior employees to meet up with His Excellency and to have a
socialising session where they discuss concerned matters they may have in relation to DCAA.
The coffee break shall be conducted on a monthly basis for employees that are under managerial level.
Team work to spread culture of excellence
H
.E. Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, DCAA Director General, presided over a meeting with the Excellence Team (self-assessment team) based on leaders’
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commitment to support and follow-up DCAA work teams. During the meeting, H.E. stressed the importance of team work in spreading a culture of excellence
and encouraging all DCAA levels of authority to provide all that is special and new in order to strengthen its position within the government of Dubai.
Inside DCAA
Training Workshop
D
ubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), in collaboration with the Emirates Civil Defense Academy, organised a training workshop on the basics of safety and proper use of fire extinguishers. ď‚ƒ
May 2016
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Inside DCAA
Dubai Police delegation visits DCAA
A
delegation from the Dubai Police visited the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) in line with the efforts of the government departments to strengthen mutual work relationship. The delegation was headed by Dr. Khalid Ahmed Omar, Legal Counsel of Dubai Police, alongwith Brigadier Abdullah Hussain Khan, Director of Airport Security and other senior officials. Mohammed Abdullah Lingawi, Director of Aviation Security
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and Accident Investigation, DCAA, alongwith Obaid Al Nuaimi, Assistant Director Aviation Security & Accidents Investigation - DCAA, and Majed Al Sarrah, Head of Aviation Security, DCAA, welcomed the delegates. During the meeting, the delegates discussed ways that the Dubai Police can implement the provisions of Law No. 5 of 2015 on dealing with abandoned property and funds in Dubai and the
meeting concluded as delegates from both the sides agreed to implement the provisions of the law. The meeting is a part of an ongoing series of meetings that the DCAA is conducting with different bodies to continue their cooperation toward enhancing the performance of government departments and strengthening work mechanisms through sharing experiences and developing effective work relationships. ď‚ƒ
Inside DCAA
Honoring
A
bdul Rahim Al-Mulla, Director of Corporate Support, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) honouring Suhail Al Bastaki from Union Cooperative Society, for supporting the Health Week by providing fruits for five days for employees at the DCAA.
DCAA-GDAS identify special e-process to issue NoCs
T
he DCAA held a meeting with the Dubai Police, as represented by the General Department of Airport Security (GDAS), with a view to identifying special electronic system for processing the issu-
ance of No-objection Certificates (NoC) with respect to the transport of hazardous goods through Dubai International and Al Maktoum International airports. The system will connect DCAA with GDAS
as part of the regulatory body’s efforts toward excellence in providing high quality services, through simplifying procedures and utilising new technologies to enhance the efficiency of customer services.
May 2016
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Aviation experts recommend more performance monitoring, measurement and benchmarking for stronger safety
DCAA successfully hosts World Aviation Safety Summit (WASS) Experts call for common strategy for airspace management across the GCC
L
ocal and international experts from the aviation industry discussed key trends, challenges and proposed new strategies in aviation safety during the 4th World Aviation Safety Summit, hosted by the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) in Dubai.
H.E. Mohammed A. Ahli, Director General at Dubai Civil Aviation Authority said: “The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority is committed to support the on-going development of
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safety in the aviation sector across the world. As the aviation industry continues to grow and become more complex it is important that we reinforce an effective, transparent and
honest safety culture. The Summit gives the opportunity to look at the best practice examples of working with large multicultural workforces and how we can overcome common
adopted for collecting and analysing data,” said Marie-Do Dupuy. Research and Development (R&D) resources should be utilised to study data and a new methodology should be applied to analyse data and investigation findings. Robust data analysis will support reliable decision making,” said Marie-Do, who consults in safety and risk analysis mainly for the air transport industry. industry challenges. We believe that a global gathering of safety experts will make a genuine difference to the industry, enhance performance levels and celebrate best practices, so we are dedicated to backing the World Aviation Safety Summit.” The two-day summit witnessed active participation from decision-makers, government bodies, senior corporate executives and experts in aviation. Khalid Al Arif, Director Standards & Regulations Department at Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, said: “The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority is delighted to host this important gathering of safety professionals from across the world. Safety is of critical importance to air travellers and the aviation community as a whole. The aviation environment in the Middle East moves very quickly, and the aviation sector can find itself exposed to new challenges, such as consumer drones, earlier and with greater density than other regulatory environments. With airspace in high demand and growth in flights continuing, we all must play a part in facilitating collabo-
rative discussion about safety management and incident prevention, as well as comprehensive and effective planning.” Michael Rudolph, Head of Aviation Regulation and Safety, DCAA, unveiled Exponent Portal software for the first time during a live demonstration at the World Aviation Safety Summit (WASS). The real time tracking software helps monitor the operations of commercial drones in restricted airspace. During a discussion on safety data management and utilisation the opening day of the summit, the panellists highlighted the need to “utilise data wisely and manage them correctly for aviation safety.” The panel, comprising Jehad Faqir, Head of Safety and Flight Operations, IATA, and Marie-Do Dupuy, ATM Safety Analyst, DANS, and moderated by Vangelis Demosthenous, Managing Director, Kratis Training and Consulting Ltd., unanimously said data management should move from a responsive function into being a core planning and prevention tool. “Predictive and proactive safety can be enhanced if the right kind of methodology is
Jehad Faqir suggested that accident analyses should be data-driven and the ideal data management platform is the Global Aviation Data Management (GADM) program which integrates all sources of operational data received from various channels and IATA’s unique programs such as Flight Operations, Infrastructure, IATA audits into a common and interlinked data structure. He said the program offers a comprehensive, cross-database analysis, supporting a proactive data-driven approach for advanced trend analysis and predictive risk mitigation. More than 470 organisations around the world submit their data to the GADM and over 90 per cent of IATA member carriers are participating. He suggested increase in statistical relevance by having more airlines contributing and committed, use of integrated tools for automated generation of trend and risk analysis reports, monitor new events with member’s feedback, expansion of Global Animation Archive and integration with Safety Trends Evaluation, Analysis & Data Exchange System (STEADES).
May 2016
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Safety performance management imperative
During the session on safety performance, monitoring, measurement and benchmarking’, Vangelis Demosthenous, Managing Director, Kratis Training and Consulting Ltd explained why safety performance management was becoming more imperative as aviation continues to grow across the globe. He argued that safety assurance is a fundamental tool that should be used across the industry to measure how good an organisation’s safety risk controls are. He added that audits, surveys, reports, trend analysis, and normal operation monitoring all form central parts of safety assurance. He commented: “It’s essential to have a process for safety performance measurement. We must assign responsibilities, identify scope and key safety issues, set lagging
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indicators, set leading indicators, as well as collect, report, review and act on findings.” Ruben Morales, General Manager Corporate Safety and Security, Hong Kong Airlines emphasised the importance of using and collecting data to set up benchmarking. Morales commented: “We cannot improve something unless we measure it. For safety performance indicators (SPIs), we look at key areas including loss of control and runway excursions. We should provide SPIs that can tell how close we are to loss of control. As an operator, we should leverage our SPIs from real data and then substantiate it with human factors.” Shaun Hannam, Manager – Safety Management System, dnata de-
scribed how the organisation is comparing itself with other industries to see how effective their safety management is. He believes that this is a strategy that should be adopted more as it allows for sharing of best practices across sectors. Hosted by the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority on 25 and 26 April, 2016 and organised by Streamline Marketing Group, the Summit is facilitating discussions, partnerships and strategic planning that will advance excellence in aviation safety.
Need for common strategy in airspace use
Philip Marques, Head of DWC approach, DANS , highlighted on the need for a common strategy and platform is needed across GCC to
George Rhodes, Assistant Director, Safety and Flight Operations, Infrastructure, Middle East & North Africa, IATA explained how airlines should continually evaluate airspace for safety, security and efficiency of which includes infrastructure capabilities.
continue improving airspace use and safety during a session on ATC and ATM challenges in the Gulf region. With airspace in high demand and growth in flights continuing, industry leaders discussed how the Middle East can ensure resilient, safe operations and meet the demands of multiple airlines and airports in limited capacity airspace. Marques added that the ongoing airspace design has brought together regional players leading to significant gains in communications between them in an area which used to be segregated not long ago. He also said that it may not be necessary
to have a Gulf Control system in the region, which has long been advocated for by other air navigation service providers, but said that it’s important to keep national centres that have local knowledge and expertise. What’s most crucial is that the control centres are driven to improve services by working together across the region to continue developing aviation, according to Marques. Thorsten Wehe, Executive Secretary, IFATSEA, commented that a Gulf Control system could help improve capacity and establish common standards in training and operations across the GCC region – all of which will improve safety for the industry.
Rhodes demonstrated how a single or multitude of factors can determine airspace avoidance by one or many airlines. He added that “the value of timely information within aviation is a critical part of all stakeholder operations. Predictability adds a layer of safety.” IATA is bringing together ANSPs for the first time and some who have not met in years which is very important to improving safety and operations, according to Rhodes. The UAE was ranked highest in the world in compliance with international aviation safety standards after intensive audit through the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO)’s Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme. The UAE scored a success rate of 98.86 per cent, which is the highest rate in history given by ICAO.
May 2016
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Knowledge sharing important for enhanced safety
Harry Nelson, Executive Operational Advisor to Product Safety, Airbus, during a session on ‘Future safety challenges and addressing the right priorities’, said all segments of the industry should share knowledge, experience, effective ideas for reducing fatal accident rates in the shortest possible time.
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He said the number of flights as well as fleet size will double in the next 15 years and therefore the challenge is to match this growth and capacity with flight safety measures. A broader collaboration among operators, regulators and aircraft manufacturers will ensure safety and reduction of fatal accidents, he said.
“It’s the best transport industry in the world in terms of safety. However, there should not be place for complacency,” Nelson said and added that a big challenge is pilots’ training. Calling for improvement in training, Nelson reiterated his earlier view that there should be major changes in the training of pilots worldwide,
saying that there should be more emphasis on the manual operation of aircraft rather than automated flight operations. He had said that pilots should have more command over manual flight operations, and increase their cockpit skills which are overlooked in the modern era of automated flight operations. He also had observed that pilots were spending more training time on monitoring and programming the automatic system, rather than on manual flight operations which were being limited to landing and take-off. He was of the opinion that pilots should increase their manual flight hours. Nelson also said that current flight simulation training does not cater to the actual issues that pilots face during real flight. “Pilots should be trained well enough to avoid most types of accidents themselves,” he said and cautioned that new automated training systems were not training pilots on real-life emergency scenarios which could only be taught by experienced pilots. He had then highlighted a US case study, which concluded that increasing dependency of pilots on automated flight operations and less understanding of the complete cockpit function was posing a high level of safety risk for passengers. Nelson was of the opinion that emphasis on manual flight operation was imperative in increasing pilots’ efficiency and reducing accidents. “This can be achieved by rigorous training,” he said Hosted by the DCAA, the World Aviation Safety Summit is organised by Streamline Marketing Group. The DCAA confirmed that the fifth edition of the WASS will be held next year.
Dubai to be world’s first to implement real-time monitoring of RPAS Dubai will soon become the world’s first in monitoring the operations of commercial RPAS, said senior officials from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA). Michael Rudolph, Head of Aviation regulations and Safety, DCAA, unveiled Exponent Portal software for the first time during a live demonstration at the World Aviation Safety Summit (WASS). The real time tracking software helps monitor the operations of commercial drones in restricted airspace. The regulatory body has registered more than 150 commercial RPAS operators and by the end of the year, expects the number to go up to atleast 500. This number does not include “thousands of” hobbyists operating the drones”. The monitoring system works through a 160-gramme add-on that is to be fitted onto drones before flight. “The portal has been developed in collaboration between
DCAA and Exponent, to provide for governance and oversight of RPAS. As an authority we give permissions, NoC to the RPAS operators. We want to ensure that the operators function within the limits and this portal provides for monitoring system which will show the RPAS operating in real time and we will also be able to view the recorded version of the same,” Rudolph told Via Dubai. All the commercial RPAS registered with the DCAA, will be connected to this portal, he said. Rudolph said once an RPAS was granted an NoC, there was earlier no means to ensure that there were no deviations. “Now there is accountability. If I see you moved out of the area or beyond the height you were permitted to operate in, I can take it up.”
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Sharing knowledge and experience for safer skies Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) to leverage the knowledge and experience of the Safety Summit participants, experts and delegates for ensuring air safety
K
halid Al Arif, Director, Standards & Regulations Department, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), spoke to Via Dubai on the sidelines of the 4th World Aviation Safety Summit in Dubai about various safety concerns and as to how Dubai is equipped to address them. What is the new trend in safety standard in the GCC? As you know, the aviation sector in the region faces many challenges from all sectors -- airport companies, service providers, air traffic
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controllers, operators, airlines and manufacturers -- with lot of demand, new aircraft and increasing number of passengers and movements. The most affected area, in my opinion, is the airfield. How we will be able
to accommodate or which aircraft in a small portion of the airfield in the UAE is a challenge. For this, we should have higher technology and infrastructure. We need to have high skilled air traffic controllers to
cope with the increasing demand. We also need to have proper training facilities to cater to future demand. Therefore we organised this World Aviation Safety Summit in Dubai and identified all challenges and brought experts to talk about the challenges, their views and how they can come to a conclusion to address these challenges. The Summit has become one of the largest in the world with wider participation. In 2015 the number of the countries participated was only 13 and this year there are 41 countries. Similarly, the number of registered delegates increased from 350 in 2015 to 650 this year. There will be some conclusion and findings after the summit. How will you take it forward? A standard is a standard. Dubai actually is above that standard, so we are not worried about that. Dubai has always been maintaining its number one position, or striving to achieve it. At the summit we have the opportunity to share the experience of other countries, particularly the regulators, and how they overcame their problems. We could share their idea and learn how they solved the problems. For instance, Europe could overcome their challenges by bringing all the countries under one umbrella. Similarly, Far East countries, from where we could know how they use their airspace capability. This is a worldwide challenge. Therefore, it’s not confined to one country or one region. Therefore we need to share knowledge, information and experience to learn from others.
What are the measures you have taken to optimise the safety practices? All the UAE airports are subject to the oversight by the federal agency, the GCAA, and we work according to its requirements. What are the predictive measures you are taking to prevent incidents? We are one of the few countries that implemented a safety management system (SMS) long ago, before anyone in the region has done it. In fact, way back in 2002, we had implemented SMS at Dubai ATC, which was, I would say, ahead of time. Is there a safety culture and what is its importance? The safety culture is already there. For example, if a staff member happens to spot something that can pose threat to safety, irrespective of his role, he would either do something
or report it to ensure safety. Thus, we have inculcated safety culture across all stakeholders. What are the safety standards you are setting? We have already implemented safety measures and in fact our safety standards are either on par or above world standards. Air space congestion is a major issue. What are you going to do to ease it? Yes, it’s a major challenge. One must have noticed that there is always a delay in the air, but this delay is mainly because of safety reasons. Dans (Dubai Air Navigation System) is one step ahead in addressing this issue in Dubai airspace and is working with various organisations to improve the capacity. The construction of the new airport, Maktoum International Airport, is a strategic move in this direction. ď‚ƒ
May 2016
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DCAA Interview
Alia Abdulrazzaq Majjan, Procurement Senior Executive, Corporate Support Department
All procurement procedures in the DCAA are 100 per cent online now
‘Encouraging and supportive work environment at the DCAA helps employees give their best’
T
he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) is highly active when it comes to making the best use of technology toward enhancing efficiencies.
Within the Corporate Support Department, the procurements division, which is responsible for all procurements within the regulatory body, has been quick in adopting technology and within a short span has made 100 per cent of its procedures online, Alia Abdulrazzaq Majjan,
Procurement Senior Executive, Corporate Support department, told Via Dubai in an interview. Alia, who has been working with the DCAA for the last four years, spoke about the role of her department and shared how a friendly
work culture in the DCAA and work environment where innovation and creativity among the employees is highly encouraged, has helped her contribute her best to her work. Excerpts from the interview: Can you share with us the achievements and the role of your department in supporting the DCAA? We are responsible for all procurements in the DCAA, which requires us to deal with a large number of suppliers. Our functions include registering the suppliers, seeking tenders for large and small projects and carrying out other procedures involved in the purchasing process in liaison with other departments such as finance. In line with the DCAA’s focus
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DCAA Interview
Now, we have converted tenders to e committee, wherein the entire process can be done online. How do the suppliers register with the DCAA? Supplier registration is another area where we have gone 100 per cent online. The suppliers can upload their trade license, company profile and even the payments can be done online now.
of ceaselessly working toward enhancing efficiencies, we continuously work toward ensuring that the procedures are carried out smoothly, in less time and in the most transparent and efficient manner. Toward this, we have made best use of technology and made all our procedures 100 per cent online including the payments. Can you please elaborate on the areas where you made progress by going online? First of all, I would like to mention the ‘Tejari e supply’ portal, which is a single online destination for all our suppliers. Earlier, we used to reply on emails to contact our suppliers, get quotations from them and communicate with them. Now, with the implementation of Tejari, we upload our requirement on the system, which automatically gets communicated to the suppliers and those who are keen on supplying can apply online through this system.
The system ensures complete transparency as we are not able to access it until we have received quotations from all the interested suppliers. This has made the process much faster, easier and is totally transparent. Another function of our section is concerning projects above AED 250,000. Earlier, we would invite tenders and once we received the tenders in envelopes from the interested parties, we would hold a meeting where different concerned sections would open the envelopes and review each of them before making a final decision. However, now, we have converted it to ‘ecommittee’ system For tenders, earlier after we received tenders for projects, we received the tenders in envelopes for projects above AED 250,000 we would put them in a box, have a meeting between the finance and departments and open the tenders., go through all the requirements.
We have been able to make all this transition thanks to the vision of our leaders of the UAE and in the DCAA who always encourage us to come forward with suggestions and give our best to the organization and personally also, I feel this has helped me give my best. Can you share more on this with us? Under the eSuggest, wherein employees give suggestions, I gave 10 ideas in 2015 and three of them were implemented. These were the DG Coffee Break, where every month the employees have an open meeting with the Director General. Another idea was related to the Health Week, under which the DCAA gave fruits every day during the health week to the employees and we also got information about the nutritive value of the fruit and its benefits. Online supplier registration was also an idea I gave which was implemented. As an employee, I feel highly motivated and involved and I would say the friendly work environment, supportive colleagues and the new initiatives and the encouragement we continuously get in the DCAA helps us stay inspired and give our best.
May 2016
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UAE in Focus
Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum:
Future of tourism and hospitality in Dubai is promising
H
is Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE’s Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, visited the 23rd edition of the Arab Travel Market (ATM), held in Dubai World Trade Center.
His Highness was accompanied with Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Sheikh Mohammed met the visitors and the exhibitors as he toured the exhibition area which attracted more than 2800 exhibitors representing 60 countries.
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Sheikh Mohammed also visited stands of local exhibitors including Etihad Airways, Emirates, Flydubai among the 90 local exhibitors present at the event. Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied by Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman
of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group,and Director-General of
UAE in Focus
The four-day show attracted visitors in large numbers from 158 countries and witnessed a host of major announcements.
the Court of Dubai Ruler Mohammed Al Shaibani, and Khalifa Saeed Suleiman, Director General of Dubai Protocol Department, and Helal Saeed Al Merri, Director-General of Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing. Sheikh Mohammed said that the event is a real platform for investors looking for investment opportunity, where he expressed his optimism over the future of tourism and hospitality in the city specially as Dubai is preparing for the Expo 2020. Speaking to reporters at the Emirates stand at the Arab Travel Market, Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Mak-
toum, president of the Department of Civil Aviation, CEO and chairman of The Emirates Group, said a steady surge in international passenger traffic and a significant capacity expansion drive at its two airports will help Dubai’s vibrant aviation sector enhance its contribution to the emirate’s economy to 35 per cent from 27 per cent in five years. The 23rd edition of the ATM focused on mid-market travel this year. Among the new features were ATM Global Stage, a 200+ capacity seminar theatre, designed to showcase the very best speakers covering high-level strategic topics.
The region’s leading travel industry showcase witnessed a couple of announcements to promote Dubai as a tourists’ attraction. Dubai Parks and Resorts, which is set to become the Middle East’s largest integrated theme park destination on its opening in October this year, revealed details of its Annual Pass programme, according to a Khaleej Times report. With over 100 rides and attractions spread across three world-class theme parks and one water park, the annual passes will provide visitors with unlimited access to ‘Experience Amazing’ and create fun-filled memories again and again, while unlocking a host of exclusive benefits and rewards, said the report. The Dh10.5 billion development is spread across 25 million square feet of land located on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai opposite the Palm Jebel Ali. Around 6.7 million ticketed visits are projected for 2017, the first full year of operation.
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UAE in Focus
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum welcomes airlines to the new Concourse D
Airlines get a royal reception at DXB’s Concourse D T he 60 major international airlines operating out of the new Concourse D at Dubai International were given a royal reception yesterday when His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Airports, welcomed representatives at an official opening ceremony organised by Dubai Airports. Sheikh Ahmed interacted with airline representatives and toured the new facility as part of the event, which follows the successful opening of
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Concourse D on February 24 earlier this year. “These airlines play an important role in making Dubai one of the most connected cities in the
world. We highly value our airline partners and mutual customers - the hundreds of thousands of passengers that pass through our airport every
UAE in Focus
Butlers Chocolate Cafe. Featuring a total of 21 food concessions, Concourse D is also home to CNN Travellers Cafe for news junkies, as well as Masale: The Taste of India. Other new outlets include Lebanese favourite Sharwarmanji and Taqado Mexican Kitchen, both popular local examples of street food, in addition to a second Masale by Taste of India outlet but on a larger scale. Concourse D will also have established traveller favourites such as Giraffe – which will open its second outlet at Dubai International – Starbucks, KFC, Krispy Kreme, McDonald’s, Brioche Doree, The Noodle House, Cavier House & Prunier, Draft House sports bar, and Costa Coffee.
day, which is why we have invested US$ 1.2 billion in the development of a state of the art Concourse D and major upgrades to Terminal 1,” Sheikh Ahmed said. He added, “As many as 60 airlines operate out of Concourse D, operating 350 flights every day to 90 destinations around the world. Considering the large and diverse customer base to which the new facility caters, the range of products, services, retail and food and beverage offerings, were chosen after careful consideration and in line with a detailed commercial strategy. We wanted to put the customer at the heart of that design and ensure that the whole passenger layout, including the design of retail and dining areas, was creat-
ed from the traveller’s perspective.” The concourse is linked to the newly renovated Terminal 1 by a dedicated airport train that can transport 300 passengers per trip. Designed around a central atrium, Concourse D offers short walks to open gates, which will allow travellers to board directly from the waiting area, giving them more freedom and time to enjoy the full array of exciting food and beverage outlets. Concourse D features an exciting line-up of world-renowned brands being introduced for the first time including casual dining concept The Kitchen by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, the first Pret a Manger in a Middle Eastern airport, as well as
The new concourse offers plenty of comfortable seating spaces and wellbeing concepts such as Be Relax and the ever-popular ‘SnoozeCubes’ which provide a convenient way to rest between flights. It will also feature a total of nine lounges spread over 6,926m2, including five airline lounges, a new Al Majlis lounge, two Dubai International Hotel lounges and a Marhaba VIP lounge. Dubai Duty Free has a total of 175 vendor installations in Concourse D spread over an area of 7,000m2, bringing the operation’s total retail space at DXB to 33,000m2. Fashion offer covers a total of 1,000m2 divided into two zones, perfumes and cosmetics cover a total area of 1,500m2 while liquor and food occupies nearly 1,000m2. On the apron, Concourse D provides 21 contact stands, of which four will be able to accommodate Airbus A380 or Boeing 747 aircraft, and 11 remote stands with a design capacity for 18 million passengers.
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UAE in Focus
Dubai International named Best Airport in the Middle East
D
ubai International was named Best Airport in the Middle East at the Business Traveller Middle East Awards 2016 Awards at a glittering ceremony at the Versace Palazzo in Dubai.
The Best Airport in the Middle East category of the awards recognises the range and quality of services including check-in, transport connection and accessibility, security checks, luggage and customs as well as availability of meeting rooms, food and beverage and retail offerings. “Dubai Airports continues to invest in state of the art facilities and services to elevate customer experience across our airports and provide passengers world class options for dining, shopping and relaxing.
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The recently opened $1.2 billion Concourse D is a shining example of our renewed focus on service quality and a customer-centric approach and this award is a timely validation of our efforts,” said Anita Mehra, Senior Vice President, Communications & Reputation at Dubai Airports. Held in Dubai, the awards are adjudged based on the feedback from frequent flyers and Business Traveller readers, many of whom regularly fly through Dubai International.
Concourse D features 9 lounges, plenty of seating spaces, a wide range of food and beverage options including some world renowned names, such as The Kitchen by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck, Pret a Manger, and Camden Food Company among others. The facility also offers 8400m2 of walkthrough shopping area that merges with an open boarding gate system, and wellbeing concepts such as SnoozeCubes and Be Relax for the comfort of passengers.
UAE in Focus
Passenger traffic at DXB tops 6.3 million in February
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assenger traffic continued to grow steadily at Dubai International (DXB), with over 6.3 million passengers registered in February 2016.
According to the latest traffic report issued by operator Dubai Airports, passenger traffic reached 6,383,544 in February 2016, up 6.9 per cent from 5,973,727 registered during the same month in 2015.
885,298 passengers, followed by Saudi Arabia (485,570 passengers) and the UK (460,279 passengers). London topped the list of destination cities, followed by Doha and Mumbai.
This brings the total year to date passenger traffic at DXB to 13,711,181, an increase of 6.5 per cent from the first two months of 2015.
Aircraft movements at DXB totalled 32,975 during the month under review, compared to 31,012 movements recorded in February 2015, up 6.3 per cent.
Eastern Europe was the fastest expanding market in terms of percentage growth (+14.6 per cent), followed by the Indian subcontinent (+11.5 per cent), North America (+10.7 per cent) and the GCC (+7.9 per cent). India remained the top destination country in February with a total of
Freight volumes at DXB increased from 191,002 tonnes in February 2015 to 196,730 in February 2016, up 3.0 per cent. Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said: “This steady growth in passenger numbers has coincided
with the opening of Concourse D in February, which increased DXB’s capacity to 90 million passengers a year. Not only are we able to accommodate the rising passenger numbers, we have also boosted our service levels considerably.” He added: “This month, we were deemed the third busiest airport in the world by ACI, moving up three places from last year’s ranking. Considering that we do not have domestic traffic, this is an important milestone. The continued rise in traffic at DXB is underpinned by our heavy investment in the infrastructure needed to facilitate growth for the 100 airlines that operate at our airport.”
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UAE in Focus
Dubai International among top 3
ACI releases preliminary world airport traffic rankings
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ased on reports from 1,144 airports worldwide, ACI’s preliminary passenger traffic results for the most-travelled airports in 2015 reveal that the top spot continues to belong to Atlanta-Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL).
Growing by 5.5 per cent year over year in passenger traffic to the record-breaking total of over 100 million passengers in 2015, Atlanta has benefitted tremendously from its strategic location as a major connecting hub and port of entry into North America. The airport is within a two-
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hour flight of 80 per cent of the United States population.
inroads into the American domestic market.
Atlanta also owes its strides in throughput to its major operator, Delta Air Lines. Coupled with efficiency gains in the deployment of its aircraft fleet, the airline has continued to make
While Beijing (PEK) was poised to close the gap on ATL by 2015, it no longer benefits from the double-digit growth it enjoyed in previous years, and as such remains in second position.
UAE in Focus
The combination of a Chinese slowdown and capacity constraints has meant lower growth levels at the airport. PEK grew by 4.4 per cent in total passenger traffic. At the same time, Shanghai (PVG), the second-largest airport for throughput in China, grew by 16.3 per cent in 2015. With an added runway and increased slot capacity, PVG was the fastest growing airport among the world’s top 20. Moving from the sixth busiest airport in 2014 to the third position in 2015 is Dubai (DXB). Total passenger traffic at the airport grew by 10.7 per cent in 2015. The airport is also the world’s busiest in terms of international passengers ahead of London-Heathrow (LHR). Dubai has become the fulcrum that connects long-haul international flights from east and west, north and south. Chicago O’Hare (ORD) moved
up to become the fourth-ranked airport in 2015 from seventh position in 2014, with growth last year of 9.8 per cent. After years of congestion, the airport is reaping the benefits of runway expansions and other capacity developments. The world’s largest air cargo hub continues to be Hong Kong (HKG, +0.4 per cent). Memphis (MEM, +0.8 per cent) is in the second spot followed by PVG (+2.9 per cent). Despite apparent pockets of weakness in the air cargo markets, ORD experienced robust growth of 15.6 per cent in 2015. With recently expanded air cargo facilities, the airport maintains its status as a major nexus for global trade and a link to the multimodal transfer of goods across the continent. Doha (DOH), a major Middle Eastern airport and one of the fastest growing airports in the world, entered the top 20 given a jump of 46 per cent in air cargo volumes in 2015. ATL (+1.6 per cent) has become the world’s busiest airport for aircraft movements following a drop in movements at the second ranked ORD (-0.8 per cent) in 2015. PVG had the highest growth in movements at 11.5 per cent in 2015. “It’s impressive to witness the dynamic character of the aviation industry and its evolution over time,” said Angela Gittens, Director General, ACI World. “In certain markets, we see both airlines and airport operators expanding and optimizing their capacity in order to accommodate the growing demand for air transport. Thus, even in the most mature markets such as the United States and parts of Western Europe, several of
Summary: Preliminary yearover-year growth for 2015, compared to 2014 Total passengers: +6.1 per cent Total international passengers: +6.3 per cent Total cargo (includes mail): +2.4 per cent Total international freight: +2.2 per cent Total aircraft movements: +1.8 per cent the major hubs experienced yearover-year growth rates in passenger traffic that were well above the historical growth levels for these regions. On the other hand, we continue to observe double-digit growth rates at major Middle Eastern and Asian hubs serving long haul routes in emerging markets. With the continued rise in per-capita income and liberalization of air transport across these markets, the propensity to travel by air will rise accordingly. However, airport capacity considerations on the supply side within major city markets will remain paramount to the issue of accommodating the surge in demand for air travel.”
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UAE in Focus
More than six million passengers welcomed at Abu Dhabi International Airport in the first quarter of 2016
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bu Dhabi Airports has reported a 9.5 p.c increase in passenger traffic during the first quarter (Q1) of 2016 at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), compared to Q1 in 2015. check-in and move through immigration and security interacting only with cutting edge technology, we are ensuring that the growing number of passengers using Abu Dhabi International Airport spend less time in queues and more time enjoying our airport’s world-class facilities.” The top 5 destinations for Q1 were: Bangkok, London Heathrow, Jeddah, Doha and Delhi.
Between January and March this year, 6,044,025 passengers traveled through AUH, compared with 5,521,110 during the same period last year. Aircraft movements rose to 42,204, representing 1.5% growth on the 41,585 movements recorded in Q1 2015. Commenting on the traffic report, Eng. Ahmad Al Haddabi, Chief Operations Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports, said:
Traffic
March
Total Passengers Total Aircraft Movements Cargo (metric )tons
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“Abu Dhabi is an important global transportation hub and this is reflected by the fact that more than six million passengers traveled through Abu Dhabi International Airport during the first quarter of the year. Traffic rose over the first three months of 2016 between the UK, Thailand, the USA and several other countries. With the launch of the Smart Travel initiative last month that allows passengers to
May 2016
India continued to top the charts in terms of country routes, with the highest passenger traffic figures of 1,082,527, up 26.9% when compared to Q1 of 2015. Italy saw a huge increase in traffic with figures up 62.3% on the same period last year, making it the 10th busiest country route in Q1 of 2016. The number of passengers traveling through AUH in March 2016 jumped to over two million passengers, reaching 2,025,842, up 5.6% from 1,917,939 in March 2015.
)31st March -1st January( Q1
This Year
Last Year
Var % This Year
Last Year Var %
2,025,842
1,917,139
%5.6
6,044,025
5,521,110 %9.5
14,383
14,605
-%1.5
42,204
41,585
%1.5
67,364
71,581
% -5,9 191,407
200,127
%-4,4
UAE in Focus
RAK Airport set for next stage of expansion R
as Al Khaimah International Airport is gearing up for its next stage of expansion as it bids to become the major hub for low cost carriers in the Middle East, according to a Gulf News report. The report said UAE’s most northern emirate sees low cost as well as charter flights as a way to develop its own aviation sector in a region dominated by intercontinental hubs in Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi.
A tender will be awarded this year for the expansion of the airport that will help to increase its capacity to 3.5 million passengers a year up from 1.5 million currently, the report quoted airport chief executive Mohammad Qazi as saying. A design consultancy has been drafted in to draw up the expansion plans that will include six new aircraft gates, increase the number of check-in counters by 70 per cent and expand the retail space by at least 40 per cent.
“There is a constant evolution up here,” Qazi said by phone following the launch of Air India Express services from the southern Indian city of Calicut on Monday. Construction on the expansion will start in 2017, however, the airport has not determined a completion date or how much the project will cost, he said. The tender award will come up to seven months after the May opening of an expanded arrivals hall. Ras Al Khaimah International has witnessed a resurgence since Air Arabia launched its services in 2014 after the emirates’ national carrier RAK Airways folded up the same year. Today, the airport is directly connected to 12 destinations, all but two operated by Air Arabia, and the launch of Qatar Airways flights last month means it is one stopover from more than 150 destinations.
SkyTeam opens Dubai lounge S kyTeam has opened its latest lounge at Dubai International Airport to offer amenities Elite Plus, First and Business Class passengers of the ten member airlines serving the airport.Situated in Concourse D, Terminal 1, the lounge is set over 960 metres with seating for 180 customers.
tary snacks throughout the day with a bar, shower facilities, unlimited Wi-
Fi, a business centre, a TV room and a dedicated children’s room.
“Shared facilities like our new Dubai lounge are a tangible example of how SkyTeam airlines can offer a greatly enhanced airport experience to their customers through synergies,” said Perry Cantarutti, SkyTeam CEO and managing director. The lounge features complimen-
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UAE in Focus
World’s largest annual airport event to have 300 exhibitors from 30 countries, 7 dedicated country pavilions
DCAA to showcase latest smart services at the Airport Show
Airport Show 2016, the biggest ever
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irport Show, the world’s largest annual airport event, continues to grow and is the largest ever in its 16th edition, which brings together more than 300 exhibitors from over 30 countries under one roof to showcase their innovative and game-changing products offered to key decision-makers across the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia (MENASA) aviation industry. Spread over 15,000 square metres of gross exhibition space, 15 per cent more than the previous edition, the Airport Show-2016 will take place from May 9-11, 2016, at the Dubai International Convention and Ex-
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hibition Centre (DICEC) under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and
Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group. The show is supported by DCAA, Dubai Airports, dnata and Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP), amongst a host of other international aviation organisations.
UAE in Focus
Latest technology
From smart gates, beacon technology, mobile devices to navigate the airports and face recognition systems, to air traffic management, baggage and check in management, IP-based security monitoring, communications, ticketing, and information systems, freight operations information systems, air traffic management and airways analytics, airports worldwide are actively adopting new technologies.
Massive investments in the region, especially the UAE, will drive the Middle East smart airports market to cross US$850 million within the next three years. Enhancing capacity and ensuring seamless operations is the primary driver for GCC airports, which are expected to handle 450 million passengers by 2020.
The latest technologies and innovations that will change the way of future travel will be showcased at the 16th edition of the Airport Show. The Dubai Cicil Aviation Authority (DCAA) will showcase its latest smart services and initiatives during the Airport Show 2016. Smart Airports are set to revolutionise passenger experience as airports allocate higher budgets to expanding and adopting the latest smart technologies.
The use of smart technology is not only contributing to enhancing passenger experience but also expected to help authorities in the region reduce 25 per cent of operational costs. The UAE has been on the forefront when it comes to adopting the latest smart technologies. An investment of
more than AED100 million has been made toward the Smart Gates initiative at the Dubai International Airport. Daniyal Qureshi, Group Exhibition Director at Reed Exhibitions Middle East, the organisers of the Airport Show, said: “Airports are more active than ever in adopting new and smart technologies and they are reaping benefits in enhancing efficiencies, passenger experience as well as in reducing costs.” “With global passenger numbers expected to rise to 7.3 billion by 2034, airports need to ensure they are able to cope with the rising numbers, and, at the same time, offer seamless travel experience. Smart technologies can greatly help in delivering a hassle-free passenger experience that can put an airport ahead of its competitors.”
Country Pavilions
The Airport Show has a strong international representation this year with seven dedicated country pavil-
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UAE in Focus
ions for global exhibitors to showcase and launch their products, services and solutions. Germany will have the largest participation with more than 40 exhibitors showcasing in the exclusive Germany Pavilion, in addition to six pavilions dedicated to aviation players from France, Switzerland, UK, China, Italy and North America. Exhibitors from more than 30 countries are participating in Airport Show 2016. Daniyal Qureshi, Director of Airport Show at Reed Exhibitions Middle East, the organisers, said: “The international participation in this edition of the Airport Show is the largest ever and it clearly reflects the growing interest of global aviation players in the booming Middle East aviation industry. A larger international representation also adds value to the Airport Show where regional participants, who
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are keen on exploring cutting-edge technologies, which will be offered by international exhibitors, get an opportunity to acquire the best to meet the current and future needs for exceptional aviation infrastructure.” With global passenger numbers expected to rise to 7.3 billion by 2034, aviation industry players are keen on exploring the latest technologies and solutions to offer seamless travel experience to passengers while maintaining an infallible security at the same time. Larger international participation helps aviation industry players network and explore the best available international technologies they can implement according to their requirement. The Germany Pavilion will be the biggest in terms of exhibitors – a total of 40 including 7 new ones. The French Pavilion, which made its first appearance at the Airport Show eight years ago, will feature 14 exhibitors, providing the participants
of the world’s leading B2B event for the airport industry the opportunity to gain insights into their latest portfolio of products and expertise in different domains. The Swiss and UK pavilions will have 12 exhibitors each this year. There will be eight exhibitors in the North America Pavilion, six in China and three in Italy Pavilion.
Business Connect
Decision-makers from key regional airports and aviation organisations will be joining the ‘Business Connect’ programme, a unique matchmaking platform providing unparalleled opportunities through a number of pre-scheduled meetings, , at the 16th edition of Airport Show. More than 140 buyers from over 60 regional authorities will be joining the programme this year, up from 119 during the previous edition of the Airport Show. Airport Show 2015 hosted 2,900 pre-arranged meetings between hosted buyers and
UAE in Focus
growth to cater to the rising number of passengers. The region has been witnessing new projects, massive expansion in the aviation sector and an increased focus on tourism, which will further drive the demand for travel catering.
exhibitors from 26 countries and the show looks set the break the record this year with over 3,000 pre-scheduled on site meetings in 2016. The Business Connect programme this year will feature Airport Business Connect, a unique matchmaking programme facilitating over 2,000 pre-scheduled meetings for exhibitors with key officials from regional airport authorities and contractors of mega airport developments across the Middle East; Africa Business Connect, dedicated to African aviation officials, from over 15 countries, to meet with Airport Show exhibitors and source suppliers for the African continent’s most ambitious airport developments and Air traffic Control Business Connect, which will host over 100 officials from regional Civil Aviation Authorities and ANSPs – facilitating business for exhibitors through over 1,000 pre-scheduled meetings with key Air Traffic Management officials during the event. This year’s show will see buyers from Algeria, Armenia, Bahrain, Botswana, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Iraq, Kuwait, Lebanon, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Tanzania, Tunisia, Turkey, Uganda, Zimbabwe and the host country, UAE.
Visitors
Last year, the Airport Show attracted 7,120 aviation professionals who networked, sourced their product requirements and created over US$20 billion worth of regional business possibilities. The show organisers are confident about crossing the growth levels originally projected for this year in terms of exhibitors and participants.
World Travel Catering and Onboard Services Expo
Co-located with the Airport Show will be the World Travel Catering & Onboard Services Expo Middle East 2016 (WTCEME), a dedicated platform for global travel catering industry players to network and showcase a wide range of products, services, solutions and technology. The WCTEME expects over 1,500 trade visitors this year from all the major airlines, airports and related aviation catering businesses in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia region. With the Middle East’s airlines expected to carry more than 400 million passengers by 2020, in comparison to 144 million in 2012, the region’s travel catering requirements as well as the products, services and solutions are set to witness a major
WTCEME will enable travel catering market players to tap this high-potential region whose share in the global travel catering market has been fast rising above the global average growth of five per cent due to massive expansion of airports and airline networks. The expo will showcase a wide range of travel catering services and solutions, including Food, Snacks, Beverages Food Packaging, Processing, Preparation and Preservation Equipment, Tableware and Chinaware, Accessories, Toiletries and Travel Amenities. The expo’s visitors will include chefs, consultants, food & beverage managers, health & safety managers, in-flight service managers, operations managers, procurement managers, production managers and purchasing managers from airports, hospitality, airlines, charter and business jet operators, cruise operators, flight catering and large scale catering companies.
GALF
The Airport Show also provides a knowledge sharing platform as the visitors get an opportunity to participate in the Global Airport Leaders’ Forum (GALF), also co-located with the Airport Show. More than 40 renowned international aviation leaders and experts will share their professional insights, experiences and future perspectives on the aviation industry and its challenges during the 4th edition of GALF.
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Cover Story
Strong annual financial performance by Emirates
Sheikh Ahmed: flydubai to shift to Al Maktoum International by 2017
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is Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, said Emirates has recorded strong financial results during the last fiscal year, which ended in March 2016.
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Cover Story
During a press conference on the sidelines of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), he said factors such as decline in oil prices globally have contributed to the positive performance amid geopolitical and economic challenges that affected some of the markets, the higher the price of the dollar against global currencies, in addition to the closure of some stations in areas due to political events. Sheikh Ahmed said flydubai will transfer all its operations from its current base at Dubai International
Terminal 2 to Al Maktoum International Airport by the end of 2017, pointing out that the new airport is ready. He said an expansion contract has been signed recently to increase the capacity in the existing building for the Al Maktoum International Airport from 7 million passengers to more than 26 million by the end of 2017, and added that work is underway for the completion of the expansion of the new airport. He said the cost of the first phase of
the expansion, which ranges between AED 90 and 100 billion, will be taken care of by Dubai Airports in part and by some companies in other countries that are supporting the project. He said the results of the Emirates Group for the financial year 2015 2016, will be announced soon and the performance is better compared to the last financial year. Emirates Group posted a net profit of AED 5.5 billion dirhams in 2015-15, a growth of 34 per cent from the previous year’s profit.
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Cover Story
He added: “Emirates provided a detailed response, supported by facts and evidence in response to accusations of unfair competition by three largest US carriers, which is under review and the decision will now be made by the US government now.�
Global expansions
Sheikh Ahmed said the airline will continue its expansion in the US market and that there has been no
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change in the air transport agreement between the UAE and the United States, in the context of the allegations made by the US companies.
He said that his airline will take delivery of 37 new aircraft during the current year, which ends in March next year. Regarding financing, he said the airline relies on the various mechanisms, such as self-financing instruments and bonds, which are open at the same time on the various options available in the financial markets.
Cover Story
New plants
Regarding the new station for the airline to open in Panama, he added that Emirates is committed to this line in the Latin American market, it has been postponed launch, based on some of the actions that have not yet been completed, which is the Association Agreements are indicated with the carriers and the surrounding markets, which will support operations company to transport passengers to and from and across the region as a whole. He also asserted that the air transport sector in Dubai and the UAE is witnessing sustained growth,
pointing out that Dubai International Airport, which is the world’s first in the number of international passengers, if maintained the nat-
ural growth rates, which are up to 10%, it will be the world’s largest airport in the past two the next two. ď‚ƒ
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Interview
Flying confidence from strong demand
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C Aviation Al-Futtaim (DCAF), a premium provider of aircraft management, executive charter operations, business jet maintenance and consultation services, has registered its most successful year in 2015 having received the Air Operator Certificate by the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority. DCAF, a joint venture between Germany-based DC Aviation GmbH and Dubai-based business conglomerate Al-Futtaim, remains confident that the industry will continue to grow and will
Holger Ostheimer, General Manager, DC Aviation Al-Futtaim
see strong demand as the company gets closer to Expo 2020 and the FIFA World Cup in 2022. In an exclusive interview with Via Dubai, Holger Ostheimer, General Manager, DC Aviation Al-Futtaim, said that business has grown steadily throughout 2014 and 2015 as customers experienced the advantages of operating private and business jets into and out of Al Maktoum International Airport and DCAF’s stateof-the art facility. He spoke at length on how the company is embarking on a major expansion in
anticipation of the increased activity at its facility at the airport. Excerpts from the interview:
ViaDubai: What are the highlights and achievements of your 2015 operations? The past year saw DC Aviation Al-Futtaim (DCAF) registering its most successful year having received its Air Operator Certificate by the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority. The year also saw a dramatic increase in movement of business aircraft taking off or landing at DCAF’s state-of-the-art facility. The privately-owned facility saw aircraft movements increase over three-fold compared to the same period in 2014. In anticipation of the increased activity at its facility at Dubai South, DCAF has already put in place the necessary tools and resources to expand its line maintenance capabilities to include the Airbus 320 family, Bombardier Global Express, the Challenger 604/605 in addition to the Global 6000 and Global 5000 Vision Flight Deck aircraft types with maintenance performed in a dedicated hangar
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Interview
– the only business jet hangar at Al Maktoum International Airport. Also at the Dubai Airshow its joint venture partner Al-Futtaim signed a lease agreement for an additional 10,000 sqm of land from Dubai South which will drastically increase the operational potential enabling DCAF to expand its existing VIP lounge and hangar facility in order to keep up with growing demand for its services. The expansion will more than double the hangar capacity as well as enable DCAF to add two single aisle aircraft maintenance bays and provide enough space for an additional workshop and equipment storage. What is the performance outlook for 2016? We remain positive on the growth prospects for this year. DCAF is fully ready to take advantage of the favourable market conditions across the range of its services including the management of private and business jets, maintenance and providing for ample hangar space at Al Maktoum International Airport. Our unique VVIP lounge provides the highest levels of privacy, 24-hour on-site se-
curity, screening facilities, customs and immigration services, thereby ensuring that customers benefit from a speedy and enjoyable travel experience. What are the facilities you offer to your VVIP customers? In addition to minimal taxiing time and unlimited slot availability, DCAF offers its VVIP customers the ultimate convenience of boarding their aircraft in a matter of seconds. Their private jet is parked right in front of the lounge with pre-boarding facilities including immigration, customs and security services provided at the facility itself. The 1,300 square metres of exclusive lounge area is designed to host local, regional and international VVIP customers and offers the highest levels of comfort and privacy, shower areas, a spacious conference room, covered parking and an exclusive contemporary finish. What are the core areas of your business? At our facility at Dubai South our core areas of business include aircraft management, maintenance, fixed-base oper-
ator (FBO) and ground handling services as well as business jet charter. Through our line maintenance capabilities catering to business jets including the Airbus 320, Bombardier Global Express and the Challenger 604/605 series aircraft, owners and operators receive a diverse range of maintenance services, from spare parts supply, procurement and storage, to maintenance and airworthiness certification. We have invested in our technicians and our team of experts is committed to meet the highest quality standards to ensure our customer’s assets are safe and secure. What support do you offer to business jet owners? Our Aircraft Management division supports business jet owners to optimize their aircraft assets, by operating aircraft in an environment in line with the highest industry standards for flight safety and airworthiness. Clients also benefit from significant cost saving potential on insurance, purchasing fuel and other relevant flight support services.
May 2016
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Interview
DCAF’s business jet charter clients benefit from DC Aviation’s fleet size and variety ranging from efficiently sized Learjet 40 to the 46-seater Airbus 319 Corporate jet and a 24/7 operation designed to provide immediate response to requests. How will the business aviation sector perform this year in terms of the number of aircraft movements? The immediate outlook for the UAE and the region is positive. Beyond that, there are many factors that determine the growth of the sector including global, regional, political and commercial. For DCAF, business has grown steadily throughout 2014 and 2015 as customers experience the advantages of operating private and business jets into and out of Al Maktoum International Airport and our state-of-the art facility. We remain confident that the industry will continue to grow and we’ll see
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strong demand as we get closer to Expo 2020 and the FIFA World Cup in 2022. You have recently added a Bombardier Challenger 604 and a Gulfstream G200 to your fleet under management, taking the total to four -- two Bombardier Challenger 604 and one Gulfstream G200 and Bombardier Global XRS. What next? We currently have four aircraft that are managed by DCAF including two Bombardier Challenger 604, one Gulfstream G200 and a Bombardier Global XRS. We continue to receive strong interest from aircraft owners and operators seeking our expertise to manage their assets both commercially as well as under private operation and look forward to adding to our fleet of managed aircrafts. The number of millionaires is on the rise in the region. Is there a commensurate increase in demand and ownership? The general market trend sees larger air-
craft types having greater demand than small private and business jets. This applies to all international markets but can be observed especially in regions with a higher density of high and ultra-high net worth residents. The UAE is most definitely a country with an above average number of wealthy residents and this is reflected in the composition of the local and regional private and business jet fleet. What is DCAF’s position in the Middle East and which is your biggest market? DCAF provides services to private and business jet aircraft owners and operators. The clientele originates from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, India, Pakistan and other GCC countries. They usually are ultra-high net worth individuals or corporations looking for ease of transport at high levels of comfort to be available whenever needed.
Interview
The solutions DCAF provides are geared to provide transport to VVIP clients at the highest levels of safety and security. What are your advantages being located at the Al Maktoum International Airport? From a business perspective, with operational capacity for private and business jets diminishing at Dubai International Airport, the obvious choice is Dubai’s second airport – Al Maktoum International Airport located at Dubai South. DCAF had anticipated the opportunities at a very early stage and committed to invest into a substantial infrastructure for its integrated business jet operation. DCAF is the only organisation in Dubai South having full control over its lounge and office facilities, ramp and hangar parking as well as providing aircraft maintenance services alongside its aircraft management services for commercially registered business jets.
The current situation at Dubai International Airport requires aircraft owners and passengers to be driven to their aircraft as well as facing limitations on aircraft maneuvering and restrictions on available arrival and departure slots. At DCAF’s facility aircraft owners and passengers benefit from a seamless processing and boarding process with the minimal distance between VIP limousine drop off and aircraft steps requiring merely seconds to board the aircraft which is parked in front of the lounge facility. Between arriving and departing of aircraft, an abundance of hangar and ramp parking is available to the client. Taking advantage of the apability DCAF has achieved, both technologically as well as in management, will you be looking at launching a private liner, or budget airline? There are no plans to launch an airline. Our business model focuses on manag-
ing aircraft on behalf of the owner and there is a growing appetite for our services and expertise. With the exponential expansion plans at Al Maktoum International Airport by the government, what is your blueprint to keep pace? We recently announced plans to expand our operations at Al Maktoum International Airport (AMIA) following the joint venture partner Al-Futtaim signing a lease agreement for an additional 10,000 sqm of land from Dubai South. The expansion will see an additional 6,800 sqm of hangar space be ready by Q1 of 2017 which will drastically increase the operational potential of DCAF. The expansion more than doubles the hangar capacity as well as enable DCAF to add two single aisle aircraft maintenance bays and provide enough space for an additional workshop and equipment storage.
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Exclusive Interview
‘Aim to make Oman one of the top 20 airports in the world’
S
heikh Aimen Ahmed Al Hosni, CEO of Oman Airports Management Company, believes in making consistent and practical efforts toward the progress of the country and aviation sector. He said the consistent efforts have resulted in a continuously strong performance of the Oman Airports Management Company.
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Exclusive Interview
In an interview with Via Dubai, Sheikh Aimen Ahmed Al Hosni spoke about future plans, growth of aviation sector and also how he sees the success of Dubai International as the success of the region. Excerpts from the interview: How has been the performance of airports in Oman last year and this year? The performance of Oman Airports Management Company (OAMC) has been continuously getting stronger and our efforts are positive. As for passengers’ indicators and aircraft traffic in Muscat International Airport, the traffic increased by 59 per cent over the last five years. Last year, Muscat International Airport exceeded the 10 million-passenger mark for the first time in its history. As for the passengers’ indicators and aircraft traffic at Salalah Airport, the growth rate also
exceeded 100 per cent during the past five years. Salalah Airport, officially opened November last year, exceeded the 1 million-passenger mark for the first time in its history, which gives an important indication that the future of the sector is booming and profoundly promising. What are the measures and projects in place to enhance capacity to handle the increasing air traffic? In OAMC, we are keen to work realistically and responsibly towards our homeland and sector. Therefore, since its inception, OAMC has not spared any effort to adapt to work realities. With the possibilities available, OAMC has strived to develop the Omani airports under its supervision in implementation of the related prudent government policies to enhance the traveling experience on various levels up to the operation of the new airports in Oman one of
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Exclusive Interview
which started operation last year as I said and construction of others is nearing completion. This giant strategic move translates the comprehensive vision of the wise leadership of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said, Sultan of Oman, may God preserve him,
for strengthening the civil aviation sector in the Sultanate with five airports out of the belief in the importance of investment in this vital and promising sector. This is consistent with the trends to diversify sources of income away from total reliance on oil. Given the size of these investments, we note beyond any rea-
sonable doubt that the coming age of civil aviation sector in the Sultanate of Oman will be full with giving and its entire staff will receive profound appreciation from society and leadership. The ceiling of ambitions automatically rose for Oman to undertake its strategic leadership role in the transport sector in the whole world after it was one of the most important strategic axes in trade lines and the confluence of ancient civilizations. Oman plans to have a budget carrier of its own. Is Sultanate market ready for it? The natural evolution in the strategic gesture of the Government of the Sultanate of Oman in order to strengthen this sector as part of the national logistics plan necessitated the diversity of segments targeted and serviced provided. OAMC believes that it is high time now for Oman to open the door of competition in this side as represented by the announcement of Salaam Airlines as the first low-cost carrier in Oman earlier this year to mark the start of this new phase we are talking about. We are confident of its success as a vision and reality, God willing. Do you see Oman emerging as a transit hub? This is our legitimate ambition for Oman to play its natural role in connecting the world according to the established policy of the Sultanate by its leader His Majesty the Sultan to provide love, peace, and unity for the entire world. Therefore, we will strive with our strategic partners in order to strengthen this ambition. How does the emergence of Dubai as an international trav-
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Exclusive Interview
el hub impact Oman’s aviation industry? We consider our brothers in Dubai an example of success realised through the togetherness of everyone in this sector. The success of Dubai International experience is a success for the entire region. We seize this opportunity to reaffirm partnership in visions and ideas with civil aviation leaders in Dubai and the rest of the airports of the United Arab Emirates, hoping that God help us in providing what would consolidate the bilateral relations and mutual affection between our two brotherly countries.
How many airports are there in Sultanate and are there plans to open new airports? There are several airports in the Sultanate of Oman with different uses and OAMC is a government-owned company overseeing the civil airports in the Sultanate. It is currently operating Muscat International Airport, Salalah Airport, Duqm Airport, and Sohar Airport and will operate Ras Al-Hadd Airport later God willing. OAMC new strategy is to be an influential regional player on the map of this industry, God willing. We are keen to translate our vision into reality and make Oman airports among the top 20 airports in the world by 2020.
What are your projections for 2020 for aviation sector’s growth? As I mentioned a little while ago, we have adopted earlier this year an intensive new 2020 strategy. It has many plans towards the upgrading the level of our work and reach international standards and to play an important role in the country’s economy in line with the national strategic logistics plans. This strategy is also in preparation for the operation of the new Muscat International Airport, that we aspire to play a pivotal role in the region. We pray to God Almighty for success in the implementation of these visions and aspirations.
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Special Report
IATA projects 1 million jobs from European Airspace modernisation by 2035
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he International Air Transport Association (IATA) released a study projecting a one million job and EUR245 billion boost to European prosperity in 2035 from airspace modernisation. Europe is well-served by air connectivity, which today supports 11.7 million European jobs and $860 billion of European GDP. But it is inefficient. Average flights are nearly 50 kilometers longer than they need to be in terms of distance traveled and delays average around 10 minutes per flight. This inefficiency negatively impacts prosperity, productivity and sustainability. An IATA-commissioned study by SEO Economic Research estimated that these inefficiencies, if unchecked, will grow to cost the European economy EUR 245 billion in 2035. “Air traffic management inefficiency is not just a burden for airlines. Trav-
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elers suffer wasted time from delays. The environment suffers from avoidable emissions. And businesses face reduced productivity. Combined, all of this has a cost on Europe’s competitiveness. And the cost is shared broadly. This study shows that every European—individual or business—has a stake in this issue,” said Tony Tyler, IATA’s Director General and CEO. Europe has long had a plan to improve its air traffic management—the Single European Sky (SES) project—which aims to deliver a threefold increase in capacity, improve safety by a factor of 10, reduce environmental impact by 10 per cent, and cut costs by 50 per cent.
IATA has commissioned the SEO report to create a new momentum for delivering the SES goals “Europe has failed in achieving the SES goals. Despite a strong European Commission vision and push for SES, national interests have prevailed. The
Special Report
incentive to improve efficiency is to make Europe more prosperous with the realization of EUR 245 billion and one million jobs in 2035. The launch of this study is a call to action across the spectrum of business and individual interests in Europe to help deliver a stronger, more connected economy,” said Tyler. A fully modernized and reformed airspace in 2035 (compared to a “do nothing” scenario in which the status quo prevails) will generate tangible benefits to European tourism, trade and the knowledge economy. Examples of incremental and indicative improvements include: 1.3% more hotel beds to aid the tourism industry Up to 2.2% faster expansion of trade in services
ing point already shows a clear gap. The US has one provider to manage its airspace and Europe has 38 providers to manage a similarly complex air transport sector. And if nothing is done, the problem will only get worse,” said Tyler. The release of the study marks the launch of a Europe-wide campaign. IATA will be calling on consumer groups and business associations to recognize the broad importance of efficient air connectivity to the economy, productivity and quality of life at the national level. “Quantifying the value of what we are aiming for in jobs and GDP should be a great motivator in aligning national policies and action with a vision for an efficiently-connected and competitive Europe. EUR 245 billion is a worthy goal!” said Tyler.
1.3% more employment in knowledge-intensive industries
A new report from SEO Amsterdam Economics Research, commissioned by IATA, has calculated that the European economy will be boosted by EUR245 billion in 2035 if European airspace is modernized.
“Predicting the future is always fraught with uncertainty. But the start-
The Report calculates the impact if the inefficiencies in European air
5.5% more patent applications and 4.7% greater research spend
The report calculates the impact if the inefficiencies in European air traffic management (ATM) traffic management (ATM), which include unnecessary route extensions of up to 50km and delays of around 10 minutes per flight, were eliminated. Europe has had a long-standing program, the Single European Sky (SES), aimed at eliminating these inefficiencies. Its targets include a reduction in environmental impact of 10%, a threefold increase in capacity, and a reduction of costs of 50%. This project, however, is much delayed and is suffering from a lack of political leadership at national level. IATA has commissioned the SEO report to create a new momentum for delivering the SES goals. The aim is to involve stakeholder groups in key European markets who would particularly stand to benefit from the economic boost generated by a modernized ATM. These groups include the hospitality and tourism sectors, the knowledge economy, trades unions, cultural and educational representatives, and manufacturing and service exporters. It is hoped that together, the case can be made to re-invigorate the process of European ATM reform and modernisation.
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Special Report
Baggage mishandling rate down 10.5 per cent to lowest ever recorded
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he airline industry’s focus on improving baggage management is showing strong results with 2015 baggage mishandling rates dropping to their lowest ever.
The latest SITA Baggage Report 2016 says the rate of mishandled bags was 6.5 bags per thousand passengers in 2015, down 10.5 Per cent from the previous year, less than half the rate in 2003 and the lowest ever recorded. This improvement comes despite an 85 Per cent rise in passenger numbers since 2003. Increasing passenger volumes put pressure on the industry’s
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infrastructure, resources and baggage handling systems. Last year more than 3.5 billion passengers travelled and with no sign that this growth will slow down, the industry is making step-changes to how it handles baggage. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is leading the way with its call for airlines to track each bag throughout its entire journey. IATA Resolution 753, to be imple-
mented by airlines by June 2018, will mean that bags will be tracked at every point of the journey. Francesco Violante, CEO, SITA, said: “Over the next three years bag tracking will be in the spotlight as airlines ready themselves to implement IATA’s Resolution 753. This increase in visibility will provide more control and drive further improvements in bag handling.
Special Report
“It also means that passengers will be able track their bag, just like a parcel, which will reduce anxiety and allow them to take fast action if flights are disrupted and their bags are delayed.” Another area of change identified in SITA’s report is the growth of self-service bag services. Around 40 Per cent of airlines and airports now provide self-bag-tag printing at kiosks and more than three quarters are expected to do so by 2018. Almost a third of passengers expect to be using bag-drop – either a dedicated staffed station or fully self-service – in 2016. How bags are tagged for their journey is also evolving. Over the past year there has been progress across the industry on permanent electronic tags which offer passengers independence and can reduce waiting times. Airlines
are now trialing these tags which passengers update with their flight information for each journey via a mobile phone app. Home-printed bag tags, which offer passengers similar benefits, are a lower cost option being used by several airlines today. Violante added: “The baggage statistics for 2015 are very encouraging, however in total, mishandled bags still cost the industry $2.3 billion last year. While this is a 3.75 Per cent reduction from 2014 it is clear that this must remain an area of focus for the industry. Passenger experience is paramount and improving baggage handling will deliver improvements for passengers along with cost savings. The technology is available to support increased tracking and improved tracing and SITA is working across the
air transport community to deliver efficiencies.” SITA has led the air transport industry in providing baggage tracking and tracing solutions for the air transport community for more than 20 years. Today, more than 200 airports and 500 airlines worldwide use its baggage management solutions. By facilitating communications between airlines and local baggage handling and reconciliation systems, SITA helps ensure that bags reach their correct destination. Its proprietary BagMessage systemdelivers more than 2.5 billion messages between airline departure control systems and automated baggage systems annually. And more than 2,800 airport locations use WorldTracer, SITA’s system which traces mishandled bags globally.
May 2016
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Middle East News
HIA to introduce ‘smart airport’ features
H
amad International Airport (HIA) has commenced the testing phase of its programme to transform into a ‘smart airport’ by integrating best of breed technologies that would offer passengers more control and independence over their journey. The Prime Minister and Interior Minister of the State-of-Qatar, H.E Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, along with the Minister of Transport and Communications, H.E Mr. Jassim Seif Ahmed Al Sulaiti attended a trial session at HIA. The new technologies at the airport were demonstrated to them by Engr. Badr Mohammed Al Meer, Chief Operating Officer at HIA. From check-in to boarding, every step of the journey will be self-service enabled to significantly improve efficiency and reduce waiting time, facilitating fast and seamless passenger experience. Combined with the airport’s complimentary Wi-Fi and the iBeacon enabled mobile app that offers way-finding and context relevant information, HIA’s passengers will truly enjoy an immersive travel experience. Engr. Badr Mohammed Al Meer, Chief Operating Officer at HIA said: “HIA continuously and proactively focuses on its people, processes, technology and partnerships with key stakeholders to provide world class service, as recognised by the industry. The latest passenger processing and security technologies are either al-
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ready deployed or being trialled to maintain and boost our position as one of the best airports in the world.” HIA became one of the first airports to support Home Printed Bag Tags (HPBT) and already provides self-service check-in. It will soon be introducing its next generation common-use self-service check-in and self-service bag drop services which will enable passengers to check-in themselves, print their boarding pass and baggage tags, tag their bags and simply drop them off at the custom designed bag-drop system. These services will be continu-
ously enhanced to offer our valued customers options such as excess baggage payment, ability to purchase upgrades and access to lounge services, in partnership with airlines. HIA currently has 63 automated border control e-gates that allow enrolled nationals and permanent residents to swiftly pass through departure and arrival immigration process based on biometric and travel document verification. The airport is actively working with the responsible government authorities to extend these benefits to the large number of visitors to Qatar.
Middle East News
Double digit traffic growth continued at Oman Airports during the first quarter of 2016
Oman Airports sees growth in Q1 of 2016 T
he traffic growth in Muscat International Airport in March was 20 per cent YoY reaching 812 438 passengers (cumulative growth percentage Jan-Mar 20 per cent reaching nearly 2.5 million passengers). Muscat Airport’s transfer traffic grew fastest by 40 per cent in March and by 37 per cent during Q1/16 respectively representing over 40 per cent of total traffic. Additionally, flight movements increased double digits i.e. Muscat International Airport by 10 per cent in March and by 11 per cent during Q1/16 representing 8 458 movements in March and 24 698 movements in Q1/16 respectively. During the first three months, Jet Airways started to operate between Delhi and Muscat, Shaheen started on a route between Islamabad and Muscat as well as new airline Regent Airways started to between Dhaka/ Chittagong
and Muscat operating 4 times a week by a Boeing 737-800. Traffic growth in Salalah exceeded 81 000 passengers in March representing 14 per cent growth and 255 921 passengers representing the cumulative growth of 18 per cent since beginning of the year despite a slight decline in civil aircraft
movements compared to 2015. New tour operator business “Hydrotour,” has charter flight Travel Service Slovakia (6D) that operates from Bratislava Airport (BTS) and will be operating one weekly flight each Sunday on every March, April, May, June, and September to Salalah.
Gulf Air obtains ISO certifications
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ulf Air has been recognised by Bureau Veritas, a global leader in Testing, Inspection and Certification (TIC), for successfully upgrading its Information Security Management System to the latest ISO 27001:2013 standard. The standard specifies the requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining and continually improving an Information Security Management System. The certification was awarded to Maher Salman Al Musallam, Gulf Air A/chief
executive officer, by Zulfiqar Haider, chief executive of certification at bureau Veritas Bahrain at the awards ceremony which was attended by members of Gulf Air’s Information Security Committee.
tification, reflecting our implementation of a strict framework to guarantee the protection and security of information across the board - further helping to achieve customer satisfaction.”
Al Musallam said: “As a global airline, much of our work involves handling sensitive and critical information, including passenger data. We are committed to providing the highest standard of Information Security and this involves constantly assessing our capabilities and modifying/enhancing them. I am delighted to receive this upgraded cer-
“Gulf Air is considered a reputable operator in the GCC region maintaining information security standards and meeting ISO requirements. The same was witnessed by our assessors during the certification process. This upgrade will enhance customer confidence and satisfaction in doing business with Gulf Air,” added Haider.
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International News
Calgary Airport introduces dog therapy
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anada’s Calgary Airport Authority has introduced a new PreBoard Pals programme to improve passengers’ experience at Calgary International Airport (YYC).
The Pre-Board Pals program brings furry guests and their volunteer sidekicks, to one of Canada’s busiest airports to interact with and bring smiles to the millions of visitors that come through YYC each year. Pre-Board Pals is a collaboration between the Au-
thority and Pet Access League Society (PALS) and is focused on providing comfort to passengers and employees by encouraging hands-on therapeutic interaction with pets -- another added benefit for guests and travellers enjoying their time at YYC.
“Pre-Board Pals demonstrates our commitment and passion for providing an amazing airport experience at YYC,” said Garth Atkinson, President & CEO for The Calgary Airport Authority. “With millions of guests travelling through our airport each year, we know that our new pals will be another positive touchpoint for our passengers.” The program, launching on National Pet Day, will feature four therapy dogs on shift at a time at Calgary International Airport, roaming the terminal and greeting guests at YYC every Thursday to Saturday during peak travel times. Diana Segboer, Executive Director for PALS says, “We have an incredible team of dogs, and handlers, that the passengers at Calgary International Airport are absolutely going to love. Our teams look forward to sharing the power of puppy love at YYC.”
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International News
TIACA urges joint action on counterfeit goods
ITALIAN COMPANY FOR AIR NAVIGATION SERVICES
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AERONAUTICA
IACA has called on Customs authorities to bring together rights holders, service providers, and regulators to help solve the problem of counterfeit goods, said a report in aircargonews.net.
ENGINEER
potential liability for air cargo industry members should be limited to instances where air cargo operators have actual knowledge of receiving or handling IPR infringing goods and have failed to take action based on that knowledge.”
TRAININ
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Goods that infringe IPR account for a growing proportion of internation-
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ING
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“The industry’s cooperation with law enforcement agencies contributes to the increase in seizures by government
FLIGsaidHTTIACA agencies,” INSsecretary PEC general Doug Brittin. TI O N “However, each party needs to acknowledge Air MAitsINroleTEandNlimitations. cargo industry members ANareCnot law enforcement agencies, and ourErole is necessarily limited by this reality. “Any
SI G DE
The air cargo industry should be recognised as one piece in a three-pronged approach to combatting goods that infringe intellectual property rights (IPR), working alongside rights holders and Customs authorities.
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The organisation the air cargo industry plays a vital role in the interdiction of counterfeit shipments and in investigations of illicit trade and that, as intermediaries, the industry’s role is distinct from that of other parties.
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Doug Brittin al trade, estimated at over $250bn by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
9-11 May 2016 | DICEC, Dubai
Visit us at New Za'abeel Hall 6, stand No. 6265 May 2016
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International News
New Zealand’s Queenstown Airport completes runway and airfield lighting upgrade
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ew Zealand’s Queenstown Airport has completed upgrades for its runway and airfield lighting system, which will allow it to receive aeroplanes flying at night from the end of April. In 2014, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of New Zealand and Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) set conditions to improve the airport’s runway and airfield lighting for evening flights. Over the past six months, the runway was widened from 30m to 45m, and resurfaced it with a 110mm asphalt overlay. The deployment of a $1.65m airfield lighting package, which includes new taxiway, runway, and apron and
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International News
approach lights, has been managed by air navigation service provider Airways New Zealand. Queenstown Airport Corporation (QAC) acting CEO Mark Edghill said: “Over the past six months we have been co-ordinating two night-time projects to run almost in parallel and ensure that the airfield is safely ready for operations every morning, so it’s a real testament to the collaboration of number of organisations working well together and the commitment of everyone involved. “A huge thanks to our contractors Downer and Beca and to the QAC and Airways teams for their professionalism, hard work and dedication in executing the project.” The revamped runway and lighting system are now ready for aeroplanes flying into Queenstown Airport after dark.
Changi Airport Group (CAG) is testing new security screening technologies designed to enhance checkpoints at Singapore Changi Airport. Trials will be conducted until June at the two boarding gates of the airport’s Terminal 3. CAG Aviation Security vice-president Alan Tan said: “At Changi Airport, we take safety and security seriously and are committed to maintaining the highest standards.” New computed tomography (CT) security screening equipment is being used to check hand luggage at boarding gates. The CT technology allows passengers to keep electronic devices in their hand luggage during the screening process, rather than placing them on a separate tray.
Next week, the new upgrades will be tested and evening flight inspections will be carried out via helicopter.
CAG will also test a new system that provides trays to two passengers at the same time, allowing them to drop off their bags simultaneously.
Singapore Changi Airport tests new advanced security screening technologies.
After the screening cycle has been completed, the trays will automatically be returned to the line, thereby re-
moving the need to manually place the trays back at the start of the screening belt. Hand luggage requiring further checks will be automatically sent to a separate channel for follow-up by security officers. The new service will enhance screening efficiency and reduce waiting times for passengers. Tan added: “The data and passenger feedback we collect from the trials will help us assess the effectiveness and operational efficiencies of these new systems, before we ascertain their suitability for implementation at the airport.” The airport group is also trialling a body scanner machine that uses millimetre wave technology to identify metallic and non-metallic items. Travellers will walk into the machine and be scanned removing items from their pockets or on their body. The data will be analysed by a computer algorithm. If a concealed object is detected, a non-invasive outline image showing the item’s location will be produced automatically.
May 2016
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Opinion
We need to constantly evolve in our approach That means our shared safety message has reached hundreds of thousands of people we might never have otherwise reached.
Michael Huerta Administrator, Federal Aviation Administration
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he safe integration of unmanned aircraft is a goal we’re committed to pursuing together.
As an agency, the FAA’s role is to set a framework of safety without unduly impeding innovation. We recognize that we cannot solve these types of challenges alone. We need the expertise and collaboration of key industry stakeholders. Safety is a shared responsibility. Drones, we all know, are changing the way countless jobs are done, from movie filming and real estate marketing to agricultural mapping and smokestack inspections. They’re also changing the way that we as an agency are doing business. We are growing and learning all the time. Clearly there is a middle road, where safety and innovation coexist on relatively equal planes. Last fall, we assembled a diverse task force that helped create a robust drone registration system in record time. Today, more than 425,000 people have registered their drones.
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We’re helping a new group of aviators understand what it means to fly safely while welcoming them into the safety culture that has been embedded in traditional aviation for more than a century. We have identified three high-level UAS strategic priorities -safely enabling UAS operations in the National Airspace System, creating an environment in which emerging technology can be safely and rapidly introduced and shaping global standards and practices for UAS through international collaboration. These priorities form the backbone of a comprehensive strategic plan for UAS integration that we expect to release soon. We have to constantly evolve in our approach. We’re going to succeed because we’re committed to evolving, to being flexible and to working with stakeholders each and every step of the way.
(Excerpts from UAS Symposium remarks)
Opinion
Predictability is the key to enhancing safety I
n 2035 in Europe, 14 Mio flights are to be served in the airspace of the EUROCONTROL’s 41 Member States, 40 % more than today. We don’t expect the airspace to grow and so we have to serve the additional aircraft in this airspace. The exchange of real time operational data – which is happening right now between the US and Europe moving towards a global Air Traffic Flow Management – is also something which will happen in the near future. The traffic patterns around the world will shift in the coming years. EUROCONTROL has exchanged real time operational data with our colleagues at the FAA. That means we can predict where an aircraft will arrive before it’s even left the continental United States, well before it crosses the Atlantic. It’s proved to be extremely useful and that it why we have recently signed similar agreements of data exchange of flight plans, updates and position reports with Brazil and the United Arab Emirates. This concept of predictability is key to enhancing safety and improving the utilisation of the available capacity. We are working hard to improve the predictability of traffic from within Europe by linking airports up through the Advanced ATC Tower programmes, and Airport Collaborative Decision Making.
Frank Brenner Director General, EUROCONTROL
and all talking to each other. This would be another step towards the ICAO concept of global Air Traffic Flow Management. Traffic in Asia and the Gulf, for example, is growing rapidly and there is an increasing recognition that ATM performance needs to be improved and that flow management – on a regional basis – may well be part of the solution. At the very least, we are seeing a greater readiness to share real time data.
(Excerpts from speech at the IFATCA conference)
Europe cannot do that alone, only with willing parties around the globe that believe in the ICAO concept of Global Air Traffic Flow Management this will be possible. Our agreements with Brazil and the UAE will be useful but they are only one step in this direction. And that direction is the concept of a network of networks – with each region of the world operating an ATM network
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Airlines
All customers benefit from new aircraft with restyled cabin, plus unlimited free snacks, fly-Fi internet
JetBlue Airways announces expansion of Mint service
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etBlue has announced an expansion of its popular Mint premium experience on transcontinental routes, seizing an opportunity to introduce competition in east and west coast markets where customers are faced with a decreasing number of choices and where other carriers sell dated business class options at a high cost. The next tranche of routes will bring Mint to four cities for the first time – Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, San Diego and Seattle – while also increasing customer options from New York (JFK), Boston, Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco. All
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Mint service is offered on new Airbus A321 aircraft with JetBlue’s reinvented Core experience for every customer on the flight. “Mint helped traditional business class travelers realize there is a bet-
ter way,” said Robin Hayes, president and chief executive officer, JetBlue. “Our plan has long called for strategic growth of Mint on these valuable transcontinental routes, and now is the right time for us to capture this opportunity to bring much
Airlines
York-Los Angeles and New YorkSan Francisco. It recently launched service from Boston, and is growing both seasonal and year-round Mint service in the Caribbean, with flights to Barbados, Aruba, St. Lucia and St. Maarten. New Mint Routes Serve Markets With Strong Demand for Premium Travel The new Mint cities have strong demand for premium travel. The routes will begin launching in the first quarter of 2017 and planned launches will continue into 2018. JetBlue will take delivery of nine A321s with Mint in 2017, with additional Mint aircraft deliveries planned for 2018. The new city parings will add JetBlue’s Mint service to seven transcontinental routes between:
needed competition where customers are facing dwindling choices.” Since launching in 2014, Mint has become a favorite way for celebrities, technology executives, creatives, and entrepreneurs to travel across the country. Mint’s highly personalized service, lie-flat seating, and curated food and amenities – all offered at an accessible price – has opened the door to premium travel for customers shut out by the high cost of traditional airline offerings. Mint was recognized by Fast Company’s Innovation By Design Awards, which honors innovative and disruptive design that pushes boundaries and seeks to change the world. JetBlue has already expanded Mint routes based on its early popularity on the initial routes between New
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood and Los Angeles (LAX) Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood and San Francisco Las Vegas and New York (JFK) San Diego and New York (JFK) San Diego and Boston Seattle and New York (JFK) Seattle and Boston Seats for new Mint routes will be available for purchase in the coming months. The Mint Experience Has Disrupted the Status Quo Mint offers a completely rethought design and a more human approach
to service, addressing the needs of the modern traveler. Mint features exceptional hospitality from specially trained crewmembers and a thoughtful product offering. Mint aircraft include the longest fully-flat bed seating in the U.S. domestic premium market (a), fully enclosed private suites and a 15-inch flat screen with complimentary entertainment options. Favorite Mint features include a signature cocktail, a tapas-style menu by New York City restaurant Saxon + Parole, fresh espresso from the first purposely-built cappuccino machine for a U.S. airline, amenity kits by Birchbox, and dessert from Blue Marble and Mah-ze-Dahr Bakery. Everyone Flying Loves When Mint Comes to Town Mint is offered on new A321 aircraft, which also include JetBlue’s new core experience for everyone seated in the cabin. Features of the A321 core interior include 10-inch television screens with free entertainment, comfortable seats with the most legroom in coach (b) and power outlets accessible to all customers. These flights offer free Fly-Fi highspeed broadband Internet service when flying over the continental U.S., access to Amazon streaming entertainment and JetBlue’s Hub content on personal devices and first-run Hollywood movies. All A321 aircraft with Mint include JetBlue’s popular marketplace, a self-serve station full of snacks, sodas and water for customers to enjoy at their convenience, which is also available throughout the flight.
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Airlines
Etihad Airways expands Istanbul services with new Sabiha Gokcen operation for 2016
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tihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, will expand its services to Istanbul during 2016 with a new four times weekly service to Sabiha Gokcen Airport.
The service will commence on 1 July 2016 and be served by an Airbus A320-200, with 16 seats in business and 120 in economy. The route will provide more travel options for guests travelling between the UAE and Istanbul as well as access to over thirty two-way connected markets and over 240 weekly connections around the world over the Abu Dhabi hub. The airline already operates a daily service to Istanbul Ataturk Airport but market demand has created an opportunity to deploy additional capacity into Sabiha Gokcen. The airport is an increasingly popular gateway for visitors to Istanbul and the southern section of the region. It is well connected to other domestic cities on the Asian side of the city, including Yalova and Bursa. James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer for Etihad Airways said: “Istanbul is a critically impor-
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tant market within our global network and we plan to serve both city airports to support our wider expansion plans. We have seen an increasing number of guests travelling between both the United Arab Emirates and Turkey and we want this trend to continue and grow during 2016. “The timing of the service is excellent to attract local travelers between Abu Dhabi and Istanbul, whilst also enabling seamless connectivity with markets in the GCC, Indian Sub-Continent, Northern Asia, Southern Asia and Australia. Istanbul is one of the world’s most popular tourism destinations thanks to its major attractions, cultural heritage and history. Located where Asia and Europe meet, visitors will gain access to attractions that include ancient mosques, palaces, monuments and traditional bazaars.
Etihad Airways originally launched services to Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey in June 2009. Today the airline operates a daily service on the Airbus A330, with full network connectivity. Istanbul Ataturk is already such a popular destination within the Etihad Airways network, that it will host one of the airline’s Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which are also being added to other cities such as Dusseldorf, Perth, Shanghai and Johannesburg during 2016.
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Airlines
Saudia launches low cost airline
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audi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) announced the establishment of a new airline company to provide low cost air transport, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The new company will be called Flyadeal. The low-cost carrier will begin operations from the middle of next year, Saudia chief Saleh Al-Jasser said. It will operate independently of its
parent firm, Jasser was quoted as saying by SPA at a ceremony on Sunday. In December, Al-Jasser said the airliner’s ticket prices are still the lowest despite the SR30 increase in airfares.Back in June 2015, at the Paris Air Show, Saudia ordered 50 passenger planes from Airbus with a total catalogue value of some $8.0 billion.
Garuda Indonesia orders 14 Airbus A330-900 neo airliners
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aruda Indonesia (Jakarta) has confirmed an order with Airbus for the purchase of 14 A330-900neo, the new re-engined version of the best-selling A330 widebody airliner, to support the company’s growth and business expansion in the future. The deal was signed at a ceremony in London in the presence of the President of Indonesia, His Excellency Joko Widodo and British Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. David Cameron MP. Garuda Indonesia plans to use the A330neo to develop its medium and long haul network, with the aircraft offering cutting edge technology along with more efficient operations. The order re-
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places and extends an existing order for seven A330-300 aircraft, and the A330neo will be delivered from 2019 onwards. The A330-800neo and the A330900neo are two new members of the Airbus Widebody Family with first deliveries scheduled to start in Q4 2017. The A330neo incorporates latest generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, aerodynamic enhancements and new cabin features. Benefitting from the unbeatable economics, versatility and high reliability of the A330, the A330neo reduces fuel consumption by 14% per seat, making it the most cost efficient, long range widebody aircraft on the market.
American Airlines celebrates 90 years
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merican Airlines celebrated 90 years of leading the world of commercial aviation, connecting families, businesses and cultures around the globe. American’s long, proud history began on the morning of April 15, 1926, when legendary aviator Charles A. Lindbergh, the chief pilot of Robertson Aircraft Corporation, stowed a bag of mail in his DH-4 biplane and took off from Chicago, headed to St. Louis. Nine decades later, Robertson is counted as one of the many airlines that would eventually make up what is now the world’s largest carrier – American Airlines. “American is 100,000 strong and innovating every day in large and small ways. Working in this industry is a noble profession, and working for American is a special calling,” said Doug Parker, American’s Chairman and CEO. “It has been a terrific 90 years for our airline and our best days lie ahead.” To celebrate American’s 90th birthday, customers on American Airlines flight 90 from Chicago O’Hare to London Heathrow enjoyed a special sendoff celebration.
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Cargo & Logistics
Emirates SkyCargo launches protection solution for temperature-sensitive cargo
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mirates SkyCargo, the cargo division of Emirates Airline, has launched a next-generation version of its innovative protection product for valuable temperature-sensitive cargo, such as pharmaceutical products.
Called White Cover Advanced, it utilises DuPont’s patented Tyvek material made of high density polyethylene to form a tough protective barrier against varying external temperatures and direct sunlight. The special material is water resistant to prevent moisture damage while at the same time breathable, thereby reducing condensation and dryness. It is also environmentally friendly and is 100% recyclable. While the White Cover is used in the carrier’s cool chain solutions for perishables, such as vegetables and fresh fruits, the White Cover Ad-
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vanced offers additional protection for packaged pharmaceutical shipments in Controlled Room Temperature (CRT) range and in insulated packaging. Weighing no more than three kilograms for Emirates’ largest passenger aircraft pallet, the special sheet completely encloses the shipment and allows for cooling during transportation and cold storage. Application is also very efficient, taking two people no more than eight minutes to wrap a pallet. “The pharmaceutical industry moves products worth over US$ 1 trillion annually. Temperature changes during transportation can pose a serious threat to the integrity of these sensitive products. They must be kept within different control room tem-
perature (CRT) bands in accordance with the revised EU Good Distribution Practice. The White Cover Advanced, with its silver-coating technology, provides a reliable and affordable means of protecting these products from temperature spikes during air transportation,” said Henrik Ambak, senior vice president, Emirates’ Cargo Operations Worldwide.
Cargo & Logistics
Chapman Freeborn and RUS Aviation announce new Asia cargo agreement
To provide shippers with seamless air freight solutions from Hong Kong to the Middle East
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hapman Freeborn Airchartering and RUS Aviation have announced an exclusive cargo sales agreement to provide clients with seamless air freight solutions from Hong Kong to the Middle East and surrounding markets. The deal will see Chapman Freeborn sell per-kilo shipments from Hong Kong to the UAE, with onward connections via RUS Aviation’s regional network under the same air waybill. Utilizing its fleet of A300 and IL76 freighter aircraft, UAE-based RUS Aviation operates regular, reliable cargo services to destinations not well served by other scheduled carriers – including Afghanistan, Djibouti, Iraq, and Libya. The new service from Chapman Freeborn and RUS Aviation is being driven
by increased demand to new markets from Hong Kong. “This agreement provides an excellent opportunity for both companies to extend their reach in a complementary manner,” said Lewis King, Director of Business Development at Chapman Freeborn Asia. “Chapman Freeborn has a wide base of charter clients in Asia – and working with RUS Aviation means we are now able to offer them dependable per-kilo solutions to several key new markets.” “The increased reach and visibility in this region will enable more forwarders and shippers to utilize our specialist services,” said Syed Wazeer, Commercial Manager at RUS Aviation.
Virgin Australia secures TNT Express cargo contract
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NT Express has awarded Virgin Australia (VA, Brisbane Int’l) a five-year, USD575 million contract to haul air freight across Australia for and on behalf of the global logistics firm. According to The Australian newspaper, the contract will begin in July and will see Virgin using bellyhold capacity as well as dedicated freighter
aircraft. The carrier is reportedly planning to wet-lease two BAE146 and one B737-300(F). Virgin Australia had relied on Toll Aviation (TFX, Brisbane Archerfield) for its freight requirements up until June last year when it launched its own in-house cargo handling division.
Latam Airlines announces new cargo brand
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ATAM Airlines Group (Santiago) has announced the creation of a new, single brand for its cargo affiliates. The LATAM Cargo brand will unite LAN Cargo, TAM Cargo, LAN Cargo Colombia and Mas Air, becoming the largest cargo airline group in Latin America. The move is part of LATAM Airlines Group’s identity consolidation process. With 140 destinations in 29 countries, the LATAM Cargo group of airlines brings together the best of the former brands and unites their identities, while providing a more solid and higher quality service to customers and connecting Latin America and the world through the transport of the region’s most emblematic products. LATAM Cargo will offer its customers unified service throughout the network and integrated products and communications channels, becoming the best air transport option to and from the region. Changes to the company’s image will start to become visible during the first semester of 2016 and will continue to be rolled-out during the next three years.
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Cargo & Logistics
Self-learning or ‘machine-learning’ systems – one of 26 exciting key developments highlighted in DHL’s 2016 Logistics Trend Radar
Game-changing trends revealed in DHL’s 2016 Logistics Trend Radar
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HL, a leading logistics service provider, has revealed 26 key trends that could impact the logistics industry in the next five to ten years.
The new 2016 Logistics Trend Radar, the third in the pioneering series, introduces brand new trends, tracks the evolution of trends spotted in earlier editions and ones that have faded or become mainstream since the series started in 2013. “Predicting trends is notoriously challenging. It is difficult to know ahead of time which trends will have longterm effect on businesses and which ones are simply parts of a short-lived hype.
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To identify and understand trends early on in their development we established the Logistics Trend Radar to help us and our customers stay ahead of the curve,” said Markus Kückelhaus, Vice President Innovation and Trend Research, DHL. The 2016 Logistics Trend Radar provides valuable insights and information on ongoing transformations and latest trends likely to shape the future of logistics – from macro trends such as the changing energy and trade landscape to micro trends such as logistics
startups unbundling the logistics industry. It reveals in-depth what sectors will be affected by developments and time frames for potential impact or introduction over the next decade. Artificial intelligence and personalization are behind several of the most transformational trends of the 2016 report – including intelligent supply chains that use self-learning or ‘machine learning’ systems.
Cargo & Logistics
The impact of data-driven and autonomous supply chains provides an opportunity for previously unimaginable levels of optimization in manufacturing, logistics, warehousing and last mile delivery that could become a reality in less than half a decade despite high set-up costs deterring early adoption in logistics. Changing consumer behavior and the desire for personalization are behind two other top trends Batch Size One and On-demand Delivery: Set to have a big impact on logistics, on-demand delivery will enable consumers to have their purchases delivered where and when they need them by using flexible courier services. Batch Size One explores what could happen as consumer demand for highly personalized products goes head to head with mass production over the next 20 years.
A batch size of one would lead to decentralized production and rapidly changing supply chains that will require logistics providers to be fast and flexible to react to changes in time and place of production. “Key trends featured in this year’s Logistics Trend Radar could transform the global logistics industry and with 15 of the 26 trends likely to make an impact in under five years, it is crucial that anyone involved in supply chain management and logistics understands these potentially game-changing developments and the implications for their own business or sector now,” said Matthias Heutger, Senior Vice President Strategy, Marketing & Innovation, DHL. The highly-regarded Logistics Trend Radar is a dynamic and versatile tool for future scenario planning, strategy development and innovation amongst
logistics professionals. Created by DHL Trend Research, the 2016 radar includes an in-depth analysis of emerging trends and sector-by-sector impact. It also features a review of ongoing trends plus insights from industry thought-leaders such as the World Bank, Fraunhofer Institute, HP and 500 Startups on the future of the logistics industry. Transformative pilot projects from DHL Trend Research are also highlighted in the report such as DHL’s testing of collaborative robots in warehouse operations.
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Technology
Solar plane resumes round-the-world flight
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he Solar Impulse team has been stuck in Hawaii with a fried battery for nine months. The plane that flies on sun power is ready to shine once again, according to www.popularmechanics.com.
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Technology
Last March, Solar Impulse 2 began its journey to become the first solar-powered aircraft to circumnavigate the globe. But after taking off in Abu Dhabi and crossing Asia, the plane ran into some big problems during the long, arduous leg over the Pacific Ocean. The batteries got hotter in the tropical weather than the team
anticipated, throwing a wrench into the entire mission. Solar Impulse 2 and its pilots Bertrand Piccard and Andre Borschberg left Japan and flew five days over the Pacific, but made it only as far as Hawaii before they had to shut things down last July Nine months later, they say the technology is fixed and the days are finally getting
long enough that the plane can get the sunlight it needs to resume its journey. If all goes according to plan this time, Solar Impulse 2 will take off from Hawaii today headed for Mountain View, CA. It’ll make a stopover or two in the U.S. before reaching New York City, and then crossing the Atlantic in a quest to eventually reach Abu Dhabi and complete the trip around the globe.
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Technology
Saeed Al Dhaheri: Internet of Things crucial for success of smart cities
UAE’s Smart City Initiatives exemplary for economies worldwide
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riven by the guidance of its visionary leadership, the UAE’s innovative and comprehensive measures toward Smart Sustainable Cities are an example for other countries to emulate, a senior IT expert has said.
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Technology
Saeed Al Dhaheri, Chairman, Smartworld, said: “Our leadership has set goals which include our people. The unique approach adopted by the UAE in its initiatives makes it a real global leader.” Smartworld, a joint venture between Etisalat and Dubai South, participated in ‘Power to the CLOUD’ conference at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. During his address, Dhaheri said Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other emirates are implementing effective strategies to lead the transformation toward smart cities.
“Dubai has a unique approach, of not only focusing on becoming the smartest city on the Earth by 2017, it also aims to be the world’s happiest place, which makes the initiatives inclusive and these have been widely recognized world over. Derived from Dubai Plan 2021, the measures will lead Dubai to be a city of creative and happy, empowered people, be an inclusive and cohesive society, a competitive knowledge economy, under a pioneering excellent government. Abu Dhabi has also launched the Digital Transformation initiative,” added Dhaheri. There are already a lot of achievements we can be proud of, he said, while citing the examples of Smart Dubai Index and Dubai Smartpreneur competition launched by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry in cooperation with the Smart Dubai office. The Smart City Index is a pioneering approach to Smart City KPIs and will become a global roadmap for smart cities, providing a clear path to transformation that is founded in best practice from Dubai and our international peers. “These are unique initiatives on a global level. There is no single benchmark to assess the smartness of a city or the initiatives. The Smart Dubai Index has, a universally applicable set of indicators which will highlight the achievements of Smart Dubai, as the city prepares to welcome the 50 million visitors to Dubai by 2020, has very well set an example,” added Dhaheri. He said that as a city moves toward bringing intelligence in myriad
Smartworld participates in ‘Power to the Cloud’ conference number of areas, it faces challenges such as deploying skilled and qualified resources to convert the data into actionable insights. Citing Garter research, Dhaheri said there are 1.6 billion IoT devices in SC projects and will reach 21 billion by 2020. “With an exponential rise in the quantum of data that is generated, the real benefit from managing Internet of Things (IoT) data can accrue when we have smart qualified people to run the initiatives. This makes it highly important to take data and convert into actionable insight. IoT is crucial for success of smart cities and it can optimize smart city operations.”
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