Monthly Newsletter issued by Dubai Civil Aviation Authority
www.viadubaionline.com
Issue 52 September 2017
Inside DCAA DCAA and Union Coop Consolidate Social Solidarity
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Emirati Women’s Day 2017
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DCAA Interview Mohammed Lengawi
We are always on call
Delegation from Advance 10 Passenger Information Centre
Honouring IT Management Team
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Training Academy delegation visits DCAA
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Smart Airports:
Making Our Future Perfect
UAE in Focus
Burhan Al Hashemi
DWC passenger growth 20 exceeds 35 per cent in first half Emirates highlights 21 female role models in aviation with simulator challenge
Special Report 22
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Address the challenges collectively Ng Chee Meng
24
ENOC expansion to cost $ 1 billion; production to begain in Q4 2019
Airlines 32
16 Bold leadership in a time of change
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Angela Gittens
30
Middle Eastern carriers’ freight volumes increased 3.7 per cent year-on-year in June
Cargo & Logistics 34
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Technology 38
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September 2017
Message
from the President
Strong economy
D
ubai has outperformed global economic growth and in the next two years it is expected to expand further.
Recent results of Dubai Plan 2021 Annual Report ‘Dubai Pulse’ show strong economic performance of Dubai in comparison to other economies in the region, which is essentially due to diversification, a stable macroeconomic environment, and also the emirate’s policies, growth strategies and infrastructure initiatives. The strong fundamentals of our economy have helped it stay strong in spite of downward trends that prevailed worldwide in 2016. It is clear that the economy has been successful in achieving its goals of diversification. Dubai’s oil sector now contributes less than one per cent to the economy. Aviation, one of the key sectors of Dubai’s economy, now has a significant contribution to the economy. The contribution of this sector continues to increase and is expected to reach 35 per cent of Dubai’s GDP by 2020 from the present about 30 per cent . Driven by the vision of our great leaders toward excellence and innovation, Dubai’s aviation sector has been outdoing global growth.
Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum
Passenger traffic at Dubai International (DXB) crossed 43 million in the first half of this year, up by 6.3 per cent from last year. The expansion of Dubai World Central airport will be completed by 2018. We continue to make best use of the latest smart technologies and our investments toward expansion, which will not only help us accommodate the strong growth in passenger numbers, but will also ensure an unmatchable passenger experience, speedy procedures and high security. Success has never made us complacent and we are firmly focused to continue working toward achieving greater heights. I must thank all stakeholders and partners, and also every employee in aviation sector, who work closely with us to bring our dreams to reality and for contributing to our success.
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In 2007, the functions of the Department of Civil Aviation were restructured. Accordingly, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) was established as a regulatory body, by a decree of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, on proclamation of law No. 21 of 2007, as amended by law No. 19 of 2010, to undertake development of Air Transport Industry in the Emirate of Dubai and to oversee all aviation-related activities.
CONTENTS
Inside DCAA 6
DCAA and Union Coop Consolidate Social Solidarity
8
Emirati Women’s Day 2017
Via Dubai is the official bilingual monthly newsletter of DCAA, designed to highlight the initiatives and developments in the aviation industry and act as a knowledge-sharing platform for all the stakeholders and aviation professionals.
General Supervision Mohammed Abdulla Ahli Coordinator Hanan Al Mazimi Creative Manager Mohammed Al Jarouf Editor Shveta Pathak
10 Delegation from Advance Passenger Information Centre
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.
DCAA Interview We are always on call
Advertise with us
Editorial, Production, PR & Marketing Nadd AlShiba PR and Event Management
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Mohammed Lengawi Printed by Printwell Dubai
Our Vision
Dubai Civil Aviation Authority is driven by the vision of Dubai to become the global Aviation hub contributing to prosperity and enabling growth for Dubai.
Our Mission
Dubai Civil Aviation Authority is committed to support the aviation sector in:
E-mail: dcaa@dcaa.gov.ae Website: www.dcaa.gov.ae Tel: (971) 4 216 2009 Fax: (971) 4 224 4502 P.O.BOX 49888 Dubai, United Arab Emirates
u Capturing the full value potential as a global passenger, tourism, trade, cargo and logistic hub u Providing the capacity, connectivity and leveraging existing assets to meet the aviation sector and economic growth plans of Dubai u Ensuring sustainable and responsible growth committed to safety, health, environment and security u Providing and creating customer-focused services to gain competitive advantage from innovation, knowledge and efficiency u Building and retaining capabilities, for the aviation sector, while offering career opportunities for Nationals u Ensuring a transparent, effective and commercially balanced regulatory framework that reflects the interests of the aviation industry, Dubai and the UAE u Providing efficient and cost-effective services to the aviation sector
http://www.facebook.com/DCAADubai
twitter.com/DcaaDubai
youtube.com/user/dcaadubai
Message
from the Director General
Excellence in all areas
T
he aviation sector’s importance to our economy underscores the need to maintain excellence across all areas of operations. We need to stay ahead of the requirements that would arise with future growth and developments in this sector. Worldwide, passenger numbers are projected to cross 7.3 billion by 2035, nearly double of what the industry is handling at present. In Dubai particularly, the aviation sector has been witnessing a higher than global growth in all areas. In order to manage this growth effectively, we need to make best and innovative use of latest smart technologies and maintain the standards of security and safety and continue working toward excellence. At the DCAA, we see the challenges of future growth as opportunities. And, as our leadership has inspired us, we are continuously working on the path to excellence and to stay 10x ahead of others.
Mohammed Abdulla Ahli
The efficiency of the Air Transport and International Affairs Sector has made the DCAA the only civil aviation authority in the world which completes the procedures of granting landing permissions for nonscheduled operations within half an hour. I would like to congratulate the department and employees at the DCAA for giving beyond their best and contribute to our success. This is just one of the many achievements we look forward to in future. ď‚ƒ
The culture of excellence and innovation is embedded in our organization and the achievements of each department are a testimony to this.
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Inside DCAA
Distribution of Gifts to Pilgrims
DCAA and Union Coop Consolidate Social Solidarity
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s part of the Pilgrims’ Gifts initiative, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) and Union Coop, the largest consumer cooperative in the state, have started for the second consecutive year distributing 1,300 gift bags to pilgrims departing to Holy Mecca from Dubai International Airport. Stemming from DCAA’s strategic objectives, the initiative aims to contribute to the consolidation of principles and concepts of social, charitable and humanitarian solidarity, as well as, strengthening relations with strategic partners in the area of community work, with the aim to improve the community. Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, Executive Director, Aviation Security and Accident Investigation Sector, DCAA, said: “Through its community initiatives, DCAA looks to achieve its strategies aimed at bringing happiness to all segments
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of the society. Keen on supporting such community participations, DCAA, in cooperation with Union Coop, has distributed pilgrims’ gifts for the second year running to strengthen trust in community service.” In turn, Suhail Al Bastaki, Director of Happiness and Marketing Department, Union Coop, said: “This comes in the context of community service and
contribution to strengthening noble values amongst its members, in addition to promoting social cohesion and instilling positive customs and traditions.” Al Bastaki indicated that DCAA and Union Coop have increased the number of gifts by 30% compared to last year, bringing the total to 1,300 gifts. Each gift includes personal care products, high temperature protective tools and liquid container.
Inside DCAA
Smart way to donate during “The Year of Giving”
C
harity donations can now be offered the smart way with the Smart Dubai Office (SDO) launching a new high-tech initiative to mark the Year of Giving 2017 to promote charity. The SDO customers who pay for their purchases using the Dubai Now app will receive a message allowing them to enter whatever amount they choose to donate. The system then processes the donations and directs them to the relevant UAE-based charities, under the supervision of the Government of Dubai. Several initiatives are being launched throughout the UAE to make it a success the Year of Giving, declared by the UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and followed by a directive by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Rule of Dubai. Dr Aisha Bint Butti Bin Bishr, Director-General of SDO said: “Institutions draw inspiration from our wise leaders who have directed us all to be charitable. They inspire us to work for the greater good of the UAE, and to always put people and their happiness first when we set our policies and launch our initiatives. We are all working to spread happiness in the UAE, which has become a prime destination for young professionals from all around the Arab world and beyond.” Hi Highness Shaikh Mohammad had called for establishing a framework for individuals and organisations in the UAE to streamline activities that seek to realise the objectives of the Year of Giving, which reflect the UAE’s values of generosity and charity.
September 2017
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Inside DCAA
The “Year of Zayed” a befitting tribute “We would like to express our deep pride and happiness on the occasion of the announcement made by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, to name 2018 as the ‘Year of Zayed’,” said HE Abdulla Ahli, Director General of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, on the occasion of the “Year of Zayed” The announcement coincides with the anniversary of the late leader’s accession to power in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi on 6 August, 1966. We view this announcement
as a message of fulfilment that highlights the role of the late President in the establishment, building and renaissance of the UAE. It also serves to perpetuate his legacy through the development of projects, events and initiatives that derive their spirit from the great values and principles enjoyed by the late Sheikh Zayed. Sheikh Zayed is one of the finest examples of altruism and love, in addition to his great vision that has led the country towards its present prosperity and progress in all fields. He did not spare any effort and worked
Emirati Women’s Day 2017 T he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) celebrated Emirati Women’s Day, a national initiative launched by mother of the nation H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood. The celebration focused on the role of Emirati women and the prominent local and international status they have come to achieve, as they have competed side by side with men in virtually all fields of work, proving their trustworthiness and loyalty in the service and glory of the nation. H.E. Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, Director General, DCAA, said on the occasion of Emirati Women’s Day: “It pleases me to take the opportunity of Emirati Women’s Day to express our pride for the role played by women of the UAE towards achieving national renaissance and prosperity. Emirati
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women have always been up to national responsibility, and have actively and substantially contributed to all aspects of the development process. This is firstly manifested by their pivotal role in building healthy families and nurturing good-mannered and ambitious Emirati generations that love their homeland; strive for its glory and protect its achievements, and secondly for their active role in all fields and levels of work, as they have deservedly come to assume highest ranks in the state. The Authority celebrates its Emirati female employees for the effective role
double fold to achieve his great dream of uniting the nation, so that his biography became a source of inspiration for all the nation to excel, develop and do good. The “Year of Zayed” will provide an opportunity to commemorate this bright process full of the great achievements and values added by the late father Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in building the people and the homeland, and will serve to highlight his leading role in the prosperity and high positioning of the UAE,” said HE Abdulla Ahli.
they play towards realising achievements, and for their dedication to work in order to achieve the glory of the United Arab Emirates.” The celebration included honouring a number of DCAA’s female employees by Mr Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, Executive Director, Aviation Security and Accident Investigation Sector, DCAA, for their efforts and achievements in the service of the UAE at large. The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority has always sought to provide all support and opportunities to Emirati women.
Inside DCAA
Technical Training Academy delegation visits DCAA
A
delegation from the Technical Training Academy in Dubai visited the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) offices to review work processes in the area of managing accident investigation and aircraft control.
The visit was aimed at strengthening and developing the expertise of the delegation composed of UAE nationals, and informing them of best practices.
The visit comes as part of an ongoing cooperation between DCAA and Technical Training Academy that aims to provide support to national state institutions specialised in civil aviation. ď‚ƒ
Abdullah Al Balushi, Deputy Head of Accident Investigation Department at Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), welcomed the delegation. The visit included a field tour to Dubai International Airport to inform the delegation about ground safety operations provided by Dnata. The visit was attended by Tamim Naji, Ground Safety Manager at Dnata, who explained the ground operations provided during loading and unloading plane cargo.
September 2017
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Inside DCAA
Delegation from Advance Passenger Information Centre
A
delegation from Advance Passenger Information Centre visited the offices of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA). HE Mohammed Abdullah Al Ahli, Director General of DCCA, received the delegation headed by Mubarak Al-Ghafli, Director of the Advance Passenger Information Centre for passenger information.
The two sides discussed the aspects of cooperation and mechanisms of action between the two parties. The delegation was told that DCAA is keen to extend all channels of communication and cooperation with all governmental bodies and institutions, thus serving the community and the public interest.
Honouring IT Management Team
H
.E. Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, Director General of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, honoured
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the Authority’s IT management Team for their recent efforts and achievements.
H.E. wished them success and continuity on the path of achieving more equally successful future achievements.
Inside DCAA
Training Academy delegation visits DCAA D ubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) received a delegation from the Academy of Technical Training Dubai at Al Maktoum International Airport. The delegation members have completed training in the field of aviation safety.
The visit was aimed at reviewing the progress of aviation safety and procedures.
factor and its impact on the field of work. The visit also included a field trip to the observation tower of Al Maktoum International Airport to identify the progress of work and procedures. Such training workshops represent interest and closer relationships with strategic partners to serve the community and develop human resources. ď‚ƒ
The delegation was received by Khalid Jafar Abdullah, Inspector of Aircraft Control. During the visit, the delegation presented a briefing about functions and strategy of the Authority and the responsibilities of the aviation security sector and the investigation of accidents. The delegation was also received by the Director of Regulatory Safety, Martin Orkiev, who gave a detailed presentation on how to manage risk and safety of the air, as well as the mistakes of the human
September 2017
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DCAA Interview
Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, Executive Director, Aviation Security and Accident Investigation Sector, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority.
We are always on call “We are always active and alert; available 24 hours, and we are on call. If anything happens, we are there.” These are the words of Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, Executive Director, Aviation Security and Accident Investigation Sector, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority.
Mr Lengawi, with 22 years’ experience in the aviation field, heads the Security and accident investigation sector under DCAA with unique efficiency and dedication to realise the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is to make Dubai the airport of the world. “We have to ensure that that vision is achieved,” he said in an exclusive interview with Via Dubai. “Our responsibility is to ensure safety and security of passengers and airport users. Passengers have the confidence that Dubai is the most safe place. Also the message is that Dubai is a place where we detect dangerous goods on transport or transit.” “By “aviation security” we mean any threat affecting passengers, airport or aircraft, which can end in an accident, or loss of life. We are aware of this great responsibility and make ourselves available all the time.” Excerpts
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What is the outlook of the aviation sector and what your department’s strategy to make Dubai one of the top aviation hubs in the world? The future of aviation is booming. In the meantime we do have strategic plan to ensure that we meet the future. We have a strategic plan, from 2018 to 2021, and we ensure that our staff are trained and qualified. Certain aspects need to have licenced people, for instance accident investigation. We do require qualified people. Dangerous goods transportation requires licensed people. Every two years they go and do exam for renewing their licences. And we ensure that he is capable of handling and identifying dangerous goods among the cargo. For that we ensure that we have trained and qualified people. Accordingly we adjust our internal system, like working hours, new technology, (like RRY detectors). What is the structure of the various departments under you? There are two departments under Aviation Security and Accident
Investigation. One department is Aviation Security and Dangerous Goods Section. Aviation Security is responsible to look after the security part of the aviation. For instance, catering, cargo, passenger screening, and passenger facilitation. They do audits and inspections of the facilities and they come up with recommendations to close the gaps. So we do self-assessment before any external agency conducts audit. One of their roles is to conduct inspections and audits on the aviation facilities to ensure that they are fully compliant with international rules and regulations. Also additional part is to review the airline security programmes. Each airline has got a security programme which is approved by the state of registry. So when they apply to operate in Dubai they submit their security programme to us and we review and we ensure that they are in line with the airports and the standards of the UAE. On the other hand, the dangerous goods section
DCAA Interview
is responsible to issue No Objection Certificates (NOC) to transport dangerous goods, including Class I and 7 which is fire arms, ammunitions and explosives. Any transportation of dangerous goods out from Dubai or into Dubai or via Dubai they have to apply online and obtain NOC from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, then we process it to Dubai Police for their approval. What are your achievements, so far? The department has conducted 185 Safety Assessment of Foreign Aircraft (SAFA) inspections till August 15, 2017. For the whole of 2016, they were 237. “We make sure that all foreign operators are compliant, airworthy, licensed, and they are carrying proper documentation and have proper trained crew on board,” he said. “We conduct the inspections to ensure that we are maintaining a safe and secured airport. Our achievement is the increase in the number of inspections during 2017.” Then we have aircraft oversight section responsible to conduct audits and inspections on foreign operators. We do conduct random inspections parallel with GCAA. We inspect documentation,
aircraft airworthiness, serviceability, licensing of the pilots, the crew and engineers. What is the record of the aviation security and accident investigation sector? With the increase of passenger movement and flight movement we have to put strategy to cope up with that increase. Dubai airports in general are up to their limit with the movement. We support the aviation industry by implementing the rules and regulations to cope up with the expansion and the growth. What about transportation of dangerous goods? When shipments arrive and when they suspect to be dangerous goods, they hold the shipments and notify us. We send our experts, Dangerous Goods Certified persons, to confirm whether that is dangerous goods or not. For all this, we have new technology to assist us. We do have RRY Detector to detect the radioactive materials, because the effect of radioactive materials on humans is very critical. So, before they proceed they have the hand-held device to detect if there is radioactive material on that shipment.
Also we have implemented the smart application to apply for dangerous goods. So, they can apply and we can approve the dangerous goods request of working hours or even week-ends and official holidays, using a smart application. What is the role of accident investigation department? With the increase in traffic the chances of having accidents are high. The Aviation Accident Investigation Department and Aircraft Oversight is responsible to conduct investigations and the root cause analysis on any aircraft accidents within the emirate of Dubai. The Accident Investigation is also divided into two aspects. There is Annexe 13 Accident Investigation which falls under the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) category, and there is non-Annexe 13 Investigation. Annexe 13 accident investigation is done by General Civil Aviation Authority. But in line with the local civil aviation authority, we play a major role on the accident investigation part and the response as well. The investigation is done in parallel with the local authority. And we do have an MoU signed with GCAA in that regard. The non-Annexe 13 Accident Investigation is done purely by DCAA. For
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DCAA Interview
instance, when a vehicle strikes a wing tip of an aircraft, that is non-Annexe 13 accident investigation. We do root cause analysis of that accident investigation and we come up with recommendations. Then we follow up on the implementation of the recommendations. We put the recommendation based on the agreement of that concerned entity of the accident and the party involved in the accident and we ensure that the recommendations are implemented. How important are the jobs of screeners? DCAA is responsible to license the screeners, the persons who sit behind the screening machines. For training them, we have an MoU with Dubai Police. The equipment are provided by DCAA and we approve the criteria for certifying the screeners. Dubai Police has got a training centre, approved by GCAA and recognised by International Civil Aviation Authority. We are responsible for the screeners’ part of licensing. There are certain criteria for the screeners to pass that exam. We approve the syllabus and criteria. When he passes the training course, he is issued with a licence to operate the screening machine. Also, that is divided into two categories. The persons licensed to screen passengers are not allowed to screen cargo and vice a versa unless they are trained in both categories. People are the backbone of our efficient operations. There is a growth programme for the staff. We have 17 people, all qualified and trained, specialists in their respective fields and for 2021 we are increasing the number by 10 per cent. How advanced are you in adopting technology? Dubai is ahead of the game with technology, so we implement the latest technology and security and at the
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same time we have qualified and trained manpower. We ensure that the service providers are up to speed and standards and sometimes ahead of the standards with regard to the challenges facing the civil aviation. How about use of technology to detect dangerous goods? In 2016 we adopted the smart application for dangerous goods. We do understand the need for speedy disposal of cases and applications for approvals. That’s why we operate 24 hours and always on call. We knew that if we keep our approval of NOCs during working hours, it will cause delay to aviation and transportation of cargo. So, basically the implementation in 2016 of the smart application allowed us to issue an increased number of approvals compared to 2015. The number of NOCs issued for transport of dangerous goods has shown steady growth. We issued 9,515 NOCs in 2015, which have grown to 11,516 in 2016. For six months till June 2017, we issued 4,871 NOCs. Similarly, for firearm NOCs, we issued 801 certificates in 2015, 1,166 in 2016 and 619 for six months till June 2017. What kind of challenges you face and how you deal with them? There are always challenges. And we like them. Because if it’s a daily routine, you feel bored. We put mitigations, and we ensure that these challenges are met and we ensure that we are capable of looking into the future. The threats facing the civil aviation are worldwide. It divides into two aspects: Manpower and technology. You have to ensure that you have the latest technology on security. Simultaneously you have qualified, trained people to operate it.
The challenges are the increase in passenger numbers and cargo movement. We have to implement the smart application, so that we can continuously issue NOCs for the transportation. The message we are sending to the world that Dubai is not a place where you can send or use everything,. Ultimately, the message to the users is that Dubai is among the most safe place in the world. How do you rate your services and contribution to the UAE economy? We do have risks, countries competing with us, but that’s fair competition in the market, and we sell our products and services. Dubai is unique and has always been the best aviation service provider in the world. That’s our target to achieve His Highness Sheikh Mohammed’s vision. When you ensure that the passenger is safe they will be happy. Security is something you feel, you don’t see. Services are provided to the passengers on different aspects. It starts from the time he arrives at the airport till he lands in his destination. There are certain elements to ensure that the airport is safe and secure, passengers are safe and secure, as well as the operations. We ensure that we meet the criteria and we make the journey as smooth as possible. Dubai has won the prize for being one of the most safe airports in the world. On the security, we have achieved 99.53%, the highest score in the world. I have a professional and dynamic team in DCAA which can cope with the challenges. And we ensure that we are ahead of the game. So, thinking outside the box, a proactive team, that’s what makes me proud as well the contribution we are doing as DCAA to the aviation industry in the UAE in general.
Our Smart Services DCAA Smart App will allow the customers the below services: • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Issuance of Landing permissions Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Carriage of Restricted Articles Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Aerial Work Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Aircraft Warning Light Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Heliport Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Pyrotechnic Display Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Building Height (Below 300m) Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Building Height (Above 300m) Issuance of Approval for Heliports Certification Issuance of Approval for Crane Operation Issuance of Approval for GSM or other communication tower Issuance of Approval for Balloon Operations Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Sky Trackers / Space Cannon
Registration Requirements: • • • • • • •
Company Name Company Address Telephone Number Fax Number PO Box City Choose one secret questions
• • • • • • •
Username Password Email Address Name Mobile Number Emirates ID Number Category (Individual - Airline - Agency - Expert - Provider)
You can download the application
by searching in App Store and Play Store by typing DCAA or scan the QR code
For more information, please call technical support on: email:
+971 56 6810685
it.support@dcaa.gov.ae
15 September 2017www.dcaa.gov.ae
Cover Story
Airports are becoming ‘smart’ places to woo passengers through offering them sweet and swift experience
Smart Airports:
Making Our Future Perfect S hifting demographics and emerging and maturing communications technologies are driving new travel patterns that will require innovative business models and strategies by airports and airlines.
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Cover Story
“Smart airports will usher in a new era for both airport operations and passenger experience.” Thibaut Trancart, Vice President of Marketing & Strategic Campaigns at Thales, a French technology group, defines a smart airport as one that fully exploits the power of emerging and maturing technologies built around a digital grid. The digital grid is the airport’s nervous system, touching and managing every point of interaction, be it passenger facing or operational. Flying can be a painful experience for most people, if you consider the endless delays, long lines to check in and clear security, cramped seats and indecipherable announcements. The scene is changing fast with the aviation industry making leaping advances in technology and the ways in which they conduct business. Technology is the biggest visible influence on the airport experience, and the overlap of IT and architecture is only growing.
The expectations are escalating – passengers expect better, cheaper and faster services. They want realtime information about flight delays and gate changes. They demand streamlined processes for check-in, transit and boarding. That’s how the ‘smart airport’ concept was elaborated, about a decade ago, by a Cisco Systems-Internet Business Solutions Group (IBSG) study, Smart Airports: Transforming Passenger Experience To Thrive in the New Economy. The report added:
Smart Airport is a kind of a derivate from smart phones, remarked Dieter A Heinz, President of German Association for Airport Technology and Equipment (GATE), a premier alliance of German airport suppliers. The time when airports concentrated only on terminal buildings and the handling of aircraft is history – or past perfect. Airports are only successful if they make all of them content, if not happy, he remarked. 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 offer them seamless travel experience. The IATA loves the Smart Airport concept because they believe it will save the airline
industry more than US$2 billion a year in costs. Air traffic worldwide is projected to double during the next 15 years and to reach 10 billion passengers a year by 2030. The Middle East is an emerging market for smart airports. The smart airport market in the region is expected to reach US$850 million over the next three years. The growth in the region will be spearheaded by the Arabian Gulf countries, according to Technavio. On the global scale, the smart airport market is expected to reach close to US$13 billion. The global market for Smart Airports in terms of annual spending is projected to exceed US$15 billion by 2020. According to AIRPORTS 2030 study by Frost & Sullivan, as airports gradually evolve from pure transit points into customer-centric organisations, the focus shifts to the passenger journey and improving the overall passenger experience. As the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to develop, the airport environment is going to experience significant digital transformation, impacting people, businesses and processes. By 2020, it might be possible for 80 per cent of the passengers travelling through the world’s international airports to only have to deal with machines, and not interact with human beings at all, as they pass through fully automated check-ins and immigration counters. Due to massive expansions, increasingly complex operations, changing business models and more stakeholders, the airports are honing their capabilities to focus on effectiveness rather than mere efficiency, to remain agile and adaptable to fluctuations in the high volumes of passenger - and cargo.
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Cover Story
The airports are turning to intelligent technologies and mobile apps to improve the passenger experience and address the capacity challenges, according to a joint study by SITA and Airports Council International (ACI). It found that improving the passenger experience is the number one driver of investments by 59 per cent of the world’s airports. The range and the functionality of technologies, systems and services that impact an airport are continually increasing and become critical to airport success. Passengers are demanding enhanced travel experience: faster, more efficient and seamless service at the airport - and beyond it. The airports, to remain successful and profitable, have to create competitive advantage on five fronts: spatial, demand, service, facilities and managerial, the study recommended. The result: self-service technologies transforming check-in and boarding, mobility solutions are driving process efficiency and profitability, security technologies altering passenger and baggage processing and virtualization and infrastructure as a service is cutting cost and increasing agility.
Airports are investing in new technology to ensure a seamless and secure passenger experience.
moving through and departing these essential travel hubs, the airport experience seems ripe for disruption.
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, airports are actively adopting new technologies.
The world’s international airports are on the cusp of a new era of technology-powered innovation. From new types of mobile apps, new retail experiences for travellers, smart luggage, new on-site applications of the internet of things (IoT), it’s a sector that seems primed for an update.
Machine-to-machine, big data, cloud computing and mobility solutions are going to revolutionise the design of future airport infrastructure.
A SITA survey on passenger IT trends shows passengers across the globe are so comfortable with technology today that they are choosing to use it rather than interacting with people. Out of every 100 passengers, more than 85 had a positive travel experience using technology.
Mobile, apps, online, digital and mobile identity, know your customer (KYC) and authenticating identity, biometrics (facial, fingerprint, iris), sensors, beacons, new forms of payment, mobile wallets, NFC and contactless, RFID, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, intelligent video analytics, big data, new human interface technologies, chatbots, robots and intelligent assistants are among the existing technologies making their way into airports. Considering how much time travellers spend in transit arriving,
The IATA resolution requires airlines to track each bag on to the aircraft, into arrival areas and even transfer systems. They are required to implement it by June 2018. Dubai has been leading in adopting the concept of Smart Airport rigorously. Travellers will be able to reduce their departure time through Smart Gates to as little as seven seconds at Dubai International airport thanks to new projects launched by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA)-Dubai. It now has smart gates at the airport which allows travellers to use their smart phones to cross the gates in what is called ‘UAE Wallet’. In September, travellers will say goodbye to long queues at arrivals and departures from Terminal 3 at Dubai International, the world’s biggest airport for international passengers which will handle over 90 million passengers a year.
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Cover Story
The biometric tunnels that scan people’s faces as they walk to baggage reclaim will be white in colour and a light will come on when the passenger goes through them. The “biometric border” walkway takes a 3D scan of people’s faces as they enter the airport and checks it against a digital passport using facerecognition software.
Future-ready Airports
Presently, 20 per cent of travellers use smart gates in Dubai and plans are afoot to increase it to 50 per cent in the near future.
In January 2017, PwC published a unique Index of Future-Ready Airports, looking at the ingredients for success in Top 30 US airports and the catalytic role of airport infrastructure.
The GDRFA is installing the new gates in Terminals 1, 2, 3 and at Al Maktoum International, Dubai second airport, to be completed by the first quarter of 2018. The new generation of smart gates will replace all the current gates by first quarter of 2018. The smart gates ensures that each traveller will only spend 9 to 20 seconds to pass through. Passengers departing from Dubai International can now use their smart phones at the smart gates instead of their passports as part of a new service called Smart UAE Wallet. The new facility reduces departure clearance time to between nine and 12 seconds per passenger. The UAE Wallet app will be operational in all terminals after the wallet is linked with major airlines. An airport is often described as being something like a city in microcosm as it includes on a smaller scale almost all of the elements that go into a city such as transport, security, retail, logistics, utilities and accommodation. And as cities become smarter, so airports are also looking to introduce more connected smart systems to improve many different elements of their operations.
A look at airports as catalysts for future growth
The US airports - still publicly owned and operated - are struggling to invest in capital improvement, which is contributing to tangible issues apparent to passengers such as congestion and delays inside terminals and at gates – and a drag on the economy in the order of US$34 billion by 2020 and US$63 billion by 2040. The scale of the challenge facing airports across the US therefore remains significant. The report says airports that allow the efficient movement of passengers from curb side dropoff to gates reap tangible benefits in terms of increased passenger satisfaction, which translates into greater passenger volumes and increased terminal revenue. At a foundational level, this can be facilitated through terminal signage, information provision, and efficient design that factors in how passengers move through the terminal and where bottlenecks
occur – such as at security, which has an average wait time of 18 minutes across the 30 largest airports in the US, it added. It added that airports are increasingly becoming ‘futureready’ by using technology to provide real-time information to passengers regarding wait times, and by providing remote check-in, pre-clearance options and selfservice baggage drops that speed up navigating the airport maze. Mobile technology has been a boon to airports, allowing them to offset the cost of dedicated infrastructure by making such information platform-agnostic, with passengers being able to access relevant airport information through a mobile app, it added. However, to be future-ready, airports should weigh these benefits against the risks to information security from cyber threats, for example, and put into place managed safeguards that protect against those threats. Airports are ultimately a means to getting to an end, rather than a destination in and of themselves. Airports need to prioritize highquality mass transit connections to and from downtown areas, it argued.
September 2017
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UAE in Focus
DWC passenger growth exceeds 35 per cent in first half
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verall DWC performed well in the first half of the year with both scheduled and chartered carriers contributing to traffic volumes at the airport.
DWC welcomed 554,993 passengers in the first half of 2017 compared to 410,278 passengers during the first six months last year, a growth of 35.3 per cent. The first half numbers were boosted by consistent growth in the second quarter during which passenger traffic totalled 221,213, up 45.1 per cent compared to 152,465 during the same period in 2016. The top regions for DWC in terms of passenger volumes during the first half were Eastern Europe (207,798 passengers), the GCC (170,424), Western Europe (61,459) and the Indian subcontinent (55,785 passengers). Flight movements during the first half totalled 18,371, down 11.1 per
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September 2017
cent compared to 20,656* flight movements recorded during the corresponding period in 2016. The average passenger per flight movement during the first half was 121, up 34.4 per cent compared to 90 during the first six months of 2016. Freight volumes at DWC totalled 443,835 tonnes during the first half compared to 430,132 tonnes recorded in the first six months of 2016, an increase of 3.2 per cent. “Overall DWC performed well in the first half of the year with both scheduled and chartered carriers contributing to traffic volumes at the airport. DWC’s continuing growth as an important
travel and logistics hub is driven by advantages the facility offers to both airlines and passengers - from easy availability of slots to quick turn-around times, access to new catchment area, and quick transit times for passengers,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports. DWC is currently served by 8 passenger carriers, operating an average of 95 flights weekly to 14 international destinations and is home to 26 scheduled cargo operators that fly to as many as 70 destinations around the world. DWC is undergoing a major expansion that will see its annual capacity increase from the existing 5 million passengers to 26 million passengers.
UAE in Focus
Airline supports the Dreams Soar global mission through two female aviators
Emirates highlights female role models in aviation with simulator challenge
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hampioning the importance of women’s contributions to the growth and development of aviation, Emirates recently hosted Shaesta Waiz for a Boeing 777 simulator challenge in its home base of Dubai.
Waiz is the founder and pilot of Dreams Soar, Inc. (DSI), a non-profit organisation whose mission is to inspire and empower young females to become the next generation of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and aviation professionals, through a global outreach mission. The outreach includes a global solo flight mission, where Waiz is piloting a singleengine Beechcraft Bonanza A36 to circumnavigate the globe. Waiz stopped in Dubai, one of 34 stops across 18 countries in her five-continent journey which will clock in just under 47,000 kilometres upon completion. Shaesta was met at Emirates Aviation College by Bakhita Al Muheiri, Emirates Boeing 777 First Officer, to test her aerial skills in an Emirates Boeing 777 simulator. Bakhita is one of Emirates’ youngest female Emirati pilots at 24 years. She earned her wings in 2016 and has accumulated over 1,100 flying hours after completing the airline’s National Cadet Pilot Programme. After a short briefing, Shaesta and Bakhita began their simulator challenge in the Boeing 777 cockpit, taking-off, landing and piloting each assigned journey. Watch both pilots command the Boeing 777 simulator and share their personal experiences here. Adel Al Redha, Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer Emirates airline said: “Through our National Cadet Pilot Programme, we want to grow the
next generation of female pilots, by creating an environment that retains, nurtures and values them so they are able to progress and take a wider role within our industry. We also believe that one of the ways to support the need for pilots today is to tap into the female talent pool and inspire them to take their career path into aviation which is one of the most rewarding fields.” Bakhita Al Muheiri also commented on the simulator experience with Shaesta: “I am truly inspired by Shaesta’s story. As the first civilian female pilot from Afghanistan, she has demonstrated that the world is full of possibilities and when we expose females to a wide range of
careers in STEM and aviation we boost their interest to enter fast-moving sectors with a wealth of opportunities.” Commenting on her twin engine Boeing 777 simulator challenge, Shaesta said: “An airplane doesn’t know if you are a girl or boy, what your religion or background is. It reacts based on the input of the pilot. “My hope from the time I spent flying the Boeing 777 simulator with Bakhita, learning of her empowering story, and Emirates helping to pave the way for many more young women, is for more role models to devote their time and energy inspiring our next generation. Let us work together and expend our resources to create brighter futures for our tomorrow.”
September 2017
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Special Report
Nearly 1.2 million new pilots, technicians needed over next 20 years
Boeing forecasts rising demand for commercial airline pilots, technicians
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new forecast by Boeing shows a continued strong demand for commercial airline pilots and maintenance technicians as the world’s airlines add 38,000 airplanes to the global fleet over the next 20 years.
Boeing’s 2015 Pilot and Technician Outlook projects that between 2015 and 2034, the world will require 558,000 new commercial airline pilots and 609,000 new commercial airline maintenance technicians.
“To help address this need, Boeing trained last year a record number of pilots and technicians at 17 training campuses around the globe and has invested in a comprehensive Pilot Development Program to train early stage pilots to become qualified commercial airline pilots,” said Sherry Carbary, vice president, Boeing Flight Services. “We will continue to increase the amount of training we provide, enabling our customers to satisfy the world’s growing appetite for air travel.” “The challenge of meeting the global demand for airline professionals will not be solved by one company alone,” Carbary added. “Aircraft manufacturers, airlines, training equipment manufacturers, training delivery organizations, regulatory agencies and educational institutions are all stepping up to meet the increasing need to train and certify pilots and technicians.” Boeing’s 2015 Outlook projects continued increases in pilot demand, up more than 4 percent compared to the 2014 Outlook. For maintenance
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technicians, demand increased approximately 5 percent.
•
Middle East – 60,000 pilots and 66,000 technicians
Overall global demand for these skilled resources will be driven by continued economic expansion, resulting in an average requirement for about 28,000 new pilots and more than 30,000 new technicians every year.
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Africa – 18,000 pilots and 22,000 technicians
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Russia / CIS – 17,000 pilots and 22,000 technicians
The 20-year projected demand for new pilots and technicians by region is: •
Asia Pacific – 226,000 pilots and 238,000 technicians
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Europe – 95,000 pilots and 101,000 technicians
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North America – 95,000 pilots and 113,000 technicians
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Latin America – 47,000 pilots and 47,000 technicians
The Pilot and Technician Outlook is Boeing’s long-term forecast of the demand for pilots and technicians and its estimate of personnel needed to fly and maintain the tens of thousands of new commercial jetliners expected to be produced over the next 20 years. The forecast is published annually to factor in changing market forces affecting the industry. Boeing shares the outlook with the public to inform airlines, suppliers and the financial community of trends in the industry.
September 2017
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Interview
Burhan Al Hashemi, Managing Director, ENOC Marketing
ENOC expansion to cost $ 1 billion; production to begain in Q4 2019
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NOC, which always had a close association with Dubai Airports, hopes to play a role in realising the Emirates vision in becoming the ME aviation hub. Burhan Al Hashemi, Managing Director, ENOC Marketing shared with Via Dubai ENOC’s Five-Year Strategy.
Excerpts: ENOC has secured the position as the top jet fuel supplier in the region. What is the latest daily quantity and how they have grown over the years?
ENOC has been fuelling the aviation industry’s growth locally in the UAE since 1995 and has always had a close association with Dubai Airports. Today, and with Dubai’s strategic location and impressive airport connectivity, we hope to play a role in realizing the Emirate’s vision in becoming the Middle East aviation hub. Our aviation operations have witness a substantial growth since its inception and this is largely due to the surge in Dubai International Airport’s operations. Our volumes doubled to approximately 1 billion USG in the last seven years. Today, we supply in excess of 3 million USG of jet fuel per day serving 300 fuellings to a diversified portfolio of clients in the UAE and internationally.
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What is ENOC’s growth strategy?
As part of the five-year strategy, ENOC will focus its efforts and investments on fulfilling Dubai’s energy needs through the expansion of its refinery and service station network, building terminals storage capacity, and increasing its market share in the marketing of diesel, jet fuel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). Over the next five years, the Group will focus on expanding capacities to support domestic energy demand in alignment with Dubai Plan 2021 and in preparation for EXPO 2020. This includes a 50% capacity increase of ENOC’s Jebel Ali refinery to reach 210,000 barrels per day, as well as the construction of Project Falcon’s 16km jet fuel pipeline extension to Al Maktoum Airport by end of 2018. Another key component of the Group’s strategic direction is to expand the retail network within Dubai to deliver an array of offerings including non-fuel and other supplementary services. This includes ongoing renovation of major service
stations in Dubai and the construction of 54 new stations by 2020. In relation to ENOC’s goals for its aviation operations, the key element of our strategy is a customer-based approach. We believe a strong customer portfolio is a major strategic asset and a key component to sustaining long-term growth. Over the years, we have been re-engaging and redirecting collaborative sales and marketing efforts to create a dynamic portfolio consisting of Commercial, Military and General Aviation segments. This has not only helped us to maintain our position as a leading supplier but also drove year on year growth for our aviation business.
Which are ENOC’s major airline clients in Dubai and the UAE?
We have a diverse portfolio of more than 75 customers across all three segments of aviation – Commercial, Military and General Aviation, with Emirates & Flydubai being our largest customers in terms of volume consumption.
Interview
The energiser
• ENOC’s volumes doubled to 1b USG in seven years • Sarves 300 fuellings to diversfied portfolio of clients in UAE and internationally
• Aviation nertwork grew to 143 airports in 23 countries • Cpacity at Jabel Ali refinery to be raised by 50%
• Construction of Project Falcon’s 16 km pipeline to extend to Al Maktoum Airport by 2018
What is ENOC’s jet fuel market share?
ENOC is the biggest supplier of Jet Fuel to airlines within UAE, both in terms of number of fuellings and the volume supplied.
What is the progress of the expansion at Jebel Ali refinery?
We recently signed an agreement with Rotary Engineering Fujairah FZE to construct 12 new storage tanks as part of our plans to expand the capacity of the ENOC Jebel Ali refinery by 50% per cent. This follows the announcement of the major EPC contractor signing in September last year for the design and construction of new processing units and ancillary units. The expansion project comprises three separate packages at an estimated value of US$1billion and the expected date for commercial production is Q4 of 2019.
downstream strategy to be selfsufficient in domestic fuels, as well as expanding our product portfolio on offer for export. The production capacity of our Jebel Ali refinery is 140,000 barrels per day helping to meet the requirements of local, regional and international markets. With expansion, we hope to achieve an increased capacity of 210,000 barrels per day. This will help us address the needs of the market and the wider industry, which has witnessed considerable changes in recent times.
What is the progress of the jet fuel pipeline extension linking Our expansion project at the Jebel Al Maktoum International Ali refinery is a key part of the UAE’s Airport? When will it come onstream?
The construction of the 16km pipeline will be synchronised with airport plans and will be completed before the airlines shift from Dubai International Airport to Al Maktoum International Airport, ensuring uninterrupted fuel supplies at the airport. The project is expected for completion by end 2019.
How is ENOC Aviation’s supply network growing in the region? Which airport and airline account for top business?
Over the years ENOC Aviation network has grown and now supplies its customers at 143 airports in 23 countries. Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Africa are the top focus international markets for our aviation business.
September 2017
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Middle East News
Air Arabia adds Sohar to Oman network
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ir Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest low-cost carrier (LCC), launched its inaugural flight to Sohar yesterday, making it the first international flight to commence operations at the Sohar Airport. The Air Arabia flight will operate three times a week, on Sundays, Mondays and Wednesdays, departing from Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) at 08:00 hours, and arriving at Sohar
International Airport (OHS) at 08:40 local time. The return flight departs from Sohar at 09:20, landing in Sharjah at 10:00 local time. The new route complements Air Arabia’s existing operations in Muscat and Salalah, boosts travel and trade opportunities between the two Gulf countries, and provides hassle-free travel options to the residents of Sohar.
Sohar is an ancient city filled with historical and religious significance. The strategic location of the port of Sohar, which lies at the heart of global trade routes between Europe and Asia, has made the city significantly important to the country’s economy, and a hub for its industrial activities. Air Arabia currently operates flights to over 130 routes across the globe from five hubs located in the Middle East and North Africa.
Gulf Air appoints of deputy chief executive officer
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ulf Air has announced that the Board of Directors of the airline has recently appointed Captain Waleed Abdul Hameed Al Alawi, as Deputy Chief Executive Officer. Captain. Waleed Abdul Hameed Al Alawi has over thirty-seven years of experience in various aviation related positions and holds an MBA in Aviation Management from City University of London.
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September 2017
International News
No middle seats for solo women travelers on Vistara Airline flights
India’s airline launches programme to protect solo female travelers
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omen flying solo in a Vistara plane are allotted only window or aisle seats and not the middle ones and the airline is also providing them assistance with baggage as well as transport on her arrival at the destination, reported India’s NDTV.
On an average 70-100 women passengers travelling alone have availed of the service, #VistaraWomanFlyer, every day and a total of 8,000 have signed up for it since the launch of the scheme in March, the airline said.
Those women flying all alone in Vistara, are being allotted either window or aisle seats and not middle ones. The airline is also helping them with the baggage and also transport on their arrival at the destination.
women travellers are not assigned middle seats, again based on feedback and intuitive thoughtfulness,” Chief Strategy & Commercial Officer, Vistara, Sanjiv Kapoor said, according to media reports.
The scheme, #VistaraWomanFlyer, also lets women select their preferred seat at the time of booking a flight as well as during web check-in.
He further said that it was observed that solo women passengers often requested for assistance on the ground after reaching their destinations, mostly either on their baggage or to confirm most reliable options for airport transfers, the agency report added.
The solo passengers, who want to avail the help with their baggage or with transport, are needed to approach Vistara staff at the baggage claim area holding a placard reading Vistara Woman Flyer, he said, while adding that they will also be provided help with booking a taxi and escorted up to the vehicle.
A top official of the full-service carrier said that these women-centric moves were offered following feedback gathered from passengers.
“As part of this optional service, solo
September 2017
27
International News
Biometric self-service check in system from start to finish, immersive wall, art installations at the new T4
Exciting new features at Changi Airport’s new Terminal 4
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ingapore’s Changi Airport’s new Terminal 4, slated to open later this year, offers exciting features for travellers and enhanced security.
According to media reports, the highly anticipated terminal has sold out its 200,000 tickets to an open house on Aug. 7-20, giving the public its first taste of a reimagined travel experience prior to its launch.
nine airlines – the Air Asia Group (four airlines), Cathay Pacific, Cebu Pacific, Korean Air, Spring Airlines and Vietnam Airlines will begin operation in conjunction with the terminal’s opening.
The terminal is expected to hold a capacity of 16 million passenger movements a year, while a total of
Aside from over 500,000 plants that will fill the entire terminal, the terminal will have a fleet of adorable automatic
September 2017
cleaning robots making their rounds to ensure everything is spick and span, according to a Weekender Singapore report. Here are some of the exciting features of the terminal: Self-service kiosks: From check-in and bag drop to immigration and boarding,
International News
these high-tech marvels are the terminal’s bid for a fast, seamless and potentially wordless travel. Furthermore, T4’s extensive use of technology includes facial recognition software which can authenticate the passenger’s identity, hence removing the need for manual verification by security. Art installations: Ardent art lovers will be thrilled to know that a variety of art sculptures are put up on display at the new aerospace abode.
performance titled Peranakan Love Story, displayed on a LED screen which is coyly concealed as part of the shophouse facade.
staggering 70m x 5m LED screen loops visuals of scenic views and fantastical animation while bags are x-rayed and bodies patted down.
Immersive wall: To quell your boat of jitters during stressful security checks, you can now divert your gaze at the massive Immersive Wall where soothing and sensory clips are shown to quell the restless soul. Located above the security proceedings area, the
A lifestyle haven: No planes to catch? No problem. T4 boasts over 80 outlets and restaurants for yours to shop, dine and merrymake. Some new entrants include Chinese restaurant London Fat Duck, Sushi Goshin, Pazzion and Adidas Homecourt.
Some of the artworks include steel feathered friends from Les Oiseaux (The Birds) situated at the Arrival and Deapture Halls, and Hey, Ah Chek! by Chong Fah Cheong – the same artist responsible for the bronze installation of five young boys jumping into the Singapore River. Heritage Zone: T4 throws a spotlight on the rich Peranakan culture located at the Heritage Zone. The space sports a vibrant facade of shophouses as seen in Katong and Chinatown, where up to nine different panels reflect architectural styles of Baroque, Rococo and Modern Deco. Aside from unwinding on an assortment of boutique chairs, passengers waiting for their flights can witness a mini theatrical
September 2017
29
Opinion
Bold leadership in a time of change
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all is just around the corner, and preparations are already well underway for the 2017 ACI Africa/World Annual General Assembly, Conference and Exhibition, taking place this year in Port Louis, Mauritius from 16–18 October 2017 under the theme “Bold leadership in a time of change.” Airports are a component of a dynamic industry, continually causing and adapting to change, whether from market necessities, technological developments inside of or external to the industry, generational, regional or local demographic shifts, geopolitical trends or shocks or other forces. The theme of this year’s conference recognizes that whatever the set of changes, airports play a crucial role in the economic and social health of communities, countries, regions and the world at large, and they must craft a strategy for their sustainable development to continue providing those benefits. For instance, despite some Middle Eastern States experiencing geopolitical instability, negative spillover to the air transport industry was contained, leaving air travel demand largely unperturbed throughout key economies in the region. In fact, aviation stakeholders continue to capitalize on the strategic locations of airports within the region. In 2016, the Middle East was the second-fastest-growing region in terms of passenger traffic volume (+9.4%) and air transport in general supported 2.4 million jobs and US$157.2 billion in gross domestic product in the region. To address such challenges and opportunities, the conference has been developed from the ground up to give delegates the chance to deliberate on issues of particular interest to airports. Session topics will include recognizing leadership; creating a strong security culture; learning from the world’s best airports in customer experience; taxes, connectivity and sustainable tourism; airport digital transformation; and, a view from ACI’s World Business Partners. ACI will also host the ASQ Awards Ceremony at the
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September September 2017 2017
Angela Gittens Director General, ACI World
Gala Dinner on 17 October 2017 to celebrate those airports whose customers have rated them the best in delivering an excellent experience. United Arab Emirates airports have certainly distinguished themselves and both Abu Dhabi International Airport and Dubai International Airport will be present to receive their accolades. We expect to welcome both local and international exhibitors—from airports and service providers to a host of other aviation-related businesses—showcasing a range of products, services and technologies aimed at making our business ever more efficient and passenger-friendly. We look forward to welcoming you to Mauritius. Learn more about the 27th Annual ACI Africa/World Annual General Assembly, Conference & Exhibition.
Opinion
Address the challenges collectively T
he outlook for aviation is bright, and there is great potential for growth. Over the next 20 years, Airbus and Boeing forecast that air traffic is expected to grow at a rate of more than 4 percent annually. At this rate, air traffic will double within the next 15 or so years. The benefits from a growing aviation sector extend beyond airlines and airports. Many sectors like tourism, logistics and trade depend on an efficient and growing aviation sector to prosper. To advance civil aviation and harness its growth potential for the benefit of our economies and societies, the aviation sector has to collectively identify and address the challenges facing the industry in a timely and effective manner.
Ng Chee Meng Minister for Education (Schools) and Second Minister for Transport, Singapore
Creating a stable and enabling regulatory environment is among the major challenges today. This is especially important in the context of the global economic and political uncertainty we are experiencing. For civil aviation to thrive, airlines need the assurance that they can continue to operate in a business environment with balanced, predictable and rational policies and regulations.
Another challenge is countering the security threats against civil aviation. Terrorism and cyber-crime have emerged as global threats.
Regulators should seek to harness the benefits of competition and reduce barriers to innovation. We should liberalise air rights regimes, bilaterally and at the multilateral level, and give airlines the commercial flexibility to develop and operate new services to meet the growing demand for air travel. This will maximise connectivity, and give travellers greater choice and convenience.
(Excerpts from speech at the 6th World Civil Aviation Chief Executives Forum in Singapore.)
We will have to pay much more attention to aviation security. We need to increase our capabilities to ensure safe and secure air travel for passengers, even as we facilitate aviation growth. ď‚ƒ
September 2017
31
Airlines
Delta launches biometrics to board aircraft
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elta customers now can use fingerprints instead of their boarding pass to board any Delta aircraft at Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).
Delta’s biometric boarding pass experience that launched in May at the DCA Delta Sky Club is now integrated into the boarding process to allow eligible Delta SkyMiles Members who are enrolled in CLEAR to forego a paper or mobile boarding pass in favor of using fingerprints as proof of identity to board their plane. The final phase of Delta’s DCA biometric boarding pass test, coming this summer, will allow Members to also use their fingerprints to check a bag. “The truly exciting piece of what Delta is doing, is how scalable this experience is in part due to our partnership with
CLEAR,” said Gil West, Delta’s Senior Executive Vice President & COO. “Once we complete testing, customers throughout our domestic network could start seeing this capability in a matter of months – not years. Delta really is delivering the future now.”
Delta is partnering with CLEAR to power the back end of its pioneering biometric boarding pass experience. The DCA pilot is testing how Delta and CLEAR’s systems work together while laying the foundation for Delta to deliver a more convenient customer experience broadly in the future. Being part of the initial tests means that eligible customers will be able to traverse DCA as they do today and simply use their fingerprint instead of pulling out their boarding pass. Participating in the test is optional. “Customer and employee feedback has been extremely encouraging throughout our Delta Sky Club test and we expect that enthusiasm to continue with the boarding experience,” West continued. “It’s a win-win program. Biometric verification has a higher level of accuracy than paper boarding passes and gives agents more time to assist customers with seat changes and other skilled tasks instead of having to scan individual tickets – and customers have less to keep track of as they travel through the airport.” During the pilot, Delta customers with a SkyMiles number and who are also enrolled in CLEAR are eligible for the biometric boarding pass experience. CLEAR will capture and use both biometric and SkyMiles information to identify customers at bag drop, Delta Sky Club entry and boarding.
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ATM Airlines
Milestone reached ahead of schedule
FAA uses DataComm to clear more than 1 million flights
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S air traffic controllers and pilots have used NextGen Data Communications (Data Comm) technology to clear more than one million flights – reaching the significant milestone within budget and nearly two-and-a-half years ahead of schedule.
As part of the FAA’s NextGen air traffic modernisation programme, Data Comm transforms controller-tocockpit communication – augmenting traditional voice communication with more agile and efficient digital communication. This streamlines communication between pilots and controllers during airport clearance delivery, a process that can consume several minutes using only voice communication. The digital process not only saves time, but eliminates read-back/hear-
back errors between controllers and pilots. This clearer communication allows the US National Airspace System (NAS) to handle more air traffic, reduces flight delays, routes aircraft more efficiently and enhances safety – all while reducing operational costs for commercial aviation stakeholders. Harris Corporation is providing integration and engineering services for Data Comm as part of the Data Comm Integrated Services (DCIS)
contract, including management and delivery of the air-to-ground data communications network that connects FAA air traffic control (ATC) sites and data communicationsequipped aircraft. A collaboration between the FAA, airlines and aircraft manufacturers, Data Comm is operational in more than 3,000 aircraft and has been deployed at 55 US airports. Based on its success, the FAA has approved implementing Data Comm at seven additional airports.
September 2017
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Cargo & Logistics
Japan Airlines, Vietjet partnership to boost Asia cargo volumes
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apan Airlines (JAL) and Vietjet inked a formal partnership agreement for code-share cooperation on all flight services between Japan and Vietnam, as well as on the domestic flights of both airlines. While the terms are still being negotiated, a representative for Vietjet confirmed that both parties will “consider cooperation” in cargo operations. As a first step, JAL and Vietjet have agreed to start a code-share cooperation for all flight services between Japan and Vietnam as well as JAL’s domestic flights, and Vietjet’s domestic flights, as well as flights between Vietnam and the other Asian countries. These are the significant add-ons expected to create more customer convenience. JAL and Vietjet will further explore opportunities to develop the partnership in various areas, including a frequent flier partnership, aircraft operations and maintenance as well as ground handling services and training. Demand for air travel between the two countries has been growing, and JAL already operates daily non-stop services between Tokyo (Narita) and Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, respectively, as well as between
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Tokyo (Haneda) and Ho Chi Minh City. “The launch of this partnership with Vietjet represents a significant milestone for the two airlines to provide customers better access to destinations between Japan and Vietnam as well as beyond, and we believe it will contribute to generate more passenger and cargo traffic between the two countries and open up commercial opportunities on the two airlines’ international networks,” said Tadashi Fujita, JAL Executive Vice President. Luu Duc Khanh, Managing Director of Vietjet, said: “Through the agreement signed with JAL today, Vietjet once again affirms the airline’s commitment to innovation, leading market trends, and offering new services following the global integration and international
standards. Japan is our key market as we expand the airline’s flight network in the Asia-Pacific region. The partnership between Vietjet and JAL will diversify our air transportation products and the market segment while stimulating the movement of people between the two countries as well as developing the two airlines’ relationship in line with our international commercial operation capabilities in the coming time.”
Cargo & Logistics
Schiphol Cargo puts focus on pharma and e-Commerce as volumes grow 8.7 per cent in first half of 2017
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argo volumes at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol grew 8.7 per cent to 866,713 tonnes between January and June 2017, up from 797,069 tonnes during the same period in 2016.
Europe’s third busiest hub welcomed an additional 153 full freighter flights in the first half of the year, making a total number of 8,954 freight ATMs, and handled a record 148,765 tonnes in June, up 9.8 per cent on June 2016 figures of 135,528 tonnes. Jonas van Stekelenburg, Head of Cargo, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, said: “The Schiphol Cargo Community has worked on a series of new initiatives this year, which demonstrate our commitment to delivering safe and efficient cargo products, and our excellent first halfyear performance is the result of this collaboration.”
growing base of e-Commerce and pharma customers has helped to deliver strong growth in the first half of the year. Schiphol’s new Compliance Checker, launched in May, speeds up cargo flows by detecting data errors and Customs compliance errors in air waybills will
help boost e-Commerce flows through the hub. The Community has also recently secured a one million EUR grant to start developing a Pharma Incursion Alerter, an early warning system for shippers, and a pilot phase for the scheme is currently being planned.
“We are pleased that our continued focus on developing innovative solutions, such as our Compliance Checker and the Milkrun, for our
September 2017
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Cargo & Logistics
Middle Eastern carriers’ freight volumes increased 3.7 per cent year-on-year in June
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he International Air Transport Association (IATA)has released data for global air freight markets showing that demand, measured in freight tonne kilometers (FTKs), grew by 10.4 per cent in the first-half of 2017 compared to the first-half of 2016.
This was the strongest first half-year performance since air cargo’s rebound from the Global Financial Crisis in 2010 and nearly triple the industry’s average growth rate of 3.9 per cent over the last five years. Freight capacity, measured in available freight tonne kilometers (AFTKs), grew by 3.6 per cent in the first half of 2017 compared to the same period in 2016. Demand growth continues to significantly outstrip capacity growth, which is positive for yields. Air cargo’s strong performance in the first half of 2017 was confirmed by June’s results. Year-on-year demand growth in June increased 11 per cent compared to the same year-earlier period. Freight capacity grew by 5.2 per cent year-on-year in June. The sustained growth of air freight demand is consistent with an improvement in global trade, with new global export orders remaining close to a six-year high. However, there are some signs that the cyclical growth period may have peaked. The global inventory-to-sales ratio has stopped falling. This indicates that the period when companies look to restock inventories quickly, which often gives air cargo a boost, may be nearing an end. Regardless of these developments, the outlook for air freight is optimistic with demand expected to grow at a
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robust rate of 8 per cent during the third quarter of this year. “Air cargo is flying high on the back of a stronger global economy. Demand is growing at a faster pace than at any time since the Global Financial Crisis. That’s great news after many years of stagnation. And, even more importantly, the industry is taking advantage of this momentum to accelerate much-needed process modernization and improve the value it provides to its many customers,” said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s Director General and CEO. Middle Eastern carriers’ freight volumes increased 3.7 per cent year-on-year in June 2017 and capacity increased 2.2 per cent. This contributed to an increase in demand in the first half of 2017 of 7.6 per cent, well below the 10.8 per cent average annual rate seen over the past five years. The slowdown in growth is mainly due to strong competition from carriers in other regions particularly on the Asia-Europe route rather than a significant decrease in demand which has continued to trend upwards at a solid rate of around 10 per cent in annualized terms since early 2017. For the first time in 17 years the region’s share of total international freight flown in the first half of 2017 has fallen. Capacity in the region increased by 1.5 per cent in the first half of 2017.
Regional Performance
All regions experienced positive freight growth in the first half of 2017. Carriers in Asia Pacific and Europe accounted for two-thirds of the increase in demand. Asia-Pacific airlines’ freight volumes grew 10.1 per cent in June 2017 compared to the same period in 2016 and capacity grew by 7.8 per cent. This contributed to a growth
Cargo & Logistics
in freight demand of 10.1 per cent in the first half of 2017 compared to the first half of 2016. Seasonally adjusted international freight volumes are now 4 per cent above the level reached in 2010 following the global financial crisis bounce-back. Demand growth has been strongest, between 13-15 per cent, on international routes within Asia as well as between Asia and Europe. Capacity in the region increased 4.8 per cent in the first half of 2017. North American carriers saw freight demand increase by 12.7 per cent in June 2017 yearon-year and capacity increase by 3 per cent. This contributed to strong growth in demand in the first half of 2017 of 9.3 per cent in contrast to the negative growth seen during the same period in 2016. Capacity grew by 1.5 per cent in the first half of 2017. Seasonally adjusted international volumes remain very strong, surging by an annualized rate of more than 30 per cent in the second quarter. The strength of the US
dollar continues to boost the inbound freight market but is keeping the export market under pressure. European airlines posted a 14.3 per cent year-on-year increase in freight demand in June 2017 and a capacity rise of 6.1 per cent. The healthy results helped boost cargo volumes for the first half of 2017 by 13.6 per cent. The ongoing weakness of the Euro persists in boosting the performance of the European freight market which continues to benefit from strong export orders. Capacity in the region increased by 5.4 per cent in the first half of 2017. Latin American airlines experienced a growth in demand of 9.8 per cent in June 2017 compared to the same period in 2016 - the fastest since November 2010 - and an increase in capacity of 2.9 per cent. June’s positive results contributed to the region posting a marginal increase in demand of 0.3 per
cent for the first half of 2017. However, seasonally adjusted international volumes remain 10 per cent lower than at the peak in 2014. Capacity fell by 0.6 per cent in the first half of 2017. The region continues to be blighted by weak economic and political conditions, particularly in its largest economy, Brazil. African carriers had the fastest growth in year-on-year freight volumes, up 31.6 per cent in June 2017 and a capacity increase of 7.6 per cent. This contributed to freight demand growing 25.9 per cent in the first half of 2017 – the fastest of all regions. Demand has been boosted by very strong growth on the trade lanes to and from Asia which have increased by nearly 60 per cent in the first five months of 2017. Capacity grew 11.2 per cent in the first half of the year. Seasonally adjusted growth has levelled off in recent months; however growth is set to remain in double digits for the remainder of 2017. ď‚ƒ
September 2017
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Technology
Russian airline first to sell tickets using ethereum blockchain
T
he Siberia-based S7 Airlines has teamed up with Russia’s Alfa-Bank to start a blockchain platform for the automation of trade operations.
The new technology simplifies payments and has quicker settlement times between airlines and agents. The process that used to take two weeks can now be done in seconds. “Implementation of the blockchain platform ethereum opens the door for optimization of business processes for both the carrier and its partners. Speed of computation has revved up from 14 days to 23 seconds. Thus, the airlines don’t delay
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payment to an agent which receives the money shortly after the ticket is processed,” Alfa-Bank said. In turn, agents can do away with termination payment security (TPS), which is typically used to eliminate the risk of non-payment. Automation of the procedures speed things up and reduced the paperwork for the airline and agent. The new system makes sure there is a balance in an account before drawing a payment.
Blockchain also eliminates the human factor and boosts system reliability and transparency of trade operations. “We have made the world’s first flight ticket purchase through an open api (application programming interface) blockchain to a bank. I’m sure that the system will soon be used by most companies globally,” said Deputy CEO of IT Solutions at S7 Group Pavel Voronin.
September 2017
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Technology
LG’s new airport robots will guide you to your gate and clean up your trash
I
n preparation for next year’s Winter Olympics in South Korea, electronics giant LG is trialling new robots in the country’s largest airport. Seoul’s Incheon International Airport will be home to two of LG’s latest prototype bots: the Airport Guide Robot and the Airport Cleaning Robot.
The bots were first unveiled at CES earlier this year, and both do exactly what their names suggest. The Guide Robot will roam the terminals, ready to provide travelers with directions and information about boarding times. It speaks four lan-
guages — Korean, English, Chinese, and Japanese — and users can even get it to scan their boarding pass to be escorted to their correct departure gate. Although, if this bot is anything like other service robots, it’ll only move at
a steady walking pace, and just think how annoyed you’d be if a slow robot made you miss your flight. The Cleaning Robot, meanwhile, is essentially a beefed-up Roomba that looks a little like a mini-tank from a future war. According to LG, though, it “detects the areas that require the most frequent cleaning, stores those locations in its database and calculates the most efficient routes to get there.” LG said products like these show the company’s ambition to “develop and expand its commercial robot business as a future growth engine.” And these sorts of use cases are definitely becoming more popular for bots — even if, in the case of many robot guides, they job they do is more for show than anything else. LG’s robots should be fine as long as they keep away from hazards like stairs and fountains.
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Technology
Sydney Airport to replace passports with biometrics
B
iometrics could soon replace your passport when travelling internationally from Australia under ambitious plans tabled by Sydney Airport: doing away with manual inspection of passports and boarding passes in favour of facial recognition, allowing passengers to breeze through the terminal, according to an Australian Business Traveller report.
Under the first phase of the plan which still requires a physical passport, travellers would approach automated check-in kiosks, scan their passport and have their photograph taken, which links their facial image with their travel document and identity. Then at the boarding gate, cameras would identify passengers as they approach the barriers, which would automatically open and allow the passenger on board: a concept currently being trialled at Brisbane Air-
port with selected Air New Zealand flyers, the report said. But Sydney Airport’s plan takes that further, linking the same facial recognition system with every other touchpoint throughout the terminal, including baggage drop, admission to the security screening queues, clearing passport control without a passport, completing duty-free purchases and even entering airline lounges document-free, the report added. According to the report, that same
technology could also identify passengers eligible for the Express Path channel based on data provided by their airline and could direct or admit them accordingly, and if identity details and biometrics were kept on file from flight to flight, could eliminate the need to scan or present a passport entirely. “We’re just looking to bed down now with an airline partner,” the report quoted Sydney Airport’s General Manager Corporate Affairs, Sally Fielke, as saying.
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