Via Dubai Magazine | July 2016 by Nadd Al Shiba PR & Event Management

Monthly Newsletter issued by Dubai Civil Aviation Authority

www.viadubaionline.com

Issue 38 July 2016

Inside DCAA 5

DCAA participates in Dubai International Holy Quran Award

DCAA Director 6 General meets Japan’s Vice Consul Campaign to generate 7 cultural awareness among employees

DCAA participates in ‘Reading Nation’ campaign

UAE in Focus Passenger traffic at DXB tops 6.7 million in May

Final de-propping work on roof of Midfield Terminal Building complete

Use e Gate cards, self 18 checkin for easy travel this summer

Mohammed bin Rashid visits Dubai International Airport

Committed to transform the sky

Ibrahim Ahli

Technology 44

SITA’s Horizon to support launch of Sky Prime’s VIP flight service 26

Cargo & Logistics 40

Airlines 36

Opinions 34

Our Smart Services DCAA Smart App will allow the customers the below services: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Issuance of Landing permissions Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Carriage of Restricted Articles Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Aerial Work Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Aircraft Warning Light Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Heliport Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Pyrotechnic Display Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Building Height (Below 300m) Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Building Height (Above 300m) Issuance of Approval for Heliports Certification Issuance of Approval for Crane Operation Issuance of Approval for GSM or other communication tower Issuance of Approval for Balloon Operations Issuance of No Objection Certificate for Sky Trackers / Space Cannon

Registration Requirements: • • • • • • •

Company Name Company Address Telephone Number Fax Number PO Box City Choose one secret questions

• • • • • • •

Username Password Email Address Name Mobile Number Emirates ID Number Category (Individual - Airline - Agency - Expert - Provider)

You can download the application

by searching in App Store and Play Store by typing DCAA or scan the QR code

For more information, please call technical support on: +971 56 6810685 July 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 participates in Dubai International Holy Quran Award

DCAA Director General meets Japanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vice Consul

General Supervision Mohammed Abdulla Ahli Coordinator Hanan Al Mazimi Creative Manager Mohammed Al Jarouf Editor Shveta Pathak

Iftar meals for travellers

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.

Advertise with us

DCAA Interview

Editorial, Production, PR & Marketing Nadd AlShiba PR and Event Management

Well-prepared to handle high growth in Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aviation sector 10

Roy George

Printed by Printwell Dubai

Our Vision Dubai Civil Aviation Authority is driven by the vision of Dubai to become the global Aviation Capital contributing to prosperity and enabling growth for Dubai.

Our Mission Dubai Civil Aviation Authority is committed to support the aviation sector in:

E-mail: dcaa@dcaa.gov.ae Website: www.dcaa.gov.ae Tel: (971) 4 216 2009 Fax: (971) 4 224 4502 P.O.BOX 49888 Dubai, United Arab Emirates

u Capturing the full value potential as a global passenger, tourism, trade, cargo and logistic hub u Providing the capacity, connectivity and leveraging existing assets to meet the aviation sector and economic growth plans of Dubai u Ensuring sustainable and responsible growth committed to safety, health, environment and security u Providing and creating customer-focused services to gain competitive advantage from innovation, knowledge and efficiency u Building and retaining capabilities, for the aviation sector, while offering career opportunities for Nationals u Ensuring a transparent, effective and commercially balanced regulatory framework that reflects the interests of the aviation industry, Dubai and the UAE u Providing efficient and cost-effective services to the aviation sector

http://www.facebook.com/DCAADubai

twitter.com/DcaaDubai

Julyyoutube.com/user/dcaadubai 2016

CONTENTS

Passenger traffic at DXB tops 6.7 million in May ‘We have to confront big decisions’ 34

David Cameron

Lived up to promises 35

Emirates to Deploy Flagship A380 Aircraft on Moscow route

Tony Tyler

SITA’s Horizon to support launch of Sky Prime’s VIP flight service 26

European Commission issues new guidelines on air passenger rights

DHL tests robot technology COLLABORATIVE AUTOMATED ORDER PICKING

FOLLOWS PICKER SPEED 7 KM/H

EffiBOT

OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE MAX. LOAD 300 KG EASY TO USE

PRESENT Manual cart handling requiring physical effort Heavy weights restricting to single order picking Longer distances causing slower picking process

FUTURE

EffiBOT

Hands-free cart handling avoiding physical strains Automated cart enabling multi-order picking Shorter walking distances enabling faster picking process

July 2016

EffiBOT

Message

from the President

Leading innovation

he aviation sector in Dubai has been witnessing a significant infrastructural development in the recent months, which is the result of our commitment to cater to the growing demand for capacity and, at the same time, ensure seamless passenger experience. The next decade will be even more challenging as we expect passenger numbers to rise to 118 million by 2023. We are determined to provide the best customer experience and also realise that with the changing times, there is little room for the addition of major infrastructure at the Dubai International. This calls for an innovative approach and ‘DXB Plus’, an initiative wherein Dubai Airports is working with its key stakeholders to design product innovation and operational improvements, is a step in the direction, with the main goal to provide capacity for 118 million passengers in 2023 – without adding any additional infrastructure. DXB Plus will focus on integrating the efforts of our aviation sector, meeting the growing expectations and demands of stakeholders and passengers and also provide an unmatchable seamless passenger experience, thereby enabling uninhibited growth of Dubai’s aviation sector until 2050, when the next phase of Dubai World Central is targeted for delivery.

Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum

airport services right from airport control and air traffic management systems, immigration to security processes as well as ground traffic management. Dubai International, the world’s busiest airport for international passengers, continues to see a strong rise in passenger numbers. As we are in the peak of summer season, we expect passenger numbers to surpass the previous year’s record. We are committed to provide an unmatchable passenger experience and wish all passengers using the Dubai airports pleasant journeys. 

This will lead Dubai’s aviation community to lead the innovation of future products and services. Covering more than 350 projects, DXB Plus will lead to enhanced capacity and improved services in every area of

July 2016

Message

from the Director General

Staying ahead of times

ubai has been witnessing a constant growth in air traffic movement. Within the first four months of this year, we achieved 5.4 per cent increase in total aircraft movements to 139,079 compared to 132,005 movements in the same period in2015.. A recent ACI report had highlighted, how Dubai has become the fulcrum connecting long-haul international flights from all over the world with a massive growth in cargo and passenger traffic as well as aircraft movement. The credit for our success in effectively handling this growth goes to our visionary leader his Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vice-President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, who has always inspired and guided us to excel and, in line with the vision of our leaders, we will archive many milestones ahead of time. The recently formed adhoc committee led by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airlines and Group, will be commissioning a study on Dubai airspace in order to cope with the expansion and the large movement growth witnessed by Dubai airports.

July 2016

Mohammed Abdulla Ahli

We look forward to the recommendations by the committee in the coming months, which will help us cope with the growth until 2020. In the years to come, we expect the growth in air traffic movement to stay robust and the DCAA is committed to not only staying well equipped to handle this growth smoothly and effectively, but also ensuring the safety of our skies. We will ceaselessly continue working toward this. ď&#x201A;&#x192;

Inside DCAA

DCAA participates in Dubai International Holy Quran Award

eflecting its keenness to participate in community and religious events, especially in the holy month of Ramadan, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority participated in the Dubai International Holy Quran Award. The event was attended by HE Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, Director Manager, DCAA, accompanied by departmental directors and some of the department heads and employees of the Authority.

Ahli said: “The Dubai International Holy Quran Award is an initiative from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and it’s a great, valuable, supportive initiative for Islam and Muslims. We are proud to have an Award like Dubai International Holy Quran Award, which is a key element in highlighting the Islamic side by encouraging the younger generation to

memorize the Quran, and to highlight the global Islamic dimension held by the Emirate of Dubai.” During the event commemorative shields were exchanged between

H.E. Mohammed Abdullah Ahli, Director General of the Authority, and H.E. Ibrahim Bu Melha, Dubai Ruler›s Advisor for Humanitarian and Cultural Affairs, and Head of DIHQA Organising Committee. 

July 2016

Inside DCAA

DCAA Director General meets Japan’s Vice Consul

is Excellency Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, Director General of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority met with Mr. Masayuki Kurita, Vice Consul/ Police Attache, Consulate General of Japan in Dubai at his office as a part of the Dubai Civil Avi-

ation Authority’s (DCAA) initiatives toward enhancing relations and continuous cooperation locally, regionally and globally.

portunity to exchange views, which would further lead to stronger cooperation between specialised Japanese agencies, companies and DCAA.

Welcoming the Consul General, Ahli said the meeting provided a good op-

The meeting was also attended by Mohammed Abdullah Linjawi, Director of Aviation Safety and Accident Investigation Department, and Khaled Aref, Director of Standards and Regulations, and Salim Al Suwaidi, Aerodrome Senior Inspector. Kurita thanked and appreciated His Excellency Mohammed Abdullah Ahli on the constructive cooperation, the warm reception, hospitality and the opportunity to discuss various aspects of cooperation between the two sides. This meeting comes within a series of ongoing meetings that the Authority is seeking to achieve with all sectors to have continuous cooperation. 

July 2016

Inside DCAA

Campaign to generate cultural awareness among employees

l Shawaheen Team of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai, Dubai Customs, General Department of Airports Security at Dubai Police and Dubai Air Navigation Services, organised a campaign “Dawamna Gher Fi Shaher Al Kheer” during the holy month of Ramadan.

followed by questions related to culture from employees of the airport, with a view to generating awareness. The prizes included free coupons from Dubai Duty Free.

The campaign included a variety of activities like weekly field trips to Dubai International Airport’s buildings,

The campaign aims to educate employees and increase their awareness and instill in them the spirit of cooperation. 

Al Shawaheen Team also organized weekly competitions on educational topics about the holy month using internal official email of the employees.

July 2016

Inside DCAA

DCAA participates in ‘Reading Nation’ campaign

ubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) participated in the ‘Reading Nation’ campaign, launched under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE’s Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. The campaign which aims to distribute 5 million books to children in refugee camps and schools around the world is part of Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives and is another step through

which the UAE expresses its passion for serving humanity. Of the total 5 million books, the initiative will provide one million books to support educational programmes that are carried out by UAE humanitarian organisations abroad, two million books to provide knowledge and science at refugee camps and another two million books for libraries in 2,000 schools in the Arab and Islamic world. DCAA seeks to contribute in such humanitarian events and ini-

tiatives for its impact on individuals and society on humanitarian and social levels. 

Zakat al Fitr initiative

he Corporate Communications Systems Division of the DCAA, in coordination with the Beit Al Khair Society, organised a Zakat al Fitr initiative by providing a special

July 2016

platform for donations donations at the headquarters of the Authority.Zakat al-Fitr is charity given to the poor at the end of the fasting in the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. 

Inside DCAA

Iftar meals for travellers

he Department of Corporate Communications of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), alongwith Union Cooperative, of-

fered Iftar meals to travellers during the holy month of Ramadan. The initiative was supported by DCAAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strategic partners Dubai

Customs and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Afairs (GDRFA) in Dubai, who handed over the meals. ď&#x201A;&#x192;

July 2016

DCAA Interview

Roy George, Senior Manager Air Transport Operations, Air Transport and International Affairs, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA)

Well-prepared to handle high growth in Dubai’s aviation sector

oy George, Senior Manager Air Transport Operations, Air Transport and International Affairs in the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), has been working with the civil aviation authority for more than 30 years, and has not only witnessed but also lived the transformation that the aviation sector in Dubai has undergone. In an exclusive interview with Via Dubai, George shared the changes he has witnessed over these years and how Dubai International Airport, which is the world’s busiest in terms of international passenger traffic, continues to display an exemplary growth, and the driving force behind the growth of Dubai’s aviation sector, which is estimated to contribute over 37.5 per cent to the Emirate’s GDP by 2030.

Each request is looked into and we give permissions in coordination with GCAA guidelines, under which there are several aspects that need to be taken care of.

Excerpts from the interview:

With the strong growth that aviation sector in Dubai is witnessing, which includes rise in the number of international passengers, increasing number of airlines keen on starting or expanding their operations, this is a challenging task.

Tell us about your role and responsibilities in the DCAA. Our section is responsible for ensuring development of air transport in Dubai in line with the government policies.

Our goal is to ensure that all criteria while granting landing permits are met and at the same time, we grant permissions in the most efficient and quick manner.

We handle landing approvals both for Dubai International and Al Maktoum International and my responsibility is to deal with landing permits for all types of aircrafts (in confirmation with Air Service Agreements) at both these international airports.

You have been working with the Civil Aviation department for over three decades. What kind of changes have you witnessed during these years? I started my career with the Department of Civil Aviation in 1985, it was

July 2016

also the year when Emirates launched its operations. I started with airside operations and have gradually moved up the ladder. I have completed 30 years here, which makes me one of the oldest employee of the organisation and have closely witnessed the transformation. During the time that I started, there were no computers, and DXB used to get only about 30 flights a day, with parking space for only 12 at one point. The airport has undergone massive expansion and with the recent opening of Concourse D, the annual capacity has increased to 90 million passengers. Today, more than 219 aircraft can be parked at one time and we get over 570 flights landing in a day. The sector has witnessed an unprecedented growth. Dubai International is the busiest in terms of number of international passengers, its success

DCAA Interview

is exemplary, and I must add, this has not happened overnight, a lot of efforts have gone into it. Our marketing department actively promoted Dubai as a destination, conducted events like “Routes” Every area was taken care of.

What do you think has led to this success? During these years, I have experienced that Dubai has been very progressive in its approach- our leadership is open to new ideas, adopting new technologies and making lot of efforts toward continuous improvement and enhancing efficiencies with the motive of delivering the best quality. During my initial years, when we would receive landing requests on telex, we were very quick in responding. Today we function 24 hours - which means that irrespective of the time of request, we process it very fast. Our current target time is 30 minutes and

the actual time taken is much lesser sometimes. This went very well with the private jets. Unlike many other airports around the world, where processing a request could take several days, I believe we are the fastest. On technology front too, the Authority has been very quick in adopting the latest technologies, today everything is online. The growth of Emirates is also a strong factor. The best quality service standards of Emirates, its functioning has also contributed to the growth of the sector. All of these have happened due to the vision of our wise leadership.

How do you see the scenario changing with expansion of Al Maktoum International? We are expecting major growth as Al Maktoum International further expands.

With Al Maktoum International, we are expecting more tourist charter flights. Also, as a large number of major projects get completed by 2020, there will be high increase in number of passengers.

How much has been the growth in the number of landings and how are you preparing to handle this growth? There is a continuous growth of about 8-10 per cent annually. A lot of new airlines are looking at Dubai market, for instance Asia Pacific region, from where 3-4 new carriers are expected next year. Technically we are changing and continuously upgrading our systems, making the best use of latest technologies, making procedures more effective, more accurate. Also, in our department we are planning to add more activities to improve our operations. 

July 2016

Special Interview

Ibrahim Ahli, Chief Operating Officer، Dubai Air Navigation Services (dans)

Committed to transform the sky

ans is striving to embed innovative concepts and cutting edge technologies across all levels to transform the sky, keeping the sector’s strategic plan and customer requirements and needs as top priority. Dubai Air Navigation Services (dans), the air navigation services provider for Dubai and the Northern Emirates, has experienced more than 84 per cent growth in movements over the past decade as Dubai has transformed to be a global tourist and commercial hub. During 2015, the experienced and skilled Air Traffic Control Officers in the organization managed a daily average of 1,500 air traffic movements at Dubai Airports. The organization is committed to enhancing the safety, capacity and efficiency of the air navigation services through innovative technologies, cutting-edge solutions and leading industry expertise. Ibrahim Ahli, Chief Operating Officer, spoke to Via Dubai about the contribution of dans to the growth of Dubai’s aviation sector and the challenges and opportunities. Excerpts from the interview:

What is the contribution of dans to the growth of Dubai’s aviation sector?

Stemming from a profound understanding of the importance of air

July 2016

traffic management as a key enabler and contributor to driving continuous growth within the aviation sector at large, dans is an organisation committed to ‘Transform the Sky ‘ through the efficient provision of air navigation services in Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

What are the challenges and opportunities you foresee?

As the emirate of Dubai continues to grow in popularity on a global scale becoming a preferred destination for international events, the nation is preparing to welcome two of the largest events to be hosted in its history -- Asia Cup 2019 and Dubai Expo 2020. Through the empowering vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the determined direction and guidance provided by HH

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Emirates Airlines, Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai Airports, such future plans that may be viewed as a challenge to the sector by other entities,We at dans view them as opportunities to enhance our operations further to continue delivering safe, efficient and expeditious air traffic management services to our prestigious customers.

How was year 2015 for dans in terms of performance, achievements and initiatives?

The year 2015 was another crucial year in the history of the organisation and our plans have been prepared and aligned with our customers’ growth plans to be able to accommodate the continuous requirement to enhance air traffic movements capacity. We are confident that we possess the right expertise and resources to implement advanced technologies and processes.

Special Interview

Air traffic movements dashboard

Total volume of air traffic movements managed by dans

Month Jan-16 Feb-16 Mar-16 Reflecting on performance over the past decade, the volume of growth in air traffic movements is coincident to the growth of the aviation sector in Dubai, and as a result of the diversification in the nation’s economy. dans has experienced more than 84 per cent growth in movements over the past decade as Dubai has transformed to be a global tourist and commercial hub. During 2015, the experienced and skilled Air Traffic Control Officers in the organization managed a daily average of 1,500 air traffic movements at Dubai Airports.

What are the highlights of dans’ strategic plan?

The organization’s strategic plan involves operational enhancement of our systems through implementing revolutionary technologies and tools, continuous development of our employees who are at the heart of the organization’s strategy and close collaboration with all of the stakeholders in the sector. In addition to the organization’s operational strategy, participating in regional and international platforms lies at the centerfold of our commercial plans to facilitate knowledge exchange and the ability to benchmark international best practices.

Total 48,157 44,554 48,345 managing the airspace to accommodate growth?

Along with all stakeholders in the aviation sector, dans is an active member in the working group of the ‘Airspace Restructuring Project’ driven by the General Civil Aviation Authority. The project will redefine the paradigms of UAE airspace and enhance maximum utilisation of the current geographical area once the project is completed. This project is yet another example of close collaboration between federal, governmental and private entities to align their projects and initiatives for a unified purpose – which is to enhance growth in the aviation sector. Furthermore, dans has established a partnership with the UAE military in

dans management team views the challenges as opportunities to enhance operations further to continue delivering safe, efficient and expeditious air traffic management services to our prestigious customers

2015 to enhance efficient use of the military airspace by civilian organizations. This type of military-civilian partnership is the first of its nature to exist on both a national and regional level. As we have embarked on 2016, the organisation is striving to embed innovative concepts and cutting edge technologies across all levels to transform the sky, keeping the sector’s strategic plan and our customer requirements and needs as our high level objectives, while empowering our people and closely collaborating with our stakeholders. 

Can you share with us the details about ‘Airspace Restructuring Project’ and dans cooperation with GCAA on

July 2016

Cover Story

Mohammed bin Rashid visits Dubai International Airport

AE’s Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, today visited Dubai International Airport to ensure passenger satisfaction and facilitations provided to them.

He also inspected safety procedures and comfort of passengers at the airport, which is described as the “Gate of Peace” that links the East and the West, and where peoples of the world get acquainted with the UAE’s people, culture and civilisation. H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chair-

July 2016

man of Dubai Executive Council, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Emirates Group, Khalifa Saeed Suleiman, Director-General of the Department of Protocol and Hospitality in Dubai, accompanied Sheikh Mohammed during his visit to Terminal 3 which is designated for the Emirates Airline.

Sheikh Mohammed was briefed on travelling procedures and reassured on travel facilitations of the procedures, especially the assistance provided to all who are in need, particularly the elderly, children and patients. He and his entourage stopped at the joint operations room between the Emirates Airline and General Direc-

Cover Story

torate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai, which reflects serious partnership and co-ordination between the two sides for the benefit of passengers and saving their time and effort. He was also briefed by Major General Obaid bin Mohair Al Ketbi, Deputy Director of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai, on the importance of this room, which deals with the electronic data of departures in Terminal 3. This system will be applied in the second phase in Terminal 1 and 2. Later, Sheikh Mohammed moved to departments A and B at Terminal 3

through the airport’s interior metro, and checked travel and inspection procedures of passengers’ luggage,

stamping passports and good treatment provided to them by the concerned staff in all departments of the airport. He, then, stopped at free-market and was briefed about its sections and the competitive prices of goods provided to the departing customers. At the end of his tour, Sheikh Mohammed expressed his satisfaction at the facilitations provided to the passengers, and said, “The good treatment of passengers would satisfy them, and as we are Arab and Muslim people, our deep-rooted Arab culture which is full of human values urge us to support and show compassion, tolerance and mercy to the poor and sick people.” He also directed officials of the airport who represent a number of government departments, especially H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Emirates Group, to translate these values into reality in order to maintain Dubai International Airport as a hub for cultures across the world. 

July 2016

UAE in Focus

Records 7.2 per cent increase from previous year

Passenger traffic at DXB tops 6.7 million in May

assenger numbers at Dubai International continued an upward trend in May with the airport welcoming 6.7 million customers, according to the monthly traffic report issued by operator Dubai Airports.

In May 2016 passenger numbers at DXB rose 7.2 per cent to 6,721,995 compared to 6,267,640 in May 2015. During the first five months of 2016, DXB welcomed 34,648,953 passengers which represents a year on year growth of 7 per cent compared to 32,384,620 passengers during the same period last year. Eastern Europe was the fastest growing region in May rising 16.6 per cent, followed closely by the GCC region registering year on year growth of 16.3 per cent – propelled mainly by a surge in contribution from destinations like Jeddah, Riyadh and Doha, while Asia grew 10 per cent. In terms of total passenger numbers, India topped all countries with a total of 989,680 passengers, followed by Saudi Arabia (549,091), the UK

July 2016

(435,251), and Pakistan (327,178) while the top cities for passenger traffic were London (280,945), Doha (243,845) and Mumbai (214,061). During the month aircraft movements totalled 34,284, up 0.6 per cent compared to 34,086 recorded during May 2015*. Year to date flight numbers reached 175,071 compared to 167,654 aircraft movements recorded during the same period last year, an increase of 4.4 per cent. Freight volumes at DXB continued to grow steadily in May reaching 226,916 tonnes compared to 216,712 tonnes in May 2015, and increase of 4.7 per cent. During the first five months of 2016 cargo volumes handled at DXB totalled 1,055,850 tonnes, up 4 per cent compared to 1,015,482 tonnes handled during the same period last year.

“With near record numbers expected in the coming weeks as a result of the seasonal travel peak, we are looking at solid growth for the first half of 2016,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports. “Our focus is on maintaining and enhancing service levels, despite the high volumes. As is the case every year, we are prepared with additional staff at all touchpoints, including our May I Help You personnel, to assist and guide passengers. We have also launched the Hangout@DXB campaign to inform, entertain and surprise passengers. The idea is to encourage passengers flying out on holidays to arrive early to the airport to ensure a smooth start to their journey while making the most of the wide array of dining, shopping and relaxation options we have on offer at DXB.” 

UAE in Focus

Final de-propping work on roof of Midfield Terminal Building complete

bu Dhabi Airports has announced that it has completed the final de-propping of the last arch in the roof of the new Midfield Terminal Building (MTB), meaning that the structure is now completely self-supporting.

The de-propping took three days and 90 jacking points were used around the building for support while the process was underway. This last stage released 8,000 tonnes of weight onto the roof, which weighs 21,000 tonnes in total. Sulaiman Al Siksek, Chief Programs Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports commented: “Now that the complex process of de-propping the roof structure has been completed, the construction team has started clearing the 50 support towers under the roof, which will take them another four to five

weeks. Meantime the work can now start on the exterior enveloping of the front façade and on the preparation necessary for the interior work on the central processor.” During the next few months, Abu Dhabi Airports will begin building the stand-alone retails units in the duty free area of the building. The MTB, along with the existing terminals at Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), will serve the increasing number of passengers flying through Abu Dhabi, a figure

expected to surpass 45 million within the next decade. The MTB will be the largest architectural structure in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, visible from more than 1.5 km away. Its roof span is 319m at the widest point with 18 arches, the largest of which is 180m wide and 52m high. The remarkable new terminal is situated between the two runways at AUH, allowing the shortest possible journey from runway to parking stand, and providing a quicker and smoother experience for passengers. 

July 2016

UAE in Focus

Use e Gate cards, self checkin for easy travel this summer

ere are a few summer travel tips from Dubai Airports to support passenger convenience during the busy summer travel period.

• Be sure to check which airport and terminal you are departing from/arriving into beforehand. Passengers can confirm with their airline or check www.dubaiairports.ae

• Arrive early at the airport. It is best

to leave a minimum of three hours for check-in and passport control. Take into consideration daily rush hours and available routes in calculating your commuting time to the airport.

• Leave extra time for your journey to the airport as the roads will be very busy. Please say your goodbyes at home.

• Check with the airline in advance for

information on your baggage allowance. Irrespective of the allowance, a single unit of baggage weighing more than 32kgs will not be accepted at check-in. You should expect to be charged for baggage in excess of the limit set by your respective airline.

• It is always simpler to pack liquids, aerosols and gels (LAGs) in your

check-in baggage. However, if you have to carry LAGs in your hand luggage, make sure they are in a clear re-sealable plastic bag. Each item should not be more than 100ml and the total content of all items should not be more than one litre.

• Remember to put anything metal – watch, jewellery, mobile phone, coins, belt – into your hand luggage well before you arrive at the X-ray machine. This will save time at security screening.

• Beat the queues by checking-in on-

queuing at passport control, both while arriving and on departure. An eGate Card can be obtained from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigner Affairs (immigration) for a fee. GDRFA have eGate counters in the departure areas of all terminals. 

line or using the self-service check-in kiosks in the departures hall. Customers with baggage can make use of the quick-baggage drop counters, while those carrying only hand luggage can proceed directly to Immigration.

• Using the e-Gate card helps avoid

Etihad Airways marks 10 years of flying to Qatar with additional frequencies

tihad Airways is celebrating 10 years of flying to Qatar this summer by launching nine additional weekly flights on the Abu Dhabi – Doha route reinforcing its commitment to one of the airline’s key markets in the Gulf. Effective 1 August 2016, the national airline of the United Arab Emir-

July 2016

ates will increase weekly frequency to Qatar’s capital city to 37 services. The new daily morning flights as well as the early evening departures on Thursdays and Saturdays provide more flexibility and greater convenience and have been timed to cater for the needs of business travellers both in Abu Dhabi and Doha. The extra frequencies will provide travellers to and

from Doha with greater choice and travel options on Etihad Airways’ network across the Middle East, Europe, Africa, Asia, Indian Subcontinent and North America. The new services are also timed to coincide with the peak summer travel months. Daniel Barranger, Etihad Airways Senior Vice President Global Sales, said: “Qatar is a key market for Etihad Airways. 

UAE in Focus

Strata awarded two Airbus contracts

trata Manufacturing PJSC (Strata), the advanced composite aero-structures manufacturing company wholly owned by Mubadala Development Company, announced that it has been awarded two contracts to manufacture additional composite components and completed major assemblies for Airbus. The combined deals, valued at more than USD $1 billion, will see Strata become a source for Airbus A320 Horizontal Tail Plane (HTP) and A350-900 Inboard Flaps (IBF) in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Badr Al Olama, Chief Executive Officer, Strata said: “We are proud of our longstanding partnership with Airbus, and are privileged to be manufacturing components on Airbus’ A330, A350 and A380 aircrafts. Looking ahead, and building on our latest contracts with Airbus signed today, we are confident in our ability to continue strengthening our competiveness, growing our national workforce and playing a key role in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain’s positioning as a global aerospace hub.” As part of the contract, Strata will manufacture Airbus A320 Horizontal Tail Plane (HTP). Strata will utilize cutting-edge automation and high rate production technology to ensure that delivery of the Horizontal Tail Plane is in line with the

awarded share of the demand for the Airbus A320 family and the quality standards expected by Airbus. The HTP is a primary part of the aerostructure that is located on the empennage of the aircraft. The purpose of the HTP is to provide stability and control. Additionally, Strata will also supply Inboard Flaps (IBF) for the Airbus A350-900: Additionally, Strata will manufacture Inboard Flaps (IBF) for the Airbus A350-900 wings that will extend over the life of Airbus’ most technologically advanced aircraft to date. Inboard Flaps are mounted on the trailing edge of the wing to increase the surface of the wing during takeoff and landing, and improve stability during flight. Mimicking nature, the A350 XWB wings are fitted with unique high-lift devices adapting the wing shape during the flight for maximum aerodynamic efficiency.

Strata will manufacture composite components, perform assembly of the components and manage its supply chain from its worldclass facility in the Nibras Al Ain Aerospace Park The A350-900 is built with 53 per cent of light composite materials to help reduce fuel consumption and operating costs, improve passenger comfort and lower the environmental impact of air travel. Strata will manufacture composite components, perform assembly of the components and manage its supply chain from its world-class facility in the Nibras Al Ain Aerospace Park, where it is expanding its capabilities to meet the growing demands of world-leading aircraft manufacturers. 

July 2016

Special Report

European Commission issues new guidelines on air passenger rights

s millions of European citizens will be travelling during the summer period, today the Commission is taking action for the better enforcement of air passenger rights in the European Union.

The new guidelines clarify the existing rules and facilitate their application, for the benefit of travellers and businesses. This is yet another deliverable of the Aviation Strategy for Europe adopted by the Commission in December 2015 to strengthen the competitiveness of European aviation and maintain the highest standards.

July 2016

EU Commissioner for Transport Violeta Bulc said: “Transport is first and foremost about people, and I am proud that the EU protects its passengers across all forms of transport. The guidelines published today will bring further clarity and legal certainty to ensure that the rules are applied properly. All EU citizens travelling by

plane should receive the level of protection they are entitled to.” The EU’s Air Passenger Rights legislation is among the most advanced in the world, offering a high degree of protection against unforeseen circumstances to people travelling by plane to and from the EU. A number

Special Report

Air Passenger Rights: Commission wants better enforcement of rules ahead of summer holidays of judgements of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) have, however, affected the content and scope of the legislation since it entered into force in 2005. A clarification was therefore needed for travellers, airlines, and the national authorities, which are in charge of making sure the rules are properly applied at national level. The guidelines summarise the existing case law and consolidate all ongoing practices. Of particular relevance are:

Compensation for a delay: the right to compensation after a delay of three hours at the final destination. Compensation for a missed connecting flight: the right to compensation in case of a long delay on arrival due to missed connecting flights. Extraordinary circumstances: various situations such as technical defects linked tothe premature malfunction of certain components of an aircraft or aircraft collisions with other aircraft/devices whereby airlines cannot be exempted from the payment of compensation in case of a cancellation and delay. Measures to be taken in extraordinary circumstances: the right to assistance and care during exceptional events such as the ash cloud in 2010. The guidelines will apply pending the adoption and entry into force of the new air passenger legislation proposed by the Commission in 2013. The objective of this proposal was to clarify certain aspects of the current Regulation and to introduce new passenger rights where necessary. The legislative procedure in the European Parliament and Council is ongoing. 

IATA: Transparent and level playing field important The guidelines will help facilitate air travel for passengers and thus assist air carriers and their agents to improve the application of the Regulation. They will also assist national authorities with the enforcement of the Regulation and ensure an equal level playing field for all air carriers. They will provide a real added value at a time of increased travel activity at the outset of the holiday period and until a new legal framework enters into force. Regulation (EC) No 261/2004 establishing common rules on compensation and assistance to passengers in the event of denied boarding and of cancellation or long delay of flights entered into force in February 2005. The Aviation Strategy for Europe is one of the initiatives listed in the Commission Work Programme for 2015. The goal of the Aviation Strategy is to strengthen the competitiveness and sustainability of the entire EU air transport value network. Welcoming the move, IATA said it is an important stop-gap measure until critical reforms to EU 261/2004 are implemented. “A transparent and level playing field is important for passengers and airlines. Today’s interpretative guidelines are an important step to ensure that EU 261 is applied with greater consistency across Europe. The industry’s issues with EU 261, however, remain unsolved. Revisions to the regulation proposed in March 2013 would help to provide a better balance between passenger rights and airline obligations. But they are being held in limbo as a result of a deadlocked dispute between Spain and the UK over Gibraltar,” said Tony Tyler, IATA’s Director General and CEO. 

July 2016

Special Report

ACI releases passenger numbers

Middle East aviation sector demonstrates robust growth

ccording to the latest statistics from Airports Council International, global airport passenger traffic increased by 3.4 per cent in April 2016, while international passenger traffic grew faster than the domestic segment (3.8 per cent versus 3.3 per cent respectively). Total passenger traffic grew by 6.2 per cent for the first four months of 2016 as compared to the previous year. ]In the Middle East, all major aviation markets demonstrated robust growth. Passenger traffic in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar grew by 7.5 per cent and 20.2 per cent respectively. Doha (DOH) has continued to maintain momentum, and is the fastest-growing airport in the region (+20.2 per cent or +507,000 passengers), followed closely by Dubai (DXB, +7.2 per cent or + 468,000 passengers). Passenger traffic declines in Africa and Latin America-Caribbean (-6.8 per cent and -3 per cent respectively) were coupled with more modest growth of 2.4 per cent in North America and Europe. Asia-Pacific and the Middle East remain the two major driving forces of passenger traffic growth, demonstrating robust 7.3 per cent and 9.7 per cent growth respectively. Passenger traffic losses in Africa continue to persist. Egypt and Tunisia experienced declines in total passenger traffic of 31.2 per cent and 13.7 per cent respectively in April 2016, the result of aviation security concerns in the major tourist markets of the region.

July 2016

Global trends in air freight are less optimistic as compared to air passenger markets The two airports with the most significant losses in passenger traffic were Sharm el Sheikh (SSH, -78 per cent, representing a year-over-year drop of 480,000 passengers) and Hurghada (HRG, -66 per cent or – 463 thousand passengers). Unfortunately, passenger traffic gains in South Africa (+3.8 per cent) and Nigeria (+5.1 per cent) could not offset the losses in the north. In Asia-Pacific, all major markets demonstrated robust growth in passenger traffic. China, Japan and India—the three largest aviation markets—grew by 6.4 per cent, 4.9 per cent and 17.5 per cent respectively. The other major players in the region—

Australia, Thailand and Korea—also demonstrated robust growth of 4.3 per cent, 10.9 per cent and 7.4 per cent respectively. Indonesia remained stagnant with only 1.5 per cent growth, the result of traffic losses at Soekarno– Hatta International Airport (CGK). At the airport level, the highest growth was observed at Delhi (DEL, +20.8 per cent or +764,000 passengers), Tokyo-Haneda (HND, +9.7 per cent or +534,000 passengers) and Nanjing (NKG, +28.5 per cent or + 492,000 passengers). Significant growth was also observed in Bangkok-Don Mueang (DMK, +17.9 per cent or +450,000 passengers), Shanghai-Pudong (PVG, +8.2 per cent or +411,000 passengers) and Singapore (SIN, +9.2 per cent or +402,000 passengers). Spain, at 7 per cent growth in passenger traffic, is approaching traffic levels at the two major aviation markets in Europe, the United Kingdom and Germany, which grew by 1.1 per cent and 3 per cent respectively during the same period. Major airports in France grew by 5.4 per cent in terms of total passenger traf-

Special Report

fic, while Italy remained flat (0.1 per cent), and Turkey and the Russian Federation lost 3 per cent and 4.4 per cent of their traffic respectively. At the airport level, significant growth was observed at Amsterdam (AMS, +10.1 per cent or +480,000 passengers), partly due to traffic transfer from Brussels, Barcelona (BCN, +8.7 per cent or +291,000 passengers) and Berlin-Schönefeld (SXF, +34.2 per cent or +229,000 passengers). Brussels (BRU), which was affected by the terrorist attack on 22 March 2016 lost almost half of its passenger traffic in April (-46.6 per cent or -935,000 passengers). Brazil, the largest aviation market in Latin America and the Caribbean, lost 13 per cent of its traffic on a year-overyear basis, testifying to the sharp contraction of the national economy. Mexico remains the only strong and stable source of passenger traffic growth (+5.8 per cent) in the region, while Colombia is slowing down to 2.1 per cent growth, comparable to that seen in Argentina (+1.7 per cent). In Chile, where the economy has grown faster than forecasted, passenger traffic grew strongly by 7.3 per cent. At the individual airport level the highest growth was observed at Santiago (SCL, +8.7 per cent or +111,000 passengers), Mexico City (MEX, +3.5 per cent or +108,000 passengers) and Lima (LIM, +7.1 per cent or + 92,000 passengers). The two aviation markets of North America—the United States and Canada—grew by 2.5 per cent and 0.7 per cent respectively in terms of total passenger traffic. Notable growth was observed at Los Angeles (LAX, +6.2 per cent or +367,000 passengers), Seattle (SEA, +11.2 per cent or +361,000 passengers) and Atlanta (ATL, +3.5 per cent or +

295,000 passengers), while New YorkLa Guardia (LGA) lost 10 per cent of its traffic (-241,000 passengers). Global trends in air freight are less optimistic as compared to air passenger markets. Worldwide, air freight volumes grew by only 1 per cent for the month of April. In Asia-Pacific, air freight grew by only 1.3 per cent, while in Europe growth was more robust at 5.4 per cent. Nevertheless, many of the world’s freight hubs contracted vis-à-vis 2015 (total air freight contraction on a year-to-date basis of 0.1 per cent). Out of top 20 air freight hubs, 7 airports reported growth rates of 1 per cent or less. Because air freight is highly concentrated, with the top 20 air freight hubs occupying almost half of global volumes, this weak growth among the major airports pulls down the global growth figure. In Europe, significant air freight volume losses were observed at Istanbul-Atatürk (IST, -5.5 per cent or -3,800 tonnes), Paris-Orly (ORY, -17.7 per cent or -2,000 tonnes) and Izmir (ADB, -76.2 per cent or -1,800 tonnes).

Air freight declines in Asia-Pacific were more pronounced at Jakarta (CGK, -35.2 per cent or -17,000 tonnes) and Kuala-Lumpur (KUL, -15.6 per cent or -10,000 tonnes). In Latin America-Caribbean, consistent with macro-economic realities, the largest air freight volume declines were observed at Rio de Janeiro–Galeão (GIG, -44.3 per cent or -3,900 tonnes) and Viracopos (VCP, -14.1 per cent or -2,200 tonnes) in Brazil. In the Middle East, despite the robust air freight growth of 4.9 per cent of the region as a whole and impressive growth of 19.1 per cent (+22,600 tonnes) at Doha (DOH), growth at Dubai (DXB, +4.8 per cent or +9,700 tonnes) was offset by air freight declines at Sharjah (SHJ, -19.9 per cent or -3,200 tonnes) and Abu Dhabi (AUH, -10.8 per cent or -7,900 tonnes). At the country level, the three largest air freight markets balance each other out: while estimates point to an increase in air freight traffic of 3.7 per cent in the United States, it grew by 3 per cent in China and remained flat in Japan at 0.3 per cent. Germany and India remain promising with 4.6 per cent and 4.5 per cent growth in air freight volumes respectively. 

July 2016

Middle East News

Qatar Airways enters into new codeshare agreement with Srilankan Airlines

atar Airways and SriLankan Airlines, both members of the oneworld alliance, have strengthened their cooperation with a bilateral code-share relationship. Both airlines will code-share on each other’s flights between their respective hubs – Qatar Airways’ thrice daily Airbus A340-600 operations to Colombo and SriLankan Airlines’ daily Airbus A330-300 flight to Doha. The combination of four daily flights between Doha and Colombo will offer customers additional convenience and flexibility. Passengers travelling to Colombo on Qatar Airways now have additional connectivity to the popular holiday hotspot Male, in the Maldives. SriLankan Airlines passengers can also now transit through Doha’s Hamad International Airport and travel onwards, subject to government approvals, to 20* exciting leisure and business destinations, including Amsterdam, Barcelona, Paris, Copen-

hagen, Moscow, Rome, Frankfurt, Geneva, Manchester, Milan, Oslo, Sofia, Stockholm, Vienna, Zurich, New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Bahrain and Cape Town. Travellers will also benefit from accruing frequent flyer miles, together with other oneworld privileges such as access to spacious lounges, extra baggage allowances, priority checkin and boarding, fast track security lanes and special fares across both carriers’ networks.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker said: “Qatar Airways is pleased to have reached a code-sharing agreement with an established oneworld carrier like SriLankan Airlines, which will deepen commercial cooperation and jointly strengthen our competitive offering in the market. This new partnership will allow passengers to enjoy the seamless connectivity that Qatar Airways offers via Doha to our wide network across the globe.” 

Oman Air announces discounts for Omani students

man Air has announced that new graduates from high schools in Oman are to receive a 25 per cent discount on return flights to enable them to continue their studies overseas. The discounts will apply to all booking classes, but will not include promotional fares. To be eligible for the discounts, students must be Omani citizens, aged between 18 and 25 years old at time

July 2016

of travel, who have just graduated from high school, or an equivalent educational institution. In addition, they will have been accepted for fulltime study on an accredited course at an overseas college or university. The discounts apply to international destinations that lie within Oman Air’s expanding international network and are where students are enrolled. Students will be entitled

to an enhanced baggage allowance of 10kg above the weight normally permitted and one flight rescheduling can be made at no extra charge. Discounted tickets are available only through the airline’s local offices and outlets in Oman and can be booked upon presentation of a photocopy of a valid student ID card, or a formal letter issued by the head of faculty or the Ministry of Higher Education. 

Middle East News

Airport modernisation projects to drive growth of Saudi Arabia’s construction industry

riven by investments in transport infrastructure including airport development projects, the construction industry in Saudi Arabia is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.05% from 2016 to 2020, according to a report by Timetric. Titled ‘Construction in Saudi Arabia - Key Trends and Opportunities to 2020’, the report highlights how the government’s decision to expand and modernise the county’s airport sector will act as a catalyst to increase the growth in the construction industry. Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA) has announced plans to invest in the development of airport infrastructure to handle the growing passenger influx,

which is expected to reach 100m annually year by 2020. The expansion of the domestic tourism industry is also dependent on the planned improvements in the aviation sector. The construction industry will benefit from the authorities’ plan to develop and improve 27 domestic, regional and international airports under the Vision 2020 programme to increase their passenger-handling capacity. The report also notes that, in November 2015, the GACA decided

privatise the country’s airports by 2020 to offset the budgetary deficit incurred due to declining oil prices. Other sectors including healthcare, manufacturing, education, energy and housing are also expected to contribute towards the promising outlook of the country’s construction industry. Several initiatives announced by the authorities in these sectors, including the White Land Tax initiative, are expected to further boost the construction industry. 

July 2016

Middle East News

Next-gen passenger management platform ensures a premium experience at every step

SITA’s Horizon to support launch of Sky Prime’s VIP flight service

ky Prime Aviation Services, a leading Saudi private aviation services company, is to deploy SITA’s next-generation passenger services system (PSS) to manage its new VIP flight service being introduced to its premium passengers.

Targeted at the region’s premium traveler, the success of the new service relies heavily on providing the very best customer service each step of the journey, from the moment a passenger makes a booking to when they leave the aircraft.

July 2016

SITA has worked with Sky Prime to understand the aviation group’s new flight program to ensure the group is able to deliver a world-class passenger experience. Leveraging the functionality of the Horizon® Passenger Management and Distri-

bution solution, SITA will provide a broad portfolio, ranging from a leading-edge mobile platform which allows passengers to book and manage their flights directly from their smartphones and tablets to ensuring a smooth and on-time departure.

Middle East News

ger operation. Here the Horizon® platform will help Sky Prime manage every aspect of their passenger operation and ensure quick and efficient boarding and departures through SITA’s Departure Control Services. At the same time, Horizon® Weight & Balance will support planning by centralizing and streamlining Sky Prime’s operational processes on the ground, improve safety and enable greater fuel efficiency. Salem Abaid Al Muzaini, CEO of Sky Prime, said: “As Saudi Arabia’s leading private aviation operator, we have customers that demand the very best experience from the moment they make their booking to when they leave the aircraft. SITA has recognized our unique requirements and through the Horizon® platform are able to provide a solution that positions Sky Prime as the best aviation services company in the region.”

Ibrahim Saleh: Our Horizon® platform is used by more than 100 airlines across the globe All systems are interconnected in real time to one database, providing instant access to any required service. SITA recognizes that a suc-

cessful journey starts with the first step. iTravel® and Reservations make it possible for passengers to book and manage their flight through a variety of channels – via a call center, website or mobile application – delivering a uniform experience across all platforms. Horizon® Loyalty will enable Sky Prime to provide tailored treatment to each of their VIP customers while seamlessly integrating their loyalty program with the service’s reservations and departures systems. A memorable passenger experience is dependent on the smooth passen-

Ibrahim Saleh, SITA Vice President Sales for Middle East & North Africa, said: “Our Horizon® platform is used by more than 100 airlines across the globe. Yet its flexible infrastructure is able to meet the unique requirements of each airline, no matter what their operating model or size. This has allowed us to help Sky Prime position themselves as the region’s best private aviation operator.” Sky Prime provides a wide range of services including in-house maintenance and technical support, ground support and consultancy services as well as aviation project and airport management. 

July 2016

International News

Willie Walsh appointed chairman of IATA Board of Governors

AG chief Willie Walsh has been appointed chairman of the IATA Board of Governors for a one-year term. He succeeds Andres Conesa, CEO of Aeromexico.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced leadership changes at the conclusion of the Association’s 72nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Dublin, Ireland. Alexandre de Juniac, Chairman and CEO of Air France-KLM, was confirmed to succeed Tony Tyler as IATA’s Director General and CEO. His appointment is effective from 1 September 2016. “I’m honored to serve in this important role at such a critical time. Our

July 2016

top priority is getting governments’ agreement on a global market-based measure to manage aviation’s carbon emissions at the 39th Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization later this year. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity which is vital if our industry is to achieve carbon-neutral growth from 2020,” said Walsh. Walsh is the 75th Chair of the IATA BoG and the sixth to fulfil that function while representing BA or its predecessor airlines. He has served on

the IATA BoG continuously since 2005. Walsh also noted a broader IATA agenda with governments, “Too often government policies limit aviation’s ability to be a catalyst for economic growth and development. Excessive taxes rob our industry of its vitality while costly and ineffective infrastructure constrains our ability to support rising demand for connectivity. Regulation often comes with negative consequences for both passengers and

International News

“IATA will be in good hands under the leadership of Willie Walsh as Chairman of the BoG and Alexandre de Juniac as the Director General and CEO.

airlines. I look forward to supporting Alexandre de Juniac as he takes the reins at IATA. Together we will ensure that IATA has an even stronger voice of leadership on these issues.” said Walsh. IATA also announced that the Goh Choon Phong, Chief Executive Officer, Singapore Airlines, will serve as Board Chair-elect for a one-year term as from the close of the 2016 AGM and to take office from June 2017 following Walsh’s term. Director General and CEO Designate, De Juniac will be the seventh person to lead IATA as its Director General. “I thank my industry colleagues for their confidence in confirming me as IATA’s next Director General and

I want to extend my thanks to the membership, the BoG and five exceptional BoG chairmen. They have guided me and the IATA team with wise counsel and tremendous support over the last five years,” said Tyler. Willie Walsh

CEO. Aviation is a vitally important industry—connecting economies, facilitating business, creating jobs and linking people. I have big shoes to fill as Tony Tyler has done an excellent job over the last five years,” said de Juniac. “I know how challenging it is to run an airline and how much airlines depend on IATA to support their business—to safely process industry money, to deliver effective advocacy, to lead global initiatives and to provide relevant products and ser-

“Working together—IATA with its members—we have made our association stronger with closer partnerships across the industry. And with those partnerships we have made significant progress towards improving safety, modernizing distribution, promoting smarter regulation and managing our climate change impact. There is always, of course, more work to do. I am fully committed to my duties until September when I hand over to Alexandre the responsibility of supporting our members to be profitable businesses that are a force for good in our world,” said Tyler. Tony Tyler, Director General and CEO

vices. My aim is to help airlines to be even more successful businesses creating even greater economic and social value. I want all of our members to have a future that is even safer, more efficient, sustainable and increasingly profitable,” said de Juniac. De Juniac is a French businessman. He will join IATA from Air FranceKLM where has served as Chairman and CEO since 2013. 

July 2016

International News

U.S. Commercial Aviation community targets pilot mental fitness

he U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is working with commercial airlines and pilots’ unions to improve mental health evaluations, and encourage voluntary reporting of pilot mental health issues.

An Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) comprised of aviation and medical experts has made several recommendations about pilot medical fitness. “Safety is always our first priority and this includes making sure our nation’s commercial pilots undergo robust medical evaluations,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Foxx. “The U.S. commercial aviation community is working together to make sure pilots are able to report, and be treated for, any mental health condition. We must be confident pilots are medically fit when they enter the cockpit.” “U.S. commercial pilots undergo vigorous and regular medical screening,” said FAA Administrator Michael Huerta. “While some conditions automatically disqualify someone from flying, many pilots have treatable conditions. We need to do more to remove the stigma surrounding mental illness in the aviation industry so pilots are more likely to

July 2016

self-report, get treated, and return to work.”Certain medical conditions, such as a psychosis, bipolar disorder and severe personality disorder automatically disqualify a pilot from obtaining an FAA medical certificate and prohibit them from flying. However, many pilots have conditions that are treatable. Several U.S. airlines already have reporting and monitoring programs that provide pilots with a path to report their condition, be treated for it and return to the cockpit once the FAA has determined – through a thorough evaluation – it is safe to do so. The FAA addresses the medical certificates of those pilots on a case-bycase basis.

The FAA, airlines and pilots’ unions considered the ARC’s recommendations and agreed to these actions: In January, the FAA began enhanced training for Aviation Medical Examiners so they can increase their knowledge on mental health and enhance their ability to identify warning signs. Airlines and unions will expand the use of pilot assistance programs. The FAA will support the development of these programs over the next year. These programs will be incorporated in the airline’s Safety Management Systems for identifying risk. The FAA will work with airlines over the next year as they develop programs to reduce the stigma around mental health issues by increasing awareness and promoting resources to help resolve mental health problems. 

International News

The FAA will issue guidance to airlines to promote best practices about pilot support programs for mental health issues. The FAA will ask the Aerospace Medical Association to consider addressing the issue of professional reporting responsibilities on a national basis and to present a resolution to the American Medical Association. Reporting requirements currently vary by state and by licensing and specialty boards. “As a member of the ARC, ALPA was pleased to work with other stakeholders and share information about the many pilot assistance programs currently in place,” said Capt. Joe DePete, ALPA First Vice President and National Safety Coordinator. “We are committed to maintaining the highest standards for pilot health, and this report will continue to help ensure the safety of our industry.” “This report reflects the strong collaboration among airlines, airline employees, safety organizations and government that has made the U.S. aviation system the largest and safest aviation system in the world,” said Billy Nolen, A4A Senior Vice Pres-

ident, Safety, Security and Operations. “Airlines for America and our members appreciate the opportunity to participate on the Pilot Fitness Aviation Rulemaking Committee and will continue to work with our carriers’ superb pilot workforce and all interested

Administrator Huerta in September 2015, stating that in-depth psychological testing of pilots as part of routine periodic care is neither productive nor cost effective. Instead, the FAA and the aviation community is embracing a holistic approach that includes education, outreach, training, and encourages reporting and treatment of mental health issues. The FAA will reconvene the ARC’s medical working group this year to determine if specific U.S. psychological research projects should be sponsored to better understand general pilot mental health.

parties to implement the Committee’s recommendations and ensure that air travel remains the safest form of transportation available.” The ARC’s experts did not recommend routine psychological testing because there was no convincing evidence that it would improve safety, which the Aerospace Medical Association also concluded in a letter to

The FAA will also collaborate with the United Kingdom’s Civil Aviation Authority which is studying the psychological testing of pilots who underwent personality testing several decades ago, to include medical and psychiatric outcomes, as well as exploring early recognition of personality and behavioral issues that could pose issues in the future for pilots. The ARC also studied access to the flightdeck and determined that procedures and design requirements for U.S. airlines are effective. 

July 2016

ATM

EU to seek air traffic deals with Gulf, Asean

U member states have given the go ahead for the European Commission to pursue air traffic agreements with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Turkey and countries in Southeast Asia in an effort to support its airline industry.

The Commission, the European Union’s executive, asked national governments in December to give it a mandate to start talks on air transport agreements with a number of countries, including China, Turkey, the UAE, Kuwait and Qatar. EU Commissioner for Transport Violeta Bulc said: “Global connectivity is a driver of trade and tourism, directly contributing to economic growth and job creation. I am pleased that we have the support from the 28 EU Transport Ministers to upgrade Europe’s aviation relations with some of our key partners.

Only months after its adoption, the delivery of the Aviation Strategy for Europe is firmly on track. Once agreed, these agreements will offer new business opportunities to the whole aviation sector, new routes and better fares to passengers, whilst guaranteeing a level playing field to our companies. However this is only the beginning. I now invite Member States to continue working on the remaining mandates.” EU-level aviation agreements create new economic opportunities and ensure fair and transparent market conditions based on a clear regulatory framework for all actors.

They ensure market access, promote investment opportunities, facilitate air travel and provide a wider choice to consumers. They also aim to ensure high standards of safety, security, air traffic management and infrastructure, as well as in consumer, social, and environmental protection. Once concluded, it is estimated that the economic benefits[2] of the agreements could be: ASEAN: up to € 7.9 billion in the first seven years of the agreement (2017-2023) and up to 5,700 new jobs by 2023. Download the full fact sheet here. 

Harris wins contract to upgrade ATC communications at Jamaica

merican communications equipment company Harris has bagged a contract to upgrade critical air traffic control (ATC) communications at the Air Traffic Control Centre (ATCC) in Kingston, Jamaica, according to www. airport-technology.com. Under the terms of the deal, Harris will deliver two Liberty-STAR voice

July 2016

communication and control systems (VCCS) to the Kingston ATCC in order to modernise the existing main and back-up systems. Harris Mission Networks president Ed Sayadian said: “Being a popular tourist destination means the skies over Jamaica are often very active and finding a solution that keeps its airways operating

safely and efficiently is vital.”Having previously supplied systems to airports in Kingston and Montego Bay, Jamaica is very familiar with the quality, reliability and value Harris provides.” Harris Liberty-STAR VCCS features open-platform software, a modular architecture and commercial-off-theshelf hardware. 

ATM

Air Cairo signs full content agreement with Amadeus Altéa

ir Cairo has signed an agreement with Amadeus Altéa for IT and distribution services in hope of increasing air traffic.

ment technology, and benefit from Amadeus-connected travel agencies being able to access its full range of fares and prices.

The carrier has completed its cutover to Amadeus’ Altéa Reservation and Inventory and Amadeus e-Commerce modules and has signed a full content management agreement.

“Migrating to a modern IT system such as Altéa means we can effectively codeshare with partner airlines, and issue interline tickets, which brings new growth opportunities. In parallel, the full content agreement enables us to take our partnerships with Amadeus’ travel agency community to the next level as they gain access to our

The carrier will be able to maximise booking and revenue growth whilst receiving the latest schedule manage-

inventory in an efficient and effective way,” said Yasser El Ramly, Air Cairo’s CEO. With aim to expand its fleet to over 20 aircraft by 2020, the carrier is striving to increase sales and visibility of its services It will be able to provide a reliable, scalable communications solution for ATC towers, airline and area control dispatch, flight service stations and mobile shelters. 

EUROCONTROL and GCAA begin real time flight data exchange

n the basis of the cooperation agreement between the General Civil Aviation Authority of the UAE (GCAA) and EUROCONTROL in October 2015, real time flight data exchange has been successfully implemented on 6 June 2016 between both organisations. “Real time updates of departure times and other trajectory information is now being exchanged between the operational systems of EUROCONTROL Network Manager and the UAE main air traffic control centre on the major traffic flows between Europe and the UAE. This is a significant contributor to realise the Global Air Traffic Flow Management Concept, where the different parts of the world connect and exchange these very important data”, says Frank Brenner, Director General of EUROCONTROL.

Currently there are already about 400 flights a day between the two regions and an additional 150-200 aircraft as overflights. Traffic is currently growing at 3.6 per cent a year. “The full implementation of this cooperation agreement will bring substantial benefits to the predictability of these traffic flows as all ATM

actors will have much more accurate information on these flights,” said Joe Sultana, Director Network Manager at EUROCONTROL. “ATM predictability is a major enabler of capacity and the 64 air traffic control centres in Europe and the European airports will directly benefit from the receipt of these updated trajectory information.” 

July 2016

Opinion

‘We have to confront big decisions’ I have also always believed that we have to confront big decisions – not duck them. I fought this campaign in the only way I know how – which is to say directly and passionately what I think and feel – head, heart and soul. David Cameron Former Prime Minister, UK

he British people have voted to leave the European Union and their will must be respected. Across the world people have been watching the choice that Britain has made. I would reassure those markets and investors that Britain’s economy is fundamentally strong. And I would also reassure Brits living in European countries, and European citizens living here, that there will be no immediate changes in your circumstances. There will be no initial change in the way our people can travel, in the way our goods can move or the way our services can be sold. We must now prepare for a negotiation with the European Union. This will require strong, determined and committed leadership. I am very proud and very honoured to have been Prime Minister of this country for 6 years. I believe we have made great steps, built a bigger and stronger society that is economically strong.

3434

July July 2016 2016

I was absolutely clear about my belief that Britain is stronger, safer and better off inside the European Union, and I made clear the referendum was about this and this alone – not the future of any single politician, including myself. But the British people have made a very clear decision to take a different path, and as such I think the country requires fresh leadership to take it in this direction. Although leaving Europe was not the path I recommended, I am the first to praise our incredible strengths. I have said before that Britain can survive outside the European Union, and indeed that we could find a way. 

(Excerpts from former Prime Minister David Cameron’s statement on the outcome of the referendum on the UK’s membership of the European Union)

Opinion

Lived up to promises T

his will be my last AGM as your Director General and CEO. As I have said before, it has been an honor and pleasure to serve the industry in this unique and important role. Thank you all for supporting me during these past five years. And I shall cherish my last three months in post before I hand over to Alexandre who, I am sure, will continue to make IATA a very relevant association for all of you.

Tony Tyler Director General and CEO, IATA

The theme for this AGM has been aviation as a force for good. I think that we have lived up to that promise. The resolutions that we have passed on climate change, on terrorism and ending the illegal trafficking of wildlife demonstrate that we are a good corporate citizen in our globalized world. Even more impressive is what you and your teams do each and every day—safely boarding 10 million people and 140,000 tonnes of cargo, taking them to 30,000- or 40, 000-feet, and then safely returning them to land many kilometers away. That’s amazing stuff! You do it with a huge amount of planning and coordination to make sure that it all works seamlessly. You keep safety, security and sustainability as top priorities. You struggle to keep revenues ahead of costs. Your days are full in managing the present and preparing for the future. So let me remind you. We create jobs. We help economies to develop. We have shrunk distances. We make peoples’ lives better. And from the very core of what we do, aviation makes the world a more prosperous place—in terms of wealth and the human spirit. That’s a message that we should shout proudly from every corner of this wonderful world that we bring together. 

(Excerpts from Tony Tyler’s Closing Remarks at the 72nd AGM, Dublin)

July 2016

Airlines

Nonstop services starting Oct 30

Emirates announces enhancements on services to Melbourne, Australia

assengers travelling to Melbourne, Australia will now have another direct flight option with Emirates announcing that flights EK408 and EK409 will begin operating as nonstop services from Dubai from 30 October 2016.

Operated by an Emirates B777300ER aircraft, EK408 will depart Dubai at 03:00hrs and arrive in Melbourne (MEL) at 23:20hrs. The return flight, EK409, will leave Melbourne at 06:00hrs and land in Dubai (DXB) at 13:05hrs. The current service from Dubai to Melbourne operates via Kuala Lumpur (KUL) in both directions. These flight changes will save passengers approximately two and half hours in travel time in each direction when travelling between Dubai and Melbourne on these services. The change to these services will provide passengers with improved one-stop connectivity when travelling from more than 150 destinations

July 2016

on the Emirates network to Melbourne via Dubai. Emirates offers a total of four daily flights from Dubai to Melbourne with codeshare partner Qantas, including three services operated by an A380 aircraft and one flight on an Emirates B777-300ER. With this change, from 30 October 2016, these four daily services will include two daily nonstop flights to Melbourne from Dubai on Emirates and one flight on Qantas aircraft, as well as one daily Emirates flight to Melbourne from Dubai that operates via Singapore. Together, Emirates and Qantas operate 91 flights per week to Australia

from Dubai. Of these 91 flights, 77 of these are Emirates services, which operate to and from Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne, Adelaide and Sydney, including six daily A380 flights. From 30 October 2016, passengers travelling to Malaysia will continue to be able travel to the country on Emiratesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; three daily flights to Kuala Lumpur from Dubai, two of which operate on Emirates 777-300ER and one an A380. Emirates is currently working with travel agents and tour operators regarding alternative travel plans for passengers booked for travel to Kuala Lumpur on the EK408 or EK409 services after 30 October 2016. ď&#x201A;&#x192;

Airlines

July 2016

Airlines

SaudiGulf Airlines to begin domestic flights soon

ew carrier SaudiGulf Airlines is set to soon begin operating domestic flights from King Fahad International Airport (KFIA) in Dammam as the Saudi General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has confirmed that the new airline will be awarded a national carrier licence on June 22. Capt. Abdulhakim Albadur, Assistant to GACA President for Security, Safety and Air Transport, explained

that GACA granted the license to the company after they have passed all the requirements and conditions needed for obtaining the (AOC), the license will be handed over in an official ceremony specially prepared for this event on the 22nd of June, 2016 and in the presence of the Minster of Transport and the CEO of the GACA. He went on to say that GACA worked hand in hand with the company to

meet all the needed conditions and requirement for granting such license, which is closely related to passenger safety. Also to ensure the readiness of the company’s fleet and the expertise of their flying crew and their capabilities. It was taken into consideration, the solid state of the company to ensure continuity in its work as an accredited national carrier. 

SKYTRAX awards 5-star ranking to EVA Air

KYTRAX, an international air transport standards and quality rating organization, has awarded EVA Air its prestigious 5-star airline ranking. The 5-Star Ranking is SKYTRAX’s highest global quality rating and the result of direct and professional analysis of as many as 800 different areas of EVA’s product and service delivery. “EVA Air is being certified as the eighth 5-Star Airline in the world, joining an esteemed and exclusive group of the leading international carriers,” said SKYTRAX CEO Edward Plaisted. EVA joins an elite group of carriers consistenly recognised as the best of

July 2016

the best. The other seven 5-star airlines are All Nippon Airways, Asiana Airlines, Cathay Pacific Airways,

Garuda Indonesia, Hainan Airlines, Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines. 

Airlines

Only Airline to Operate a Scheduled A380 Service into Domodedovo

Emirates to Deploy Flagship A380 Aircraft on Moscow route

mirates has announced that it will be upgrading one of the two daily flights servicing its Dubai-Moscow route to an A380-800, commencing 1st December 2016. Since Emirates started flying from its Dubai hub to Moscow in 2003, the

airline has carried almost 3.5 million passengers on the route. Over the past 12 months, demand has increased, with some 400,000 passengers having travelled on the route. Operating a higher capacity aircraft helps serve the growing demand from both leisure and business travellers. 

To suspend services to Sao Paulo following weak performance

SIA to expand US operations with nonstop flights to San Francisco

ingapore Airlines (SIA) is to launch non-stop flights between Singapore and San Francisco and will add a second daily service to Los Angeles in an expansion of its US operations. The non-stop Singapore-San Francisco flights will be operated on a daily basis with effect from 23 October 2016 using Airbus A350-900 aircraft.

SIA currently serves San Francisco twice-daily, with one flight operating via Hong Kong and the other via Seoul Incheon. With the launch of non-stop Singapore-San Francisco services, the Singapore-Seoul-San Francisco flight will be re-routed to operate as a Singapore-Seoul-Los Angeles service, also from 23 October 2016.

This will result in a second daily service to Los Angeles, complementing existing flights that operate on a Singapore-Tokyo Narita-Los Angeles routing. “Our customers have been asking us to offer more US services and we are pleased to be able to do so. With new non-stop San Francisco flights and the increase in frequency to Los Angeles, customers will have two flights to choose from each day to both of these popular US West Coast destinations,” said Senior Vice President Marketing Planning, Ms Lee Wen Fen. SIA has at the same time taken the difficult decision to suspend services to Sao Paulo in Brazil as a result of the sustained weak performance of the route. SIA operates three weekly flights to Sao Paulo via Barcelona and the last flight will be operated on 20 October 2016. Services between Singapore and Barcelona will continue to be operated. 

July 2016

Cargo & Logistics

DHL tests robot technology

HL has successfully run a pilot test including robot technology for collaborative automated order picking in a DHL Supply Chain warehouse in Unna, Germany.

The robot called EffiBOT from the French start-up Effidence is a new, fully automated trolley that follows pickers through the warehouse and takes care of most of the physical work. It is specifically designed to work safely with and around people. During the test, two robots supported the pickers by carrying the weight and automatically dropping off the orders once fully loaded. The warehousing staff highly appreciated the option to work handsfree and not having to push or pull heavy carts. A common challenge for today’s logistics sector is the high frequency of picking processes in smaller entities due to reduced inventories and increased online shopping. In a non-automated setting manual pickers are confronted with heavy carts and high payloads restricting the picker to single order picking while forcing them to walk longer distances. In addition to EffiBOT, collaborative robots for value-added services such as co-packing as well as mobile piece picking robots autonomously navigating through warehouse shelves are being tested. “In the following weeks, DHL will continuously perform tests with different robot types and systems”, says Markus Kückelhaus, VP Innovation & Trend Research, DHL Customer Solutions & Innovation. “These evaluation results will then determine which technologies will be permanently implemented and position DHL as one of the leaders in an automated future of logistics.” 

4040

July July 2016 2016

COLLABORATIVE AUTOMATED ORDER PICKING

FOLLOWS PICKER SPEED 7 KM/H

EffiBOT

OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE MAX. LOAD 300 KG EASY TO USE

PRESENT Manual cart handling requiring physical effort Heavy weights restricting to single order picking Longer distances causing slower picking process

FUTURE

EffiBOT

Hands-free cart handling avoiding physical strains Automated cart enabling multi-order picking Shorter walking distances enabling faster picking process

EffiBOT

Cargo & Logistics

Qatar Airways Cargo reveals ninemonth strategy to become major player in Transpacific, Australia and South America

atar Airways Chief Officer Cargo, Mr. Ulrich Ogiermann revealed that the world’s third largest international cargo carrier plans to become a major player in three new markets: Transpacific, Australia and South America in the next nine months. This major enhancement of the carrier’s network is made possible by the constant growth of its fleet, which now includes nine Boeing 777F, eight Airbus 3330F and two Boeing 747F aircraft, as well as the opening of its new European hub in Luxembourg, he said while addressing media on the opening day of Air Cargo China 2016 in Shanghai. The cargo carrier projects that its pure cargo fleet will grow to 22 aircraft by 2017 and from 1 July, the carrier will double its flights

into and out of Luxembourg providing better connectivity for its customers. He also announced that Qatar Airways Cargo will add Halifax (Canada) and New York (JFK) to its freighter network in July 2016. He said: “Last year, we succeeded in becoming the world’s third largest international cargo carrier, but there are still areas we have not yet targeted to their full potential. In 2017, we will target areas such as Transpacific, Australia and South America – do not be surprised if you see us becoming a strong player in all these markets in the next nine months. Our expansion into these markets has been made possible thanks to our continuing fleet growth – we will receive three new aircraft by March 2017 – and by the launch of our new European hub in Luxembourg. ”

Atlas accelerating pivot from heavy freight to express

tlas Air Worldwide Holdings (AAWW) is pivoting towards e-commerce and express shipments to take advantage of high-growth markets, said CEO William Flynn at the company’s investor meeting. And while Atlas already has a reputation as one of the more dynamic cargo airlines, the announcement accelerates its move away from heavy freight and towards more disruptive cargo and shipping modes, according to a report on Air Cargo World. “We are moving away from heavy freight and into the integrator, express and e-commerce market,” Flynn explained. “We are becoming a different company.” The new strategy reflects market trends. According to IATA, international freight tonne kilometers (FTKs) grew by only 2.4 percent in in 2015, year-over-year. During the same time period, a separate Bank of America and Merrill Lynch study estimated that international express grew by 4.9 percent while e-commerce surged by 20.4 percent, stated the report. The international express market has already proven its dynamism with a 6.3 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) since 2011 according to Atlas. 

July 2016

Cargo & Logistics

Swiss WorldCargo, Cargologic, SATS launch quality corridor

wiss WorldCargo, the airfreight division of Swiss International Air Lines Ltd., and its partner ground handling companies Cargologic AG and SATS have concluded a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at further enhancing their cargo handling and information services. The new agreement establishes a unique and innovative â&#x20AC;&#x153;quality allianceâ&#x20AC;? among the three partners that will position itself as a knowledge, innovation and quality leader with a special focus on providing value-adding services and superior facilities. Within the new alliance, Swiss WorldCargo, SATS and Cargologic will share knowledge and best practices and will collaborate in the fields of information technology, facility development, joint training, staff/ management attachments and joint innovation workshops.

July 2016

The concept of the agreement is not only to bring the three parties to the agreement much closer together, but to facilitate exchange and mutual learning between the respective air cargo communities of Singapore and Switzerland, including the administrations, as both states share a

number of characteristics and values including a commitment to a liberal aviation market innovation and quality leadership. In the temperature-controlled transport management field, the three parties have agreed to actively cultivate

Cargo & Logistics

Oliver Evans

Good Distribution Practice (GDP) at both Cargologic’s certified cool chain facilities and SATS network stations across Asia (particularly Zurich and Singapore) to promote pharmaceutical and other temperature-controlled airfreight for Swiss WorldCargo. The same network stations will also see specialized handling solutions adopted to promote the carriage of premium and care-intensive airfreight such as valuables shipments for Swiss WorldCargo, as well as the provision of new value-adding services. Swiss WorldCargo, Cargologic and SATS also intend to develop joint e-initiatives that will simplify work processes and drive efficiency, ex-

plore preferred service partnership arrangements and collaborate on such other projects of common interest as may be identified from time to time. “There’s no denying that efficiency and consistency are key elements in sustainable business operations,” said Cargologic Managing Director Marco Gredig. “And we are proud that, with this quality alliance, Cargologic will be driving innovation in airfreight handling together with these two strong partners.”

Alex Hungate, President and Chief Executive Officer of SATS, said: “We are excited about these specific collaborative opportunities with our customer Swiss WorldCargo and Cargologic. Both companies are leaders in transporting high-value and care-intensive consignments for industrial sectors like the pharmaceutical industry. This focus aligns very well with SATS’ own airfreight handling capabilities across Asia.” Oliver Evans, SWISS’s Chief Cargo Officer and Head of Swiss WorldCargo, is equally enthusiastic. “Both SATS and Cargologic are trusted partners of ours,” he confirms, “and help us to achieve our goal of being a global leader in the transportation of care-intensive shipments. We are very excited to embark on a long-term collaboration with them as the reliability of ground processes is a key differentiating factor. We are confident that all three parties will be able to achieve an even higher level of operational excellence.” 

July 2016

Technology

NASA Electric Research Plane Gets X Number, New Name NASA has announced an official name for their next X-plane concept: the X-57 “Maxwell.”

axwell is a hybrid electric research plane equipped with 14 electric propeller-turning motors located along the wings. The experimental plane will be put through a number of tests over the next four years in an effort to demonstrate that electrical propulsion can make planes quieter, more efficient, and environmentally friendly. With 14 electric motors turning propellers and all of them integrated into a uniquely-designed wing, NASA will test new propulsion technology using an experimental airplane now designated the X-57 and nicknamed “Maxwell.” NASA Administrator Charles Bolden highlighted the agency’s first X-plane designation in a decade during his keynote speech at the Ameri-

July 2016

can Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) annual Aviation and Aeronautics Forum and Exposition. “With the return of piloted X-planes to NASA’s research capabilities – which is a key part of our 10-yearlong New Aviation Horizons initiative – the general aviation-sized X-57 will take the first step in opening a new era of aviation,” Bolden said.

As many as five larger transport-scale X-planes also are planned as part of the initiative. Its goals – like the X-57 – include demonstrating advanced technologies to reduce fuel use, emissions and noise, and thus accelerate their introduction to the marketplace. The X-57 number designation was assigned by the U.S. Air Force, which manages the history-making process,

Technology

following a request from NASA. The first X-plane was the X-1, which in 1947 became the first airplane to fly faster than the speed of sound. “Dozens of X-planes of all shapes, sizes and purposes have since followed – all of them contributing to our stature as the world’s leader in aviation and space technology,” said Jaiwon Shin, associate administrator for NASA’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate. “Planes like the X-57, and the others to come, will help us maintain that role.” NASA researchers working directly with the electric airplane also chose to name the aircraft “Maxwell” to honor James Clerk Maxwell, the 19th century Scottish physicist who did groundbreaking work in electromagnetism. His importance in contributing to the understanding of physics is rivaled only by Albert Einstein and Isaac Newton part of a four-year flight demonstrator plan, NASA’s Scalable Convergent Electric Propulsion Technology Operations Research project will build the X-57 by modifying a recently procured, Italian-designed Tecnam P2006T twin-engine light aircraft. Its original wing and two gas-fueled piston engines will be replaced with a long, skinny wing embedded with 14 electric motors – 12 on the leading edge for take offs and landings, and one larger motor on each wing tip for use while at cruise altitude. NASA’s aeronautical innovators hope to validate the idea that distributing electric power across a number of motors integrated with an aircraft in this way will result in a five-time reduction in the energy required for a private plane to cruise at 175 mph.

Several other benefits would result as well. “Maxwell” will be powered only by batteries, eliminating carbon emissions and demonstrating how demand would shrink for lead-based aviation fuel still in use by general aviation. Energy efficiency at cruise altitude using X-57 technology could benefit travelers by reducing flight times, fuel usage, as well as reducing overall operational costs for small aircraft by as much as 40 percent. Typically, to get the best fuel efficiency an airplane has to fly slower than it is able. Electric propulsion essentially eliminates the penalty for cruising at higher speeds. Finally, as most drivers of hybrid electric cars know, electric motors are more quiet than conventional piston engines. The X-57’s electric propulsion technology is expected to

The X57number designation was assigned by the U.S. Air Force significantly decrease aircraft noise, making it less annoying to the public. The X-57 research started as part of the NASA Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate’s Transformative Aeronautics Program’s Convergent Aeronautics Solutions project, with the flight demonstrations being performed as part of the Flight Demonstration Concepts project in the Integrated Aviation Systems Program. 

July 2016