MEA Business Aviation - April 2024

Introduction

The MEA Business editorial team is committed to reporting business news in the Middle East and Africa. Our mission extends to offering a dynamic platform for business leaders to share ideas, engage in constructive debates, and form strategic partnerships that shape the future.

Our goal is to impart business leaders and professionals with the necessary skills and insights to prosper in these dynamic regions. By emphasizing positive news stories, detailed case studies, and inspiring interviews, we foster a narrative of growth and success.

MEA Business magazine is designed to offer clear and concise information through various sections including up-to-the-minute news, market updates, and exclusive CEO interviews. Our readers benefit from a comprehensive blend of our printed magazine, e-magazine, and social media content that provides coverage on the latest developments in the Middle East and Africa.

Additionally, MEA Business is proud to feature several sector specials throughout the year, tailored to coincide with major industry exhibitions and events. In keeping with our commitment to celebrate industry excellence, this issue culminates with a special focus on the Aviation Achievement Awards 2024, recognizing the outstanding contributions and innovative breakthroughs in the aviation sector.

Kenneth Mitchen Publisher, MEA Business

Etihad Cargo Expands Us Capacity With Inaugural Boston Flight

The expansion to Boston adds to Etihad Cargo’s robust US network, which now includes a total of 33 weekly flights, further solidifying its presence in key American markets such as New York, Chicago, and Washington.

Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics division of Etihad Airways, has expanded its network in the United States, enhancing connectivity to the region with the launch of a new service to Boston, Massachusetts. The inaugural flight, which took place on March 31st, marks the beginning of regular operations, with the airline operating four flights per week to Boston. This new route signifies Etihad Cargo’s commitment to delivering customized cargo solutions to the North American market.

The service will be operated using a cutting-edge Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, providing an additional cargo

capacity of 50 tonnes per week to meet the growing demand for freight transportation between Boston and Abu Dhabi. Etihad Cargo will offer tailored solutions to accommodate the diverse range of commodities prevalent in the Boston region, with a particular emphasis on perishable goods, medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, and aircraft parts.

Boston is recognised globally as a critical hub for food, pharmaceuticals, and cutting-edge research and development. Etihad Cargo’s expansion into this market is poised to significantly enhance the flow of perishables such as lobsters and seafood, as well as critical

pharmaceuticals, including medical devices and oncology treatments, from Boston to Abu Dhabi and the rest of the world.

The launch of the Boston route marks the latest addition to Etihad Cargo’s comprehensive US network, which includes double daily flights to New York’s JFK airport, daily services to Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and Washington, D.C. (IAD), and a weekly freighter service to Chicago. This expansion brings the total number of flights Etihad Cargo operates to the US to 33 per week and demonstrates the airline’s ongoing efforts to enhance global connectivity and support trade across its network.

Stanislas Brun, Vice President of Cargo at Etihad Cargo, said: “The introduction of the Boston route is a strategic expansion of Etihad Cargo’s US network, offering more belly capacity to partners and customers. Boston is an important destination for food and pharmaceuticals, as well as a centre for innovation and development. Etihad Cargo’s Abu Dhabi-Boston service will support the region’s export economy, particularly in facilitating the global distribution of its world-class seafood and breakthrough medical products, and further strengthen trade ties between the US and UAE.”

Further enhancing the carrier’s capabilities in the US, Etihad Cargo expanded its network with Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), a member of the SATS Group, to incorporate all the carrier’s stations in the US. This partnership has elevated Etihad Cargo’s premium offerings and enabled the carrier to deliver consistent, highquality, end-to-end air cargo solutions via its CEIV-certified products, including PharmaLife, designed for the secure transport of pharmaceuticals; FreshForward, which ensures the freshness of perishable goods; and specialised services like LiveAnimals and SkyStables, dedicated to the safe and humane transport of live animals.

Aviation Achievement Awards 2024

The Aviation Achievement Awards took place on the 29th of February 2024, honouring the remarkable accomplishments within the aerospace industry. These prestigious awards recognized individuals and organizations that exhibited exceptional leadership, innovation, and resilience during 2023 - 2024. Celebrating a diverse range of achievements, the ceremony shone a spotlight on those who not only met the challenges of a rapidly evolving sector but also introduced transformative strategies and technologies, thus significantly contributing to the advancement of aviation on a global scale.

www.aviation-awards.com

EVENT WINNERS 2024:

Commercial Aviation Industry Awards

• Soisa Aircraft Interiors – Aviation Sustainability Award (Aircraft Interiors)

• flydubai – Airline of the year

• Beond – Trailblazer Award for Outstanding New Service Launch (Airlines)

Business Aviation Awards

• UAS International Trip Support –Collaboration of the Year (Business Aviation)

• MixJet – Aviation Sustainability Award (Business Aviation)

• UAS International Trip Support –Outstanding Contribution to Business Aviation

• RoyalJet Group – FBO of the year

• Mayfair Jets – Aviation Resilience Rising Star

• Air Partner Middle East DMCC – Air

Charter Service Provider of the year (Passenger)

• Empire Aviation Group – Aircraft Management Service Provider of the year

• MixJet – Flight Support Service Provider of the year

• RoyalJet Group – Business Aviation Operator of the year

• ASM – 25 years of Excellence (Flight Support)

• ASM – Lifetime Achievement Award – Mr Vito Gomes, Founder and CEO of ASM

Airport Industry Awards

• Bahrain Airport Company – Airport Operator of the year (Medium Size Airport)

• Saudi Ground Services Company –Ground Support Service Provider of the Year in the Middle East

• Bahrain Airport Company – Aviation Sustainability Award (Airports)

• Abu Dhabi Airports – Airport Operator of the Year

Air Cargo Awards

• flydubai – Outstanding Contribution to the Air Cargo Sector

• Chapman Freeborn Aviation Services –Air Cargo Charter Broker of the year

• ALS Logistic Solutions – Best Air Cargo Handling Systems

• Etihad Cargo – Air Cargo Pharma Service of the Year

• ALS Logistic Solutions – Outstanding Technology Product or Service

• Etihad Cargo – Cargo Airline of the Year

MRO Awards

• Aventure Aviation – Parts Supplier of the Year

• ExecuJet MRO Services – MRO of the Year (Business Aviation)

• Etihad Engineering – MRO Services Provider of the Year

Finance and Legal

• HFW – Aviation Law Firm of the Year

• First Abu Dhabi Bank – Best Sustainable Aviation Financing Initiative

Industry Awards / Open Nomination

• Aviation Security Excellence Award – Mr Basel Alajmi, Kuwait Airways

• Etihad Aviation Training – Training Provider of the Year

• Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH) – Visionary Aviation Infrastructure Development

• TAV TECHNOLOGIES – Groundbreaking Technology Solutions

• VOO Flights – Technology Innovation of the Year

• Avianca Cargo – ESG Award (Air Cargo)

Gulf Aviation Networking Event (Leadership Awards)

• Aerospace Visionary Leadership –Tahnoon Saif, CEO, Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace

• Hub Innovative Leader in Air Cargo Services – Leonard Rodrigues, Acting Managing Director, Etihad Cargo

• Aviation Sustainability Pioneer – Scholte, VP-GM Middle East, Air France – KLM

Aviation Sustainability Award (Aircraft Interiors) Winner

Soisa Aircraft Interiors

Soisa Aircraft Interiors clinched the Aviation Sustainability Award for their groundbreaking ‘From Waste to Wonder’ initiative. This innovative program breathes new life into discarded interior materials, transforming them into valuable artisan products. Not only does it enrich lives by uplifting communities, but it also empowers over 55 families,

demonstrating the impactful blend of sustainable innovation and social responsibility. Soisa’s dedication to crafting a greener future in the aviation industry sets a formidable example, highlighting the profound impact that thoughtful, eco-friendly initiatives can have on both the environment and society.

Airline of the Year Winner

flydubai has been honored as Airline of the Year, a testament to its unparalleled innovation, operational excellence, and unwavering dedication to passenger satisfaction. Carrying over 100 million passengers with a fleet averaging 4.6 years, flydubai’s record-breaking financial performance is remarkable. Its strategic partnerships, cuttingedge technology, sustainability efforts, and the launch of the ‘Business Suite’ have not only exceeded operational milestones but also redefined customer

Winner Flydubai Flydubai

experience. flydubai embodies the spirit of aviation excellence, setting new

benchmarks and leading the industry towards a brighter future.

Outstanding Contribution to the Air Cargo Sector

flydubai has been recognized for its Outstanding Contribution to the Air Cargo Sector, setting a benchmark for excellence in logistics. Operating across 150 destinations in 54 countries, flydubai has revolutionized cargo delivery, particularly to underserved markets, thereby enhancing Dubai’s stature as a global aviation hub. Through strategic partnerships and a commitment to technological innovation, flydubai has significantly expanded its network and capabilities, redefining what is possible

in air cargo. This award celebrates flydubai’s exceptional service quality

and its pivotal role in facilitating global trade.

Trailblazer Award for Outstanding New Service Launch (Airlines) Winner

Beond

Beond, a new but already iconic name in luxury air travel, has been awarded the Trailblazer Award for its exceptional service launch. By connecting paradisiacal destinations with unparalleled elegance through its all-premium class service, Beond has redefined aerial luxury. Founded by industry visionaries,

Beond stands as the epitome of luxury air travel, showcasing how innovation and exquisite service can create unforgettable travel experiences. This award recognizes Beond’s outstanding contribution to the airline sector, highlighting the brand as a true innovator in luxury travel.

Outstanding Contribution to Business Aviation Winner

UAS International Trip Support

UAS International Trip Support has been recognized for its Outstanding Contribution to Business Aviation. With a global presence that supports flights to the remotest destinations, UAS has revolutionized trip support with its acute customization and innovation. The company’s strategic expansion into the Balkans and solidified partnerships underscore its commitment to enhancing service portfolios. Its technology simplifies trip planning with real-time updates, ensuring operational efficiency. Moreover,

UAS’s dedication to sustainability, through the encouragement of Sustainable Aviation Fuel, marks a significant step towards a greener future in aviation.

Collaboration of the Year (Business Aviation) Winner

UAS International Trip Support

UAS International Trip Support, celebrated for its exemplary service reach expansion across the Balkans and strategic collaborations, has won the Collaboration of the Year award in Business Aviation. Through partnerships with prestigious charter operators like Flystar, Alpha Star, and FCC Aviation, UAS has enhanced its operational scale and quality, promoting sustainable fuel use. This award honors UAS’s strategic and impactful collaborations, setting a benchmark in the industry for service excellence and innovation in sustainable practices.

Aviation Sustainability Award (Business Aviation) Winner

MixJet Flight Support Fze

MixJet Flight Support Fze has been honored with the Aviation Sustainability Award in the Business Aviation category for its significant strides towards carbon neutrality. Investing in certified carbon offset projects and advocating for the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel, MixJet demonstrates an unwavering commitment to reducing lifecycle emissions. Their efforts to forge industry-wide partnerships and promote sustainable practices exemplify leadership and dedication to a greener

future in aviation. MixJet’s proactive stance on environmental responsibility

showcases the potential for impactful change in the skies.

Flight Support Service Provider of the Year Winner

MixJet Flight Support Fze

For 15 years, MixJet Flight Support Fze has been the cornerstone of aviation, providing unparalleled service to a myriad of operators. Their global reach and logistical prowess, exemplified by the delivery of millions of liters of fuel, handling thousands of flights, and swift procurement of essential permits, highlight their operational excellence. This award recognizes MixJet’s commitment to innovation and service quality, cementing their status among the top leaders in the MENA region. Their dedication to supporting the aviation industry’s

backbone with efficiency and expertise is truly commendable, reflecting their pivotal

role in enhancing air travel reliability and satisfaction.

FBO of the Year Winner

RoyalJet

Royal Jet Group, epitomizing luxury, efficiency, privacy, and safety, has been named FBO of the Year. Achieving the highest international standards, Royal Jet Group offers an unparalleled experience for discerning travelers. Their facilities are a haven of comfort, ensuring peace of mind with stringent safety protocols. This recognition underscores Royal Jet Group’s commitment to exceptional service, solidifying its status as the epitome of aviation excellence.

Business Aviation Operator of the Year Winner

Group RoyalJet Group

RoyalJet Group, defining luxury in the sky, has been honored as the Business Aviation Operator of the Year. Their unmatched elegance and safety, combined with IS-BAO Stage 3 certification, exemplify their commitment to exceeding expectations. With a diverse fleet and proactive concierge services, RoyalJet has mastered the art of seamless travel from ground to air. Their dedication to innovation and sustainability has transformed travel into an art form,

setting a gold standard in the industry. This accolade acknowledges RoyalJet Group’s exceptional service and their

transformative impact on luxury travel, heralding a new era of excellence in business aviation.

Aviation Resilience Rising Star Winner

Mayfair Jets

Mayfair Jets, having thrived through resilience and expansion across continents amidst global challenges, is awarded the Aviation Resilience Rising Star Award. Launching in 2020, during the peak of the global pandemic, Mayfair Jets demonstrated exceptional growth and dedication to service. Their financial stability and rapid expansion into key markets, including Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UK, and Germany, are commendable. Mayfair Jets embodies the spirit of resilience, showcasing remarkable fortitude and swift ascent in uncertain times.

Air Charter Service Provider of the Year (Passenger) Winner

Air Partner Middle East DMCC

Air Partner Middle East DMCC stands out as the premier Air Charter Service Provider of the Year, delivering bespoke flying experiences characterized by safety, reliability, and unmatched customer satisfaction. With a global network and a rich history of personalized, highquality air travel, Air Partner has innovated solutions tailored to

each passenger’s unique needs. Their unwavering commitment to excellence permeates every facet of their operations, setting a lofty standard for air charter services. This accolade celebrates Air Partner Middle East DMCC’s dedication to elevating the air charter experience, showcasing their pivotal role in shaping the future of personalized air travel.

Aircraft Management Service Provider of the Year Winner

Empire Aviation Group

Empire Aviation Group has been distinguished as the Aircraft Management Service Provider of the Year, revolutionizing aircraft management with a balance of expertise, dedication, and personalized service. Their unique asset management approach caters to the diverse business models of aircraft owners, managing a significant fleet across strategic locations worldwide. This innovative approach has set new standards in the private aviation service industry, emphasizing comprehensive services and transparency. Empire Aviation Group’s exceptional

management practices have not only transformed their sector but have also underscored the

importance of tailored solutions in achieving operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

25 Years of Excellence in Flight Support Winner

Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Aviation Services Management (ASM)

Celebrating a quarter-century of unparalleled service, Aviation Services Management (ASM) has been awarded for 25 Years of Excellence in Flight Support. ASM’s dedication to offering comprehensive aviation solutions around the clock, complemented by their unique combination of an Air Operator Certificate and in-house services, has streamlined operations for a global clientele. Their expertise in safety and operational management has led to an impressive service record, navigating challenging

scenarios with professionalism. This award celebrates ASM’s silver jubilee of industry leadership, honoring their

Mr. Vito Gomes, CEO of ASM

Mr. Vito Gomes, CEO of Aviation Services Management (ASM), is celebrated with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his visionary leadership and strategic acumen that have significantly influenced the aviation services industry. Over 25 years, Gomes has propelled ASM from its inception to a global powerhouse, demonstrating remarkable growth and diversification. Under his stewardship, ASM has not only flourished but also ventured into new realms of private jet operations, setting industry benchmarks.

This award honors Gomes’s transformative impact and enduring legacy, celebrating

unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in flight support.

his contribution to redefining service and innovation in aviation.

Aviation Sustainability Award (Airports) Winner

Bahrain Airport Company

Bahrain Airport Company has earned the Aviation Sustainability Award, recognizing their commitment to integrating sustainability into the core of their operations. Their biodiversity action plan, LEED Gold certification, and dedication to local ecosystems exemplify their approach to sustainable airport operations. Their environmental strategies, including stormwater protection and extensive monitoring programs, demonstrate a profound commitment to the natural world. This

award lauds Bahrain Airport Company’s outstanding efforts in sustainable airport operations, showcasing their role as

stewards of environmental responsibility in the aviation sector.

Airport Operator of the Year (Mid-Sized Airports)

Bahrain Airport Company

Bahrain International Airport earned the prestigious Airport Operator of the year (Medium Size Airport) for its exceptional commitment to excellence, sustainability and innovation. Its streamlined operations, cutting-edge technology integration, and dedication to customer satisfaction set it apart. The airport’s proactive approach to sustainability, community engagement, and safety measures further solidified its position as an industry leader. With a focus on efficiency and passenger

experience enhancement, Bahrain International Airport continually exceeds expectations, making it a

deserving recipient of this esteemed accolade.

Ground Support Service Provider of the Year in the Middle East Winner Saudi Ground Services Company

Saudi Ground Services Company has been named the Ground Support Service Provider of the Year in the Middle East, setting a benchmark for excellence across the region. With a vast network supporting numerous airline clients across all of Saudi Arabia’s airports, their

dedication to quality service has been instrumental in the smooth operation of these bustling hubs. This accolade recognizes their professional prowess and unwavering commitment to ensuring operational efficiency and satisfaction in one of the most dynamic regions in aviation.

Airport Operator of the Year Winner

Abu Dhabi Airports

Abu Dhabi Airports has been awarded the prestigious title of Airport Operator of the Year, marking a significant achievement in global aviation. The completion and operationalization of Terminal A have not only expanded their infrastructure but also significantly enhanced the passenger experience. Abu Dhabi Airports’ commitment

to innovation, connectivity, and community impact underscores its role as a foundational pillar of economic growth, propelling Abu Dhabi into new heights in the aviation sector. This award recognizes their dedication to redefining the travel experience, setting a new standard for airport operations worldwide.

Air Cargo Charter Broker of the Year Winner

Chapman Freeborn Aviation Services

Chapman Freeborn Aviation Services has been honored as the Air Cargo Charter Broker of the Year, a testament to their excellence in delivering tailor-made and reliable logistic solutions. Their proven expertise in managing complex logistical challenges, supported by a vast network and 24/7 operations,

ensures efficient cargo delivery worldwide. This accolade recognizes Chapman Freeborn’s unparalleled standards in air cargo charter brokerage, highlighting their commitment to precision, efficiency, and customer satisfaction in every charter operation.

Best Air Cargo Handling Systems Award Winner

ALS Logistic Solutions

ALS Logistic Solutions has received the Best Air Cargo Handling Systems Award for their groundbreaking contributions to cargo handling. Through the integration of advanced automation and smart technologies, ALS has significantly enhanced efficiency and service quality in the air cargo handling sector. Their innovative turn-key solutions and dedication to excellence have streamlined operations, setting a new industry benchmark. This award acknowledges ALS Logistic Solutions’ leadership in

transforming air cargo handling with their commitment to innovation and operational excellence.

Outstanding Technology Product or Service Award Winner

ALS Logistic Solutions

ALS Logistic Solutions has once again been recognized, this time with the Outstanding Technology Product or Service Award, for their visionary leadership in air cargo technology. Their comprehensive approach to logistic automation has enabled unprecedented operational efficiency, leveraging AI and IoT solutions. This award honors ALS Logistic Solutions’ innovative spirit and their role in creating advanced, integrated systems that optimize cargo operations, showcasing their contributions to the technological advancement of the logistics industry.

Air Cargo Pharma Service of the Year Winner

Cargo Airline of the Year Winner Etihad Cargo Etihad Cargo

Etihad Cargo has been awarded the Air Cargo Pharma Service of the Year for its exceptional service in pharmaceutical logistics. Their PharmaLife product, backed by IATA’s CEIV certification, guarantees the highest standards in the transport of life-saving medications. With a significant increase in shipment volume and a robust, certified network, Etihad Cargo has demonstrated a steadfast dedication to quality and innovation. This award highlights Etihad Cargo’s critical

role in pharmaceutical logistics, ensuring the reliable and efficient delivery of

healthcare products worldwide.

Etihad Cargo has been celebrated as the Cargo Airline of the Year, acknowledging their exemplary performance and service in the air cargo industry. Their strategic network expansion, premium product suite, and digital transformation underscore their leading position in innovation and operational excellence. This award recognizes Etihad Cargo’s outstanding contribution to the air cargo sector, highlighting their commitment to setting new standards and their unwavering dedication to excellence.

We are reducing our environmental footprint

Considering the continued growth of the aviation industry and related carbon emissions, our sector needs to become more sustainable. So as KLM, we are taking responsibility for making our business more sustainable. How? By flying on sustainable fuel, with more efficient routing, with cleaner planes and by recycling our waste.

Learn more about our journey to more sustainable aviation on klm.com/flyresponsibly

Parts Supplier of the Year Award Winner

Aventure Aviation

Aventure Aviation has earned the Parts Supplier of the Year award for their exceptional reliability and service in supplying aviation parts and components. Their commitment to quality, supported by a proven track record and adherence to stringent quality control standards,

distinguishes them in the global market. Aventure Aviation’s significant facility expansion and international acclaim underscore their leadership in the aviation aftermarket. This award celebrates their excellence and dedication to supporting the aviation industry’s needs.

MRO of the Year (Business Aviation) Award Winner

ExecuJet MRO Services

ExecuJet MRO Services has been recognized as the MRO of the Year in Business Aviation, showcasing their precision, expertise, and innovative approach to maintenance, repair, and overhaul services. With capabilities ranging from cabin refurbishments to heavy maintenance checks, ExecuJet stands out for its comprehensive service offerings and foresight in preparing for the latest aircraft models. This award honors their commitment to enhancing the passenger experience through technological advancements and partnerships, setting new benchmarks in the MRO sector.

MRO Services Provider of the Year (Commercial Airlines) Award Winner

Etihad Engineering

Etihad Engineering stands out in the highly competitive field of commercial airline maintenance, earning the title of MRO Services Provider of the Year. Their expansive facilities and international team have serviced a wide array of aircraft, demonstrating an unparalleled level of excellence. With innovations like 3-D printed parts and comprehensive engineering services, Etihad Engineering showcases its commitment to cutting-edge solutions and continuous improvement. Their ongoing expansion and consistent recognition of excellence underline why they are the preeminent choice for this accolade. This award acknowledges Etihad Engineering’s leadership and innovative spirit in the MRO sector, highlighting their significant contributions to advancing airline maintenance practices globally.

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The Middle East and North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA), is the official representative of the business aviation industry in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. MEBAA is a non-profit association and a member of the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), established in 2006 with the mission to provide a platform for members of the business aviation industry in the MENA region to gather, understand and communicate the needs and benefits of the industry. www.mebaa.com

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Aviation Law Firm of the Year Award Winner HFW

HFW has been distinguished as the Aviation Law Firm of the Year, showcasing its unparalleled expertise and leadership in the aviation law sector. Achieving top-tier rankings and widespread recognition, HFW has advised on more aviation deals than any other firm in its class during 2023, solidifying its position as an industry authority. The firm’s

annual Middle East Aviation Conference, drawing over 200 professionals, underscores its central role in the aviation community. This award celebrates HFW’s exceptional performance, client satisfaction, and profound impact on the aviation industry, emphasizing its revered expertise and contributions to aviation law.

Best Sustainable Aviation Financing Initiative Award Winner

First Abu Dhabi Bank

First Abu Dhabi Bank has been recognized for the Best Sustainable Aviation Financing Initiative, leading the charge towards a greener aviation industry. By hosting the seminal Abu Dhabi Summit and rallying over 100 industry leaders towards net-zero emissions, the bank has made significant strides in environmental stewardship. With a commitment to reducing

financed emissions intensity by 15% by 2030 and promoting the use of sustainable aviation fuel, First Abu Dhabi Bank has played a pivotal role in advancing sustainability within the aviation sector. This award honors their strategic vision and impactful investments, marking a substantial contribution to the industry’s sustainable future.

Aviation Security Excellence Award Winner

Mr. Basel Alajmi of Kuwait Airways

Mr. Basel Alajmi of Kuwait Airways has been awarded the Aviation Security Excellence Award, recognizing his exceptional contributions to aviation security. As the first Kuwaiti to achieve international AVSEC instructor status, Alajmi’s expertise and dedication have significantly advanced aviation security

training in Kuwait. His work, approved by leading security and firefighting academies, has established a legacy of safety and vigilance. This award acknowledges Alajmi’s pioneering spirit, commitment to his country, and the profound impact of his work on enhancing aviation security standards.

Aviation Achievement Awards

Training Provider of the Year Award Winner

Etihad Aviation Training

Etihad Aviation Training has been named the Training Provider of the Year, setting a new benchmark for excellence in aviation training. With their innovative training methodologies and commitment to sustainability, they have shaped the future of aviation professionals. The provider’s continuous improvements, safety-centric approach, and international acclaim underscore their leadership in aviation education. Through strategic partnerships and a dedication to industry progression, Etihad Aviation Training has established a legacy of educational excellence, meritoriously earning this recognition for transforming the skies with unparalleled expertise.

Visionary Aviation Infrastructure Development Award Winner

Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH)

The prestigious Visionary Aviation Infrastructure Development Award finds its deserving recipient in the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH). MBRAH’s groundbreaking private jet operations, strategic partnerships, and commitment to innovation have propelled it to unparalleled heights in the

aerospace sector. With a focus on cutting-edge facilities and significant contributions to the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) trade, MBRAH embodies the pinnacle of aviation excellence. This accolade not only recognizes MBRAH’s exceptional achievements but also heralds its role as a vanguard of aviation progress and innovation.

Groundbreaking Technology Solutions Award Winner

Tav Technologies

TAV TECHNOLOGIES has been recognized with the Groundbreaking Technology Solutions Award for their innovative Smart Flight Information Display System. This technology, by reducing costs and enhancing operational efficiency, represents a significant advancement towards sustainable aviation solutions. TAV TECHNOLOGIES’ inventive spirit and contribution to reducing environmental impact through technological innovation have set a new standard in airport operations. This award acknowledges their pioneering approach and substantial impact on advancing airport technology.

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Technology Innovation of the Year Award Winner

VOO flights

VOO flights have been awarded the Technology Innovation of the Year for revolutionizing the air charter industry with their digital B2B marketplace. This platform has transformed the booking process, introducing transparency, efficiency, and a personalized experience into business aviation. By leveraging

advanced algorithms and realtime data, VOO flights have streamlined flight planning and enhanced the overall user experience. This award celebrates their commitment to digitalization, automation, and safety, acknowledging their role in propelling the industry into a new digital era.

ESG Award (Air Cargo) Winner

Avianca Cargo

Avianca Cargo has received the ESG Award (Air Cargo) for its pioneering efforts in sustainability and environmental governance within the air cargo sector. Their initiatives, including humanitarian aid flights and strategic alliances for waste reuse, demonstrate a profound commitment to impactful change.

Avianca Cargo’s modern fleet,

significant emission reductions, and dedication to preserving ecosystems underscore their leadership in sustainable operations. This award honors their comprehensive approach to sustainability and corporate responsibility, highlighting their societal contributions and commitment to environmental stewardship.

Aerospace Visionary Leadership Award Winner

Tahnoon Saif, CEO, Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub

Tahnoon Saif, CEO of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH), is the distinguished recipient of the Aerospace Visionary Leadership Award. Under Saif’s leadership, MBRAH has set unparalleled benchmarks in private jet operations and strategic aerospace expansions, demonstrating significant influence on global aviation development. His innovative vision has propelled MBRAH to achieve record-breaking performance

and a substantial increase in MRO trade, exemplifying his commitment to pioneering advancements in the industry.

The Visionary Leadership Award recognises Saif’s exceptional leadership, foresight and dedication to innovation. Saif’s contributions have not only earned MBRAH the Visionary Aviation Infrastructure Development Award but also underscore the transformative impact of his vision on the aerospace sector.

Innovative Leader in Air Cargo Services Award Winner

Leonard Rodrigues, Acting Managing Director, Etihad Cargo

Leonard Rodrigues, the Acting Managing Director of Etihad Cargo, is celebrated with the Innovative Leader in Air Cargo Services Award. Under Rodrigues’ guidance, Etihad Cargo clinched the prestigious Cargo Airline of the Year award, a testament to his visionary leadership in the air cargo industry. Rodrigues has been pivotal in steering Etihad Cargo through significant strategic network expansions, the introduction

of a premium product suite, and a bold journey towards digital transformation. These initiatives have solidified Etihad Cargo’s innovation and operational prowess, setting new industry standards for service excellence and efficiency. This accolade reflects Rodrigues’ profound impact on Etihad Cargo’s success, honoring his commitment to innovation and excellence.

Aviation Sustainability Pioneer Award Winner

Simon Scholte, VP-GM Middle East, Air France – KLM

Simon Scholte, General Manager for the Middle East at Air France KLM, was the recipient of the Aviation Sustainability Pioneer Award for his commitment to sustainability within the aviation industry. Spearheading the airline’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) program in the region, Scholte has been instrumental in driving Air France KLM’s ambitious sustainability initiatives. As a result of his

and other senior personnel’s efforts, the airline has significantly reduced its carbon footprint and set a new benchmark for environmental responsibility in commercial aviation. Scholte’s dedication to integrating sustainable practices into every aspect of Air France KLM’s operations highlights the potential for impactful change within the sector, marking him as a true pioneer in aviation sustainability.

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