Via dubai english august 2017 for web

Monthly Newsletter issued by Dubai Civil Aviation Authority

www.viadubaionline.com

Issue 51 August 2017

Inside DCAA Workshop for Dubai Plus 6 Standard comparison 7 DCAA honours trainees

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UAE in Focus Emirates and flydubai 14 join forces, announce extensive partnership agreement

Dubai airport’s free 16 Wi-Fi is world’s fastest Fursan Al Emarat 17 participates in MAKS2017 air show in Russia

Mohammed bin Rashid tours Dubai International Airport We take less than 30 minutes to grant landing permissions for nonscheduled operations Saood Kankazar

DC Aviation Al-Futtaim 18 adds Challenger aircraft to managed fleet

Global passenger Boeing delivers first 19 traffic rises 6.2 per cent 737 MAX 8 to Flydubai Special Report 20

ATM 28

Collaboration is woven into our fabric

Enhancing passenger experience

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23

Angela Gittens

Emirates boosts U.S. economy

by US$21 billion

Cargo & Logistics 30

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26

Michael Huerta

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25

Technology 32

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August 2017

August 2017

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August 2017

Message

from the President

High growth

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viation is a major engine of Dubai’s economic development. The contribution of this sector to our economy is increasing and is expected to reach 35 per cent of Dubai’s GDP from the present about 30 per cent. In addition, the sector also generates significant employment opportunities.

As the economy of Dubai and UAE diversifies, the role of aviation will grow further.

There is a high growth in number of air passengers, expected to cross 7.2 billion by 2035 worldwide.

The growth in UAE and Dubai has been higher than the global average. This year we are expecting the number of passengers at Dubai International to be higher than last year, which also brings us closer to achieving 90 million-mark in passenger numbers in 2017. We are already the world’s number one in terms of international passengers and time is not far when Dubai International will also be the world’s busiest airport in terms of total passengers.

Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum

We are highly grateful to our visionary leaders, who have always inspired us to excel and constantly motivate us.

The visit of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai brought high motivation to all those working at the airports, encouraging them to give more than their best.

With this motivation, we are confident that our achievements will exceed our targets. 

All this growth brings with it great responsibility, challenges and opportunities.

August 2017

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In 2007, the functions of the Department of Civil Aviation were restructured. Accordingly, the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) was established as a regulatory body, by a decree of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, on proclamation of law No. 21 of 2007, as amended by law No. 19 of 2010, to undertake development of Air Transport Industry in the Emirate of Dubai and to oversee all aviation-related activities.

CONTENTS

Inside DCAA 6

Workshop for Dubai Plus

7

Standard comparison

Via Dubai is the official bilingual monthly newsletter of DCAA, designed to highlight the initiatives and developments in the aviation industry and act as a knowledge-sharing platform for all the stakeholders and aviation professionals.

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

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DCAA honours trainees

E-mail: viadubai@naddalshiba.com Legal Disclaimer

The views expressed in the articles are of the writers and not necessarily belong to DCAA. We take all reasonable steps to keep the information current and accurate, but errors can occur. The information is therefore provided as is, with no guarantee of accuracy, completeness or timeliness.

The DCAA or Via Dubai does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the quality, accuracy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of any information. Via Dubai does not endorse or recommend any article, product, service or information mentioned in the newsletter. Any perceived slight of any person or organisation is completely unintentional.

DCAA Interview

‘We take less than 30 minutes to grant landing permissions for nonscheduled operations’

Advertise with us

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

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Saood Kankazar Printed by Printwell Dubai

Our Vision

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

Our Mission

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

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

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

http://www.facebook.com/DCAADubai

twitter.com/DcaaDubai

youtube.com/user/dcaadubai

Message

from the Director General

Safety is our priority

D

ubai has been witnessing a consistently strong growth in air passenger numbers, with an average of more than 7 per cent annually. Cargo volumes also continue to rise.

Mohammed Abdulla Ahli

To meet the needs of growth in air passenger numbers and cargo volumes, Dubai is expanding its facilities.

Dubai World Central, Dubai’s second airport, saw 29.5 per cent growth in passenger traffic in the first quarter of this year with nearly 334,000 passengers. As the expansion of passenger terminal completes, it will have the capacity to handle over 26 million passengers. Capacity expansion, growth in passenger numbers as well as cargo and increased aircraft movement, have made UAE and Dubai’s aviation sector one of the most prominent aviation sectors in the world.

At the DCAA, this means a higher responsibility of ensuring safety of Dubai’s skies.

Aviation safety has always been our top priority and we have been enhancing our safety and security in Dubai’s airspace in accordance with international standards. We use the latest smart technology and our highly trained staff conduct regular inspections and ensure highest level of aviation safety and security in all aspects.

I would like to thank all our stakeholders and employees who work with strong commitment to give more than their best and help us achieve our goals. 

The UAE has been ranked the highest in the world in compliance with international aviation safety standards by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

August 2017

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Inside DCAA

Workshop for Dubai Plus D

ubai Health Authority’s (DHA) Human Resources Department organised a workshop for its employees on Dubai Government Employees’ Disbursement System, Dubai Plus, in collaboration with the Human Resources Department and National Plus.

The Dubai Department of Human Resources

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August 2017

(DHS) has launched the Dubai Plus card, a card that will be awarded to all Dubai government employees and offered discounts on goods and services in cooperation with 3,000 public and private sector organizations.

Abdulraheem Al Mulla, Executive Director of Corporate Support and

Communication Sector at Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) and Hamad Al Janahi, Director of Human Resources Department from the authority, honored Alia Al Haji, Abdullah Al Muhairi and Mohammed Adam for presenting the induction presentation, at the conclusion of the workshop. 

Inside DCAA

Standard comparison

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delegation from the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) visited the General Directorate of Total Quality in the Dubai Police General Command to conduct a standard comparison.

The meeting reviewed the governance management system applied by the Dubai Police General Command and its management experience in this field.

The delegation included Hamad Al Janahi, Director of Human Resources Department, Majed Al Sarrah, Principal Legal Researcher and Dalia Mahfouz, Human Resources Specialist.

During the visit, the delegation received Major Khalid Abdullah

Al Ameri, Director of Governance and Lt. Mohammed Sultan, Studies and consultations.

The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and the General Directorate of Dubai Police said the visit will facilitate benchmarking and help both the organisations benefit from mutual expertise as well as lead to knowledge-sharing among government departments in Dubai, contributing to realising Dubai’s vision.

Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) constantly seeks to achieve institutional communication with all parties to enhance relationships, develop and serve the business. 

Organisations, individuals continue actively pursuing charitable initiatives

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rganisations from across the government as well as private sectors, and individuals from all walks of life, throughout the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have been actively involved in numerous initiatives during the ‘Year of Giving’. UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan declared 2017 as the ‘’Year of Giving’’ to promote the culture of giving back to the community and enhance the spirit of volunteering and loyalty to one’s country.

The “Year of Giving” focusses on three main pillars: the first of which aims at creating a sense of community responsibility in the private sector so as to fulfil its role in serving the community and contribute in the developmental march of the country. The second pillar focuses on enhancing the spirit of volunteering and encouraging specialised volunteer programs that will effectively assist in social development and community services. The third pillar aims at instilling loyalty and commitment in the next generations to serve their country, a trait that is characteristic of Emiratis who were raised to love and serve their country.

Organisations and residents continue actively toward pursuing these initiatives across all sectors, ranging from blood donation camps, free medical treatment, free meals, to volunteering for causes, scholarships, initiatives in education and other areas.

Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), which organised a series of charitable activities focussed on providing support and care to social groups including the orphans, elderly and the under-privileged, also continues its active contribution to the community.

August 2017

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Inside DCAA

DCAA honours trainees M

ohammed Lengawi, Deputy General Manager, Aviation Security and Accident Investigation Department, DCAA, Abdul Rahim Al Mulla, Executive Director of the Corporate Support and Communication Sector at the TRA honoured Issa Nasser Karamstji of Zayed University.

Abdul Rahim Al Mulla, Executive Director of Corporate Support and Communication Sector at the DCAA

and Hamad Al Janahi, Director of Human Resources Department, honored Hind Majid and Shama Al Jazairi of Zayed University as part of vocational training program.

The program aims to encourage students to work and engage in the civil aviation sector in various fields and gain experience in this field. 

Let’s make this summer green’ campaign

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he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCA) has launched a campaign to make the summer green, with employees from Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) overseeing the efforts toward the campaign and generating awareness on preserving the environment and reduce energy consumption. The campaign focussed on environmental sustainability and energy and water conservation, especially during the summer.

Abdul Rahim Al Mulla, Executive Director of the Corporate Support and Communication Sector, and Saood Kanqzar, Executive Director of Air Transport and International Affairs, commended DEWA’s efforts in community outreach, at the conclusion of the campaign. 

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August 2017

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

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

Registration Requirements: • • • • • • •

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

• • • • • • •

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

You can download the application

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

For more information, please call technical support on: email:

+971 56 6810685

it.support@dcaa.gov.ae

9 August 2017www.dcaa.gov.ae

DCAA Interview

Saood Abdulaziz Kankazar, Executive Director, Air Transport and International Affairs Sector, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA)

100 per cent of the services by DCAA’s Air Transport and International Affairs Sector are online

We take less than 30 minutes to grant landing permissions for non-scheduled operations

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ith more than 17-years of experience across different sectors in aviation, Saood Abdulaziz Kankazar, Executive Director, Air Transport and International Affairs Sector, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), has developed an expertise few can match.

Excerpts from the interview:

Be it safety and security, ground operations, private jets, international policies, or airlines, Saood has a vast and in-depth knowledge in aviation and has managed these areas in different roles during his career. His achievements, however, have not stopped him from continuing the path to learning and excellence, the recent addition to his credentials being an Advanced Masters in Airline Operations Management from IATA-ENAC.

The Air Transport and International Affairs Sector in the DCAA negotiates bilateral agreements between government of Dubai and other governments, regarding traffic rights for the national carriers, which are absolutely necessary before airlines start operating to/from certain locations.

In an interview with Via Dubai, Saood shared the role of his sector in securing the safety of skies and his views on open skies.

We also grant approvals for landing permissions for non-scheduled operators to operate flights through Dubai Airports. We have Aviation

August 2017

Tell us about the role of your sector in DCAA?

Business Affairs Section which issues No Objection Certificates for the entities who are performing aviation related activities in Dubai city and the Free Zone areas. In addition, we have Consumer Protection Section, which takes care of rights of aviation consumers and handles complaints related to airlines and aviation entities.

Dubai strongly supports open skies policy. What is your view on providing a level playing field for all players in this competitive market?

The first open skies agreement was signed in July 1937 by Sheikh Saeed

DCAA Interview

bin Maktoum Al Maktoum with Great Britain allowing Imperial Airways to land in the Dubai Creek. We can say that Dubai is the pioneer in the Open Skies, even before the Chicago Convention of 1944 and we strongly support open skies, which is essential, as passenger traffic worldwide continues to grow rapidly and to also ensure a smooth and comfortable passenger experience.

A protective environment is not conducive to growth. If you do not face challenges, you will not be inspired to improve and deliver your best. Same goes for airlines. If you protect them, they will not need to work towards delivering better services, better standards, better quality and will depend on their governments.

The contention that one market has higher competitive advantage is a myth.

Every player needs to procure products and services, which they obtain from different markets, which makes it equal for all.

Your department also grants landing permissions for nonscheduled operations. Has there been any increase in the number of these permissions?

Most of the airlines schedule their flights in advance. Sometimes, if they need to increase their flights or a nondesignated airline wants to operate or there is a need to schedule a flight for cargo or a private jet, particularly in case of business people, our department grants permissions for the same.

We grant close to 10,000 landing permissions annually.

How do you ensure speedy processing of procedures?

We are the only civil aviation authority which completes the procedures within half an hour, while this may take 48 hours or even longer with most other countries.

We have a dedicated team for this which works 24x7. We would attribute this achievement to the vision of our leadership, who always inspire us to give more than our best, ensure 100 per cent customer satisfaction and excel in every area.

What is the role of technology towards ensuring speedy procedures?

We use the latest smart technology at the DCAA. Also, 100 per cent of our services and procedures are online now, which helps us to ensure speedy processing.

ou recently completed an Advanced Masters in Airline Operations Management.

What inspired you to continue with research and further education?

I got the opportunity to learn extensively

about safety, security, ground operations, terminal operations and was keen on enhancing my knowledge about airlines, which is why I chose this degree. My thesis was on Bilateral and Multilateral Air Service Agreements: Their impact on Airlines Flight Operation and Optimization The inspiration comes from our visionary leader His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE’s Vice-President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, and also from His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline Group.

When you see them work for more than 20 hours a day, treat challenges as opportunities and continue working towards excellence, you are obviously inspired to excel! ď‚ƒ

August 2017

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Cover Story

More than 24 million passengers pass through Dubai Airports from Jan to June this year

Mohammed bin Rashid tours Dubai International Airport

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is Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE’s Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, toured the Dubai International Airport recently.

H.H. Sheikh Mohammed, accompanied by Crown Prince of Dubai H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group His Highness Sheikh Ahmed

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bin Saeed Al Maktoum, assured himself of the quality of world-class services and facilities as well as comfort and good treatment provided by the airport authorities to inbound and outbound travelers using one of the world’s busiest airports.

Sheikh Mohamed began his tour with the Departures Hall at Concourse 3 where he stopped at Emirate’s check-in counters, baggage screening facilities and passport counters. He interacted with passport officers, urging them to show handsome

Cover Story

Major General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director of Dubai General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs, who was present during the tour, remarked that more than 24 million passengers passed through the Dubai airports between

January 1 and June 30 this year.

Major General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Khalifa Saeed Suleiman, Director- General of the Department of Protocol and Hospitality in Dubai, and others accompanied H.H. Mohammed during the tour.

treatment and warm welcome to travelers. At the end of the tour, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed expressed his appreciation for the Vice President’s close follow-up of the traffic and passenger movement at the airport, saying “Sheikh Mohammed’s regular visits and tours of the airport represent a stimulus for all personnel and staff to provide best-in-class services for everyone and come up with innovative ideas that turn travel memories about Dubai more vivid and indelible.” 

August 2017

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UAE in Focus

First enhanced codesharing agreement to start in Q4

Emirates and flydubai join forces, announce extensive partnership agreement

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August 2017

UAE in Focus

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mirates and flydubai announced an extensive partnership which will see the two Dubai-based airlines join forces to offer customers unmatched travel options. Both airlines will continue to be managed independently, but will leverage each other’s network to scale up their operations and accelerate growth.

The innovative partnership goes beyond code-sharing and includes integrated network collaboration with coordinated scheduling. The new model will give flydubai customers seamless connectivity to Emirates’ worldwide destinations spanning six continents. For Emirates’ customers, it opens up flydubai’s robust regional network.

The two airlines will also further develop their hub at Dubai International, aligning their systems and operations to ensure a seamless travel experience through the ultramodern airport; currently the world’s busiest for international passengers.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Group and Chairman of flydubai, said: “This is an exciting and significant development for Emirates, flydubai, and Dubai aviation. Both airlines have grown independently and successfully over the years, and this new partnership will unlock the immense value that the complementary models of both companies can bring to consumers, each airline, and to Dubai.”

Emirates today has a wide-body fleet of 259 aircraft, flying to 157 destinations (including 16 cargo-

only points). flydubai operates 58 New-Generation Boeing 737 aircraft to 95 destinations. The current combined network comprises 216 unique destination points.

a number of initiatives spanning commercial, network planning, airport operations, customer journey, and frequent flyer programmes alignment.

The partnership is working to optimise the networks and schedules of both airlines, to open up new citypair connections offering consumers greater choice. Additionally, this will help both airlines feed more traffic into each other’s complementary networks. By 2022, the combined network of Emirates and flydubai is expected to reach 240 destinations, served by a combined fleet of 380 aircraft. The Emirates and flydubai teams are working together on

The partnership will be rolled out over the coming months, with the first enhanced code-sharing arrangements starting in the last quarter of 2017. Further details will be communicated as they become available.

Fully owned by the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD), both Emirates and flydubai are operated independently and under separate management teams. 

August 2017

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UAE in Focus

Dubai airport’s free Wi-Fi is world’s fastest

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ubai International Airport (DXB) has been ranked first for the fastest Wi-Fi service in the world, according to an independent Internet speed test report.

In March, Dubai Airports launched WOW-Fi, providing internet connection up to 100mbps surpassing all other airports, after it had introduced upgraded free unlimited high-speed WiFi connection across Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) in December last year.

Seattle-based Ookla, in its latest report, confirmed the Dubai Airports claim, stating, “Dubai reigns when it comes to free airport Wi-Fi”.

In fact, the airport has the fastest WiFi seen at any airport in Asia, Europe or Africa during the March to May period, with average upload speed being even faster than its download speed.

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Average download speed reached 39.50 Mbps, while average upload speed touched 46.27 Mbps.

“The UAE has clearly prioritised airport Wi-Fi because the Wi-Fi download speed at Dubai International is nearly double the country average of 22.12 Mbps,” the company said.

Thanks to a simplified landing page, the unlimited free Wi-Fi at DXB connects with just one click and offers speed that sets a new benchmark for airports globally.

To ensure the speed and reliability, Dubai Airports is investing in more than 6,000 new Wi-Fi access points

to upgrade the entire wireless network infrastructure across both airports.

Dubai Airports also enhanced the internet links to 5Gbps each to provide the required bandwidth and resilience, while new web applications have also been specially developed for each terminal and concourse to improve information for passengers.

Seoul International Airport came second in the top 10 list with an average download and upload speed of 26.52 Mbps and 32.76 Mbps, respectively.

Tokyo Airport followed with an average download and upload speed of 18.28 Mbps and 21.89 Mbps, respectively, Ookla added. 

UAE in Focus

Fursan Al Emarat participates in MAKS-2017 air show in Russia

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he aerobatics demonstration team of the UAE Air Force has participated in the 13th International Aviation and Space Salon MAKS-2017 in the Russian city of Zhukovsky. Fursan Al Emarat

took to the skies to display their various skills, including sky-writing a heart to symbolise the UAE’s love for the world in the four colours of its flag. This was the first time that the team has participated in

the event, one of the world’s largest aviation shows. Around 700 Russian and 180 foreign corporations and companies from 36 countries have participated in this year’s air show, which closes today. 

Gulf Air launches multi-ticket discount

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ulf Air has introduced a multi-ticket discount scheme giving the airline’s Bahrain-based passengers discounts when purchasing multiple tickets (up to a maximum of five return trips) under one booking code for travel within three months to select GCC destinations.

Ahmed Janahi, Gulf Air chief commercial officer, said: “Gulf Air

operates double daily flights or more to ten regional cities, and it is this connectivity that caters to and allows for convenient regional travel for business and leisure passengers.

We have recognized the key intraGCC traveler segment and our multi-ticket discount scheme is tailored to them specifically, giving regular customers, who travel

frequently within the GCC region, to save even more when booking their flights with Gulf Air – in either Falcon Gold or Economy class.”

Gulf Air’s multi-ticket discount scheme allows customers to save up to 25% of the total cost of a bundle of tickets if purchased together under one booking code to select GCC destinations (Kuwait, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Muscat). 

August 2017

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UAE in Focus

DC Aviation Al-Futtaim adds Challenger aircraft to managed fleet

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ubai-based DC Aviation Al-Futtaim (DCAF), a joint venture between DC Aviation Group based in Germany and Al-Futtaim, has expanded its fleet under management with the addition of a Challenger 605 aircraft.

This brings the total number of aircraft under management to six including two Globals, three Challengers and a Falcon 7X.

and the highest levels of privacy and safety all of which have been extremely appreciated and accepted by customers and operators.

The management contract will see DCAF provide a complete 360-degree service package from its facility at Al Maktoum International Airport including FBO handling, maintenance and air-conditioned hangar parking in addition to flight management, dispatch and Continued Airworthiness services.

“As the first and only fully integrated business aviation facility located at Al Maktoum International Airport, we’ve seen continued interest in our service offerings from clients seeking our expertise to manage their aircraft both commercially as well as under private operation.

Holger Ostheimer, managing director of DC Aviation Al-Futtaim said: “Our facility offers the shortest distance from limousine drop-off to aircraft steps

The management contract for the Challenger aircraft is further evidence of our expertise and capability to deliver the highest possible quality standards

August 2017

for safety and service to our VIP clients,” added Mr. Ostheimer.

The company is currently expanding its parking and maintenance facilities with a new 6,800sqm hangar which will more than double the hangar capacity bringing its total land-side plot area to 24,000sqm and apron area to 13,000sqm.

The new hangar will enable DCAF to add two single-aisle aircraft maintenance bays and provide enough space for an additional workshop and equipment storage. It will also significantly increase the number and size of aircraft that can be accommodated at the facility.

UAE in Focus

Boeing delivers first 737 MAX 8 to Flydubai

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oeing and Flydubai have celebrated the delivery of the airline’s first 737 MAX 8, making the Middle East carrier the first in the region to operate Boeing’s newest single-aisle airplane.

The delivery is the first of 76 737 MAX airplanes the airline will be adding to their all-Boeing fleet of NextGeneration 737s.

“We are delighted to receive our first Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft from our order made at the Dubai Airshow in 2013,” said Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer, flydubai. “This marked the largest single-aisle Boeing aircraft order placed in the Middle East. With this new chapter, we are looking forward to continuing our work with Boeing as we benefit from increased efficiency and are able to offer an enhanced customer experience.”

“FlyDubai’s growth in just nine years has been remarkable and Boeing is honored to have been part of this journey,” said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Kevin McAllister.

with lower per-seat costs and an extended range that will open up new destinations in the single-aisle market.

“This delivery marks another significant milestone in our partnership. We are confident that the market-leading efficiency and reliability of the 737 MAX will play a key role in Flydubai’s continued success and complement its current Boeing fleet.”

“As the first MAX customer in the region, we look forward to the further fuel and operating efficiencies that this aircraft will bring to our young modern fleet,” said Ken Gile, Chief Operating Officer, Flydubai. “Our flight crew share our excitement in operating one of the most highly anticipated commercial aircraft to enter service on our network.”

The 737 MAX family has been designed to offer customers exceptional performance, flexibility and efficiency,

“It is easy to see flydubai signing up for another 100-plus 737 MAXs to augment its rapid organic growth.” 

August 2017

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Special Report

New report shows airline supported more than 104,000 American jobs in 2015

Emirates boosts U.S. economy

by US$21 billion

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mirates supported more than 104,000 American jobs and contributed US$21.3 billion in revenue to the U.S. economy, including US$10.5 billion to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and US$6.4 billion of labor income in 2015*, according to a study conducted by Campbell-Hill Aviation Group, a well-established economic consulting firm to airlines, airports and the aviation industry, with clients including U.S. and foreign airlines, more than 30 airports, financial institutions and government agencies.

Released on the 25th anniversary of the first Open Skies agreement signed by the U.S., the objective of the study was to quantify the annual economic impact Emirates has on the U.S. economy.

Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates said: “Campbell-Hill’s data reaffirms the significant stimulative effect of Emirates’ operations on the U.S. economy. It shows we’ve brought hundreds of thousands of new travelers to the United States, helped increase competitive air transport options for over a million American and international travelers who flew with us, and contributed to increased demand for U.S. exports in aerospace and many other sectors. Over more than a decade, Emirates has progressively grown cargo and passenger operations in the U.S. on the back of customer demand, and we will continue working with our partners across the travel, tourism, aviation, aerospace and other industries, to expand and improve the products and services that we offer to our customers.”

He added: “Emirates has always embraced the goals of Open Skies which are to promote increased travel and trade, enhance productivity, and

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stimulate high-quality job opportunities and economic growth. Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines and their proxies continually pour money in to lobby and make unfounded accusations against Emirates, but they have never filed a formal U.S. Department of Transportation complaint against Emirates, even though this is the statutory process long relied on by U.S. airlines to address allegations of unfair competition. That itself is telling. Sitting on record profits and with employment in U.S. aviation at an all-time high, the three carriers know they don’t have a leg to stand on. Evidence repeatedly points to the benefits that Emirates bring to U.S. consumers and the economy, and the total absence of alleged competitive harm.”

The catalytic impact of Emirates’ U.S. operations brought over 580,000 new travelers to the U.S. who otherwise would not have travelled there, and generated US$3.2 billion of new tradebased revenue. Indirect spending within the U.S. by newly stimulated passengers combined with new merchandise and service trade created approximately 30,000 jobs, and US$4.6 billion of new revenues for U.S. businesses, including

US$1.7 billion of labor income and US$2.5 billion of GDP. Dr. Brian Campbell, Principal at Campbell-Hill Aviation Group. “Our research shows how Emirates’ presence in the U.S. and the air connectivity it provides generates significant economic growth by increasing the free flow of international travel and trade. It is also important to note that the more than 100,000 jobs Emirates supports in the U.S. produce widespread benefits across diverse sectors of our economy from professional services, to manufacturing, to education, and to hospitality.”

Emirates expands global connectivity to and from the U.S.

Emirates’ U.S. economic impact has steadily and significantly increased in recent years. Since launching its initial service to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport in 2004, the airline today provides over 350 connections between the U.S. and the Middle East, the Indian Subcontinent, Africa and Asia, and offers travelers from the U.S. more choices of global travel destinations. Emirates flies more than 135 weekly passenger and cargo flights serving 14 U.S. gateways,

Special Report

including recently launched services to Orlando and Fort Lauderdale in Florida, as well as to Newark via Athens.

The U.A.E. has been the largest export market for U.S. goods and services in the Middle East Africa South Asia (MEASA) region for eight consecutive years. In 2016, the U.S. enjoyed a US$19 billion trade surplus with the U.A.E., the U.S.A.’s third-largest globally.

Emirates’ expanding network has not only improved trade lanes to the U.A.E., but it has created new connections worldwide, stimulating new export and import merchandise and service trade for the U.S. In addition to improved access to the U.A.E. and other Middle Eastern markets, Emirates’ passenger flights provide efficient connections via Dubai to other markets in the Middle East, the Indian Subcontinent, Africa and Asia.

The world’s biggest supporter of U.S. commercial aerospace

Emirates purchases more Boeing 777 wide-body aircraft than any other company in the world. In 2015 alone, Emirates received delivery of 11 brand new Boeing 777-300ERs and one Boeing 777-200LRF. Based on U.S. export data for civil aviation aircraft and related commodities, these purchases in 2015 generated approximately US$1.5 billion of direct revenue to the U.S. aircraft manufacturing sector, supported approximately 1,700 direct jobs, US$230 million in labor income and contributed US$445 million to U.S. GDP. In total, Emirates has 163 Boeing 777 aircraft in its fleet and another 171 on order, in addition to parts and other commodities and services purchased for fleet maintenance. These aircraft are largely powered by GE engines and serviced by GE Aviation, which also counts Emirates as a leading customer.

Emirates’ Airbus A380 fleet, the largest in the world, is also primarily equipped with U.S.-manufactured Engine Alliance engines and associated components.

25th Anniversary of U.S. Open Skies

The Campbell-Hill study results come on the 25th anniversary of the first Open Skies agreement signed by the U.S. According to the U.S. State Department, Open Skies agreements have vastly expanded international

passenger and cargo flights to and from the U.S., promoting increased travel and trade, enhancing productivity, and spurring high-quality job opportunities and economic growth. Over the past 25 years, the U.S. has signed Open Skies with more than 100 countries from every region of the world and at every level of economic development. The U.S. and the U.A.E. signed an Open Skies agreement in 1999, paving the way for nearly two decades of closer economic and political integration. 

August 2017

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Middle East News

Kuwait Airways and ALAFCO formalize sale and leaseback deal for 4 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft

EgyptAir to resume flights to Japan in October

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gyptAir will operate a direct flight from Cairo to Narita, Japan and connect it to Egyptian tourist cities in winter flights schedule starting from October 29 with a frequency of one flight per week on Saturdays, apt to increase according to demands to visit Egypt.

EgyptAir and the Japanese side are working together to have necessary permissions to resume these flights”, said Safwat Musallam, chairman and CEO of EgyptAir Holding Company.

Captain Sherif Ezzat, chairman and CEO of EgyptAir Airlines said that it is time to operate this route after implementing the company’s fleet development and upgrading plan and adding new B737/800 NG aircraft, used on short and medium- haul routes, with the latest technology and luxury means. Thus the wide types used for long- haul flights, including the Japanese market that EgyptAir targeted but postponed operating flights there due to supply and demand in the last period. “It is planned to operate new flights to Narita aboard the company’s latest B777/300ER aircraft that accommodate 346 passengers,” he added.

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uwait Airways Company (KAC) and ALAFCO Aviation Lease and Finance Company (ALAFCO) have signed an initial agreement for the sale and leaseback of four Boeing B777300ER aircraft for a lease term of twelve years.

Chairman of KAC, Mr. Sami F. Al Rushaid, stated that “A Request for Proposal (RFP) was issued to seven qualified companies and consortiums around the world, and Kuwait-based ALAFCO Aviation Lease and Finance Company presented the best offer to KAC. This agreement is beneficial to both companies, and will make available funds that KAC will utilize to take delivery of the remaining three of four new B777-300ER aircraft from the Boeing Company. Kuwait

Airways will take delivery of one aircraft per month from June to August 2017. Entering into this sale and leaseback arrangement will enable KAC to diversify its sources of funding and strike a balance between financing and leasing of the Boeing B777300ER fleet”.

Vice Chairman and CEO of ALAFCO, Mr. Ahmad A. Alzabin, stated that “To be able to support the fleet modernization plan of the national carrier of Kuwait is an important milestone for ALAFCO. This deal marks the beginning of a strategic cooperation between Kuwait Airways and ALAFCO.” Mr. Alzabin added, “The B777300ER aircraft will be financed mostly by Kuwaiti banks, and will have a positive impact on the local economy of Kuwait.” 

International News

Global passenger traffic rises 6.2 per cent

Robust growth in passenger traffic for May; strengthening global economy fuels growth in air freight

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lobal passenger traffic rose a robust 6.2 per cent in May year over year, in line with the year to date growth of 6.5 per cent. The main growth driver remained international passenger traffic, which reached 8.1 per cent year over year.

At the regional level, Europe and AsiaPacific posted the highest passenger traffic increases at 8.2 per cent and 7.9 per cent respectively. Europe’s main growth driver, as with the global market, was the increase in international passengers at 9 per cent year over year compared to its domestic component at 6.1 per cent. The Russian Federation, Portugal and the Netherlands contributed significantly to this growth, posting rates of 21.3 per cent, 16.8 per cent and 9 per cent respectively.

Asia-Pacific’s growth was distributed more evenly between international (7.7 per cent) and domestic (7.9 per cent) passenger traffic. Indian and Chinese airports continued to contribute to the region’s sustained expansion despite Beijing (PEK), the largest airport in the region, experiencing slower growth.

The Middle East posted a 4.1 per cent increase.

After a period of economic uncertainty regarding the United States trade policy and risks related to the United Kingdom’s vote to withdraw from the European Union, global commerce is no longer sidelined. The rise in business confidence translated into a robust recovery in air freight volumes in 2017, increasing by 11.1 per cent year over year in May. All regions demonstrated high growth during that period, but Europe and North America presented the highest increases, with growth rates of 12 per cent and 11.9 per cent respectively.

Freight traffic numbers in North America were boosted by their largest freight hubs. Four of their top five airports in

terms of cargo volume, representing 43.2 per cent of total cargo in 2016, posted double digit growth. Anchorage (ANC), Louisville (SDF), Miami (MIA) and Los Angeles (LAX) all experienced increases between 11 per cent and 13 per cent. Memphis (MEM), the largest freight hub of the region, grew 1.3 per cent. Domestic freight played an important role in that increase, surging 9.1 per cent in May after a period of stunted growth, illustrated by the 1.7 per cent year to date results.

In Europe, Istanbul (IST) continued on its recovery, posting 21.1 per cent increase in total freight traffic. Other freight hubs such as Amsterdam (AMS), London-Heathrow (LHR), and Leipzig (LEJ) also showed high growth at 12.3 per cent, 10.6 per cent and 9.1 per cent respectively. 

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International News

ACI and ICAO to provide aerodrome training

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irports Council International (ACI) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) have signed an MoU to work together on a wide range of aerodrome training services to benefit the 1,940 ACI Member Airports worldwide, and to support the 191 ICAO Member States.

The MoU will see ACI and ICAO working together to develop new joint aerodrome training programmes and courses in: general airport management; airport economics; environmental protection; operational safety; security procedures; and other subjects as they are identified.

“This signing highlights the alignment of both our organizations in regards to investment in training and succession planning, essential ingredients of sustainable growth,” said Angela Gittens, Director General, ACI World.

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“Airports need a range of skills that must be continually evaluated and refreshed. The urgency in the aviation business is driven both by changes in market conditions as well as the significant growth in global demand.

The MoU will build on ACI Global Training suite of skills development programmes in specific disciplines, with diploma-level courses, in the classroom, on-line or at the worksite.”

“ICAO is strengthening its collaboration with ACI and reaffirming its commitment to providing targeted

assistance in training and human resources capacity building to ICAO Member States,” said Dr. Fang Liu, Secretary General, ICAO. “This new partnership is a perfect example of what our two organizations can achieve when we join forces and capitalize on our respective strengths, and through these joint training activities we’ll be able to increase global awareness of ICAO Standards and Policies while enhancing competencies of current and future airport professionals.” 

International News

Delta signs up for LaGuardia redevelopment

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elta Air Lines has received final approval for a lease agreement for a new USD$4 billion terminal development at New York’s LaGuardia Airport, according to a report on www.airwise.com.

The 37-gate facility is the final part of airport owners the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey’s plans to completely rebuild the airport located in the New York City borough of Queens.

The Port Authority will contribute a maximum of $600 million to the project, with Delta providing the balance and assuming responsibility

for cost overruns. Work on the Delta redevelopment will begin in late summer, with the overall LaGuardia renovation expected to be finished in 2021.

In a project announcement, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said “The transformation of LaGuardia Airport into a state-of-the-art transportation hub is key to the economic growth

and strength of the entire state. With this action, we are taking the next major step in our work to build a new LaGuardia - an economic engine and world-class airport worthy of New York.”

The Delta facility will consist of four concourses and 37 gates, plus checkin, security checkpoints and baggage claim areas. 

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Opinion

Enhancing passenger experience

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irports Council International (ACI) has launched two new Airport Service Quality (ASQ) tools to help Member airports measure, benchmark and promote customer service excellence: the Employee Survey for Customer Experience (ECE) and the ASQ Arrivals Survey.

Both tools are add-ons to the existing ASQ programme that focuses on the experience of departing passengers.

The ASQ programme is designed for airports that seek to measure their own passenger service performance, monitor it over time and in conjunction with facility and service changes and to benchmark it against comparable or model airports. It is the only worldwide programme to survey passengers at the airport on their day of travel, delivering some 600,000 individual surveys in 41 languages in 84 countries.

Like the ASQ Departures Survey, the ASQ Arrivals Survey gives airports the tools they need to improve their passenger service initiatives and the flexibility to adapt the programme through optional services, such as, analysis by terminal, comprehensive insight report and customized extra questions. The ASQ Arrivals Survey provides the full picture needed to enhance service levels everywhere in the airport, delivering valuable insights on: • • • • • •

disembarkation; immigration; baggage reclaim; customs; infrastructure and services; and, passenger profiles.

In addition, airports have learned that to provide customer experience excellence, the entire airport community must be involved. As such, ACI has developed the ECE and the ECE toolkit to support Member airports in assessing and improving their engagement with all staff working in an airport. The ECE is an annual internal diagnostic designed to:

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Angela Gittens Director General, ACI World

• • • •

•

understand the level of commitment of airport staff to achieve the common goal of improving the customer experience; provide a global index structured around 3 determinants, 10 components and 73 questions; assess whether airport stakeholders collectively have the desire, ability and determination to deliver an outstanding customer experience; help airports prioritize areas of improvement and to support development of an action plan toward the enhancement of the overall customer experience; and, allow airports to benchmark their customer experience initiatives and share best practices with other participating airports.

ACI encourages all airports to take advantage of the ASQ programme and its new tools to ultimately improve employee satisfaction; the passenger experience; and revenue growth, as well as raise the customer service bar across the industry.  Learn more on how to order the ASQ Arrivals Survey at: www.aci.aero/ASQ-Arrival-Survey.

Learn more on how to order the Employee Survey for Customer Experience at: www.aci.aero/ECE.

Opinion

Collaboration is woven into our fabric F

AA’s NextGen Advisory Committee, our Drone Advisory Committee, and other collaborative efforts help ensure the safety and the success of aviation.

Collaboration has played an important role in the progress of aviation.

We now must focus on the business of aviation, determine the needs of the aviation community and forge a consensus on how to prioritise efforts that will produce the most benefits.

With that in mind, we’ve expanded the process of collaboration with industry. It’s now woven into the fabric of what we do.

One of the best illustrations of this approach is the NextGen Advisory Committee (NAC). Simply put, it has been a catalyst for NextGen. With the help of aviation’s diverse community, we’ve been able to determine NextGen priority areas where we can deliver the greatest amount of benefit in the near term.

A NAC task group, which included people from industry, airports, labour, government and other groups, developed recommendations for better engagement with local communities on Performance Based Navigation (PBN) routes.

Among other recommendations, it underscored the importance of airports and other stakeholders to the success of PBN implementation.

Michael Huerta Administrator, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

ahead of schedule—which resulted in deployment related savings.

So far, more than 28,000 air traffic operations per week are taking advantage of this capability. One of the benefits we’re seeing is less taxi time by aircraft than would otherwise result because of bad weather.

Over the next 30 years, we expect that DataComm will save operators more than $10 billion along with savings to the FAA of about $1 billion.

We continue to work toward making NextGen interoperable globally, so we can deliver benefits beyond our borders.

Through NextGen, we expect benefits to aviation community to climb to $160 billion by 2030.

PBN is just one of our near-term NextGen priority areas that we identified in the NAC. Another one is Data Communications.

To secure these benefits, we must sustain the momentum that we’ve attained through the NAC and other collaborative processes. 

Last year, we completed the deployment of Data Communications departure clearance service at 55 airports. After NAC asked us to accelerate our original schedule, we completed the task two and a half years

(Excerpts from remarks during Radio Technical Commission for Aeronautics (RTCA) Symposium)

August 2017

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ATM

Netherlands Airspace Vision gains new ground with civil-military integration in Dutch upper airspace

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ir traffic controllers at EUROCONTROL’s Maastricht Upper Area Control Centre (MUAC) are now providing air traffic control services to both civil and military customers in the Netherlands airspace above 24,500 feet or 7.5 km.

An integrated civil-military air traffic management contributes to substantial efficiency gains - both operational and financial - for military as well as civil air traffic and provides positive effects for the European Network.

This strategic alliance between civil and military air traffic control is clearly highlighted in the Airspace Vision of the Netherlands and follows up on the mandate received from EUROCONTROL’s 41 Member States in December 2015.

Lieutenant-General Dennis Luyt, Commander of the Royal Netherlands Air Force, said: “This arrangement concerning military air traffic service for the upper airspace, a tangible result of the National

Airspace Vision, is a significant step for civil/military cooperation in the Netherlands.

The arrangement ensures the continuity of operations as well as access to upper airspace for the military.

In this way, our military mission effectiveness will remain at least at the same level as is currently the case.

At the same time, the arrangement significantly contributes to the overall efficiency of the upper airspace, benefiting civil operators. We have confidence in a good partnership with EUROCONTROL MUAC regarding air traffic services for operational air traffic in Dutch airspace.” “The handover to MUAC of service

provision to operational air traffic in the Netherlands upper airspace marks an important step in civil-military cooperation in Air Traffic Management in the Netherlands. Strengthening this cooperation is a major element of the Airspace Vision for the Netherlands, published in 2013. In the next phase, the military controllers in the lower airspace will move to co-locate at ATC the Netherlands at Schiphol at the end of this year.

I am very grateful to everybody involved for making this happen and hence making the Airspace Vision and civil-military cooperation in the Netherlands become a reality” added Mr Paul van Gurp, Head of the Air Traffic Management Unit at the Netherlands Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment.

Frank Brenner, Director General of EUROCONTROL, concluded: “After the integration of civil and military air traffic service provision in German airspace last January, this new milestone makes MUAC the first cross-border civil and military air navigation service provider in Europe. This is another quantum leap towards the objectives of the Single European Sky, and we look forward to more developments towards full civil and military integration in MUAC airspace.” 

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ATM

HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum: 41,589 air traffic movements in Dubai and the Northern Emirates

H

H Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the president of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Dubai Air Navigation Services (dans), announced the latest air traffic movement figures for the month of June, which reveal a total volume of 41,589 movements in Dubai & Northern Emirates’ airspace.

Furthermore, air traffic movement figures at Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) registered a total of 2665 movements that incorporate 921 movements in arrivals and 933 movements in departures. Air traffic

movement reports also declare a daily average of 73 movements, as well as 323 helicopter movements for the month at DWC which reflects significant increase of 14.1% in movements in comparison with the same month in 2016.

According to the air traffic movement figures report released by Dubai Air Navigation services, a total of 31,243 movements have been registered at Dubai International Airport (DXB), with, 15,491 movements in arrivals and 15,515 in departures. In addition, the daily average during the month was 1,041 movements and 237 helicopter movements.

Strategy to take final form by May 2018

Russia plans 2025 free route airspace strategy

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he programme features in a draft strategy to develop the air navigation system of the Russian Federation by 2030 and was presented recently by the Russian air navigation service provider State ATM Corporation at the MAKS International Aviation and Space Salon.

The strategy which is expected to take final form by May 2018 – after which it will be forwarded to the government for approval – identifies several key areas.

a year) and operating costs of the air navigation system (by more than 25 billion rubles a year) while both maintaining flight safety and meeting national security requirements.

They are aimed at reducing the costs of airlines (by more than 26 billion rubles

The focus will be on effective flight trajectories at levels above 9,000 metres, optimising airspace capacity and improving the efficiency of air navigation operations at airports. The cost of implementing the strategy is estimated to be 210 billion rubles.

The implementation of free route airspace zones is planned between 2021-2025 and it will initially be tested in limited airspace areas in an effort to develop and establish regulatory requirements for ground and airborne equipment. 

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Cargo & Logistics

Global air freight demand increases 13 per cent in May

T

he International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for global air freight markets showing that demand, measured in freight tonne kilometers (FTKs), grew 12.7 per cent in May 2017 compared to the year-earlier period. This was up from the 8.7 per cent annual growth recorded in April 2017 and is more than three times higher than the five- year average growth rate of 3.8 per cent.

Freight capacity, measured in available freight tonne kilometers (AFTKs), grew by 5.2 per cent year-on-year in May 2017.

The continued growth of air freight demand is consistent with an improvement in world trade. This, in turn, corresponds with new global export orders remaining close to a sixyear high in May. There are, however, some signs that the cyclical growth period may have peaked. The global inventory-to-sales ratio, for example,

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has started rising. This indicates that the period when companies look to restock inventories quickly, which often gives air cargo a boost, has ended.

Regardless of these developments, the outlook for air freight is optimistic with demand expected to grow at a robust rate of 8 per cent during Q3 2017.

industry can’t afford to rest on its laurels.

With indications that the cyclical growth period may have peaked, the onus is on the industry to improve its value proposition by accelerating process modernization and enhancing customercentricity,” said Alexandre de Juniac, IATA’s Director General and CEO.

“May was another good month for air cargo. Demand growth accelerated, bolstered by strong export orders. And that outpaced capacity growth which should be positive for yields. But the

Regional Performance

All regions, with the exception of Latin America, reported year-on-year double-digit increases in demand in May 2017.

Cargo & Logistics

Asia-Pacific airlines’ freight volumes expanded 11.3 per cent in May 2017 compared to the same period a year earlier and capacity increased by 6.2 per cent. Demand growth has been strongest, between 13-15 per cent, on international routes within Asia as well as between Asia and Europe.

Seasonally-adjusted volumes are now

3 per cent above the volumes reached following the 2010 post-global financial crisis bounce-back.

North American carriers posted an increase in freight volumes of 13.9 per cent in May 2017, and a capacity increase of 4.1 per cent. Seasonallyadjusted volumes rose again in May, after a jump in April, indicating signs of a lasting pick up.

The strength of the US dollar continues to boost the inbound freight market but is keeping the export market under pressure.

European airlines posted a 15.0 per cent increase in freight volumes in May 2017 and a capacity increase of 5.7 per cent. International freight volumes grew by 15.2 per cent yearon-year in May with airlines benefiting from strong demand on the EuropeAsia market. The ongoing weakness of the Euro persists in boosting the performance of the European freight market which continues to benefit from strong export orders.

Middle Eastern carriers’ year-on-year freight volumes increased 10.2 per cent in May 2017. Capacity increased 1.7

per cent. Seasonally-adjusted freight volumes maintained their upward trend.

Demand between the Middle East and Europe remains strong, increasing 19 per cent so far this year but traffic to Asia has weakened, growing by just over 1 per cent.

Latin American airlines experienced a growth in demand of 6.7 per cent in May 2017 compared to the same period in 2016. Capacity increased by 7.1 per cent over the same period. Seasonallyadjusted volumes grew slightly in May however they remained 12 per cent lower than at the peak in 2014.

The region’s carriers have managed to adjust capacity, which has limited the negative impact on the load factor.

African carriers’ posted the largest year-on-year increase in demand of all regions in May 2017 with freight volumes growing 27.6 per cent.

Capacity increased by 14.7 per cent over the same time period. Demand has been boosted by very strong growth on the trade lanes to and from Asia which have increased by nearly 57 per cent so far this year. However seasonally adjusted growth has levelled off in recent months. 

August 2017

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Technology

Airport handles 2 million passengers a year

Self-bag drop and mobile boarding at Lanseria International Airport

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assengers at Lanseria International Airport will now be able to quickly check-in and drop their bags before proceeding directly to the gate without having to visit a traditional check-in counter, as the airport introduces new self-service technology.

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Technology

In a first for a South African airport, passengers who have checked-in online or on their mobile device can now tag and drop their bags in less than a minute using SITA’s Scan&Fly self bag-drop units. Using SITA’s Airport iValidate, Lanseria International Airport will be able to automatically verify all types of boarding passes, including home-printed A4 and mobile boarding passes, increasing security and speeding up the check-in process for passengers.

Behind the scenes, Lanseria International Airport will roll out new baggage reconciliation technology, providing passengers with greater

confidence that their baggage will arrive with them at their destination.

It will help airlines using the airport to comply with IATA’s Resolution 753, which requires that they track bags at key points during the journey.

The airport is also upgrading its common-use kiosks and desk infrastructure to use SITA’s cloudbased solution, eliminating the need for local servers.

This common-use infrastructure is critical in providing greater flexibility for airlines operating from the airport by allowing them to share commonuse terminal equipment (CUTE)

for check-in and boarding. Gavin Sayce, Chief Operating Officer of Lanseria International Airport, said: “The investment in new technology – together with new infrastructure such as the multi-storey parking we are building – is aimed at maximizing this convenience.

We want this airport to remain the airport of choice for both airlines and their passengers.”

Lanseria International Airport, north of Johannesburg, handles over 2 million passengers a year and the existing passenger terminal is being extended to accommodate more airlines and flights. 

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Technology

BA extends NDC with Dubai’s TPConnects

B

ritish Airways has extended its New Distribution Capability (NDC) with Dubai-headquartered TPConnects, one of the region’s first IATA Certified Travel Aggregators and IT Providers.

TPConnects has now integrated directly to BA’s NDC APIs with a b2b reseller platform and Internet booking engine for online travel agencies.

Rajendran Vellapalath, TPConnects’ Chief Executive Officer, said travel agents using the company’s Travel Aggregator Platform or Internet booking engine can now directly access BA offerings, including ancillary products, and perform after-sales like refunds as well as date and flight changes.

“Moreover, travel agents will have the ability to offer personalised products benefitting the end consumer,” ex-

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change the manner in which they offer airline products to their end customers and corporate buyers,” he said.

plained Vellapalath. “With this direct connect integration, travel agents can also access rich content that includes videos, pictures and personalised preferences both in the b2b and online channel that presently portrays only commoditised data, such as schedules and fares, with no explanation regarding the product.”

The NDC Standard enhances communications between airlines and travel agents delivering lower cost, innovation, ease of comparison and interoperability.

The CEO added that the tie-up will give OTAs increased transparency including branded fares. “This direct connection increases the value proposition of the travel agent channel, by enabling agents globally to access the same rich content and targeted offerings available on BA.com and allows them to

With NDC, the 69,500 plus IATA accredited Travel Agencies who globally contribute almost 53% of the airline revenues yearly, can view and sell products that are typically only available on airline websites including personalised shopping, fare family products and rich media. 

August 2017

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