Monthly Newsletter issued by Dubai Civil Aviation Authority www.viadubaionline.com Issue 71 April 2019 Flying Forward

Sleep like a baby New laser weapon to end Stratospheric drone drone menace at reaches new heights airports

Digitization strategy eases sees growth passengers’ experience on UAE routes

Inside DCAA Opinions

DCAA participation 7 Aviation Security Stamp out slot in Gov Games is of critical misuse DCAA observes International 8 importance 24 Day of Happiness DCAA participates in 9 Alexandre Ng Chee New radar system Careers UAE 2019 de Juniac 22 Meng 23 at Glasgow Airport Middle East News 18 ATM 24 Airlines 26 Technology 28

Message from the President

Role of airports in economy

ir travel is set to boom further across the world. Airports are growing in size and prominence as the citiesA compete to be preferred hubs for the tech-savvy travellers. Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum

The air transport sector is now worth a U$2.7 trillion in global economic activity, carrying more than four billion passengers and 62 million tonnes of freight each year. Today airports have become an integral part of the travel value chain. As airports realize that they play an More and more people across the world than ever impactful role in the overall passenger experience, many before are taking advantage of safe, fast and efficient of them have become more entrepreneurial and have travel. The growth in air transport is expected to have changed the way they operate. Airports need to be on US$5.7 trillion in economic activity in 2036. the cutting-edge of the business start responding to passengers’ expectations if they want to succeed in the Airports act as catalysts for improved global fast-changing, highly-competitive environment. connectivity and trade as the demand for air services rises, according to the Airports Council International A good way of learning from each other’s experiences (ACI), the trade association for over 1,950 airports in and exploring the new technology and innovations is 176 countries. visiting trade exhibitions like Airport Show that Dubai has been hosting for the past 18 years as part of its commitment to offer the industry a bouquet of latest The ever-increasing movements of people and the technology products. global trade is resulting in the growth and investments in airports across the world, according to ACI World’s Airport Economics Report. Three years ago, airports located in emerging and developing economies occupied 45 per cent of global passenger traffic across the world’s airports. By 2040, this share is expected to increase to 62 per cent.

April 2019 3 4 April 2019 CONTENTS In 2007, the functions of the Department of Civil Avia- tion were restructured. Accordingly, the Dubai Civil Avi- ation 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 under- take development of Air Transport Industry in the Emir- ate of Dubai and to oversee all aviation-related activities. Inside DCAA DCAA participation DCAA observes International 07 in Gov Games 08 Day of Happiness

Via Dubai is the official bilingual monthly -news letter of DCAA, designed to highlight the initi- atives and developments in the aviation indus- try and act as a knowledge-sharing platform for all the stakeholders and aviation professionals.

General Supervision Mother’s Day DCAA participates Mohammed Abdulla Ahli 09 10 in Careers UAE 2019 Coordinator Hanan Al Mazimi Creative Manager Mohammed Al Jarouf Marketing Manager Fahed Mohammed E-mail: [email protected] Lufthansa sees growth on UAE routes 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. 12

Advertise with us New laser Stratospheric drone reaches 28 weapon to 29 new heights Editorial, Production, PR & Marketing end drone Nadd AlShiba PR and Event Management menace at airports

Our Vision The World Airport, Dubai Our Mission To achieve leadership and ensure sustainability in the field of safety, security and environmental protection in the civil aviation sector and to support an attractive investment environment for the aviation industry .

Toll Free:80083222 DCAA website:www.dcaa.gov.ae Contact number:+97147770000 Working Hours:Sunday – Thursday, 0730 - 1430 (GMT+4) Fax:+97142244573 Location:Dubai International Airport, Terminal (1), Level (1), Gate no. (4), (Arrivals Side) Email: [email protected]; [email protected] P.O. Box:49888 Dubai - United Arab

April 2019 5 http://www.facebook.com/dcaadubai twitter.com/dcaadubai youtube.com/user/dcaadubai Message from the Director General

Learning to be better

he role and responsibilities of civil aviation authorities have been enlarged and become more crucialT in the past decade due to the massive expansions of both the airlines and airports across the world.

Dubai’s aviation industry is not like many others. It is Mohammed Abdulla Ahli expected to contribute US$88.1 billion or an estimated 45 per cent to Dubai’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2030. This marks a three-fold growth compared to figures in 2013, when the sector contributed US$26.7 billion to the emirate’s GDP.

Since the 1930s, aviation has been a focused economic As part of our initiatives for meaningful interactions activity for Dubai. In December last year, the 58-year-old and knowledge-enhancement, we conduct conferences Dubai International hosted its one billionth passenger. and exhibitions specific to our industry along with DXB has been the 18th most internationally-connected participating in and facilitating aviation trade shows. One airport in the world. Over 100 airlines operate over such B2B platform has been Airport Show in Dubai. We 7,700 weekly flights to over 270 destinations across all have been utilizing it every year to reach out to more inhabited continents from here. and more players and learn a few new things from the conferences that are hosted alongside the show. One has Taking into account the massiveness of the aviation to be up to date in knowledge and networking if one has industry in Dubai and what we have in store in the to succeed in any business. coming years, it is necessary to be on the cutting-edge of the business to keep the good track record of monitoring and regulating the aviation activities. Networking with the industry players to keep them updated about the rules and regulations is also crucial as Dubai consolidates its position as a global centre for trade, tourism and commerce .

6 April 2019 Inside DCAA

DCAA participation in Gov Games he Dubai Civil Aviation Year of Tolerance Authority (DCAA) participatedT in the second Building a tolerant society edition of the Gov Games under the slogan, One he UAE is a global model of success as a Team, One Goal. peaceful, tolerant and prosperous country. TAs the UAE celebrates the Year of Tolerance, the occasion presents us an opportunity to reflect on how we cultivate a tolerant society and develop it further in a positive environment.

Hardly half a century old in its modern existence, the UAE has emerged as a global model for a prosperous and peaceful country. His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mabarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance – world’s first and only - says: “Our young country has an impressive history of tolerance. Tolerance is part of the soft power of our country. Tolerance is a stepping stone to acceptance.”

The UAE, he says, is one of the most diverse countries in the world, but, at the same time, one of the most peaceful, harmonious and prosperous places on earth. The Arab-Islamic heritage and UAE Founder Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s vision have enabled the country to welcome a diverse population, engage them in dialogue, understand the differences and accept the shared values.

The country is not resting on its laurels and have learned that tolerance requires nurturing and hard work. It is focused on promoting tolerance in all forms of communication. The UAE is undertaking continued societal and legislative initiatives that fight hate, promote mutual respect and celebrate shared human values.

Dialogue does not require us to abandon our identities and our commitments. Dialogue does, however, require us to acknowledge, understand and explain our commitments as we gather knowledge about others, he says. Tolerance will help solve conflicts and political disagreements; it will help improve education and encourage innovation and it make us champions for human rights and human obligations.

April 2019 7 Inside DCAA

DCAA observes International Day of Happiness

he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) observed the International Day ofT Happiness.

A series of activities for the employees were conducted. The Authority distributed among the employees Fazaa, a UAE rewards program that gives members access to exclusive offers and services.

Mother’s Day he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) celebrated the Mother’s Day with a variety of programmes. Special gifts were given to them in recognition of their significant roles and contribution to the society as workingT mothers and for the upbringing of their children.

8 April 2019 Inside DCAA

DCAA participates in Careers UAE 2019 he Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) has participated in Careers TUAE 2019 as part of its quest to strengthen its Emiratisation strategy through attracting Emirati talents in the field of civil aviation for leadership, managerial and technical vacancies. His Excellency Mohammed Abdulla Ahli, Director General of DCAA, said: “DCAA’s participation in Careers UAE 2019 has been a great opportunity for us to attract Emiratis to contribute towards further building Dubai’s aviation sector, which now forms a significant part of the Emirate’s economic growth.” The Authority gives great attention to this participation as the event represents the pinnacle of UAE’s career-dedicated exhibitions since the launch of its first edition way back in 2000. The Authority is acting upon a strategy to encourage and spur Emiratisation policies through employing national cadres to contribute to the sector, and it has been continuously seeking to provide all possible support to develop these cadres and give them the opportunity to prove their professional calibre in order to serve the UAE. Our ultimate aim is to prepare new generations of UAE nationals in the various professional disciplines, he said. citizens employment opportunities in the UAE’s vision to empower and attract Acting in accordance with the visions civil aviation sector, which is one of the the youth through providing them with and directions of the UAE leaders to key components of the UAE’s economy employment opportunities. empower Emirati citizens and offer with a 27 per cent contribution to GDP them due opportunities to contribute in 2018.” Hamad Al Janahi, Director of Human to supporting the nation’s economy, we Resources Department, said: “Through are also keen on the Emiratisation in the He added: “During the event, the its participation in this event, DCAA Authority with a view to activate the role Authority provide opportunities to job aims to attract national cadres seeking of citizens in the labour market, he added. seekers from amongst Emirati citizens, job opportunities, with the aim to while its experts provide guidance and implement the Emiratisation plans of Abdulrahim Al Mulla, Executive advice to visitors on the jobs on offer, in the Authority. Careers UAE is an active Director of Corporate Support and addition to future growth opportunities platform to receive national cadres and Communication Sector, stressed that the civil aviation sector will provide to Emirati talents with a view to fill the “DCAA has been participating in Careers the ambitious and talented.” This event excellent job opportunities offered by UAE since 2009 to offer talented Emirati will contribute to the realisation of the the Authority.”

April 2019 9 Cover Story

Dubai is hosting the 19th edition of the Airport Show with the participation of 375 exhibitors from 60 countries Flying Forward irports, which were once utilitarian structures that only processed people and luggage, are now multi-use destinations. Airports are cities or aerotropolises with majorA economic drivers that include hotels, conference facilities, retail opportunities, and attractions such as golf courses and ice rinks.

As air travel became more common handling capacity restraints through are already at capacity, despite and affordable, airports now rank expansion. Airports are running out being among the largest in the amongst the most visible public of room to grow. The number of world. For travellers, the airport is infrastructure projects, serving as the global passenger trips is expected the first interface to the city and its “front door” to the cities they serve, to double from four to eight billion calling card. The future of airports is according to Stanis Smith, a former between now and 2036. Around constantly evolving: better wayfinding Associate Board Member of Airports the world, many of the busiest hubs and aesthetics for passengers, Council International –North America are unable to meet this growth. All faster and more secure flows for (ACI-NA) and ACI-World. of London’s major airports will be security, more profitable and efficient full by 2030. India’s airports will operations and greater revenues for In his book, Airports: The True Cities exceed capacity by 2022. The US airport authorities. Technologies like of the 21st Century, J G Ballard wrote needs US$75 billion in new runways, wearables, geolocation and biometric the airport will be the true city of the terminals, and other facilities to immigration and security control are 21st century. The great airports are meet the projected demand through making the airport experience better already the suburbs of an invisible the early 2020s. Asia’s main hubs for the travellers. world capital, a virtual metropolis. The terminal concourses are the ramblas (a Hispanic term meaning Esplanade) and agoras (a gathering place or assembly in the ancient Greek) of the future city.

Speaking about realities shaping the future of airports, Leslie Horwitz of Strategic Communications at Virgin Hyperloop One, says Airports today are in the midst of a functional, architectural, and cultural evolution, in response to the changing needs of populations and cities around the world. In order to thrive in the 21st century, airports must adapt to the realities like innovating the non-aeronautical side of the ledger and tackling security bottlenecks through biometric solutions and

10 April 2019 Cover Story

According to are investing up to US$50 billion in new and expanded projects over CAPA, US$255 the next 15 years, which will provide capacity for an additional 200 million billion is being invested in passengers per annum.

Greenfield airport projects From its humble beginnings in 2001 with just 90 exhibitors from 17 around the world countries over 1,300 visitors from 35 countries, the Airport Show this year Trade show and exhibitions are the will see the strong presence of over best opportunity to see the latest 375 exhibitors from 60 countries when technology and innovations, meet the it takes off on April 29 for three days. experts and specialists and broaden A record 7,500 attendees are expected The event will be held under the the knowledge. For companies, they at the much-anticipated industry show patronage of His Highness Sheikh are ideal to widen the customer which sees more than 75 per cent of Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, base and reach out new markets. its exhibitors being repeat participants. President of Dubai Civil Aviation These events provide opportunities The show will take place over an Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports to communicate the value of their exhibition space of over 15,000 and Chairman and Chief Executive products and services to the potential square meters. The total number of of Emirates Airline and Group. He buyers. The participation also provide international exhibitors at the world’s remarked: “The Airport Show provides tremendous opportunities for largest annual airport exhibition will be an opportunity to experience the latest exhibitors in generating new sales 143, of which 42 are new international aviation technologies and innovations. leads and business networking. A exhibitors, including Ulma Handling The show and related events will Business-to-Business (B2B) event Systems, ADB Safegate, Honeywell, contribute to our combined efforts dedicated exclusively to the airports L3 Security, Smiths Detection, DFS towards the sustained growth of the makes great sense considering the fact Aviation and Vanderlande. global aviation industry.” that the aviation industry is soaring to new heights of growth and expansion. There will be four co-located events An investment of US$90 billion is ATC Forum, Airport Security, Global projected to go into the aviation Airport Leaders Forum (GALF) and industry in the Middle East by 2020 - Women in Aviation (WIA) General New technologies are changing more than three-fourths of which is in Assembly – along with a new addition, the airport security landscape the Arabian Gulf states alone. CAPA’s Middle East & Africa Aviation across the world. Security Summit. Reed Exhibitions Middle continues to play an increasingly According to CAPA, US$255 billion East, organisers of the Dubai’s important role as airports remain is being invested in new (Greenfield) landmark aviation industry show, keen to accelerate their outputs, airport projects around the world. says the industry’s interest in the minimise disruption and ensure Together with the US$845 billion show had remained unfaltering and better customer experience. The investment in existing airport projects unprecedented. The GALF provides global airport security market is such as new runways, terminal the aviation industry professionals projected to grow seven percent buildings and extensions, about the opportunity to discuss common a year CAGR until 2024. The US$1.1 trillion in airport infrastructure issues, generate innovative solutions to demand for latest innovations projects are planned or underway. meet head-on the present and future in airport security is burgeoning. Currently, there are 415 new airport challenges, and most importantly It will highlight the latest projects in the world, of which 64 drive global economic and social technology from biometrics, are located in the Middle East alone. improvement and advancement. An scanning, face recognition, border There are currently over 2,300 airport all-encompassing look at what lies control, access control, CCTV construction projects worldwide, ahead will come up for review and and other security solutions from varying from US$1 million to US$20 debate at the 3rd Women in Aviation across the world. billion in investments. UAE airports (WIA) General Assembly.

April 2019 11 UAE in Focus

Alpha Aviation Academy Lufthansa sees growth inaugurates milestone 50th batch on UAE routes uropean aviation giant Lufthansa traveling to and from the UAE, has reported a three percent adding that it remains committed lpha Aviation Academy increaseE in passenger traffic in the to “exploring new ways to offer (AAA), the Middle East’s UAE for the year 2018, compared with unique experiences to our yearning Aleading pilot training providers, the previous year. customers”. and the second largest provider of the Multi-Crew Pilot Licence The company’s airlines, Lufthansa During 2018, the Lufthansa Group (MPL) in the world, is celebrating and Swiss, carried over 345,000 increased its passenger capacity on the inauguration of its milestone passengers to and from the UAE the UAE’s routes by four percent to 50th cadet batch. during the January-December period. meet increased customer demand. A total of 671,000 passengers to and Lufthansa currently operates 41 The batch comprises of 14 cadets from the GCC region were transported weekly flights between Frankfurt and from 12 different countries: ten in 2018, it added. Lufthansa Group six destinations in the region - Dubai, cadets from Asia, two from Africa, saw robust demand for long-haul Kuwait, Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam and one from South America, and one flights in 2018 from passengers Bahrain. from North America.

The newly joined cadets come from a variety of professional and academic backgrounds. The international nature of the group is a result of Alpha Aviation’s ongoing diversity campaign, which aims to get more international cadets and women trained as pilots in the UAE.

Etihad, enter codeshare partnership

tihad Airways and Gulf Air, the ‘EY’ code on Gulf Air flights from preclearance facility offered at Abu national airline of Bahrain, have Bahrain to and from Abu Dhabi, Dhabi International Airport. signedE a codeshare partnership, for Baghdad, Casablanca, Dhaka, travel commencing with the summer Faisalabad, Larnaca, Malaga, Multan, The United States Customs and Border schedule. Najaf, Peshawar, Sailkot and Tbilisi. Protection (CBP) facility at Terminal 3 in Abu Dhabi Airport is a purpose- The announcement follows the Gulf Air will place its ‘GF’ code on built facility that allows US bound signing of a Memorandum of Etihad flights from Abu Dhabi to passengers to process all immigration, Understanding (MoU) between and from Bahrain, Brisbane, Chicago customs and agriculture inspections in the two carriers at the Bahrain O'Hare, Jakarta, Lagos, , Abu Dhabi before they depart. International Airshow in November Melbourne, New York JFK, Sydney and last year and will further strengthen Washington. On arrival in the US, guests arrive as the strong ties between the domestic passengers, speeding up the two countries and carriers. The Guests who are travelling to the USA arrival process and making onward agreement will see Etihad place its with Etihad will be able to enjoy the connections more seamless.

12 April 2019 UAE in Focus

Dubai embarks on renovating airport runway PIA launches flights ubai is embarking a record- will require work scheduled around the to Al Ain airport time renovation upgrade to clock 24/7 for 45 days while adhering Dresurface the south runway at Dubai to strict deadlines. The project includes akistan International Airlines International (DXB), which welcomed removal of 6,000 existing inset runway (PIA) has launched its flight more than 89.1 million passengers lights followed by milling 407,000 serviceP between Peshawar and in 2018, making it the busiest in the square metres of runway and taxiway Al Ain with two weekly flights world by passenger traffic. surfaces. The Stage 2 comprises the on Fridays and Sundays. Al Ain laying of 158,000 tonnes of wet-mix, International Airport, the second Scheduled to last for 45 days, the 106,000 tonnes of asphalt, installation largest airport in Abu Dhabi, renovation project will take place from of 6,000 new LED lights, 245 guidance received PIA’s first flight from April 15 April through to the end signs plus 12,000 new transformers Peshawar International Airport of May, and will improve the safety, and components. The Stage 3 entails amid an official reception to mark capacity and scalability of the airport. the configuration of the components the occasion. The project is commissioned by Dubai and software to the control tower. In Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP) the final phase, handover of the entire Maarten de Groof, Chief and will further facilitate the arrival of runway and precision landing systems Commercial Officer, Abu Dhabi an expected 25 million visitors for Expo will be given back to DAEP by May 31. Airports, said these new flights 2020 Dubai. will carry passengers twice a week, The 80-day programme in 2014 improving the level of services and Under DAEP’s supervision and support, required a workforce of 4,500, utilising enhancing connectivity to meet contractors successfully completed 1,225 items of plant. The scope the expectations of travellers. For similar renovations across DXB’s comprised the removal of 410,000m² PIA, Al Ain is a strong market as runways in record time, with the most of asphalt from existing runways, there is a growing demand from the recent being an 80-day turnaround of full new runway construction using Pakistani community living in Al Ain the South and North runways in 2014. 400,000 tonnes of wet-mix and to start direct flights between Al The high-intensity construction project 500,000 tonnes of asphalt. Ain and Peshawar.

Etihad Airways increases New baggage service for Indian airlines from AUH London Heathrow flights bu Dhabi airport has tihad Airways will increase its flights from Abu Dhabi to London announced a special service Heathrow, from three to up to four daily services, to meet peak demand Afor passengers in four Indian duringE the month of April. airlines travelling from UAE. Indigo travellers can now remotely Commencing April 5, the flights will be operated by a two-class 787- check-in their luggage via the 9, featuring ’ next-generation Business and Economy cabins, ‘City Terminal Check-in’ service - configured with 299 seats – 28 Business Studios and 271 Economy Smart allowing them to avoid the hassle Seats. Etihad Airways will add 20 additional roundtrip services between Abu at the airport and check-in quickly. Dhabi and London Heathrow during the month of April. The service needs to be availed 24 hours before the time of the flight. Other India-based airlines on the list include , Air India Express and Jet Airways. India is one of the most important destinations for Abu Dhabi airport.

April 2019 13 ADP Ingénierie

ADP Ingenierie: Digitization strategy eases passengers’ experience ADP Ingenierie participating in Airport Show 2019

ADP Ingénierie, the consulting, Truth is airports stakeholders Improvements in technology and design and engineering subsidiary of seem to have acted as a reaction the new reign of data come to Groupe ADP, the world number one to events, never taking into transform the whole conception of company in airport management, is consideration the bigger picture security inside airports. With current participating in the 19th edition of and the whole passenger’s technology and collection of data, Airport Show in Dubai from April 29 experience. Of course, this can infrastructures are able to obtain a to May 1. be explained as decisions were solid vision of who is circulating in necessary and expected in a short their airport. Current cameras coupled The French engineering company will period of time. with artificial intelligence can now be exhibiting their lineup of products provide predictive inputs on dodgy and services at their Booth (Number Do airports want to further ease their passengers and help prevent tragic 5340) at Dubai International passengers’ experience and shorten events. Convention and Exhibition Centre the process? Actions already in (DICEC). ADP Ingénierie’s activities place were too modified/improved/ On a lesser measure, scans can be cover the entire life cycle of the corrected to be changed once more used now to accelerate the process airport, including security.Security in for improvements. for passengers. Solution exists to airports have been a constant source transform the experience to a point of concerns since the 9/11 attacks in So why not start from that even the passenger is not aware the US. Many actions took place since scratch and think “security by he is going through security check. then to make sure airports could design”? For instance, Dubai is currently secure their infrastructures but more It is time for airports to reconsider testing a face-scanning tunnel importantly so they could be able this “reaction” approach and envision screening where the traveler goes to ensure a safe journey for all the a profound review of the entire through with the impression of being passengers using the facilities. process in order to reinvent the way in an aquarium. As he looks at the passengers go through the different fish, his face is scanned and analyzed. Quite often, airports simply reinforced steps of security checks. Goals are the processes in place. More in- for airports to have enough visibility In other words, the experience of the depth controls, stricter rules, more on their passengers and passengers passenger must be considered as a constraints… heavy decisions that to go through all the checking points whole, from the moment he enters impacted the passenger’s path to his as flawlessly as possible and limit the the airport (soon from the moment plane and generated longer lines at negative impact on their experience he departs from his home) to the each step of the procedure. of the airport. moment he reaches his destination.

14 April 2019 ADP Ingénierie

Data today already help us track him all along and data is used for retail purpose. But imagine what can be reached with these data used for security. Blockchain technologies are put at use by airports to bring data together and make sense out of all the data obtained from multiple sources. Reinventing the process is thinking outside the box to imagine another way to do, a better way to do it.

On another hand, Robots are taking over and robotics is being used to ensure more automated and secure ways of handling baggage. Baggage scanning and RFID keep track of the luggage to limit the risk of losing it but also to keep track of its entire strengthening their data management Tracking luggage, tracking passengers journey – just like its owner’s. and create dedicated information and tracking the different flows centers. A common approach and are the key elements to general While this strategy of digitalization combined efforts will help companies improvement of current processes eases the passengers’ experience, with tackle this threat. Managing data and but, most of all, to bring a smooth all the interconnected technologies protect them are a recent adjunction and seamless experience to the comes the risk of cyberattacks, all to the components of the airport and passengers while ensuring the safety platforms and infrastructures are to flow management. of all.

April 2019 15 Special Report

Sleep Like A Baby It is possible –and affordable - to have a good night sleep in busy international airports like Dubai through the sleeping pods

ost travellers are caught in sleepless transit at airports at odd hours, a nap wedged between a row of chairs and a recycling bin, with the carry-on for a pillow, is the acceptedM norm. Or, curl up on an airport seat – despite the armrests – or, simply lie down on the cold floor with bags as headrests and coats shaped into make shift blankets.

The idea of sleeping comfortably in well-earned rest in sleeping pods that Starting with 10 sleeping pods on an public in an airport sounded strange. fold flat to offer a refreshing airport experimental basis, the number of There’s nothing like a resting and experience you could only dream sleeping pods have increased to 37 in rejuvenating break in the middle of - pay AED50 for the first hour to Terminal 3 across two dedicated sleep of a hectic travelling schedule. AED25 for the day and AED30 for lounges, convenient for passengers Scientifically, it has been proved that the night per consecutive hour. coming from Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. napping boost productivity. GoSleep is a state-of-the-art Abu Dhabi started the world’s first The futuristic-looking sleeping pods chair that converts into a sleeping cocoon-like sleep pods with 10 in airport lounges comes in varying pod with a fold-flat bed. It was pods and is gradually increasing sizes, shapes and price-per-hour. The further innovated to Abu Dhabi’s it. A year after the service became simple sleeping solution is ideal for specifications to offer passengers a popular among the travelling public, tired travellers who are waiting for ‘world first’ product. Inspired by an Dubai International was the next to their next flight. Sleeping pods provide airline business class seat, GoSleep is introduce it in November 2014 at an alternative sleeping arrangement a state-of-the-art chair that converts Concourses A and B in Terminal 3. to hotels. Sleeping pods made their into a Sleeping Pod with a 180° fold- appearance in sleepiest mode in 2013 flat bed. It is the world’s first GoSleep Google popularized the concept when Abu Dhabi airport introduced it pod for travellers. of having sleeping pods in the as part of its unique initiatives to make workplace. In 2012, a British company transiting passengers feel at home. Produced in Finland, the stylishly- built sleeping pods that allowed its designed chair is easy to operate and employees to sleep in the office with Two years earlier, Dubai International features a partial or fully enclosed introduced an option for sleeping sliding shade that cocoons the comfortably in the airport which was customer from light and crowds. They a thing next to impossible. The Abu offer peace and relaxation as well Dhabi International is one of the Big as privacy within the busy airport 3 Arabian Gulf airports vying to notch environment. up growing numbers of international passengers across the world through It has secure storage for keeping the connectivity and unique passenger luggage and other valuables and amenities in the air and on the charging facility for their laptops, grounds. mobile phones and other electronic devices ¬- along with Internet access It is offering passengers sleeping pods via optional tablet or laptops. The across two locations in Terminal 3. advanced models also featured a Transit passengers can catch up on stereo and a mirror.

16 April 2019 Special Report

The Scandinavian-designed sleep At Munich Airport, lounge features 20 ‘igloo’ sleep pods, passengers can and seven premium double cabins with pull-out children’s beds. Passengers snooze in style have the option of booking for an hour via a Napcab. Vancouver session or up to one night. International Airport has The lounge facilities include a small a similar concept – called waiting area for arriving and departing guests and a unisex changing room. MetroNaps and Moscow’s Merchandise such as pillows and Sheremetyevo International blankets, shower, dental and shaving privacy. That was the time when kits, neck hoodies and travel slippers airport introduced Sleepboxes London Olympics was approaching and are also available for sale. The Dubai in airside areas, post-security. people faced commuting difficulties airport also offers ‘SnoozeCubes’, small due to traffic congestions. Increasing soundproof cubicles featuring a bed, government investment for offering TV, storage and Wi-Fi for passengers. Amsterdam, London and Paris, is a passenger-friendly facilities at airports Prices start at US$21 an hour for a touch more expensive at $42 for four is one of the major factors for growth single cube and US$28 for a shared hours. Dearer still is Minute Suites, of the global airport sleeping pods cube. The facility was opened in 2011. which has operations in four American market. Rising capsules hotels at airports. airports is one of the major trends for The growing passenger traffic is one of growth of the global airport sleeping the major factors driving sleep pods in Airports are increasingly re-designing, pods market. the airports. Approximately 46.67 per innovating and even creating, to make cent of the busiest airports in the world, the travel experience as comfortable The sleep-in-an-airport concept’s as of 2016, provided sleeping pods. and seamless as possible. Sleeping success in Abu Dhabi resulted in overnight in an airport has become several other airports implementing Along with Dubai and Abu Dhabi, a sort of a phenomenon that even the service in Europe, Asia and the sleeping pods can be found in several inspired a best-selling novel - Dear US, among other regions. Dubai international airports like Helsinki, . International has a sleep lounge Amsterdam, Haneda, , featuring pods and cabins at Terminal Delhi and across Australia. Mexico “It is comfort and affordability that 3. Located close to Gate A1 in City’s airport has sleep pods with a matters most to globalised travellers,” Concourse A, the Sleep ‘n Fly lounge space-age design for $30 a night. remarked (Larry) Peter Swan, Founder offers a total of 27 pods and cabins. YotelAir, which offers pods in of Snoozecube which pioneered the first modular accommodation for airports and introduced it at the Dubai International. In October 2011, he launched it with 10 units at Dubai International and since then the growth graph is just up and up. Since May 2017, DXB have a brand-new sleep lounge, the first of its kind at the airport, featuring 27 pods and cabins in which you can grab a few minutes’ rest. The “sleep ’n fly lounge” is popping up near Gate A1 in Concourse A, and offers up 20 different state-of- the-art, private sleep pods, plus seven premium double cabins featuring pull- out children’s beds.

April 2019 17 Middle East News

First Saudi female Oman to award Muscat airport air traffic controllers upgrade contracts begins work he Sultanate of Oman is putting he Saudi Air into works its strategy to upgrade Navigation airportsT and logistics capabilities for ServicesT (SANS) the year ahead. has celebrated the appointment It has been outlined by the Ministry and start of work of Transport and Communications. of the first batch The Oman News Agency (ONA) says of Saudi female air traffic controllers at to boost aviation capabilities, the an air traffic control centre in Jeddah. rehabilitation of Muscat International The construction of an aircraft Airport’s southern runway will begin maintenance building and a Eleven women completed a one- this year. The ministry will also distribution centre for corrosive year program conducted by SANS in start implementing a Master Plan materials at Muscat International cooperation with the Saudi Academy of to repurpose the old Muscat airport Airport will also be carried out in Civil Aviation. This is the first program building. 2019. to qualify women to work as air traffic controllers.

The academy initiative, in collaboration greenest airline landing at LHR with SANS, seeks to create more jobs for women as part of a reform push to man Air, the national airline This positive ranking comes as a wean the economy off oil. Vision 2030 of the Sultanate of Oman, has result of the airline investing in plan aims to increase employment and Obeen recognised as the cleanest and modernising its fleet and deploying diversify revenue sources. quietest carrier in contributing to its modern eco-friendly Boeing the reduction of the noise footprint 787 Dreamliners on the London The state-owned company has been at the London Heathrow airport, Heathrow service. prioritizing the hiring of women in the as per the Fly Quiet and Green profession, as the country pushes to chart published by LHR airport Heathrow’s latest ‘Fly Quiet and extend women’s rights in the country authorities. Green’ league table, ranks the and also recruit more nationals as part performance of the top 50 airlines of the Saudisation project. The airline which came second in on seven noise and emission the third quarter of last year has metrics, had placed Oman Air in Under Crown Prince Mohamed Bin jumped one place up making it the second position in the third quarter Salman’s Vision 2030, Saudi women first best long-haul performer in ‘fly of 2018, climbing up 26 places over have been welcomed into a variety quiet and green’ chart in Q4 2018. the previous quarter. of industries and are taking up roles previously reserved for men.

With the plan working to encourage more women to take up employment, Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports announced that it would be soon recruiting women to take up careers within airports and land border crossings – and though only 140 vacancies within these positions, over 105,000 women sent in an application.

18 April 2019 Middle East News

Bahrain airport’s new Gulf Air welcomes second passenger terminal to open in Q3 A320neo to its fleet ahrain’s Gulf Air has welcomed the Bsecond Airbus A320neo to its fleet. This is the second aircraft of the 12 A320neo aircraft ordered during the 2016 Bahrain International Airshow. This delivery also makes Gulf Air the first national carrier to fly the A320neo in the Middle East and Africa region.

ahrain International Airport’s Gulf Air CEO Krešimir Kučko (BIA) modernisation commented: “We are proud to be the We invite our loyal customers programmeB is more than 80 first national carrier in the region to to come on-board and enjoy the per cent complete and the operate the A320neo. experience of flying on A320neo. construction work is rapidly proceeding as the aviation hub’s We have a strong network in the Gulf Air’s A320neo is the most new passenger terminal building region with multiple daily flights to advanced A320 version. Featuring the readies to open in Q3 2019. 10 regional cities and the addition widest single aisle cabin in the market, of A320neo into our fleet will the new aircraft is deliver 15 per cent The Bahrain Airport Company strengthen our position in our market. fuel burn reduction per seat. (BAC) said operational readiness and airport transfer (ORAT) work is under way for Bahrain International Airport’s new Four female pilots joins ME airlines passenger terminal building – a central feature of the airport our new women have now proven It has been estimated that between modernisation programme. their efficiency to be pilot and three and six per cent of pilots joinedF the piloting crew in Lebanon. at the world’s largest commercial airlines are women. Compared Boeing forecasts ME The (MEA) with other countries in the Middle aviation services market at has opened its doors to every East and North Africa (MENA) trainee, regardless of gender. The region, the UAE has more women US$745 billion requirement remains very strict in pilots, captains, aircraft engineers, oeing projects the Middle East proving such efficiency as to fly their mechanics, aircraft maintenance and will require US$745 billion in own plane. air traffic controllers, among others. aviationB services through 2037 to keep pace with growing passenger The ICAO data shows over 5.18 per and freight traffic in the region. cent of pilots are females. Estimates from the International Society of The high value services market Women Airline Pilots show there are is largely driven by the demand 7,409 women pilots across the world. for nearly 3,000 new commercial Women make up about five per cent airplanes in the Middle East over of the 53,000 members of the Air the next twenty years, more than Line Pilots Association (ALPA), the tripling the existing fleet. world’s largest pilot union.

April 2019 19 International News

Long-awaited Jewel Changi Airport opens in mid-April ingapore is opening Jewel Changi Changi Airport’s current four terminals. Airport this month. Conceived by world-renowned S architect Moshe Safdie as a new More than five years since revealing “magical garden,” Jewel Changi Airport plans for the airport’s stunning new is over 1.4 million square feet and cost addition, officials have announced that a reported US$1.25 billion to build. the complex will open to the public on April 17. The distinctive doughnut- It will have a total of 10 stories -- five 280 retail and F&B outlets and a shaped Jewel is first and foremost above ground and five below -- filled 130-cabin YOTELAIR a central hub, connecting three of with various attractions, gardens, Changi Airport hotel.

Thai airports that do not allow smoking ix Thai airports had been The six airports are Bangkok’s declared no-smoking zones, Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang, SThe Tourism Authority of Thailand Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai and (TAT) has revealed. Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai, all operated and managed by the The TAT) is advising all tourists Airports of Thailand (AOT). and travellers who are planning air travel via the kingdom’s six major According to AOT, the move to airports that all smoking rooms close all smoking rooms is in line inside the terminals have been with the 2017 Tobacco Control closed since February 2019. Act.

Manchester airport to handle 45 Construction of Bulacan airport to start soon million travellers anchester Airport, which he Philippines is going to start handled 28.2 million work on a new international passengersM in 2018, will have airportT in Bulacan, about 11 the capacity to handle 45 million kilometres north of Manila, this year. travellers per year once its current Manchester Airport Transformation Dubbed as the ‘biggest airport in Project (MAN-TP) is completed. the world’, the project proponent San Miguel Corporation (SMC) said Manchester Airport is the busiest Transformation Project (MAN-TP), that the construction of the airport airport in the UK outside of London which is designed to upgrade its is eyed to begin next year and and the only one other than terminal and airside infrastructure would be finished in six years. Heathrow with two full-length to unlock the additional capacity runways that are both capable of potential of its two runways. For its The project is crucial as the handling trans-continental long- current financial year ends March, it Bulacan airport is seen as one of haul operations. is targeting 28.5 million passengers. the possible alternatives to Ninoy For the calendar year 2018, it had Aquino International Airport It is currently in the midst of its reached a total of 28.2 million (NAIA) to decongest the country’s £1.0 billion Manchester Airport passengers. main gateway.

20 April 2019 International News

Salzburg Airport to close for five weeks ustria’s Salzburg Airport will over and over again, causing enormous close operations for air traffic costs. Since this procedure can no Afor five weeks in 2019 to renovate its longer be repeated for safety reasons, 60-year-old runway. a general refurbishment of the runway is now inevitable. The closure will be effective April 24 to May 28. To make the construction The method chosen for renovating work as simple as possible, the airport the runway is the safest way to help decided to stop all operations. The protect the population from noise authorities will carry out “a thorough during the night time. Salzburg is Munich airport is located around 130km and general refurbishment” of the the second largest airport in Austria, from Salzburg, with a regular rail service airport’s runway. with flights operated by a number available between the two cities. Earlier, of carriers from the UK and Ireland it was announced that Milan Linate “Over the last years the almost (some seasonally), including Aer airport will also close for three months 60-year-old runway 15/33 at Salzburg Lingus, , easyjet, , next summer, to allow for works on its Airport had to be partly renovated Jet 2, Norwegian and Ryanair. runway and terminal building.

Adani Group to operate five Indian airports Angkasa Pura plans new airport in Jakarta

ndonesia’s largest airport operator is looking to spend billions of dollars toI build a new facility in Jakarta and upgrade the existing one to cater to an unprecedented travel boom and compete with neighbouring countries for tourism revenue.

Angkasa Pura II, the state-owned operator of 16 airports across Indonesia, he Adani Group, which is into players like GMR Airports, Zurich will conclude a feasibility study for a ports, logistics, mining and edible Airport International, Cochin Greenfield airport in the archipelago’s oil,T has sprung a surprise when it International Airport Ltd, among capital this year that may require an outbid leading airport players to win others, by offering higher fee per investment of about US$7 billion. the contracts to manage all the five passenger to the AAI. airports put up for privatisation— The company is already spending Trivandrum, Jaipur, Mangaluru, The Indian aviation sector, which hundreds of million dollars in adding a Lucknow and Ahmedabad. has been recording double-digit new terminal and a runway in Jakarta’s growth over the past three to four Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. When financial bids were opened by years, needs private investment the Airports Authority of India (AAI), to sustain it. Globally, four out of Guwahati also followed suit. the top five earning airports in the world—Heathrow, Frankfurt, Madrid The winning of bids by the Adani and Paris—are private. Since their Group, which has no prior experience privatisation, airports in Mumbai, in running airports, surprised Delhi, Bengaluru and Hyderabad have everyone as it outbid experienced recorded phenomenal growth.

April 2019 21 Opinion

Aviation Security is of critical importance

viation is the business of is to make it available to all IATA freedom.It enables people members and IATA Operational Aand business to connect globally. Safety Audit (IOSA) registered Flying helps them to discover the carriers later this year. planet, build new markets, stay in touch with friends or family, and Cybersecurity is the emerging create opportunities for better threat. The digital transformation understanding. of the airline industry holds immense promise. It is on The fundamental good that everybody’s business plan. In Alexandre de Juniac aviation as the business of freedom moving forward with digital Director General and CEO brings to the world, however, makes transformation, however, we must IATA it a potential target for terrorists. ensure that our aviation systems remain safe, secure and resilient to The UN Security Council cyber-attack. We cannot afford to Resolution 2309 makes it clear learn through failure if we are to that governments have the primary maintain the hard-won trust in our responsibility for aviation security. industry. The industry is fully committed to a partnership relationship that keeps With the number of travellers our passengers, crew and cargo expected to reach 8.2 billion in secure. 2037, aviation will become even more critical. We have an important Flying is secure. Keeping it that role to play in making that happen. way is not an easy task. Threats Global standards, information- are evolving. The geo-political sharing, risk-based analysis and landscape is complex. Technology is a careful watch on emerging rapidly changing. And the volumes threats are the tools that will help of both cargo and travellers keeps us deliver—keeping aviation the growing. business of freedom secure for decades to come. Those wishing to do us harm have no state allegiance; they cross Excerpts from the speech at the AVSEC borders to share information and World collaborate to refine their methods of causing chaos and destruction. The focus of governments must be on protecting people. And that cannot be done with insular thinking.

The IATA is working with ICAO and supporting states in developing an online security application that facilitates the exchange of critical security occurrence data. The plan

22 April 2019 Opinion

Stamp out slot misuse

viation is a cornerstone of a pre-allocated slot, which is Singapore’s economy. It the permission to use airport Aprovides many good jobs for our infrastructure, such as the runway, people, and contributes significantly terminal, apron and gate, at a to our GDP. It links Singapore with specific time. the rest of the world, facilitating the growth of other parts of The use of slots at Changi Airport our economy, such as trade, is coordinated by the airport’s investments, services and tourism. slots coordinator. As traffic As demand for air travel continues through Changi Airport increases, Ng Chee Meng to grow, this sector will grow in it is even more imperative that Second Minister importance. we stamp out slot misuse. Ministry of Transport Today, Singapore follows the Republic of Singapore Changi East, with Terminal 5 Worldwide Slot Guidelines, as the centrepiece, is our bold published by the International Air investment for the future. It will Transport Association (IATA) on enable Changi Airport to tap on recommended practices for slot future opportunities and cement coordination. our position as a competitive and premier air hub. The Changi East development is unprecedented in scale and complexity, and is expected to cost tens of billions of dollars.

Changi East will be funded through a joint contribution model comprising the Government, the airport operator, who is known as the “airport licensee” in the Bill, and airport users. The Government will pay the majority of the costs, while the airport operator will contribute a substantial portion of its surpluses and reserves. Airport users will contribute through aeronautical charges and a new Airport Development Levy (ADL).

Changi Airport is the world’s sixth busiest international airport in terms of international passenger traffic. Every 90 seconds, one flight takes off or lands in Changi. Each of these flights requires

April April 2019 2019 2323 ATM

Digital ATC towers in New radar system at Australia and NZ Glasgow Airport

digital tower is due be operational lans for one of the largest at Auckland Airport in 2020. wind farm developments A inP Scotland have been given The push is on to introduce digital air the green light following the traffic control tower technology at installation of a state-of-the-art airports both in Australia and across radar system at Glasgow Airport. the service for the 25-year life the Tasman. of the wind farm. Due to their Together with NATS and Banks height and movement patterns, Airservices Australia says digital Renewables, the Glasgow Airport wind turbines can have a range tower technology, which it calls has introduced a new radar of impacts on navigational Digital Aerodrome Services (DAS), that can mitigate the impact of systems, including being detected can provide an effective replacement the Kype Muir Wind Farm near by Primary Surveillance Radar or contingency backup to existing Strathaven, South Lanarkshire. (PSR) and appearing on air conventional air traffic control towers The development will generate traffic control screens. while delivering cost savings. 88.4MW of renewable energy from its 26 turbines. This can have a number of The technology involves capturing impacts including distracting imagery of an airport and surrounding NATS will manage the dual controllers, masking ‘real’ aircraft airspace via video cameras, sometimes Terma SCANTER 4002 radar and mimicking the appearance of up to 15 mounted on a mast. system which is capable of actual aircraft to the extent that supporting air traffic control they must be avoided by other requirements and mitigating the aircraft. impact of the turbines. Such impacts can have a The system is now operational detrimental impact on the and NATS has secured the safety, efficiency and capacity of contract to operate and maintain airspace surrounding the airport. Salalah Airport RAAF trials air traffic management technologies he Royal Australian Air Force traffic management system next to view, external surveillance feed of (RAAF) is trialling emerging the air traffic control (ATC) tower at augmented reality information on the technologyT in air traffic management the RAAF Base Amberley. display screens, and an integrated (ATM) with an active demonstration view of ATC information for remote of a virtual control tower that can be The installation work has been as control. operated remotely anywhere in the a result of an offer to demonstrate world. the system’s remote ATC tower Welcome to our Five Star Airport capabilities. The installation marks Indra Australia and Kongsberg a significant milestone as the first Defence and Aerospace have been virtual air traffic management working in partnership with the system installation on a defence Surveillance and Response Group establishment in the southern to install a Kongsberg 360 camera hemisphere. The system includes system and integrated inNOVA air a panoramic out-the-window

24 April 2019

Salalah Airport 5 STAR AIRPORT Muscat Int‘l Airport Salalah Airport Salalah Airport

Welcome to our Five Star Airport

April 2019 25

Salalah Airport 5 STAR AIRPORT Muscat Int‘l Airport Salalah Airport Airlines

LCCs increasingly SpiceJet joins attracted to primary IATA, signs up with airports Amadeus any Low Cost Carriers (LCCs) piceJet has become the first have been flying increasingly Indian budget carrier to join fromM primary and even major hub Sthe International Air Transport This distribution tie-up with airports, resulting in passenger yields Association (IATA), which has over Amadeus will enable the airline’s being considerably higher, even if 290 airlines as members. customers to connect with its loads are lower and costs higher. growing international network. The IATA) membership allows it to Established as air taxi provider On the downside, a rapid turnaround is explore and grow its collaborations ModiLuft in 1994, the company was more difficult to achieve, according to a with international member airlines acquired by Indian entrepreneur study by Centre of Aviation (CAPA) of of IATA through interlining and Ajay Singh in 2004 and re- 139 LCCs operating across the world. code shares. The IATA membership christened as SpiceJet. is also significant on account of The report identified the degree SpiceJet’s plans to rapidly expand The airline operated its first flight to which primary airports have its international footprint. in May 2005. Today, it operates been infiltrated by budget airlines. 516 flights daily connecting 59 It revealed that primary and hub/ It has appointed travel technology destinations, including to eight gateway airports are increasingly solutions provider Amadeus as its international airports with of 48 seeking to attract budget airlines first global distribution partner, Boeing 737s, and 27 regional jets and that the number, size, and which would help it reach out Bombardier Q-400s. It also has a scope of LCCs continue to grow, to new markets and travellers freighter, a Boeing 737, in the fleet to globally. worldwide. cater to the cargo flights network.

End of the road for Joon in June ir France has finally set a date for Athe end of Joon. The millennial oriented Air France subsidiary has been earmarked for Bamboo Airways to ink US$3 closure since early January, but it billion aircraft deal looks the airline will be wrapped up throughout June with the last flight scheduled for June 28. ietnam’s newly-launched Bamboo company FLC Group, agreed to buy Airways has plans to order as 24 Airbus SE A321neo planes worth Joon was created as Air France manyV as 25 narrow- and wide-body US$3.2 billion at list price. Bamboo attempted to capture younger Boeing aircraft this year as the Airways signed a separate deal with millennial customers. nation’s newest carrier prepares for Boeing to buy 10 Boeing 787-9 flights to the US and Europe. Dreamliners worth about US$3 billion. The airline sported a trendy uniform In June, it signed a commitment for with a dance inspired safety video. The deal would increase Bamboo 20 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners with Thankfully the airline’s flights won’t be Airways’ Boeing fleet to 55. The a list price of US$5.6 billion before cancelled just yet as the airline will be carrier’s parent, property and leisure customary discounts. reabsorbed into Air France’s operations.

26 April 2019 Cargo & Logistics

Cargo airlines face pilot shortages Amazon becoming a player in the logistics edEx, the world’s largest airline by many pilots are reaching the federally freight tonne-kilometres flown, mandated retirement age of 65. industry isF dealing with an impending pilot FedEx has attempted to delay the nalysts think the recent shortage. departure of pilots near retirement expansion of Amazon Air to age by offering bonus incentives of Ainclude 50 planes and several new The Memphis-based carrier is expected US$40,000- US$110,000 in exchange regional hubs, including a US$1.5 to lose 150-200 of its 4,500 pilots for continued service into 2019. billion hub opening in northern this year and a similar number each Kentucky in 2021, are steps year for the foreseeable future. The FedEx is already the highest paying towards becoming a big player. reason for this departure is that airline for pilots with thirty years of experience at over US$300,000. The According to Wolfe Research, the entire commercial airline industry is e-commerce giant is now handling facing a shortage of pilots for both its own shipping for 26 percent cargo and passenger planes. Estimates of online orders. Amazon said suggest that there will be 1,600 unfilled that it can transport hundreds of pilot positions in the US by 2020. thousands of packages per day with its new “dedicated air network” One of the reasons for the lack of new and that its fleet of planes make commercial pilots is due to the high two-day shipping possible almost barriers of entry for new pilots. anywhere in the US.

MASkargo looks at new ULD tracking solution Panalpina sets historic ASkargo, a subsidiary of by Nordisk. TWC is the local partner record in airfreight , has signed appointed by CORE to implement volumes aM cooperation deal with TW the tag and reader tracking solution Control (TWC), CORE Transport for MASkargo and also the developer wiss forwarder Panalpina has Technologies (CORE) and Nordisk of the ULD Management Software recorded 32 percent increase in the Aviation Products (Nordisk) for a associated with the technology at hand. Sconsolidated profit - CHF75.7 million tracking solution of its containers and last year compared to CHF57.5 million pallets. Real-time ULD tracking information in 2017. On the other hand, gross profit will enable MASkargo to more increased 7 percent to CHF1,499.7 With this development, MASkargo accurately monitor and replan million, as compared to CHF1,397.8 with TWC and CORE will incorporate shipments that are delayed due to million last to last year. COREInsight tracking solution for irregular operations, such as extreme its containers and pallets supplied weather events. The company stated that it was helped by historic record in air freight volumes, This will enable customers to have end- a recovering ocean freight product and to-end tracking of the ULDs starting in solid profitability in logistics. their own warehouses throughout the journey to the final destination.

This is a radical and bold transformation for a typical 145 Repair ULD workshop and we intend to use it to the fullest to assist our clients in ULD management.

April 2019 27 Technology

Sydney Airport testing futuristic face Can airplane seat recognition technology cameras spy on ydney Airport has launched one passengers? of the world’s most ambitious Sairport facial recognition trials at its ome passengers and aviation T1 International terminal. experts are concerned that Scameras installed on airplane The landmark trial is testing four seats could be used by airlines key aspects of a new biometrics or third party hackers to spy on processing system, including them and steal data. check-in, bag drop, lounge access and boarding using world-leading According to a report by CNN, technology. Ultimately, biometrics relaxing for our passengers. As one this could be scrutinized via processing will also be implemented of the oldest continually operating cameras installed in your inflight across mobile check-in and airports and the base for Nigel entertainment system (IFE). automated border processing. Love’s first commercial flight, At its heart, this is about making Sydney Airport now accommodates The fact that some aircraft seats the journey more convenient and more than 43 million passengers. have built-in cameras is not new knowledge. Panasonic Avionics, a US-based company, supplies IFE New laser weapon to end drone menace for many of the major airlines. at airports It announced a while back that it’s added cameras onto seat backs. aytheon, a leading US defence Todd Probert, a senior official at company, has developed Raytheon, told The National the The idea was seat-back cameras aR system designed to identify company had seen a recent rise could facilitate onboard unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) in interest for products capable immigration, skipping lines when and disable them. of taking on drones. The latest you land. It was also suggested system, Windshear, performed well that a seat-back camera could aid The ground-based technology can in tests and would soon be ready payment processing for onboard shoot down the drones with lasers for sale. shopping. or adopt a “soft kill” approach where signal jammers prevent Companies around the world are At the 2017 Dubai Airshow, their operation. rushing to develop systems to Panasonic Avionics announced take down drones, especially near the latest incarnation of IFE airports and radar jammers and featuring a camera, plus a laser cannons are being developed. microphone and speaker. Commercial flights at some of the world’s busiest hubs—in New York, London and Dubai—have been grounded in recent times amid concerns that nearby drones could endanger airliners.

The rising number of incidents has put the threat in the public eye and propelled interest in anti- drone technology.

28 April 2019 Technology

Stratospheric drone reaches new heights new type of drone which is ascends through the atmosphere on launched by balloon into the a weather balloon, is released once it Astratosphere has successfully reaches its target altitude and then reached an altitude of 82,000ft glides slowly to a pre-programmed during test flights in Europe, landing zone over several hours. The opening up the possibility of drone collects data while descending new types of atmospheric and using a payload of sensors and meteorological research to instruments, which meteorologists scientists for the first time. The and climate scientists can then Hidron stratospheric aircraft analyse.

Robots to help with aircraft cabin installations n the future, it looks as though and a robot butler for the aircraft aircraft cabin interiors will be manufacturing hangar. At the installedI by humans and machines ZAL TechCenter, Helmut Schmidt working side by side, as is already University in Hamburg and the the case for the fuselage on the final University of Innsbruck in Austria are assembly line. both working together with Airbus to test the use of exoskeletons in Hamburg’s ZAL Center of Applied aircraft production, with a view to Aeronautical Research has displayed aiding production workers in the at a technology show a new inkjet- lifting of heavy loads during cabin based aircraft coating system upgrades.

Tech on and off airplanes irlines are staking new competitive flyers’ experiences. It merged about other sources to map out entire territory with tech on and off two years ago with Virgin America. On trips for users. Its web application Aplanes. Data-driven applications, on- the list of new initiatives from Alaska has a feature that plans an entire board Wi-Fi connectivity, and virtual Airlines include seating and dining trip in one tap. Users enter whatever reality are just some things they are improvements, as well as various amount of money they’re willing offering to tech-savvy flyers. technological advancements to do to spend, and the app returns an things like order-ahead snacks and itinerary, complete with a flight to is among those looking beverages from airport lounges. Alaska a particular city, a hotel, and a local to leverage technology to revolutionize Airlines was the first ever to have the event to attend. kiosks and mobile check in. Many airports are now using European airline EasyJet is using biometrics to help travellers quickly data analytics for everything from cut through the identity and security customer trip-planning to predictive holdups. Seventy-one percent of analytics. EasyJet hoards all of the airlines and 77 percent of airports plan data it can get — on its planes, on research and development projects its customers, where they go, what in biometrics ID management in next they do, what they eat. EasyJet three years, according to SITA’s Air is using data from customers and Transport IT Insights 2018 report.

April 2019 29 Tourism

Dubai launches online marketplace to boost tourist attractions

Dubai’s new take on desert camping he Dubai Department of ust over 100 kilometres from is now offering stays in chic desert Tourism and Commerce Dubai’s skyscrapers, 27-year- trailers, in plush mountainside MarketingT (Dubai Tourism) has Jold Emirati Mohammed Al-Kaabi lodgings and beach camps, as it launched its B2B Attractions strolls through the tranquil desert seeks to put its own mark on the Marketplace. with his friends as the sun sets. glamping trend that has swept world tourism destinations, The initiative has been designed Kaabi hails from the people with a according to a report in The Gulf to help attractions access the centuries-old bedouin history tied Today. industry’s network of B2B inextricably to the local desert. resellers, increasing productivity Today, he is among a fast-growing Camping is still a beloved way across the breadth of Dubai’s group drawn to a new wave of of life for many Emiratis, who destination offering. a tradition of desert camping take their equipment and head but with all the trappings of for the desert from the fall The online platform, called comfort, style and modernity. With months onwards, when the Priohub, aims to connect glamping (short for glamorous scorching summer heat has faded. attractions and experiences camping, Dubai aims to expand on Tourists and expat residents also across the city with global its renown for luxurious city living increasingly opt to escape the audiences and relevant channel and its tradition of camping. Dubai hustle and bustle of the city. partners. The initiative has been designed to help attractions access the industry’s network Sensory tourism of B2B resellers, increasing productivity across the breadth emerging in Australia of Dubai’s destination offering. new kind of tourism is emerging The integrated platform supports in Australia, but it involves the city’s goal of becoming Aeverything except sight-seeing. the world’s most visited and revisited destination by 2025, Sensory tourism has changed the placing destinations in front of lives of many people with a vision global audiences and helping impairment, allowing them to have them manage their booking more inclusive tourist experiences. on one of his trips. Being able to and customer relationship experience things in his own way management processes, said Sydney-based James McFarlane through smell, taste and touch has Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai has been a tour guide for more been extremely rewarding for him. Corporation for Tourism and than a decade, but it was not until He said the opportunities offered Commerce Marketing (DCTCM). recently that he saw a gap in the by sensory tourism were making market when a blind person came life a lot brighter.

30 April 2019 Tourism

Al Marmoom: Dubai’s next big tourist attraction ith massive desert Al Maktoum, the massive project landscapes as well as huge covers 10 per cent of Dubai’s total Wstretches of man-made lakes, the area. Al Marmoom conservation reserve in Dubai is now being touted as The first unfenced desert the emirate’s next big tourism conservation reserve in the country, destination, Gulf News reported. it spans more than 40 hectares of shrub land and is home to more Unveiled last year by the UAE’s than 204 species of native birds, Vice President and Prime Minister 158 species of migratory birds, 26 and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness species of reptiles, nine mammal Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid species, and 39 species of plants.

Egypt’s tourism SA tourism under threat while Africa’s booms fastest growing in outh Africa can lose its spot as arrivals of 1.8 per cent, to 10.4 North Africa Africa’s top travel destination million last year – but visitors Sas a report shows tourists from from wealthy overseas markets he World Travel and Tourism wealthy countries are down as are down from as much as 11 Council (WTTC) has published much as 11 per cent. per cent from the Middle East aT report which revealed that Egypt’s and New Zealand, to 3.8 per cent tourism sector witnessed a huge Although overall visitor arrivals fewer from the UK, 1.7 per cent boom in 2018, making it the fastest are up, people from key overseas less from Germany, five per cent growing in North Africa. tourism markets are heading less from France, eight per cent elsewhere. StatsSA’s 2018 fewer from the Netherlands and The WTTC President & CEO Gloria tourist data shows an increase in four per cent fewer from India. Guevara hailed Egypt’s strong recovery in tourism and stressed this sector’s importance towards economic growth and job creation. Saudis seek US$20

According to the report, tourism in billion investments Egypt is responsible for providing 2.5 for Al Ula tourism million jobs, equivalent to 9.5 percent of the total number of jobs in Egypt. he Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is It added that tourism contributed targeting up to US$20 billion 11.9 percent of Egypt’s GDP last ofT investments through 2035 year, and the sector’s contribution for a planned landmark tourism to the GDP is expected to further destination and will hold a global economy away from oil and open increase in 2019. investor roadshow before the end up after decades of reclusion. of the year. The Royal Commission for Al Ula Al Ula, the site of an ancient expects targeted investments to civilisation in a remote eventually generate 35,000 jobs northwestern corner of the country, and contribute a combined US$32 is part of plans by the world’s top billion to GDP over the next 17 crude exporter to diversify its years.

April 2019 31