Aviation industry picks up

DUBAI — The aviation industry is showing signs of recovery and airport operators will continue investment plans as it is still a money-making business, the organiser of this year’s Airport Show said on Sunday.

The 10^th edition of the three-day show was inaugurated by Shaikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Dubai Airports, in the presence of high profile figures representing leading airports from the region.

“This year’s show is better than the last as it witnesses a six per cent growth in terms of exhibitors, but there was a slowdown in 2009 compared to 2008. So there is a slight indication of picking up of business and I think 2011 and beyond will be much better for the industry,” said Ara Fernezian, Group Exhibition Director of Reed Exhibitions Middle East, the organisers of the event, told Khaleej Times.

Fernezian said that infrastructure projects like airports are money-makers and government will continue to invest in these projects because there is a big return on investment. “We don’t see airport will be impacted in the future,” he said.

“We brought more airports this year at the show. This year’s event attracted 24 airports out of total 39 airports in Middle East North Africa and South East Asia. There are 42 representatives of 24 airports and they are decision makers and buyers. They can see the latest technology for possible purchase for future.”

“The number of high-profile airport officials attending the event has grown 41 per cent over last year while the number of hosted buyers has gone up by 42 per cent. This reiterates the importance of the event as unmatched strong growth platform showcasing the latest technologies and solutions of global appeal. The exhibition also reaffirms Dubai’s position as a key transport and logistics hub that drives the growth of the airport sector,” Fernezian said.

The only event in the region dedicated exclusively to airport construction, operations, technology and services attracted 223 exhibitors from 34 countries and both the number of participants and number of participating countries has increased.

The exhibition will showcase the latest technologies and advances in the airport industry from around the world, and host industry professionals who will share their expertise and insights on enhancing the operational efficiencies of airports under construction or renovation.

The international exhibitor presence has grown to 166 compared to 150 in 2009, an increase of 10 per cent. The net exhibitor space this year has also increased to 4,750 square metres from 4,438 square meters last year, registering a growth rate of 7 per cent.

France, Germany, UK, Italy, Denmark, Switzerland and China have own national pavilions at the exhibition. The show, which continues until April 27, features specialised global, regional and local companies.

abdulbasit@khaleejtimes.com