A monthly publication of Dubai Airports Cargo & Logistics Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179 Details on page 5 Dubai Airports has announced that it has partnered with rentalcars.com, the world’s largest car rental booking platform, to provide passengers with an easy and cost effective way to rent a car directly from the Dubai Airports website, www. dubaiairports.ae. Dubai Airports solar project at DWC to be linked to DEWA power grid Details on page 4 Dubai Airports has partnered with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) to erect a solar array at Al Maktoum International at DWC. Dubai Airports puts car rental at your fingertips Passenger traffic at DXB tops 5.9 million in February Details on page 21 One of the foremost contributors to the global passenger and cargo air traffic, the Middle East region is “emblematic of the heights”. Middle East-emblematic of the heights of aviation success P assenger traffic continued a steady growth at Dubai International during February with nearly 6 million passengers, according to the latest traffic report issued by operator Dubai Airports. Passenger traffic reached 5,973,727 in February, up 5.3 per cent compared to 5,675,246 recorded during the same month in 2014. Year to date passenger traffic rose 6.6 per cent to 12,869,395 passengers, up from 12,075,952 during the first two months of 2014. Continued on page 3 Continued on page 6 Dubai Airports reviews growth projection Paul Griffiths S peaking at the Future of Border International Conference in Dubai recently Paul Griffiths, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Airports said, “Our revised projections for 2020 now exceed 126 million passengers. By 2030, we expect to have around 200 million passengers traffic.” The conference was organised by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai under the patronage of HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group. In his presentation titled, Building the Future, he explained that the projection is without the availability of further infrastructure development or space to build at Dubai International. “In Dubai, we are building, not talking about realising, an unwavering vision of not just an airport but an engine of economic growth and vital to the growth of the city.” Dubai International is currently the world’s number one airport for international passengers and the sixth busiest. Al Maktoum International at DWC, which presently has five to seven million passengers capacity, saw 845,046 passengers passing through its gates in its first full year of operations in 2014, Griffiths highlighted. DWC will have a passenger capacity of 220 million on completion of its second phase. The first phase of US$32 billion dollar expansion of DWC, approved by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai last year will enable the facility to accommodate 120 million passengers on completion over the next six to eight years. Situated on a 140 sq km site to the south of Dubai, Al Maktoum International will be 10 times larger than the site of Dubai International, making it the world’s largest airport and the world’s largest intercontinental hub. The US$7.8 billion investment will to lead to ultimate capacity of 100 million passengers at the Dubai International. Last year, it recorded 70.4 million passengers, an increase of 6.1 per cent and this year expected to handle 79 million passengers. He said the design challenges are focused on four key areas including passenger experience, airline product, airport processes and facilities. “The vision for aviation remains single minded and utterly focused on building that contribution at a faster rate than any other activity in Dubai,” he said. By 2030, the aviation’s contribution to the Dubai economy will have increased to US$88 billion, more than three times the 2013 figure. He remarked, “By then more than one in three of the workforce will be in an aviation-related job. And
Transcript
A monthly publication of Dubai Airports Cargo & Logistics
Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179
Details on page 5
Dubai Airports has announced that it has partnered with rentalcars.com, the world’s largest car rental booking platform, to provide passengers with an easy and cost effective way to rent a car directly from the Dubai Airports website, www.dubaiairports.ae.
Dubai Airports solar project at DWC to be linked to DEWA power grid
Details on page 4
Dubai Airports has partnered with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) to erect a solar array at Al Maktoum International at DWC.
Dubai Airports puts car rental at your fingertips
Passenger traffic at DXB tops 5.9 million in February
Details on page 21
One of the foremost contributors to the global passenger and cargo air traffic, the Middle East region is “emblematic of the heights”.
Middle East-emblematic of the heights of aviation success
Passenger traffic continued a steady growth at Dubai International during February
with nearly 6 million passengers, according to the latest traffic report issued by operator Dubai Airports.
Passenger traffic reached 5,973,727 in February, up 5.3 per cent compared to 5,675,246 recorded during the same month in 2014. Year to date passenger traffic rose 6.6 per cent to 12,869,395 passengers, up from 12,075,952 during the first two months of 2014.
Continued on page 3
Continued on page 6
Dubai Airports reviews growth projection
Paul Griffiths
Speaking at the Future of Border International Conference in Dubai recently
Paul Griffiths, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Airports said, “Our revised projections for 2020 now exceed 126 million passengers. By 2030, we expect to have around 200 million passengers traffic.”
The conference was organised by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs in Dubai under the patronage of HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group.
In his presentation titled, Building the Future, he explained that the projection is without the
availability of further infrastructure development or space to build at Dubai International. “In Dubai, we are building, not talking about realising, an unwavering vision of not just an airport but an engine of economic growth and vital to the growth of the city.” Dubai International is currently the world’s number one airport for international passengers and the sixth busiest. Al Maktoum International at DWC, which presently has five to seven million passengers capacity, saw 845,046 passengers passing through its gates in its first full year of operations in 2014, Griffiths highlighted.
DWC will have a passenger capacity of 220 million on completion of its second phase. The first phase of US$32 billion dollar expansion of DWC, approved by HH Sheikh
Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai last year will enable the facility to accommodate 120 million passengers on completion over the next six to eight years.
Situated on a 140 sq km site to the south of Dubai, Al Maktoum International will be 10 times larger than the site of Dubai International, making it the world’s largest airport and the world’s largest intercontinental hub. The US$7.8 billion investment will to lead to ultimate capacity of 100 million passengers at the Dubai International. Last year, it recorded 70.4 million passengers, an increase of 6.1 per cent and this year expected to handle 79 million passengers.
He said the design challenges are focused on four key areas including passenger experience, airline product, airport processes and facilities.
“The vision for aviation remains single minded and utterly focused on building that contribution at a faster rate than any other activity in Dubai,” he said. By 2030, the aviation’s contribution to the Dubai economy will have increased to US$88 billion, more than three times the 2013 figure.
He remarked, “By then more than one in three of the workforce will be in an aviation-related job. And
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179
Owned by: Dubai Airports Location: Adjacent to Dubai InternationalHandling Agents: DnataTotal Handling Capacity: 2.5 million Handling capacity Air Cargo Terminal (FG1) 750,000 tonnes (Main Terminal + ECC)Main Cargo terminal: Over 400,000 tonnes per annum., Ground area 24,985 sq. mts., Handling area 8,300 sq. mts., Office space 7,800 sq. mts.Storage: The cargo building has a ground area of 4,985 sq mts handling area of 8,300 sq mts and storage capacity of 7,420 tonnesSpecial facilities: A special section is dedicated for valuables, live animals, perishables, dangerous goods and even radioactive materialWarehouse: Consisting of storage capacity for 308 ULD as well as racks for small, medium and large warehouse palletsTruck docks: 56 docks (import, export and perishable cargo) plus 7 docks solely for the sea-air traffic.
EMIRATES CARGO CENTREGround Area: 7767 sq mts.Handling Area: 5437 sq mts.Office space: 1862 sq mts.Storage area: 3100 sq mts.Web site: www.dubaicargovillage.comTerminal operations: 24 hours (seven days a week)Courier Facility: WorldwideThroughput : 350,000 tonnes per annum. Warehouse has a section for general cargo, perishables, heavy duty cargo and small parcel. It has special section for valuables, a cooler, freezer and human remains. Total racking positions at ECC are 2548 positions with the same number of cages in a very narrow isle racking. 30 locations for heavy duty cargo. 200 locations for small parcels. 2 export truck docks. 10 import truck docks. Fully semi auto-mated state-of-the-art system.
CARGO MEGA TERMINALCargo Mega Terminal is capable of handling 1.2 million tonnes of cargo for SkyCargoWarehouse Handling Area: 43,600 sq2 (with 35,000sq2 foot print) of floor area for:Cargo Build up and Break DownCargo Acceptance & DeliveryCMT Types of Cargo Handling / Storage & Processing CapabilitySpecial Cargo such as Perishable, AVI, VAL, HUM & RRY.General CargoIntact Unit Load DevicesIntact ULDs with Perishable CargoHandling & Storage SystemStorage Systems • PCHS – Pallet & Container Handling System • ASRS – Automated Storage & Retrieval SystemWorkstation System • Fixed Workstation System • Dynamic Workstation • Scales • Pallet FunnelsLandside Acceptance & Delivery • Truck Docks Total Number of Truck docks for loose Cargo : 46 • Perishable Cargo : 12 • General Cargo : 25Intact Bridge system • Truck docks : 09Some useful Information • Number of Airside ULD entry and Exit Gates : 78 • Number of work stations for Cargo Break down & Build up (approx) : 133 • General Cargo : 119 • Perishable Cargo : 14Storage Positions • Loose Cargo Storage • Large Storage Pallet (LSP) : 10,000 • General Cargo : 2482 • Perishable Cargo : 18
CMT Contain • Cold Storage • Special Cargo Handling Area • Delivery / Acceptance Docks • Partial ULD Handling And Storage system • Warehouse pallet storage and retrieval System • Build up and break down work stations • Customer Service Area Such as Counter • Documentation offices • Government authorities such as Dubai Customs, health, police etc. • SkyCargo UAE Sales & Customer Service Offices • SkyCargo Hub Operations & Global Office • Administration • Senior management offices
EXPRESS AND MAIL CENTREThe EMC houses integrators’ and Express Operators. This 6000 sq mts. Facility has on-site customs and security. It has a high speed towing equipment that can move loaded ULD expeditiously between the aircraft and the terminal.The Warehouse and offices in this facility are also designed and built to ensure quick turn around of shipments and allows close interaction between authorities-operators and current-prospective customers. Improvements in the computer system CAMSYS includes functionalities such as: access for courier companies: operation of RF terminals; processing/printing of AWBs; printing of delivery orders; a simple accounting module, etc.Express and Courier Consignments-priority handling allows acceptance up to one hour prior to departure when carried as baggage and only 2 hours when sent as cargo. Fast track unloading and clearance ensures delivery of pre advised inbound consignments with in one hour.
DuBAI FLOWER CENTREThe Dubai Flower Centre recognises and understands the critical importance of the cool chain in preserving the freshness of perishables. As a consequence DFC is committed to maintaining the cool chain throughout the handling process and has invested in the latest technology to ensure this happens.The rapid efficient handling will be aided by advanced communication, storage and operation technologies. Quality control will be assured through a number of segregated cool storage areas set at specific temperature and humidity ranges. In addition, customs and phytosanitary inspection and clearance services will be offered within the facility to speed up imports and exports.The technologically – advance facility has the capacity to handle 180,000 tonnes of perishable product a year. Services & Commodities • Consolidation/repackaging for transshipment to worldwide destination. • Pre-assembly of product lines sourced from around the world and tailored to end markets. • Fruit and vegetables pack house. • Value added service, e.g. Bouquet making
Dubai Flower Centre serves a range of industry sectors • Growers and producers • Exporters and importers • International, regional and local wholesalers • Freight forwarders • Supermarket Chains • Retailers such as florist and garden centre’s • The hospitality industries • Value added service provider
TechnologyDubai Flower Centre has put strong emphasis on developing world-class people and processes as the key to successful cool chain management. Key elements of the processes are: • Refrigerated dollies capable of carrying an entire aircraft pallet from airside to facility. • Automated handling equipments that moves pallets from airside to facility quickly and efficiently through airlocks placed at the entrance. • Segregated storage chambers with varying temperature zones to suit the optimum temperature requirement. • Hermetically sealed bays for meat, fish and ethylene producing products. • Vacuum cooling and forced air cooling facilities.SecurityThe Dubai Flower Centre has put in place greater compliance monitoring and enforcement of technology to ensure that all air cargo, personnel and access are subject to enhanced levels of security.Intertwined with the increased focus on cargo security is the need to keep commerce moving and further boost productivity and reliability- security measures that have the potential to improve efficiency and customer service and reduce losses from theft or damage. LandsideLandside security systems include access control systems such as 50 CCTV Cameras, Video Over IP (VOIP) security systems, scanners and walk through metal detectors. Dual x-ray and screening systems incorporating state-of-the-art with superior performance have been integrated for the inspection of freight pallets and cargo prior to arrival to the terminal. Cargo arriving landside is automatically routed one of the 8 landing bays each with hermitically sealed airbags to minimise temperature change from refrigerated vehicle to the chilled docking facility.Terminal Terminal access is limited to authorised personnel and monitored 24x7 t ensure the highest security. To increase efficiency, electronic supply chain manifests provide secure freight movement into an out the terminal.By capitalising on Internet technologies, it is possible to effectively link distribution chain members together to transfer confidential air cargo information and data in a secure and tamper-resistant environment.AirsideUnique to Dubai and to the Dubai Flower Centre are the two mammoth fully automated 6 MeV linac generator x-ray systems.In less than 30 seconds, densely loaded 20-foot container of up to 11 tons can be scanned to form a three dimensional map of the material inside the container.These systems are powerful enough to penetrate 14 inches of steel and immediately yield clear high-resolution images for excellent object discrimination.
FacilitiesTerminalThere are 600 ULD storage units, which rise more than 25 meters at the DFC Terminal, out of which 10 are hermetically sealed. Specialized material handling equipments like the 17 ton elevated transfer vehicle (ETV) facilitates rapid storage and retrieval of ULDs from the bays: up to 40 units per hour, while the tandem transfer vehicle (TTV) relocates units on the ground for storage or break-and-build rapidly and efficiently.Three 8 ton elevators transfer pallets and units to the upper levels for further break and build or storage in one of the 20 temperature controlled chambers.The DFC automated material handling facility optimises and links the physical flow of materials and the flow of information in an integrated system of prompt and precise cargo handling. Prompt order processing and a fault-tolerant user interface ensure high delivery quality and transparency in warehouse processes for perishable goods. Configurable strategies increase the efficiency of placing goods in storage, retrieving them and re-locating them.
Youssef Beydoun, Head of Control Authorities - Cargo E: [email protected]
N.S COMPANY NAME OFF NO. TELEPHONE
1 Air France Cargo & KLM Cargo 3057 E 04 - 28220732 Air China 7446 B 04 - 28244833 Air India 3020 04 - 28220684 Aeroflot Cargo 3033 A 04 - 28226635 British Airways World Cargo 3044 04 - 60902006 Cargolux Airline 3035 04 - 28220717 Cargolux Airline 3023 04 - 28220718 Cathay Pacific Cargo 3034 04 - 28220139 Ethiopian Airline 3028 B 04 - 282288010 Egypt Air 3026 04 - 283227311 Eva Air 3021 BB 04 - 282685912 Gulf Air 3021 04 - 282210313 Iran Air 3021 B 04 - 282210214 Kuwait Airways 3037 04 - 2822069
N.S COMPANY NAME OFF NO. TELEPHONE
15 Kenya Airways Cargo 3049 04 - 286566716 Leisure Cargo 3069 04 - 286966617 Linehaul Express 3047 04 - 283288018 Middle East Airline 3019 04 - 282284419 Pakistan International Airline 3046 04 - 282215120 Qatar Airways 3036 04 - 282730021 Royal Jordanian Cargo 3051 04 - 282222022 Srilankan Cargo 3036 A 04 - 282190923 Singapore Airlines Cargo 3051 A 04 - 282212324 Saudi Arabian Airlines 3025 A 04 - 282211025 Thai Cargo 3056 04 - 283239126 Virgin Atlantic Cargo Dubai 3020 A 04 - 283266327 Yemenia Airways 3045 04 - 2832887
A.C.T (Airlines)
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179airports & FaCiLitiEs
Dubai International is Airport of the Year at ATN Awards 2015
Dubai International, the world’s number one airport for international passenger traffic,
has been named Airport of the Year at the Air Transport News Awards 2015, held in Geneva, Switzerland, recently.
Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports, who received the award at the ceremony said, “Winning the Air Transport News Airport of the Year award is particularly meaningful as it was decided by the passengers that use our airport as well a panel of experts from within the industry. It is a clear indication that our continued investment in creating an efficient
and memorable passenger experience at Dubai International is delivering a service that ensures we remain the global hub of choice for travellers globally.”
Dubai International won the Award based on votes from the readers of Air Transport News as well as the deliberations of a jury comprising nine executives and experts from different sectors of the aviation industry.
Organised by Air Transport News, the awards are the only international prizes that award all the main categories of the air transport industry.
those jobs will be oriented around facilitating passenger journeys, using the latest technology and customer-enabling processes,” he told the audience. which included senior management of airports, airlines, border control authorities and technology companies from various parts of the world.” Giving details of Dubai airport operations, Griffiths said as many as 192,000 people come through the airport every day on 980 flights. Concourse A was delivered in 2013 and boosted the airport’s capacity to 75 million, but the passenger traffic is again approaching the capacity limit.
He added, “Again we are delivering more infrastructures. The final piece of hitherto undeveloped infrastructure space within the airport is nearing completion. This year, we will open Concourse D, home to the airport’s overseas airline partners. The facility with 17 additional gates will be able to handle 15 million passengers and will be linked to Terminal 1 via Automated People Mover (APM).
He stated, “Of course we need to keep pushing the upper limits of Dubai International capacity. Parallel developments of additional remote stands and airspace efficiency will help push out as far as possible the point at which it becomes ex-growth Our US$7.8 billion investment will lead to an ultimate capacity of 100 million. That takes into account the increased passenger/flight ratio driven by Emirates’ expanding fleet of A380s.”
Griffiths observed, “There is a clear and determined vision, unchanged for over 50 years, to create an aviation enterprise with the world’s greatest airports, hosting the world’s greatest airlines, in the world’s greatest city.”
Dubai Airports reviews growth projection
Continued from page 1
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179 airports & FaCiLitiEs
Emirates’ operations in Europe: A €6.8 billion impact on GDP
Emirates, a global connector of people, places and economies, and Frontier Economics, a leading
European consultancy, released today the results of a socio-economic impact study that measures Emirates’ contribution to the European economy.
Frontier estimates that Emirates’ operations, including the catalytic impact of the 220 unique connections it offers, supported 85,100 jobs across the EU in 2013/14, equivalent to €6.8 billion GDP of the total EU GDP. In addition, Emirates’ Airbus A380 deliveries for the same period supported 41,000 jobs, equivalent to €3.4 billion GDP.
“Emirates is fully committed to the European market. The relationship goes back to 1987 when we first started flying from Dubai to London Gatwick. Since then, we have witnessed growth based on demand and now operate over 350 passenger flights a week from Europe, providing global connectivity via our hub in Dubai,” commented Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline. “Emirates’ economic impact is significant; based on Frontier’s report, we supported over one hundred thousand jobs across Europe through our operations and our aircraft purchases from Airbus. By stimulating demand for travel and cargo, especially in markets underserved by other airlines, Emirates contributes to the economies of the communities we serve.”
The study conducted by Frontier demonstrates that Emirates’ presence in 28 European cities significantly contributes to regional development, especially in non-hub markets that have traditionally been overlooked by other carriers.
“Some of Emirates’ competitors have in the past accused the airline of having a negative impact on Europe, but the Frontier analysis paints a different picture. Our research shows that the direct, indirect and induced impact of Emirates’ operations and the development of connectivity to secondary cities in particular, makes a substantial contribution to EU GDP”, stated Dan Elliott, founder and Director of Frontier Economics. “The economic value this connectivity brings to the EU is at times underappreciated, and something that merits attention.”
The value of connectivityTraditionally, international travel from Europe involved flying from or often backtracking to one of the big European hubs. This contributed to a connectivity gap for other major European cities, restricting their ability to develop trade and Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) opportunities. Since launching services to Europe in 1987, Emirates has helped bridge this gap, by gradually and on the basis of demand, increasing services
to major and secondary cities across Europe.
The Frontier analysis, which covered 28 cities served by Emirates in 16 EU Member States, identified a total of 220 routes from Europe that are unique to Emirates. Twenty one of these are non-stop connections from European cities to Dubai, and the remaining 199 routes
are unique one-stop connections, via Dubai. Using any other airline or alliance on these unique routes would require at least one more additional stop.
“The connectivity Emirates provides through these 220 unique routes positively impacts FDI and trade and supports the development of regional centres. It also increases tourism,
provides choice for the consumer and supports air cargo shipments to and from regional centres”, commented Dan Elliott. “We estimate that an additional 3,000 jobs are facilitated through the catalytic impact of the 220 unique connections, equivalent to €215m of GDP, taking Emirates’ total contribution to €6.8 billion.”
Considering the breadth of Emirates’ network and how air travel demand is expected to double in the next 5-10 years, Emirates is well positioned to bring a growing number of tourists and business travellers to Europe, further enabling trade and investment.
A380 deliveriesWith a total of 140 aircraft ordered, Emirates is the largest purchaser of Airbus’ A380, accounting for more than 40 per cent of the total A380 order book. In 2013 Airbus delivered 13 A380s to Emirates which represented 50 per cent of the total A380 deliveries that year. Whilst Emirates has been operating A380s for 6 years, after placing the original order more than 13 years ago, the employment generation in Frontier’s analysis is only calculated for 2013. These numbers can be projected for the duration of the delivery schedule.
Dubai Airports has partnered with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) to erect a
solar array at Al Maktoum International at DWC, which helps limit the airport’s carbon footprint and allows the power generated to be fed directly into the power grid. This is the first solar project to be linked directly to the DEWA grid and is expected to be followed by several other similar projects across Dubai.
By tapping the sun’s energy, the 100-panel solar array aims to limit the power used by DWC’s employee gate facility. The array, which is located
on the roof of the building, has a capacity of 30KW and generates about 48.8MWh of electricity per year, equal to about two-thirds of the power used by the building.
Feeding power into the DEWA power grid allows both Dubai Airports and DEWA to further reduce their reliance on power generated using fossil fuel.
“The solar array is just one of several projects across our airports aimed at adopting ways to limit our environmental impact while safeguarding the significant economic and social contributions the aviation sector provides Dubai. Initiatives
such as these take us a step closer to achieving that ambition,” said Majed Al Joker, SVP of Operations DWC at Dubai Airports.
The project also forms part of a broader environmental drive outlined in the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030, aimed at reducing the emirate’s reliance on fossil fuels.
Waleed Salman, EVP of Strategy and Business Development at DEWA said, “In line with the Green Economy for Sustainable Development and Smart Dubai initiatives launched by Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Council Resolution number 46 of 2014, issued by HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, enabling the installation of photovoltaic panels to produce solar power in buildings and their connection to the DEWA grid, DEWA has partnered with Dubai Airports to erect a solar panel array at Al Maktoum International at DWC with any surplus power to be exported directly into our power grid,” he added.
Dubai Airports solar project at DWC to be linked to DEWA power grid
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179airports & FaCiLitiEs
Dubai Airports puts car rental at your fingertips with rentalcars.com partnership
service, the first of its kind in airports across the region,” said Eugene Barry, EVP Commercial at Dubai Airports.
Over the past year Dubai Airports has continued to expand its digital portfolio, launching a new website and associated mobile app – which allow passengers to
personalise the information they receive – as well as a live chat service where passenger queries are answered in real-time. “With Dubai Airports increasingly engaging their passengers online, this partnership creates an opportunity to deliver an enhanced service by serving a
common customer from one platform. We are eager to begin this long-term, strategic partnership and to connect these passengers to high quality car rental services as part of a seamless customer journey,” said Peter Rooney, Marketing Director at rentalcars.com.
Dubai Airports has announced that it has partnered with rentalcars.com, the world’s largest car rental
booking platform, to provide passengers with an easy and cost effective way to rent a car directly from the Dubai Airports website, www.dubaiairports.ae.
The new multi-lingual service – available in English and Arabic – allows customers to browse and select rental options in over 160 countries and 28,000 locations. The page will also provide a list of car rental companies available at Dubai International and Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central (DWC) and are conveniently linked to a map of the two airports. The service enables customers to book and pay online and collect their vehicles at their destination.
“This digital platform is aligned with our objective to engage with travellers directly, connecting them to commercial services on the ground at our airports. We look forward to working with rentalcars.com in providing this new
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179
Emirates to commence daily service to Bali
Air Arabia adds Nepal to Ras Al Khaimah destination list
uaE airLiNEs & NEW routEs
Emirates has announced that it will launch a new daily service to the island of Bali in
Indonesia, from 3rd June 2015.
One of the most popular islands in Indonesia with spectacular mountains and picturesque beaches, Bali is a leading tourist destination which welcomed more than 3.7 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2014. Emirates’ new service will add to Bali’s global connectivity, further stimulating the island’s economic and tourism growth.
Bali will be Emirates’ 148th global destination, adding to the airline’s route network in the Asia Pacific
region which currently spans 23 destinations in 13 countries. The non-stop service between Dubai and Bali will be operated by a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft in a two-class configuration.
“Bali is a significantly important market for Emirates. There is high interest in Bali from across our network, specifically in the leisure segment. We are pleased to be able to offer the Emirates product on a daily basis, connecting passengers in Bali to Dubai and to more than 80 destinations in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Americas, via one convenient stop in Dubai.” said
Thierry Antinori, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Emirates airline.
“The new service will greatly increase convenience, choice, and consistency of travel experience for consumers who currently have to travel via multiple stops, or via other points in Indonesia to reach Bali.”
Emirates commenced services to Indonesia in 1992 with three flights per week via Singapore and Colombo, and since March 2013, the airline has been operating three non-stop flights daily from Jakarta to Dubai with a Boeing 777 aircraft.
flydubai is set to increase the number of flights to East and North Africa. The extra flights flydubai will be operating a total of 78 flights a week to 12
points in East and North Africa, according.
Its service to Africa will be increased from five flights a week to daily to Juba, South Sudan and three flights a week instead of two to Bujumbura, Burundi. Zanzibar will be supplied with four flights a week in place of two. flydubai will also increase its air travel to Alexandria, Egypt from two to three a day from June this year.
“We are delighted to offer more flights to Africa. We were the first UAE carrier to serve Bujumbura, Juba and Zanzibar,” media quoted Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO of flydubai, as having said. “We have seen strong demand for travel across our network in Africa, and we look forward to welcoming more passengers on board our flights.” In keeping with the increasing trade and tourism links between the UAE and East and North Africa, flydubai started six flights to the region last year, doubling its network.
Flydubai plans to expand African connection
Air Arabia has announced Kathmandu as the latest destination to be served from the recently launched Ras Al Khaimah hub. The
low-cost carrier flies twice weekly to Kathmandu, the 10th destination which travellers can now access from the Northern Emirates.
Adel Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia said, “In just 9 months, we have reached the milestone of ten exciting destinations to which our customers can fly using Ras Al Khaimah Airport. Customers can now enjoy great connectivity to Nepal from both, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah International Airports. We look forward to adding more routes in the future from our second hub in the UAE as the emirate’s travel and tourism sector continue to enjoy significant growth.”
Air Arabia will operate its Kathmandu service on Wednesdays and Sundays, departing Ras Al Khaimah at 14.10 and arriving at Tribhuvan International Airport at 19.40. Flights will depart Kathmandu at 20.20 and land in Ras Al Khaimah at 23.35. Air Arabia currently serves Kathmandu with triple daily flights from its main hub at Sharjah International Airport.
In terms of passenger numbers routes to the Indian subcontinent recorded the highest growth (+133,355 passengers) during the period, followed by Western Europe (+103,379), and Asia (+54,332 passengers). Eastern Europe was the fastest-expanding market in terms of percentage growth (+71.7 per cent) mainly driven by flydubai’s network in the region, followed by North America (+12.9 per cent), Asia (+10.9 per cent) and the Indian subcontinent (+10.6 per cent).
The contraction in passenger traffic on Russian and the CIS routes continued (-35.6 per cent) owing to the ongoing political
and economic instability in the region. Minor contractions were also recorded on routes to Asia Pacific (-6.2 per cent) as well as the Middle East (-2.1 per cent).
India remained the top destination country (802,129 passengers) with financial capital Mumbai as the busiest destination, followed by Saudi Arabia (454,000 passengers) and the UK (431,705 passengers). Doha was placed number one on the list of top destination cities followed closely by London, Mumbai and Jeddah.
Dubai International recorded total aircraft movements of 31,012, up 6.1 per cent compared to 29,220
Passenger traffic at DXB tops 5.9 million Continued from page 1
recorded during the same month in 2014. Year to date aircraft movements came in at 65,655, rising 6.2 per cent from the 61,845 movements recorded during first two months in 2014.
Freight volumes recorded a minor increase of 1.2 per cent to 191,002 compared to 188,702 tonnes recorded in February 2014. Year to date cargo totalled 377,232, a contraction of 2.2 per cent compared to 385,723 during the first two months in 2014.
“We are very pleased with the steady growth in passenger numbers in the first two months this year. As this trend continues in the coming period, the recently completed expansion of Terminal 2, and the opening of Concourse D along with the refurbished elements of Terminal in the second half of 2015 will play a crucial role in accommodating that growth and enhancing customer experience across all three terminals,” said Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports.
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179uaE airLiNEs & NEW routEs
Air Arabia rewards passengers with region’s first low-cost carrier loyalty program
Air Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa’s first and largest low cost carrier, today launched
‘Airewards’, the first ever Low Cost Carrier rewards program in the MENA region, which makes earning and redeeming points effortless.
Airewards is designed to offer the same simple, transparent and value-packed experience that customers associate with Air Arabia. Points are based on money spent rather than distance flown, and can be earned on any product or service purchased from the airline. This online loyalty program also offers unparalleled flexibility when redeeming points, with the availably of a variety of payment and reward options, without any blackout dates or limitations on availability.
“Air Arabia is proud to unveil Airewards, the region’s first ever low cost carrier loyalty program and a major step forward in how we engage with our customers” said Adel Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia. “Air Arabia has always used innovative products and cutting edge
technology to provide customers with a hassle-free travel experience. The launch of Airewards falls in line with the airline’s commitment to put value for money proposition at the heart of its business model. This program not only sets the standard for the low-cost aviation industry, it also allows us to say a big thank you to the millions of loyal passengers who chose to frequently fly with our airline.”
Joining Airewards is free and open for everyone. Members can earn and redeem their points while travelling with Air Arabia via its hubs in the UAE and Morocco. Members will also be the first to learn about promotions and new routes, schedules and launches.
Program features have been specifically designed with Air Arabia’s customers in mind and points can be earned and shared with anyone. For passengers who fly frequently for business and then occasionally with their whole family, Airewards offers a dedicated “Family Account” for up to eight relatives to enable faster earning and quicker redemption.
Emirates SkyCargo scores double honours at Air Cargo Africa 2015
Air Cargo Africa, which was recently held in Johannesburg, South Africa, is an international biennial air cargo trade show and awards event organised by STAT Times and serves as an industry platform to showcase one of the economy’s key sectors. The awards event is aimed at fostering excellence in the air cargo industry, with award winners decided on the basis of results of online participation by worldwide readers of STAT Times.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition voted for by our customers and partners. We believe these accolades are an important endorsement of the hard work by our various teams around our global network and hub in Dubai,” said Pradeep Kumar, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Revenue Optimisation and Systems, Cargo, who received the awards on the air cargo carrier’s behalf.
“At Emirates SkyCargo we continually focus on providing our customers with the best solutions for their specific needs, whether it is the movement of general cargo to more specialised goods such as pharmaceuticals. Innovation and customer service is something we invest
heavily in to ensure we remain a leader in the industry. We are also very happy to be at this event being held in Africa, which is a key region for us as we grow our operations and create more trade links between Africa and destinations across our extensive global network,” he added.
Emirates SkyCargo has become a valued partner for many local businesses across the continent, carrying goods to and from 27 African points to Emirates’ network of more than 145 destinations across six continents. Five of the 27 destinations, Djibouti, Eldoret, Kano, Lilongwe and the recently added Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso, are scheduled freighter services, while nine destinations are both passenger and cargo, and include for example, Johannesburg, Lagos, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Accra and Entebbe.
Emirates SkyCargo operates a fleet of 14 freighters, 12 Boeing 777 Fs and two Boeing 747-400 ERFs, which operate to over 50 scheduled freighter routes from its new cargo terminal, Emirates SkyCentral at DWC’s Al Maktoum International.
It was double honours for Emirates SkyCargo, the freight division of Emirates, at the Air Cargo Africa
Awards when it scooped both the “Global Cargo Airline of The Year” and “Air Cargo Brand of the Year” awards.
It was the third time Emirates SkyCargo won the “Global Cargo Airline of the
Year Award” at the event, having
previously picked up the accolade in
2011 and 2013.
8
Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179
Emirates restarts flights to Baghdad
Emirates restarted passenger flights to Baghdad from 1 March 2015. The airline suspended operations
to the capital on 26 January. Emirates will again operate with six weekly flights to Baghdad, served by an A330-200 aircraft in a 3-class configuration.
Majid Al Mualla, Divisional Senior Vice President Commercial Operations, Centre for Emirates said, “The return of services between Dubai and Baghdad follows a comprehensive safety and security review in conjunction with the GCAA. Our flights to Baghdad have provided essential economic links for the capital and it is good news for our customers that we can now restart operations.”
Baghdad has been part of Emirates’ route network since 2011. The airline also operates services to Erbil and Basra.
uaE airLiNEs & NEW routEs
Etihad Airways to enhance service offering with Boeing 787 flights to Washington
Etihad Airways deployed a state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft on its daily Washington, D.C. service from 15 March,
marking the US debut of its next generation First, Business and Economy class products.
The airline’s acclaimed interiors for the Boeing 787-9 include eight First Suites, 28 Business Studios and 199 Economy Smart Seats, offering superior levels of comfort, entertainment and in-flight connectivity. Onboard décor and lighting have been inspired by contemporary Arabian design, complementing Etihad Airways’ new ‘Facets of Abu Dhabi’ livery design.
James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways said, “As the most technologically advanced aircraft in its class, the Boeing 787 will reduce the operating costs and carbon emissions on our Washington, D.C. route and provide maximum efficiency and reliability. Importantly, we have customised the aircraft with the world’s most innovative and sophisticated First, Business and Economy class cabins, providing our guests with superior levels of comfort and attention to detail not previously enjoyed by the modern air traveller.”
Etihad Airways commenced its daily non-stop flights between Abu Dhabi and Washington, D.C. in March 2013, creating the first direct air link between the two capitals. The service has attracted strong demand from government and business travellers, and has also supported the continued growth of leisure travel between and beyond the two cities.
Guests travelling to Washington, D.C. experience the unique benefit of arriving having pre-cleared US Customs and Border Protection at Abu Dhabi Airport. The process allows passengers to pass through all required checks including US customs, immigration
and security before they board their flight to the US, enabling them to avoid queues on arrival.
Another key benefit of US preclearance is that baggage security screening meets United States TSA security standards, allowing air travellers who connect onto a domestic flight in the US to have their baggage checked through from Abu Dhabi to their final destination.
Washington, D.C. is one of six destinations served by Etihad Airways in the United States, alongside San Francisco, Los Angeles, Dallas Fort Worth, Chicago and New York.
Mr Hogan said, “Etihad Airways operates 45 flights a week to and from the US and connects the country with our extensive global network, including 34 destinations in the Middle East and Indian Subcontinent. We continue to experience
strong demand for travel between the US and India, where we serve 11 cities in our own right and 15 in combination with our partner Jet Airways, providing unparalleled reach into the country. In addition, our guests benefit from some of the fastest journey times in the industry from Washington D.C. to popular destinations such as Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad and Chennai.”
Etihad Airways’ order for two variants of the B787 (-9 and -10), is one of the largest for the type, totalling 71 aircraft. The lightweight composite materials used in the aircraft mean that the B787 uses up to 30 per cent less fuel than other aircraft in its category and therefore produces a comparable reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. New technologies are also used to ensure its noise footprint is more than 60 per cent smaller than other aircraft of its size.
German Emirati Joint Council for Industry and Commerce (AHK)[email protected] • Tel. +971 4 447 0100
Welcome to the world’s leading business event for air cargo and logistics!
exhibition with more than 2,000 exhibitors from 63 countries
including conferences free of charge
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LOGISTICS MAKES IT HAPPEN
ACE15-Besucher-185x240-E-AV.indd 1 15.12.14 09:58
Lufthansa Cargo has taken delivery of its fifth and final Boeing 777F freighter aircraft.
D-ALFE landed in Frankfurt for the first time in February on its delivery flight from Everett near Seattle.
As part of its strategic programme “Lufthansa Cargo 2020”, the freight airline has ordered a total of five new Triple Seven aircraft. In November 2013 the first machine entered regular service. In addition, Lufthansa Cargo has options for five further Boeing 777Fs with delivery to be split over the years until September 2020. “In our
opinion, the Boeing Triple Seven is the best aircraft for our fleet structure. Its performance already far exceeded our expectations last year”, said Peter Gerber, chairman of the executive board and CEO of Lufthansa Cargo.
Currently the freighters are being used mainly for scheduled operations between Europe and North America, and a daily flight to Shanghai is also on the agenda. With the new addition, there will also be B777F flights serving Hong Kong as of March.
Finnair Cargo has become the latest carrier to join IAG Cargo’s innovative Partner Plus programme, through
which members agree to interline on each other’s metal on a commercially booked basis. Through this partnership both IAG Cargo and Finnair are able to deliver enhanced network connectivity to their customers, who will also benefit through confirmed bookings and a higher on-load priority.
Steve Gunning, CEO of IAG Cargo, commented, “Our Partner Plus programme is much more than a standard interline programme where capacity is usually only held for partners on a standby basis. Rather this is hugely cost effective means of growing our network reach through commercially active agreements where we aim to treat our partners’ cargo as we would a customers’.
“The benefit for customers is clear and with the addition of Finnair we are now able to deliver enhanced connectivity to key destinations through a partner that matches our values of customer service excellence and operational reliability.”
The addition of Finnair to the programme will provide IAG Cargo with additional capacity across the globe, including to strategic destinations in the Asia Pacific region. Finnair’s customers meanwhile will benefit from IAG Cargo’s network strength into the Americas and Africa.
Juha Järvinen, Managing Director of Finnair Cargo, commented, “This closer cooperation with IAG Cargo will provide our customers better access to many markets beyond our own network. This is an innovative way to grow reach and one that we believe will prove mutually beneficial to IAG Cargo and ourselves.” In total, six carriers now form the Partner Plus programme including Qatar Airways, Japan Airlines, the Avianca group and American Airlines.
IAG Cargo grows network through strategic partnership with Finnair Cargo
iNt’L airLiNEs & airports
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179
Qatar Airways’ B787 Dreamliner debuts in Tunisia
Oman Air inks deal for sea-air freight services to India
iNt’L airLiNEs & airports
Qatar Airways has extended its Boeing 787 Dreamliner route network to Tunisia with the
launch of services to capital city Tunis effect from February 17. The increase in demand in the region and the airline’s steadfast commitment to the Tunisian market has resulted in the introduction of the state-of-the-art Dreamliner on the daily flights between Doha and Tunis bringing an additional capacity of more than 92 per cent compared to
the A320 which was being operated on the route. Qatar Airways’ daily seat capacity to Tunisia has grown from 132 seats on the A320 to 254 seats on the 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
Qatar Airways is the first airline to commence with a scheduled 787 Dreamliner service to Tunisia. “We are proud to introduce the 787 Dreamliner to Tunisia, which will not only offer an increase in capacity to the route but will
also redefine the in-flight experience of our passengers travelling to Doha and beyond,” said Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker.
“Our 787s provide a superior experience with specially designed interiors, spacious cabins and custom-made seats in both Business and Economy Class. We are confident that our passengers flying to and from
Oman Air has signed a Letter of Intent with Cargolux Airlines International SA to enable the
freight specialist to use Oman Air’s facilities in Muscat, Salalah and Sohar that includes the launch of Cargolux’s full freighter services from Luxembourg to India via Oman. The formal signing of the agreement will take place when the first Cargolux flight arrives in Muscat on April 16.
The agreement signifies Oman Air’s latest step in expanding its cargo operations. It follows earlier initiatives
Tunis will luxuriate in the enhanced travel experience onboard the Qatar Airways Dreamliner.”
Qatar Airways has 254 custom-made seats across its 787 Business and Economy Class cabins with specially designed interiors. Business Class is configured in a 1–2–1 layout with 22 seats, while Economy has a 232 seating capacity in a 3–3–3 layout. All seats in Business Class are reclinable with fully-flat beds.
The airline’s 787s are the world’s first fully connected Dreamliners with wireless facilities for passengers to remain in touch with friends and colleagues on the ground through the internet and SMS mobile texting service available across both Business and Economy cabins. The 787 Dreamliners complement the ultra-luxurious customer service and experience Qatar Airways promises to its passengers.
Daily flights from Tunisia connect via Doha to popular business and leisure cities in Qatar Airways’ global network including Doha, Dubai, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and more, with rapid transits being facilitated via Doha’s Hamad International Airport, the world’s newest aviation hub and a state-of-the-art facility that sets new airport benchmarks and redefines the passenger and transit experience.
to numerous destinations across the Indian sub-continent and East Africa. Cargolux is a leader in carrying air freight and offers huge capacity. This agreement therefore represents an important strategic partnership that will give an important boost to the Sultanate of Oman’s standing as a major hub for the movement of freight between Europe, Asia and Africa.
“In addition, Oman’s natural harbours, positioned at the entrance to the Indian Ocean and Arabian Gulf, and its proximity to the sub-continent provide a major advantage over its competitors in the region. Furthermore, under the guidance of His Majesty Sultan Qaboos, Oman has invested in the development of state-of-the-art logistics facilities - including ports, freight terminals and airports -- not just in Muscat, but also in Salalah, Duqm and Sohar.
“Oman therefore has an excellent logistics chain for Cargolux to leverage and Oman Air is pleased and proud to be working with them to further expand the country’s cargo sector. We offer a warm Omani welcome to Cargolux and we look forward to working with them on this exciting enterprise.”
by the national carrier of the Sultanate of Oman, which includes the launch of pan-GCC and pan-European trucking services, and a joint cargo service with DHL between Oman and Dubai.
Cargolux intends to increase the number of services it operates to Oman during 2015 to several flights per week, with onward connections to multiple Indian cities, including Chennai, Bombay and Hyderabad. Additional services to cities in India are being considered and connections to China, Europe, Africa and the United States are also planned.
In addition, Oman Air will provide Cargolux with access to the freight capacity of its passenger fleet, which flies to 11 destinations in India and three in Pakistan, as well as to destinations in Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. This will give the Luxembourg-based carrier the opportunity to feed consolidated freight to Oman from a number of larger markets.
Announcing the agreement with Cargolux, the Chief Executive Officer of Oman Air, Paul Gregorowitsch said, “Oman Air has extensive and long-term experience of operating flights
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179iNt’L airLiNEs & airports
Astral Aviation wins the award for African all cargo carrier
Astral Aviation is pleased to announce that it has been declared the Winner of the
African All Cargo Carrier of the Year at the Stat Times International Award for Excellence in Air Cargo which took place in February at the eve of the Air Cargo Africa 2015 biennial event, in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Receiving the award on behalf of Astral Aviation, Mr Sanjeev Gadhia who is the CEO, expressed his gratitude to its clients who voted for Astral Aviation, which enabled it to win the prestigious award three times in a row, having won the previous award for African All Cargo Airline in 2013 and 2011.
According to Mr Charles Simiyu who is the Commercial Director of Astral Aviation, “The award recognizes the efforts being made by Astral Aviation in the air cargo sector to develop a solid network which it operates with a fleet of dedicated cargo aircrafts. Our clients and the industry have a high regard for Astral’s commitment in providing competitive and reliable air freight solutions in Africa”
The timing of the 2015 award coincides with the 15th anniversary of Astral Aviation having established its base at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in the year 2000, and has been operating continuously for the air-cargo fraternity within its intra African network and into Europe.
Astral Aviation operates a dedicated fleet of seven cargo aircrafts comprising of Cessna Caravan, Fokker 27, DC9 and B727 Freighters within its intra-African network, in addition to its Boeing 747-400 Freighter which operates non-stop from Nairobi – London and Liege, Belgium twice a week with perishables
(cut-flowers and vegetables) from Kenya.
Its intra-African network comprises of a combination of schedule flights from Nairobi to Juba, Mogadishu, Pemba, Dar-es-salaam, Mwanza, Entebbe and Kigali. In addition, Astral also operates an extensive charter network to over 50 destinations in African from its Nairobi hub.
In April 2015, Astral will acquire the first of two B737-400 Freighters which have a capacity of 20 tons and will operate on new routes such as Kinshasa, Brazzaville, Lusaka and Lubumbashi.
Coyne Airways appoints KIWI Logistics as new GSA in Singapore
They inspected all safety measures taken by SAUDIA for its daily operations, including ground facilities such as air and ground operations, aircraft maintenance hangars, Prince Sultan Aviation Academy and aviation services as well as other airline facilities that required safety auditing.
The team also met with Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Director General of SAUDIA, senior executives of the organization and heads of companies and strategic units in charge of the airline’s operations.
Captain Mohammed Motab, VP Safety and Quality, said the team from the French company Quali-Audit was assigned by IATA to complete the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) to renew operational safety certificates.
Airlines have to comply with a series of international safety standards and conditions to get IOSA certification and this is one of the conditions for an airline to maintain its IATA membership. In some countries IOSA certification is required for an airline to get license for regular operation.
iNt’L airLiNEs & airports
An expert team from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has completed inspection of the facilities of SAUDIA on
the ground as well as on its flights for the purpose of safety auditing. The team included experts of operation safety, aircraft piloting, maintenance and evaluation of work environment.
Cargolux recently took delivery of its 12th Boeing 747-8 freighter out of an order of 14. The Cargolux fleet now numbers 23 aircraft,
12 747-8F and 11 747-400F. The new aircraft, LX-VCL, arrived in Luxembourg with a full load of freight from Seattle to a welcoming ceremony with invited guests, Cargolux staff and media representatives.
Cargolux named its latest freighter ‘Joe Sutter – Father of the 747’ in honour of the man who designed the 747 in the 1960s. The naming came as a surprise to Mr Sutter, who only found out during the unveiling of the aircraft during the departure ceremony at Boeing’s Paine Field.
Joe Sutter, born in 1921, joined the Boeing Company in 1940, working at Boeing Plant 2 while studying aeronautical engineering at the University of Washington. He later became manager of the design team for the Boeing 747 under Malcolm T Stamper, the head of the 747 project and is widely regarded as the brain behind the design of the iconic ‘Jumbo Jet’.
Joe Sutter is a recipient of The International Air Cargo Association’s 2002 Hall of Fame Award and, after retiring from Boeing, is now an engineering sales consultant. Mr Sutter celebrated his 90th birthday in 2011 and maintains an active interest in the aeronautics industry.
LX-VCL is the 30th 747 freighter that Cargolux bought new from Boeing since it acquired its first factory-fresh 747-200F in 1979. The airline pioneered the 747-400F in 1993 and the 747-8F in 2011. Apart from its new 747 freighters, Cargolux has utilized a range of pre-owned or leased-in 747 aircraft, including passenger and full freighter variants. Until today, the airline has operated a total of 51 Boeing 747 aircraft.
“We have built our business around the iconic 747 and therefore we wanted to celebrate our 30th direct delivery from Boeing by honouring the man behind this magnificent machine - Joe Sutter,” said Dirk Reich, President and CEO of Cargolux Airlines.
The cargo on LX-VCL’s delivery flight included 92 pieces of RFP piping for a chlorine plant in Saudi Arabia, manufactured by the Fibrex Corporation. It utilized the entire main deck of the aircraft. Shipping arrangements were handled by Panalpina.
Cargolux recently took delivery of its 12th Boeing 747-8 freighter out of an order of 14. The Cargolux fleet now numbers 23 aircraft, 12
747-8F and 11 747-400F. The new aircraft, LX-VCL, arrived in Luxembourg with a full load of freight from Seattle to a welcoming ceremony with invited guests, Cargolux staff and media representatives.
Cargolux named its latest freighter ‘Joe Sutter – Father of the 747’ in honour of the man who designed the 747 in the 1960s. The naming came as a surprise to Mr Sutter, who only found out during the unveiling of the aircraft during the departure ceremony at Boeing’s Paine Field.
Joe Sutter, born in 1921, joined the Boeing Company in 1940, working at Boeing Plant 2 while studying aeronautical engineering at the University of Washington. He later became manager of the design team for the Boeing 747 under Malcolm T Stamper, the head of the 747 project and is widely regarded as the brain behind the design of the iconic ‘Jumbo Jet’.
Joe Sutter is a recipient of The International Air Cargo Association’s 2002 Hall of Fame Award and, after
retiring from Boeing, is now an engineering sales consultant. Mr Sutter celebrated his 90th birthday in 2011 and maintains an active interest in the aeronautics industry.
LX-VCL is the 30th 747 freighter that Cargolux bought new from Boeing since it acquired its first factory-fresh 747-200F in 1979. The airline pioneered the 747-400F in 1993 and the 747-8F in 2011. Apart from its new 747 freighters, Cargolux has utilized a range of pre-owned or leased-in 747 aircraft, including passenger and full freighter variants. Until today, the airline has operated a total of 51 Boeing 747 aircraft.
“We have built our business around the iconic 747 and therefore we wanted to celebrate our 30th direct delivery from Boeing by honouring the man behind this magnificent machine - Joe Sutter,” said Dirk Reich, President and CEO of Cargolux Airlines.
The cargo on LX-VCL’s delivery flight included 92 pieces of RFP piping for a chlorine plant in Saudi Arabia, manufactured by the Fibrex Corporation. It utilized the entire main deck of the aircraft. Shipping arrangements were handled by Panalpina.
Halifax Stanfield grows with Korean Air Cargo flights
BFS and WIN partner to promote e-AWB in Thailand
In an effort to increase transmission of electronic AWB data in Thailand, Bangkok Flight Services, the largest
handler at the country’s main cargo airport BKK and WIN, an e-platform for independent forwarders, have joined forces to overcome barriers.
Some of the main challenges to e-AWB adoption in Thailand arise from the current state of air export processes. Agents deliver cargo to the handler’s warehouse to obtain a paper ‘weight slip’ showing actual ‘pcs’, ‘wgt’ and ‘dims’ which the driver brings this back to the office for the forwarder to update their system, print the AWB/docs and return them to the warehouse. Then the
handler manually enters the Master and any House bills into the carrier’s system. The result is that Thai forwarders miss the opportunity to take advantage of lower charges on house bill entry fees, drivers queue in lines and traffic ferrying paperwork multiple times per consignment, and the inefficiency is passed straight up the chain.
Using the new automated process, the forwarder loads a draft AWB into WIN and sends the cargo. BFS transmits the e-Weight Slip to WIN seconds after weighing. The forwarder is alerted that their draft AWB is updated with actual pcs, wgt and dims for them to quickly review and then send the electronic
AWB data to the Airline who in turn copies the handler. All this takes a few minutes electronically so that the final AWB data is loaded into both the airline and the handler’s systems in short order.
BFS likes the fact that they receive the AWB data from British Airways with exact percentages, weights, and dimensions so they no longer have to manually enter the information and can quickly accept the cargo streamline their entire process.
John DeBenedette, Managing Director WIN said “WIN’s electronic AWB services are in daily use in almost 20 countries already however as we are based in
Thailand we were concerned about the slow uptake here. Partnering with BFS and key forwarders to overcome local barriers fits right into our strategy to make e-AWB easy, especially for independent forwarders.”
GM of BFS, David Ambridge, said “The partnership between BFS and WIN will allow all WCA Members in Thailand easy and cheap access to E-AWB and the associated cost savings that this brings. Not only that but any Freight Forwarder could also use this service and gain similar cost saving and efficiency benefits. With Airlines charging EDI Fees this really is a “no brainer” in my opinion.
Halifax Stanfield International Airport posted a record-setting year for air cargo in 2014, with
over 32,000 metric tonnes shipped, up 8.5 per cent over 2013. A big part of Halifax Stanfield’s cargo activity is fresh lobster and seafood exports, and demand is growing. In the last five years, Canadian live lobster exports to Asia have grown 428 per cent. In addition, the Chinese market remains a focal point, as lobster and other seafood exports continue to have double digit growth in demand. Several carriers transport seafood from Halifax Stanfield including: Air Canada, CargoJet, FedEx, UPS, Purolator and Korean Air Cargo.
In the summer of 2014, Korean Air Cargo transported Nova Scotia seafood to Seoul, South Korea. During the holiday season, Korean Air Cargo returned with weekly flights to South Korea. Each flight carried approximately 40-50 tonnes of lobster with the largest shipment being 100 tonnes.
Korean Air Cargo has responded to this demand, operating a weekly flight from Halifax to Seoul since January of this year, a schedule they plan to continue as demand dictates.
“We are pleased Korean Air Cargo has continued with weekly shipments of Nova Scotia seafood,” says Jerry Staples, Halifax International Airport Authority Vice President Air Service Marketing & Development. “With our extended main runway, a highly sought after export product and a new free trade agreement with South Korea, Halifax Stanfield is well-positioned for continued growth.”
Two trade agreements have positive potential for lobster and live seafood exports. The first is a pending agreement for a Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the EU. The second agreement is a new Canada-South Korea free trade agreement.
Is ta nbul , Turkey 2 6–29 A pr il
The 28th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) lifts off in Istanbul, Turkey from April 26–29, 2015. Join us and connect with high-level industry experts from the entire Ground Handling Value Chain and share valuable insights and fresh perspectives.
This premier annual event receives more than 700 delegates and close to 100 airlines represented, as well as airports, ground handlers, regulators, manufacturers, and media, with 98% expressing satisfaction with the business and networking opportunities.
The theme for this year’s conference is “Value at the crossroads of service and costs”, which offers interesting sessions and workshops focused on:
For more information visit www.iata.org/ighc-conference
Come to Istanbul, the historic crossroads between Europe and Asia, to contribute your ideas on how to make the ground handling business faster, safer and more environmentally sustainable.
The IGHC Conference is a great platform for you to meet & greet potential business contacts.
Register now to make sure you don’t miss this unique opportunity!
Cross paths with the world at the industry event of the year
Value at the crossroads of service and costs
14
Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179
Qatar Airways to operate 787 Dreamliner services to South Africa
Brussels Airport launches second wave of pharma community certification program
Qatar Airways has announced a major expansion in South Africa with the launch of a new destination Durban while simultaneously
increasing its weekly frequencies to Johannesburg. The airline will also increase its weekly frequency to Cape Town going up from five flights a week to a daily service.
Effective from 17th December 2015, the airline will launch four new weekly flights to Durban via Johannesburg bringing the total frequency to Johannesburg up from 10 weekly flights to a double-daily service. From 1st October 2015, Qatar Airways will be operating daily flights to Cape Town ahead of the busy 2015/16 winter travel season, an increase from five weekly flights this winter.
Durban will be Qatar Airways’ third route to South Africa following Johannesburg and Cape Town, both of which started in January 2005. All three routes will be operated with a Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
Durban is the second most important manufacturing hub in South Africa after Johannesburg with the presence of a number of major multi-national companies and is also famous for being the busiest port in the African continent. It is also seen as one of the main centres of tourism because of the city’s warm subtropical climate and extensive beaches and is an exciting holiday destination thanks to its luxury resorts and adventure sports opportunities.
The new Durban service and additional flights to South Africa will offer business and leisure passengers excellent connections to popular routes in Europe and the Far East such as London, Paris, Manchester, Frankfurt, Madrid, Beijing, Bangkok, Jakarta, Hong Kong and more.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker said the airline’s new home at
the state-of-the-art Hamad International Airport in Doha will offer rapid and convenient connections for passengers from South Africa.
“At Qatar Airways we strive to provide our passengers with the best of service levels on ground and on board our modern fleet. We also provide our passengers with a strong global network of business and leisure destinations, and the city of Durban will be a welcome new addition to our extensive route map.
“Durban is an important gateway into South Africa and we are very confident that this route will be warmly welcomed like all our other routes in the African continent.”
Africa is key to Qatar Airways’ global network expansion strategy and the airline currently operates 140 flights per week to 19 African gateways. Since 2011 the airline has added the following African destinations to its global route network: Entebbe (Uganda); Kigali (Rwanda); Kilimanjaro (Tanzania); Maputo (Mozambique); Addis Ababa (Ethiopia); Djibouti International Airport (Djibouti) and Asmara (Eritrea).
Qatar Airways’ Boeing 787 Dreamliner will be deployed on the new Durban route which offers passengers 254 seats across its Business and Economy Class, with its seats in Business Class reclining to 180-degree fully flat beds.
The airline’s 787s are the world’s first fully connected Dreamliners with wireless facilities enabling all passengers to remain in touch with friends and colleagues on the ground through the internet or SMS mobile texting. The 787 Dreamliners complement the ultra-luxurious customer service and experience Qatar Airways delivers to its passengers.
Last year BRUcargo became the world’s first IATA CEIV pharma certified airport community, clearly proving our pharma handing excellence and
leadership. Brussels Airport is now recognised by the pharma industry as the preferred pharma gateway in our region” says Steven Polmans, Head of Cargo at Brussels Airport. Eleven companies covering the entire cool chain through the airport participated in the 2014 BRUcargo pharma certification programme: three on-line handling agents, two airlines, five forwarding agents and one trucking company. “The fact that we have had so much good feedback from the first group of companies and seen the interest we got from the market to do a second wave, shows the strength of the program for all”, continuous Steven Polmans. “We are delighted to understand that participating companies are seeing additional business, simplified audits from pharma shippers and increased market visibility.”
“With the launch of this second group the majority of all pharma shipments at Brussels Airport will be handled in a fully certified cool chain”, says Nathan De Valck, Cargo Account manager at Brussels Airport. “The big interest from our local partners in the BRUcargo community is a clear proof that the ‘IATA CEIV Pharma’ programme is rapidly gaining acceptance as a universal, independent and comprehensive compliance and training programme.”
Nine BRUcargo based companies have confirmed their commitment to obtain the IATA CEIV pharma certificate including DHL Global Forwarding, Kuehne + Nagel, Geodis Wilson, Hazgo, FB Logistics, Ninatrans and Van Dievel Transport.
By the end of this year in total twenty BRUcargo based companies will have obtained the IATA CEIV pharma certification program, guaranteeing a robust and transparent cold chain for pharmaceutical shipments at Brussels Airport.
CEIV pharma takes the binding requirements of the national and international GDP regulations that are already in place and harmonises these into a globally valid programme using airfreight-focused, on-site training and an integrated, independent audit capability. The certification program aims at improving the handling of pharmaceutical cargo by upgrading, aligning and standardising the pharma handling processes at every location, where ever in the world.
CEVA opens new South East Asia headquarters in Singapore
CEVA Logistics, one of the world’s leading global supply chain management companies recently
held the opening of its West Hub, CEVA’s largest facility in Singapore and the new headquarters for South East Asia, attended by CEVA’s CEO, Xavier Urbain. The West Hub occupies 48,000 sq m of warehouse and office space, with more than 300 personnel serving multi sector customers at the facility.
CEVA’s CEO, Xavier Urbain said, “I am very pleased our footprint is growing in South East Asia, and particularly in Singapore, as a strategic hub in Asia and a conduit for world trade. This is an investment we are making in Asia to strengthen our presence and address the growth potential here. It is estimated that by 2020, more than 50 per cent of the world’s middle income will come from Asia. This presents both opportunities and supply chain challenges for businesses. CEVA is well placed in this part of the world to support our customers’ business growth.”
City of Energy, Singapore
At the same event, CEVA announced the launch of its City of Energy in Singapore located at the West Hub. The City of Energy is a fully dedicated hub for the warehousing, cross docking, flow management and handling of Oil and Gas products and services for the Energy sector.
The energy hub, covering a total warehouse space of 26,000 sq m and over 5,000 sq m open yard space for energy customers, is well located with easy access to Jurong port and major highways. The City of Energy, Singapore will serve CEVA’s energy sector customers, many of whom use Singapore as a regional base for their Oil and Gas operations in Asia.
CEVA’s Executive Vice President for South East Asia, Elaine Low said, “Singapore is a key transhipment hub for many Energy players in the industry, given its strategic location in Asia and its excellent network domestically and internationally. It is a natural choice for CEVA to set up a City of Energy in Singapore for this reason. We have dedicated Energy specialists, equipped with both the knowledge and operational capability to serve the needs of our customers at the energy hub. From supply chain management to project cargo and compliance, CEVA has proven experience in delivering unparalleled expertise to our energy customers across the globe.”
The energy hub features high floor loading capacity of 30-35kn/m2, VNA space, special cargo containment area, RF material handling and processing, heavy lift services, and warehouse management systems, as well as
modern offices for customers to operate directly in the energy hub, be close to their warehouse operations and increase their operational efficiency.
CEVA pioneered the City of Energy concept initially in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, in mid-2014, a first-of-its-kind multi user operation dedicated solely to the oil and gas market. The hub is strategically located in the Jebel Ali Free Zone in Dubai and has served as a catalyst for the growth and expansion of CEVA’s market presence in the Middle East.
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16
Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179 FrEight ForWarDs
GSAs play a very vital role in airlines’ growth overseas. Traditionally, appointing GSAs in
the target markets has been the most cost effective method for any airline to understand and generate revenue them. The markets are new to them and they need an expert to guide them on, hence the GSA.
A GSA not only sells tickets or capacity for the airline or shipping but also helps them build their base by being their representative to the civil aviation ministry, Airport Authority or any the government organization and answerable to the end customer too. Bernd Struck, dnata’s Senior Vice President, UAE Cargo in an e-mail Q& A with us discusses role of GSA in the air cargo sector.
Q What is the role of GSAs in growth of the Air Cargo Sector?
Industry has moved away from the “traditional” GSA role which is purely focused on sales. dnata offers a more comprehensive product offering to our principals under the “GSSA” umbrella (General Sales and Service).
We support our principal carriers by providing them with a wide range of cargo services that enables the carrier to swiftly gain access to a given market owing to our historic ties with the local agents, managing their local and regional distribution, generating business and establishing itself in the local market.
The GSA is the eyes and ears of the airline; they are the closest in contact with the key local forwarders making sure that there is a continuous flow of information between the stakeholders, thereby positioning itself as one of the vital links in the cargo supply chain.
Because of our in-depth understanding of the local market we design market strategies to promote sales and achieve targets set by the airlines. We, as a GSA, offer our partner airlines a hub and spoke business model, helping the
GSA is the eyes and ears of the airline: Bernd Struckairline redistribute their cargo load from Dubai to offline destinations, thereby contributing to the success of both.
We actively promote air cargo by convincing our customers who use other modes of transport to utilize the services offered by our principal carriers. For example, shipments set for transport by sea or road can be converted to air by adjusting pricing.
Promotion of multi-modal business as a cost effective option that suits all stakeholders a classic case is the sea-air mode where products from the Far East are brought in by sea and then reprocessed to fill belly and freighters of the carriers we represent.
As a GSA we also try and route business from other international markets by offering them better commercial deals.
We are a strong GSSA service provider, are financially stable, and able to provide sufficient resources that includes knowledgeable and experienced staff, a robust sales structure and the ability to take financial risks. With all of this, we have been successful in contributing to the growth in the air cargo sector.
Q Key markets you are looking into?
By virtue of catering to carriers from all over the globe, we look at all markets viz. US, UK & Ireland, Europe, Africa, Asian Subcontinent, CIS Countries, Far East & Pacific. Our goal is to find a good balance between capacity utilization, product mix and maximizing revenue for our Principal carriers to the markets they serve.
Q Can you give an idea as to what services and destinations do you offer to the client airlines? We offer a variety of services to the airlines based on their needs, including:
Station Management
Sales & Distribution
Operations Supervision
Credit Management
Road Feeder
We represent airlines that operate to the Far East, South Asia, CIS countries, the Middle East, Europe, Africa and connections to the Americas too. We provide a comprehensive destination mix across the globe with excellent capacity options.
Q As a Middle East company, what advantage your location plays to attract global operators?Connectivity plays a crucial role in helping airlines grow. We are strategically located in the Middle East at the crossroads of international trade in between Europe and the Far East, serving as a gateway to the world’s most progressive markets namely China, India and Africa. Though
there are limitations in what the UAE can generate in terms of exports, it facilitates the airlines by offering an attractive trans-shipment product. For example, the movement of goods from China and the Far East transiting via Dubai, where carriers bring in goods from the said regions destined for Europe and America.
Q How the logistics industry in the GCC is doing from the perspective of a GSA?
Traders in the GCC will always contribute to the logistics industry for the simple reason that the GCC will always rely on importing most of its consumables. The trader, however, has a choice of making this import either by sea, air or road transport.
The GSA in this market is primarily dependent on export-based earnings; the fact there is a visible imbalance in terms of import-export ratio banking heavily in favor of imports coupled with fragmented pricing based on freight, fuel and security surcharges is not a great position for the GSA. Expectations of the Principals in terms of quality remains high, leaving the GSA with little or no choice but to balance between uncompromised service delivery and surviving eroding income levels.
Q How would you compare the UAE market with Europe in terms of maturity, pricing?
Applying a simple logic, a market with high industrial production aimed at exports will call for healthy yields in comparison to a market with little exports and abundance of capacity.
Europe is a manufacturing gateway to the world; the big forwarders make year round deals with airlines and shipping companies keeping the capacity in high demand while maintaining a healthy yield. Majority of intra-Europe trade happens by means of surface transport due to the proximity between hubs and hassle-free business environment. On the contrary, the UAE market has abundant air cargo capacity but limited air exports; only time-bound cargo is flown. Due to cost, Intra-GCC transport is primarily done by road due to cost. Inter-continental business, with high volumes, is transported by sea catering to petroleum products, construction material and foodstuff.
Pricing in the UAE is 90 per cent on an ad hoc basis, forwarders swap carriers for meagre discounts because of the highly competitive nature of business and the high number of forwarders running after the same business.
Geodis Wilson, one of the world’s leading freight management companies, launched its internal
innovation campaign in 2011. Now being presented for the third time, the initiative is designed to encourage the creative potential of its employees worldwide. The winners of this year’s “Innovation Masters Award” (IMA) were announced at a ceremony in Bangkok. The awards, honouring the winners for outstanding internal innovative initiatives, were presented
to two individuals and a small team of innovators.
The winners, who received their awards from Kim Pedersen, Executive Vice President, Geodis Wilson, at the IMA Ceremony include Susanna Vallejo from Spain for her CSR related project entitled ‘Citizens of the World’ to foster international mobility within the company; Cherian George from Australia for his project entitled ‘Global Office Ranking’ to increase efficiency
Geodis Wilson honours its innovators
Bernd Struck
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179
Agility to expand investments in Africa
FrEight ForWarDs
Agility, one of the world’s largest logistics firms, plans to invest over USUS$100 million
for expansions worldwide, while devoting a special focus to African growth. “We expect to invest about USUS$ 100 million this year with major investments in Africa and fastest growth regions to be Middle East, Asia and Latin America,” said Essa Al Saleh, the president and CEO of the company at a media roundtable held in Dubai recently.
Agility wants to expand its footprint in Africa, particularly in Angola, Nigeria, Mozambique and Ghana, which are emerging and oil producing economies. “We see a lot of opportunities in terms of oil and gas. We see a lot of opportunities in relation to growing economic development and wealth in Africa.” African countries according to Al Saleh may bring challenges initially, but they are investing in logistics facilitation strategies, as a result a positive economic growth becomes evident.
The Middle East and Africa continues to be Agility’s fastest growing region, followed by Asia, Latin America, the United States and Europe. The company plans to grow its profits despite the dip in oil price, Al Saleh feels that though economy of oil producing countries in the Arabian Gulf region and Africa will be affected, it is an interim loss. However, the temporary fall in prices may provide ample growth opportunity in the long run.
Al Saleh also says that despite the dip in oil prices agility has saved small amount of operational costs, as there is no big change in the pricing for capacity sold by airlines. “Earlier airlines and shippers would give us a price for shipping cost and for the fuel index, but many are shifting to a single all inclusive price structure that kind of blurs the fuel cost and this is one of the challenges,” Al Saleh noted.
Shedding light on the Agility’s Emerging Market index Al Saleh
pointed that UAE ranks 6th in the list and is expected move up in the ladder with moves by the government to facilitate investment and infrastructure. However, the Index also identifies some barriers in the region like limited regulatory framework, skilled labour deficit and security concerns.
Commenting on key growth sectors for Agilities operation in 2015 Al Saleh said that Oil and Gas remains the strongest sector followed by life sciences and chemicals logistics. In Conclusion Al Saleh emphasised that that consumer goods logistics remains Agility’s bread and butter.
and to foster a performance culture; Anders Wennberg from Sweden, Nicolas Chaze and Ludovic Vergin (both from France) for their project entitled ‘Check ‘n’ Amend Tool’ that aims at improving data quality internally as well as for the customers.
“The IMA-program is a product of Geodis Wilson’s corporate philosophy, which includes a commitment to become the leading innovator in the freight forwarding industry”, says Kim Pedersen. “Employee engagement is crucial to the success of this aim and we are justly proud of the standard of entries for the Award and of our dedicated employees, award-winners or not. They are all pivotal in delivering top-class customer service.”
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20-21st of October 2015,The Regency Hotel, State of Kuwait
Exploring the Emerging Airports Potential
Expo TagState of Kuwait
Essa Al Saleh
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179 FrEight ForWarDs
DHL invests in new hub at Brussels Airport
DHL will invest € 114 million (approx. US$129 million) in the construction of a new hub
at Brussels Airport. The new hub is expected to triple capacity from 12,000 to 39,500 shipments per hour.
The original Brussels facility was set up in 1985 as a regional hub. In the last five years, Brussels has enjoyed solid double-digit volume growth. Due to this continuous growth and its central location in Europe, the Brussels Hub is increasingly being used as an international and transit hub, which means that the current hub is nearing 100 per cent of its capacity.
Koen Gouweloose, managing director, DHL Aviation NV said, “The new hub will guarantee an even quicker and higher quality service. It will connect Belgian and other EU companies with 18 intra-European destinations and a number of important intercontinental destinations such as the US, China and Africa. In addition, DHL provides 64 road connections from Brussels directly to major business destinations in Europe. This will further reinforce the important position of Brussels in the European and global network, and strengthen Belgian trade connections with the rest of the world.”
Today, DHL employs more than 4,000 people in Belgium, including 1,000 employees at the Brussels Hub. By 2020, DHL expects to create 200 additional jobs through this new investment.
Arnaud Feist, CEO of Brussels Airport emphasised the importance of airfreight in Belgium, “Brussels Airport invests in different categories of air transportation like cargo, cargo on passenger airplanes and express deliveries. With this significant investment from DHL, we will further strengthen our position in Belgium as the logistics centre of Europe. This will have a positive influence on the balance of trade for our country, especially because it creates jobs. Every 100 tonnes of cargo equals one job. At the moment there are approximately 4,500 jobs at Brucargo. Our expectations this year are to add another 400 to 500.”
The total surface area of the planned hub is 36,500 square metres and consists of a new 31,500 square metres sorting centre and a modern 5,000 square metres office complex. DHL will also reduce its environmental footprint through the use of new, more efficient sorting technologies, better insulation, a new vehicle fleet that runs on natural gas, a solar park, environmentally friendly lighting and other measures, in line with DHL’s GoGreen programme. For the Brussels Hub, this means an additional saving of 768 tonnes CO2 per year based on Vlarem2-regulations.
Danny Van Himste, managing director DHL Express Belgium and Luxembourg, explained: “We strongly believe that this investment will not only stimulate further
development of the export activities of Belgian companies, but also meet the rising demand created by international e-commerce. After all, more possibilities for the hub in Brussels and our high-performance network of service centres throughout the country mean greater flexibility, later pick-up times and better service for our customers.”
New Singapore hubDriven by surging e-commerce and intra-Asian growth, DHL Express has continued with its planned investments across Asia with the latest annoucement of a €85 million investment in a new express hub
at Singapore Changi Airport’s 24-hour Free Trade Zone.
Teo Ser Luck Singapore’s Minister of State, Ministry of Trade and Industry said the fact DHL was upgrading its hub in Singapore also boosts Singapore’s attractiveness as a global logistics hub.
The construction of the DHL South Asia Hub is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2016 and will occupy a land area of 23,000 sqm and a total floor area of 23,600 sqm.
The fully automated express package sorting and processing facility will be able to handle a cargo throughput of
more than 628 tonnes per day when at full capacity and process shipments at the speed of 14,000 shipments per hour. In comparison, the manual processing system in the current facility handles up to 225 tonnes per day at a speed of 2,400 shipments per hour.
Commenting on the development Jerry Hsu, CEO, DHL Express Asia Pacific said: “The DHL Express South Asia Hub reinforces our global multi-hub stragegy by leveraging the unmatched regional connectivity provided by Changi Airport and Singapore.”
Globe Express Services expands its service network
Globe Express Services, announced the addition of three new locations in France Le
Havre; Bordeaux (BASSENS/Merignac) and Marseille (FOS/Marignane). These openings extend its Europe network and allow it to further provide worldwide supply chain services in France.
Located in a multifunctional site, GES Le Havre provides operations, customs brokerage, warehousing services and has access to an additional 100,000 square feet for logistics, ocean deconsolidation and consolidation. Alain Gambuli, Managing Director, France commented, “By opening the additional offices in France, we are
closer to our customers’ distribution centres, allowing us to offer excellent customer service and better rates.”
GES Bordeaux offers 21,000 square feet of warehousing space and serves as a gateway for exports from the Bordeaux region. “GES Bordeaux also provides daily ocean and air consolidations to the African regions of Senegal, Ivory Coast, Gabon, Ghana, Cameroon, Madagascar and Comorians islands and has regular business to and from Russia” states Alain.
Furthering the France expansion, GES Marseille, located in Marignane airport in an 800 square feet office and connected to the FOS harbor (second
largest harbor in France for container traffic), specializes in the worldwide exportation, particularly to regions in China.
GES Logistics France, with six offices covering all of France, specializes in worldwide overseas transportation of the following verticals: automotive, chemical, consumer & retail, fashion & apparel, furniture, aerospace, packaging, wine, and luxury goods such as fashion, watches, bags and more. The three additional offices bring enhanced capabilities to ocean and air-freight, customs brokerage and warehousing capabilities for all commodity classifications.
arabian reach publishing FZ LLCE-mail : [email protected] | www.arabianreach.com
GEFCO Middle East signs a long-term logistics service agreement with RSA Logistics
FrEight ForWarDs
Liberty Logistics, UAE’s leading provider of freight-forwarding services and Fast Logistic Solutions Group (FLS), a leader in global transportation and
logistics, have entered into a joint venture agreement to synergize their individual strengths to offer superior services to clients locally and globally.
The new joint venture will begin operations in May 2015 from its headquarters in Liberty building in Dubai and its warehouse facilities in Jebel Ali Free Zone and Dubai Cargo Village.
The partnership agreement was signed by Sheikh Khalid Abdul Aziz Al Qasimi, Chairman of Liberty
Investment Company, the holding company of Liberty Logistics, and Mr Al Ameen, Chairman and founder of FLS Group.
“Liberty Logistics is delighted to enter into a major partnership with Fast Logistic Solutions Group. This will enable us to significantly expand our footprint on the international logistics map,” said Sheikh Khalid Abdul Aziz Al Qasimi, Chairman of Liberty Investment Co. “The combined expertise of UAE’s two leading logistics players will give clients vastly superior and highly reliable services, spanning the whole of the UAE and different parts of the globe.”
Liberty Logistics and Fast Logistic Solutions Group enters partnership
GEFCO Middle East, one of the leaders in the automotive logistics sector, recently signed
a long-term logistics service agreement with Dubai based RSA Logistics, to support the storage services for Finished Vehicles. The objective of the agreement is to cater to the growing demand for FVL (Finish Vehicles Logistics) in the Region. RSA will be providing just over 100,000 sq m of logistics space along with IT support, security and resources to assist in the operation.
Adding to the agreement Mr. Abhishek Ajay Shah, Managing Director at RSA Logistics commented “RSA logistics always believes in a tailored solution for all of our customers and relationship with GEFCO is no different. We listened to our customer; understood their needs and are now implementing it to make it a reality. This is very fulfilling and we hope to grow further in the automotive vertical and this is a good step in achieving that goal.”
In continuation Mr. Stefano Pollotti, Managing Director – GEFCO Dubai said
“As GEFCO we believe in the integrated logistics solutions to improve the supply chain of our customer. The quality and highest standard of the service level are our credo: the agreement with RSA will
support the growth of the FVL activity in the Region”
Established in 2007, RSA logistics has developed a major presence in the UAE as a logistics provider, offering
contract logistics, freight forwarding, distribution, and supply chain management services. The company’s rapid growth and expansion plans have seen the establishment of a joint venture which will specifically serve the chemical and petrochemical industries, and cater to the storage of hazardous and non-hazardous material.
GEFCO first opened its Dubai offices in late 2012 and has been fully operational since February 2013. Renowned for its logistics operations in the automotive industry, the opening of the new offices is in line with the company’s strategy of utilizing the Emirate as a hub to complement and expand existing operations. It also consolidates GEFCO’s existing presence in the region, which includes representation offices in Iraq and Turkey to support trade primarily with China and Eastern Europe. The rapid growth in activity has allowed for the creation of a dedicated subsidiary to effectively manage and further develop business.
“FLS Group, with 40 offices in Africa, UAE, India and the Far East, is on a high growth track and this partnership with Liberty Logistics gives us a new springboard for further expansion,” commented Peter Scholten, CEO of FLS Group. “We are keen to build on our existing relationship with the Liberty Group and benefit from its strong UAE network. We believe together FLS Group and Liberty Logistics are in an unrivalled position to deliver high quality customized services to large corporate clients.”
The signing ceremony was attended by Vishal Dhamija, General Manager, SNTTA Cargo; Mohamed Bushelaibi, Group General Manager, Legal & Shareholders Affairs, Liberty Investment Co.; Peter Scholten, CEO, FLS Group and Ravikiran Vishal, CFO, FLS Group.
Liberty Logistics, a member company of the UAE-based Liberty Group, has been providing freight forwarding services by air, sea and land, in collaboration with its sister company, SNTTA Cargo. In the new joint venture with FLS Group, Liberty Logistics will continue to provide best of next generation logistics services and expand its global footprint by entering into US, Europe and Middle East, with its own network of offices.
Fast Logistics Solutions Group (FLS), headquartered in Dubai, is a pioneer in the industry, offering scheduled air cargo services, air cargo charter solutions, international ocean freight, multi-modal air-sea-land door-to-door solutions, customs clearance, 3PL warehousing and distribution services. In 2014 FLS Group generated US$ 200 million revenue with airfreight volumes at 45,000 tons and ocean freight volumes at 20,000 TEU’s. On the African continent, FLS Group has a network of 20 own offices.
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179 iNtErviEW
Lithuania is the emerging gateway to East Europe and Asia: Arijandas SLIUPAS
Lithuania, a member country of European Union, has an ambition to continue its footpath on being
preferred destination for investments due to the country’s strategic geographical location with up-to-date multimodal infrastructure, best value & costs ratio, competitive business environment and being on the main crossroad between East and West. The country now plans to develop air transport hub connecting global players to Eastern Europe and CIS countries.
Lithuania’s vice minister for transport and communication Mr Arijandas SLIUPAS was in Dubai in February to promote cooperation between UAE and Lithuania. Mr SLIUPAS in an exclusive interview with us speaks about Lithuania’s vision 2030 to become active international player in the global supply chain.
Discussing on why any business should choose Lithuania as a hub the vice minister explains the country has a lot of similarities to UAE when it comes to intermodal link between sea, land and air connectivity. “Lithuania is situated on an axis between western Europe and Scandinavia, Eastern Europe and especially to the entrance point to CIS countries like Ukraine, Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan. It is far more cost effective compared to Western European distribution hub because of its custom and setup cost benefits and entry point to Eastern Europe, CIS and biggest Asian market like China through Kazakhstan.”
“With an aim to promote business environment for international business fraternity we focussed on our organic growth developing our multimodal infrastructure and improved our intermodal terminals including ports, railway terminals and airports. We have international railways and highways that support goods flow across the borders,” he added.
The country has promising economy with almost 14 per cent of the GDP growth contributed by their transport sector. Also, according to Mr SLIUPAS, 90 per cent of businesses within transport & logistics sector registered in Lithuania serve international markets. He says, “As trade between the EU and Asia is over € 552 billion and it is still growing, transport plays important role in trade. We aim to be an active international player in the supply chain to reach the level, where 2.3 per cent traffic passing between Asia and Europe passes through Lithuania.”
“In realising this goals we are working to build international partnerships not only in Europe but beyond with hubs like UAE. Lithuania connects markets like northern Europe, which has 110 million population, CIS countries with 250 million and the Western Europe with 340 million. What we offer to businesses is quality infrastructure and cost effective supply chain solutions,” SLIUPAS said adding that the land-sea-air infrastructure are tested to be successful and goods coming from middle east or far east can be distributed as far as 1000 km diameter in 48 hours.
The country has invested in expanding the earlier two free economic zones to seven with diversification. However the main free economic zone remains Klaipeda, where we have multimodal hub for road, rail and sea port. While Kaunas free economic zone is centrally located and is a convergence for all modes of transport including rail, road, air and sea.
Key growth industries in the country remain food processing, light industry, ICT sector (world-leading broadband speeds, most advanced ICT infrastructure in the CEE), biotechnology, etc. But Mr SLIUPAS projects his country as services industry, particularly in transport &
logistics sector. “We are a service focused country with marginally small in global scale but at the same time smart human resources. We have most Northern a non-freezing port in Eastern Europe and Baltic highway, which is part of major pan European transport infrastructure”.
Investor benefitsLithuania has designed an investor friendly economy with attractive tax benefits for international businesses. According to Mr SLIUPAS companies registered under Lithuanian free economic zones enjoy tax free period for first six years and only 50 per cent tax for another ten years. There are special establishment incentives on real estate tax and government service benefits. “We on a governmental level have introduced benefits for foreign direct incentives and we provide organisations with establishment support of 25 per cent in the total cost,” he said. Mr SLIUPAS also says that Scandinavian countries are strongest partners with long lasting experience (Sweden and Norway took the second place in terms of the number of investment projects in 2014, the first one was USA) as well as Germany and Russia. Investors looking for business opportunities choose stable environments with well-developed infrastructure, highly skilled employees and attractive business costs. Lithuania is able to offer all of these and that is why we are continuing to see strong growth in investor interest in Lithuania.
Logistics infrastructure The Lithuania is the junction where the two different standard railway gauges (1435 mm & 1520 mm) interchange in rail corridor between East and West. Here Lithuania have invested in developing an intermodal terminal at Kaunas to service transhipment of goods in transit on East – West corridor. “We have an intermodal terminal
Kaunas and air cargo facilities will be connected to air a cargo facility, which is at only 6 km distance in two years,” Mr SLIUPAS said.
In addition to the existing infrastructure, Ministry of Transport and Communication pf of Lithuania has reserved territories in the airport to expand cargo facilities. The expansions will be undertaken to match demand growth.
Asian connections
Lithuania’s largest connectivity to Asian markets is by rail, the biggest market in the region China is connected through Kazakhstan. “We have special container trains from China via Lithuanian territories that are operated by the private companies. We have special interest in Chinese market and have Lithuanian railway representative office that works jointly with Chinese companies. We believe in partnership that nurtures mutual benefits,” Mr SLIUPAS said.
Lithuania has cooperation with companies in UAE, however, the country now seeks government partnership in various areas including food processing, logistics and creating new trade routes.
The future
Vision 2030 aims to be active player in supply chain, where two biggest markets like Asia and Europe are connected through Lithuania. “We are looking into critical partnership with countries and hubs like UAE which are very important partners, SLIUPAS said. In conclusion the vice minister, welcomed companies take advantage of Lithuania’s strategic location and business set up incentives. He says that as emerging markets are evolving Lithuania welcomes innovators to leverage on opportunities by the gateway country.
Arijandas SLIUPAS
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179NEWs aND EvENts
Etihad rail officially hands over operation control centre to Etihad Rail DB
Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway network, has officially
handed over the control of Operation Control Center (OCC) in Mirfa to Etihad Rail DB.
Etihad Rail DB, the joint venture company formed between Etihad Rail and the German DB Schenker in March 2014, will manage the operation and maintenance of the first stage of the UAE’s national railway network on-site from the OCC located in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi.
DB Schenker is part of Deutsche Bahn, Europe’s biggest company in the field
of railway operations, which operates the 33,000 km German freight and passenger rail network. Etihad Rail CEO, Faris Saif Al Mazrouei, led the handover ceremony which represents a key milestone in the operation of the first stage of the UAE’s national railway network.
“The OCC is at the core of the railway network,” he said on the occasion. “The qualified staff members working in the OCC are responsible for the overall control and command of the system including all train movements and this move is an important step forward for the project.”
She said the Air Transport Action Group’s (ATAG) latest figures indicate that airports support over five million jobs worldwide, making them vital elements of their local economies. When we consider aviation in general, this number balloons to 58.1 million jobs worldwide. Aviation is a strong enabler of the global economy, representing 3.4 per cent of global GDP, she added.
The industry veteran said the progress that Dubai has made over the years to become the world-class centre of aviation was “truly remarkable” and “exemplary”.
Angela said, “Airports are no longer simply points of departure and arrival; they are highly complex businesses in their own right which require the coordination of a vast number of stakeholders if safety, security and efficiency are to be maximized. If one
piece of the puzzle is out of sync there are often far-reaching consequences.”
As the industry is complex and cooperation has been and will continue to be the key to navigating the many challenges it faces, the Airport Show and the GALF are useful forums for discussing these issues, she stated.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed said, “The importance of airports as global travel hubs has been growing. In Dubai, the massive airport expansions are needed to accommodate the growth in air traffic and airport development continues to play a strategic role in our future growth agenda. The huge and consistent aviation investments will have a positive impact not just for Dubai alone but for the UAE, Gulf region and the world.”
Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation which
is developing the DWC (DWC), said the Middle East - particularly the GCC - enjoys a natural affinity to the aviation industry. The region owns some of the world’s fastest growing airlines and most active airports. The fact that Middle East aviation supported - directly and indirectly - nearly two million jobs and contributed US$116 billion in terms of GDP in 2012, is a fair indicator of the industry’s forward march in our region.”
According to IATA, US$40 billion airport investments are in the GCC states alone, with the UAE taking the top slot. The UAE airports handled over 101 million passengers last year, with Dubai taking the major share of about 71 million passengers followed by Abu Dhabi with 20 million passengers. The UAE airspace had an average of 2250 daily aircraft movements in 2014, which by 2030 will reach 5100, making the UAE one of the busiest airspaces in the world.
Middle East region ‘emblematic’ of the heights of aviation success
The importance of airports as global travel hubs has been growing. In Dubai, the massive airport expansions are needed to accommodate the growth in air traffic and airport development continues to play a strategic role in our future growth agenda. The huge and consistent aviation investments will have a positive impact not just for Dubai alone but for the UAE, Gulf region and the world.
One of the foremost contributors to the global passenger and cargo air traffic, the Middle East
region is “emblematic of the heights” to which aviation can rise when governments fully support the industry and understand its potential as a powerful driver of social and economic progress, remarked the chief of global airports operators body.
Angela Gittens, Director General of Airports Council International (ACI), said the annual passenger traffic growth globally was expected to average 4.1 per cent annually to 2031 to reach 12 billion. “Preliminary statistics for 2014 indicate total worldwide passenger traffic of 6.6 billion, so we’re talking about nearly doubling worldwide traffic over the next decade and a half. The airports handled 100 million metric tonnes of cargo and 83 million aircraft movements,” said Angela who will be sharing her vision about the industry and its future at the Global Airport Leaders’ Forum (GALF) in Dubai. The third edition of GALF will be collocated with the 15th edition of Airport Show at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC).
Also attending the ceremony was Shadi Malak, Acting CEO of Etihad Rail DB, who added, “We are very proud of this major accomplishment and would like to thank Etihad Rail for the world class quality of assets handed over to us. Etihad Rail DB’s team of specialists will utilize international expertise and best practices related to operating in difficult weather conditions to launch the operations of the first freight train in the UAE. Knowledge transfer is a key priority in our Emiratisation strategy and we will ensure that the OCC becomes a training centre and pave the way for Emiratis to become the UAE’s leading railway professionals.”
Construction of Stage One of the railway network, which will transport more than seven million tons of granulated sulphur annually for the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), has been completed and trains are currently running in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi on a trial basis.
Etihad Rail’s state-of-the-art network will span approximately 1,200 km, acting as a catalyst for economic growth and sustained social development. Upon completion, the railway will redefine logistics and transport in the region, providing a modern, safe, efficient and sustainable mode of transport that will connect all regions of the UAE to the neighbouring GCC countries.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179
Dubai Customs seizes 3 million tramadol pills at Cargo Village
NEWs aND EvENts
Dubai Customs officers stand tall as they block the entry of 3 million tramadol pills, with
an approximate street value of Dhs 60 million. Inspectors at Dubai Cargo Village Customs Center were able to detect the restricted drug, packed in 60 parcels coming into Dubai from an Asian country by air.
“This is one of the biggest seizures of its kind made by Dubai Customs lately and the Risk Engine was ‘the star of the show’,” said Director of Dubai Customs Ahmed Mahboob Musabih. “The Risk Engine is a smart system which is primarily fed with up-to-date inputs from various resources, enabling it to identify suspected shipments at a high level of accuracy.”
He elaborated that the clearing company mentioned in the Customs declaration that the parcels contain medical products and lab equipment. However, it turned out, after analysis of available data on the history of the importer, that the shipment is likely to contain narcotic tramadol, a control medicine the company is officially not authorized to import.
“Cracking down on smugglers and safeguarding the community are major responsibilities on our shoulders. Two years ago, we launched a huge awareness campaign about the side effects of tramadol, jointly with Dubai Health Authority and DMI. The drive
had a positive impact on the public, particularly youngsters, as they are the most targeted by drug dealers,” Mahboob added.
Abdullah Mohammed Al Khaja, Executive Director of Customer Management Division at Dubai Customs, noted, “Though tramadol is an effective opiate medication and can be used only if prescribed by a doctor, it has dangerous side effects on human health and sanity. Most countries worldwide, including the UAE, have restricted its use and enlisted it as a narcotic substance. A permit from the Ministry of Health
is mandatory before importing it, according to the Cabinet Decree No 15 of 2011 amending the Tables Attached to Federal Law No 14 of 1995 (Article 2) on the Counter Measures against Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, which added tramadol to the list.”
According to figures released by Dubai Customs, three attempts at smuggling tramadol pills were discouraged in 2014, Al Khaja revealed.
Shedding more light on the seizure, Talal Al Abdooli, Customs Intelligence Director, commented that Jebel Ali
Customs officers had earlier managed to confiscate a shipment of tramadol imported under the same company. Based on its history, the company was targeted by the Risk Engine to track its shipments coming through all ports in the emirate. The system was alerted that a consignment was coming by air in the company’s name. Intelligence officers closely monitored the consignment until it arrived at the Cargo Village Customs Center.
“The risk assessment system was subsequently notified that the company in question will receive another suspected consignment by air cargo from an Asian country, which we are currently tracking down,” said Al Abdoli.
In an attempt to go unnoticed, the importing company paid in full the storage fees for the consignment. However, they didn’t issue a Customs declaration or complete consignment receipt formalities. “Tracking the shipments’ route from the starting point and having reviewed the importer’s records with Customs, we reached a conviction that the company might be involved in some illicit smuggling of prohibited goods,” he concluded.
Hamid Mohammed Rasheed, Director of Air Customs Centres Management, said that the parcels didn’t contain any medical products or equipment as stated in the Customs declaration.
Etihad Airways will increase its flights between Abu Dhabi and Tehran, the capital of Iran, from
three flights a week to a daily service, beginning on 15 April 2015.
The Airbus A320 Tehran service, which started in December 2006, provides 136 seats each way in a two cabin configuration, with 16 Business Class seats and 120 Economy Class seats.
Adding 1,088 new seats per week to the route, the additional Tehran flights will enable Etihad Airways to provide
its guests with more choice and greater flexibility when travelling between Abu Dhabi and Tehran.
Daily Tehran flight operations will allow the Iranian capital to gain two-way connectivity to almost 50 markets on Etihad Airways’ global network. The new schedule will establish important daily connections to key markets in the United States, including New York, Washington DC, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Los Angeles, which is home to the world’s largest Iranian diaspora.
In addition to the US cities, the Tehran flights will connect with destinations on the airline’s network across the Gulf region, Africa, Asia and Australia.
The increase to daily is the first step in Etihad Airways’ phased network expansion to Iran. Kevin Knight, Etihad Airways’ Chief Strategy and Planning Officer said, “We have been keen to increase the Tehran service to daily operations for some time and we’re delighted to make that move now ahead of the summer season.
“The expanded schedule will increase travel options for Iranian passengers visiting the UAE, as well as those wishing to access Etihad Airways’ global flight network, particularly cities like Los Angeles and others in the United States.”
Passengers on all Etihad Airways flights to the US, which includes Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York JFK, and Washington DC, are processed through US preclearance at Abu Dhabi airport. This means those passengers flying from Tehran pass through all required checks including US customs, immigration and security conveniently while in Abu Dhabi before they board their flight, enabling them to avoid queues on arrival in the US and arrive as domestic passengers.
The US preclearance process is even faster for passengers who can use the automated passport control (APC) and Global Entry kiosks.
The self-service APC kiosks expedite the US entry process for American, Canadian, and eligible visa waiver program international travellers, by providing an automated process through US preclearance’s primary inspection area.
Etihad airways to operate daily flights between Abu Dhabi and Tehran
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179
Maersk Training to open first Middle East facility at DWC
NEWs aND EvENts
SHAIRCO showcases interior fit-out capability at Bahrain airport exhibition
Shairco Interior Projects, a full-service company with over 35 years of experience in designing and building complex interior projects from concept
to completion, has today announced its participations in the Bahrain International Airport Development Forum & Middle East Cargo and Logistics Exhibition.
The region-wide event, which will be held in conjunction with the 2ndMiddle East Cargo and Logistics Exhibition and Conference on April 1-2, 2015 at the Gulf Convention Centre in Manama, Bahrain, is organised by Arabian Reach in association with Bahrain Airport Company.
“Shairco Interior Projects is an active player in the region’s airport interior fit-out sector. We see the event as an important opportunity to present what we have accomplished so far and what other
innovative solutions we can offer the market,” said Peter Langeveld, Managing Director of Shairco Interior Projects.
The company provides proprietary products as well as custom-built solutions that include counters, booths, kiosks, check-in island canopy structures, column and wall cladding, hold room and lounge seating, loose furniture, railings, partitions, raised floors, retail area and airline lounge fit-out, ornamental structures, artwork and way-finding signage. Dubai-based Shairco Interior Projects has been involved in various airport projects across the MENA region (Algeria, Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Tunisia, UAE and Yemen), as well as in Asia, Europe and the United States.
Maersk Training, part of the Denmark-based Maersk Group and a leading provider of
specialist training and learning courses
in the energy and maritime sectors, has announced its decision to set up its first state-of-the-art training facility in the Middle East at DWC. The new Maersk
Training centre will offer companies in the Middle East, Africa and Asia’s offshore industries, particularly the oil & gas and maritime sectors, a wide range of courses designed to develop regional talent and set new benchmarks in safety and operational performance.
Located at DWC’s Business Park enclave, the facility will deploy a combination of classroom-based techniques and simulator-based instruction. The centre is scheduled to begin its first training session in Q3 of 2015.
Paolo Serra, Vice President of Business Park DWC said, “We are very happy to welcome Maersk Training to our master-planned community at DWC. The establishment of its centre marks an important milestone in our journey towards the creation of a well-rounded ecosystem for global businesses looking to get closer to their customers and expand their operational footprint.”
The news about the facility in Dubai comes shortly after Maersk Training announced two major global contracts, one with a major offshore drilling contractor and the other with oil major.
Claus Bihl, CEO, Maersk Training said, “Our new centre at DWC is an important expansion for Maersk Training. It will help us tap into one of the most economically vibrant regions in the world and support our global
and regional customers. We have invested significantly into making the Maersk Training DWC centre a world-class training facility. For instance, it will be equipped with a unique simulator environment - making it one of the few facilities outside Denmark to have such a system.”
Vijay Rangachari, Regional Managing Director, Maersk Training said, “Placing our UAE facility at DWC’s Business Park has been a natural choice for us. In addition to providing an optimal environment, we value proximity with the Al Maktoum International, which helps us maximize our competitiveness and drive cost efficiency, not least for our clients across the region.”
Established in 1978, Maersk Training has grown from providing training for companies within the Maersk Group to servicing individual students as well as major organizations within the global maritime, wind and oil and energy sectors.
Within the last three years, Maersk Training has doubled its revenue and number of training centres, and now operates in ten maritime and offshore production hubs around the globe. The company spends more than 100,000 man-days per year in training, using some of the most advanced training simulators in the world.
Oman boosts border security with SITA
The Government of Oman has deployed border management systems from air transport and government IT specialist, SITA, to facilitate visitor
movement and streamline the Sultanate’s visa and residence permit processes. The agreement establishes a layered approach to border control, providing the Royal Oman Police with an effective, efficient and flexible visa processing and security clearance process, covering eVisas, Advanced Passenger Processing and Entry Exit Visitor Information systems.
Hani El-Assaad, SITA President, Middle East, India & Africa said, “SITA is providing Oman with a fully integrated border management solution, as well as the tools to manage, monitor and operate its borders effectively. This will enable them to provide the highest quality experience at the first point of contact for its visitors, and will be flexible to facilitate future growth.”
The number of visitors to Oman is growing, and the country is anticipating significant future growth with the Sultanate of Oman’s investment program to attract 12 million visitors by 2020. Passenger traffic at Muscat International Airport has grown 329 per cent since 2007, reaching 9 million passengers in 2014. In addition, nearly half the country’s population is expatriates who require visas.
Under the agreement, SITA is deploying an extensive iBorders solution that encompasses risk assessment of traveller data from air and cruise lines, a comprehensive border control system used at immigration checkpoints
Continued on page 27
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179
Three priorities for Air Cargo: IATA
MEBAA founding chairman Ali Alnaqbi retires from Presidential Flight
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) called for further action on three vital
aspects of the air cargo business: transitioning to paperless freight processes, a focus on global handling standards for pharmaceutical freight, and tough action to ensure the continued safe transportation of lithium batteries by air.
“Air cargo has had a challenging few years. 2014 saw the first significant boost in volumes since 2010, a trend we expect to continue this year. Revenues, however, are still down from the 2011 peak, and yields are falling for the fourth straight year. I am a cargo optimist. But business improvement will only come by constantly improving the value of cargo. There is a long haul ahead to recapture lost revenues, nevertheless the prospects for the future are bright because the industry is really starting to act strategically and plan for the future,” said Tony Tyler, IATA’s Director General and CEO at the opening of the 9th World Cargo Symposium in Shanghai, China.
The transition to paperless freight finally saw lift-off in 2014, as the industry exceeded 24 per cent global e-Air Waybill (e-AWB) penetration. Key to the improvement was enhancing collaborative work across the air cargo chain and with customs authorities. A growing number of routes around the world now have the necessary regulatory approval, including, from November 2014, Shanghai. “We still have work to do to help businesses transition, but there has been a big change in the mentality of the industry. We can now look ahead and plan for the digitization of other air cargo documents, through a collaborative industry approach,” said Tyler. The industry is aiming to achieve 45 per cent e-AWB penetration in 2015 and 80 per cent in the following year.
Global handling standards for pharmaceutical goods will be an essential step towards air cargo improving its share of the US$60 billion a year pharma logistics market. The industry needs to meet customer demands for the integrity of their goods, while complying with increasing amounts of regulation from global authorities.
Tony Tyler
“If these expectations are not met, air cargo risks losing the opportunity presented by this huge market. Modal competitors to air are working hard to win this business,” said Tyler.
To help foster air cargo’s competitiveness in this growing segment, IATA has
developed a new initiative, the Centre of Excellence for Independent Validation in Pharmaceutical Logistics (CEIV Pharma). CEIV Pharma assesses and validates cool-chain processes and provides training to guarantee that they comply with all applicable standards and regulatory requirements. “The benefit of CEIV certification for all organizations will be to instill trust and confidence with shippers that the sensitive goods will be handled reliably until they reach the customer,” said Tyler.
The continued safe transportation of lithium batteries remains a key concern
for the industry. Robust regulations and guidance exist, but these are not being fully adhered to by all shippers. China is the largest producer of lithium batteries and therefore a key market. IATA has developed the Lithium Battery Shipping Guidelines in Chinese to raise awareness on this vital issue, but the issue is also one for government authorities. “Regulators need to step up. The industry is doing what it can, but without oversight, surveillance and where necessary, enforcement, compliance at the source of the shipment will be limited,” said Tyler.
assoCiatioN
After 25 years of service, Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi retires from his government position as
the Vice President of Finance and Administration at Presidential Flight, Abu Dhabi as of February 2015. This milestone of an achievement marks the end of Alnaqbi’s government service but extends his commitment to the industry exponentially, as his time will now be entirely dedicated to the continued success of the Middle East & North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA).
In his long illustrious career in this prestigious organization, Alnaqbi has seen its transition from the erstwhile Private Flight, then to Amiri Flight and onwards to the present Presidential Flight. The CEO of Presidential Flight Nadir Ahmed Al Hammadi commented to this occasion, “He is the longest serving member among the top
management team and one of the founding members. His successful career at Presidential Flight and his apparent contributions over the years will leave him with pride of achievement.” Ali Alnaqbi has indeed left his indelible legacy in various areas covering the entire range of head of state transportation including aircraft acquisition, completion, facilities creation/maintenance, logistics, risk management and aircraft financing. Alnaqbi has also been recently elected as treasury of the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) and in addition to his seat as a governing member to the board of IBAC and currently sits on the board of a number of international companies in the business aviation industry.
It is at Presidential Flight that Alnaqbi’s interest in business aviation was rooted and he quickly identified the opportunity for a business aviation venture: Royal Jet, which he founded in 2003 and held the position of Founding Managing Director for 3 years. After having worked in the private and government side of business aviation for fifteen years, Alnaqbi ‘s experience revealed the need for an association to enhance safety, security, efficiency and acceptance of business aviation throughout the region and thus he founded the Middle East & North Africa Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) in 2006.
The year 2006 was indeed a game changing one in his passion and quest for challenging roles in the orderly development of business and private aviation, not only in the United Arab Emirates but in the entire Middle East
and North Africa region. From a modest beginning with sixteen founding members, MEBAA membership has reached 235 members in this short span of under ten years. MEBAA acts as catalyser of continuing education for the industry as it has hosted six increasingly successful editions of the MEBAA Show, a growing number of conferences addressing current industry challenges and opportunities (better known as MEBAA Conference in the region).
Alnaqbi founded MEBAA so that it may act as a single common voice of all members to optimize advocacy on legislative issues to various governments in the region. MEBAA members benefit from this organizations through items like collective risk management methods (MEBAA Aircraft Insurance Scheme (MAIS)), providing a platform for effective communication through joint working groups to convey issues peculiar to business aviation operators to the region’s respective regulatory authorities issues such as the GCAA in UAE and GACA in KSA.
The organization advocates a safety management culture through IS-BAO and IS-BAH training by qualified IBAC professionals and making available an opportunity for members to fulfil their Corporate Social Responsibility (CRS) through the Fly and Feed program which is a joint venture with the World Food Programme (WFP) a programme under the auspices of United Nations in its efforts to alleviate hunger from the globe, are the major initiatives undertaken by MEBAA under the leadership of Alnaqbi.
Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi
I am a cargo optimist. But business improvement will only come by constantly improving the value of cargo. There is a long haul ahead to recapture lost revenues, nevertheless the prospects for the future are bright because the industry is really starting to act strategically and plan for the future
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179
Air Freight Makes Slow Start in 2015 TIACA workshop inspires next generation of air cargo leaders
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for global air freight markets
showing a 3.2 per cent expansion in freight tonne kilometers (FTKs) in January 2015 compared to the same month last year. The growth is slower than the average of 4.5 per cent recorded for 2014.
There was much regional variation in the January performance. Asia-Pacific, African and Middle Eastern airlines expanded strongly, but airlines in Europe and North and Latin America all reported demand contractions. Although it is too early to be certain of a trend towards weaker air freight, there are at least two emerging factors which could negatively impact demand for air cargo in the coming months including declining business confidence since mid-2014 and export orders tailed-off towards the end of the year and a reversal of the positive trade-to-domestic production ratio which boosted cargo volumes last year.
“January was a disappointing start to the year for air cargo. And it is difficult to be too optimistic about the rest of the year given the economic headwinds in Europe and growing concerns over the Chinese economy. Add to that the continuing trends of on-shoring production and trade protectionism and 2015 is shaping up to be another tough year for air cargo,” said Tony Tyler, IATA’s Director General and CEO.
Regional analysis
Emerginf markets like Middle East, Africa and Asian carriers
experienced growth against other matured markets that reported dip in the air cargo demand. Middle Eastern carriers expanded FTKs 9.2 per cent. The hub strategies of the leading airlines in the region are proving successful as network and capacity expansions help satisfy demand on international routes and serve inward trade to Middle Eastern economies. Capacity jumped 18.1 per cent. Also, African airlines grew cargo volumes 5.2 per cent. While major economies such as Nigeria and South Africa are under-performing, regional trade activity is holding up. Capacity rose just 2.4 per cent, strengthening the load factor.
Meanwhile Asia-Pacific carriers grew their FTKs 6.9 per cent compared to January 2014, supported by an improvement in regional import activity. Japan’s expansion is helping regional volumes, but there could be concerns over the Chinese economy, which saw export orders contracting at the fastest pace in three years. Capacity rose 5.4 per cent. Whereas European airlines saw volumes fall 1.2 per cent compared to a year ago.
The Eurozone is facing deflationary economic headwinds and the weakness of the Russian economy is also impacting demand. Weak home demand is not being offset by North Atlantic and Asian growth opportunities. Capacity grew 3.6 per cent, further weakening the load factor. Also North American carriers experienced a 1.0 per cent fall in FTKs. This decrease, however, is most likely due to the strong result that occurred in January
2014. Underlying trends for North American volumes are positive. Trade is growing and the month-to-month comparison of FTKs shows expansion in January compared to December. Capacity fell 2.8 per cent, continuing the recent trend of improving load factor.
Latin American airlines suffered a 6.4 per cent fall in FTKs compared to January 2014. The region continues to be affected by the weakness in the key economies of Brazil and Argentina. Although other Latin American markets have increased regional trade in recent months, this has not yet translated into increased air freight demand. Capacity fell 2.0 per cent.
World Cargo Symposium
At the WCS cargo committee called for strong action to secure the safe transport of lithium batteries by air. “The 9th World Cargo Symposium was all about improving the customer experience. Air cargo’s customers, the shippers, have clearly articulated that we must do things differently or face the business moving elsewhere. The industry must embrace digital information that can be exchanged in a transparent manner, renew its focus on quality within the supply chain, and its speed has to be increased. The challenge laid down to cut 48 hours out of the average shipping time is more relevant than ever. The whole air cargo supply chain must be dedicated to moving things faster. Now we need to get this done,” said Glyn Hughes, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo.
assoCiatioN
TIACA’s latest Professional Development Workshop, held in Johannesburg, South Africa, has
inspired participants to see a bright future in air cargo. The three-day program, held in conjunction with Air Cargo Africa, attracted 18 participants from across the air freight supply chain for an interactive educational experience reflecting real world air cargo business and operational situations.
“The course challenged the way I think and made me realize that a change starts with me,” said Elize Werner, Branch Manager, Capetown, DN Freight, South Africa, who took part in the workshop.
The program, designed by Strategic Aviation Services International (SASI), gives participants an appreciation of each different air cargo sector by encouraging discussion and the sharing of perspectives as well as providing practical advice and insight.
The course benefitted from active participation from various senior industry leaders, including TIACA Chairman Oliver Evans, Chief Cargo Officer at Swiss World Cargo, David Yokeum, President of WCA, Franz van Hessen, Director of Cargo and Sales, Koeln-Bonn Airport, and Stan Wraight, Senior Executive Director, SASI, and culminated in students delivering presentations reflecting real-life scenarios.
“It was a challenging workshop, the teamwork and dynamics created by the group and the leaders were great,” said Thomas Schuermann, Manager, Marketing and Sales, Flughafen Dusseldorf, Cargo GMBH, who took part.
“I got a far better understanding of the industry, especially about all the different links in the supply chain,” he adds. The workshop was led by SASI’s Lilian Tan and Charles Edwards, and included practical information sessions, as well as discussion, debate, and a chance to network with peers as well as senior industry veterans.
Topics covered included market and competitive analysis, brand management, revenue management, understanding and analyzing financial statements, business ethics, and leading teams.
“The knowledge helped to refine talents related to leadership and helped me believe that there is a great future for the younger generation,” said delegate Jean Nightingale, Export Manager, DN Freight, South Africa.
Amina Ismail Omar, Cargo Interline Analyst from Etihad Airways, who also took part, added that TIACA and SASI had challenged students in a very amicable way.
“They taught us and made us better, they believed in our capabilities and I think we need people who believe in us so that we can give more,” she said.
“January was a disappointing start to the year for air cargo. And it is difficult to be too optimistic about the rest of the year given the economic headwinds in Europe and growing concerns over the Chinese economy. Add to that the continuing trends of on-shoring production and trade protectionism and 2015 is shaping up to be another tough year for air cargo,” said Tony Tyler, IATA’s Director General and CEO.
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179
Geodis Wilson names new Regional Vice President
Ulf Hüttmeyer appointed as Etihad Airways SVP Finance Equity Partners
dnata Appoints Emma Deane as Vice President Commercial
dnata has appointed Emma Deane as Vice President Commercial & Business Development. In the
role, Emma will support the growth of dnata’s UAE ground handling and marhaba operations.
Previously part of Emirates Group’s Legal team supporting dnata’s UAE and International Airport Operations until 2011, Emma also worked with one of dnata’s joint ventures, Alpha/LSG in London, as legal and commercial support for the flight catering business. She has recently completed a Master’s degree in Aviation Management from the University of New South Wales.
Vincent Dennehy, who previously held the position, retired on 28th February. Vincent joined dnata in 2001 and was an integral part of the successful
Geodis Wilson has announced the appointment of Matthias Hansen as the new Regional Vice
President (RVP), EMEA with immediate effect. Matthias has been acting as interim RVP for the last few months.
Matthias became Managing Director for Germany in 2009 and also served as Managing Director North Europe. Matthias will continue with his responsibilities in the North European region in addition to his new role, until a successor is nominated.
Commenting on his appointment Matthias said, “EMEA is Geodis Wilson’s largest region in terms of business volume and number of employees, and it has many unique challenges as well as opportunities. Building on the established organisational structure put in place by Alain since the establishment of the region in 2010, my aim is to increase market growth whilst balancing that with cost-conscious improvements in productivity”.
“Matthias has a strong network mentality and is both result and customer driven. I am confident that he will lead the EMEA region towards our strategic objectives“said Kim Pedersen, Executive Vice President of Geodis Wilson. “The region is diverse and covers a wide range of countries, so there is a real need to offer cohesive solutions to our customers’ requirements. We also have many operational advantages in this region, not least the skills of our people, and a well balanced airfreight and sea freight global offering.”
Virgin Atlantic Cargo has announced two new senior management appointments to
focus on its increasing transatlantic services and the development of its international network covering Asia, Australasia, the Middle East and Africa.
Steve Hughes will transition from his role of regional vice president sales for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) to the newly-created post of vice president sales Transatlantic. In his new role, Hughes will be responsible for the airline’s sales in the UK, US, Canada and Mexico, as well as developing Virgin Atlantic’s transatlantic joint venture with Delta Air Lines to offer more choice and benefits for its customers.
In Hong Kong, Neil Vernon becomes vice president sales international, a role that includes his current Asia and Australasia focus and is now extended to incorporate additional responsibility for sales in Dubai, Nigeria and South Africa.
Nick Jones, head of sales at Virgin Atlantic Cargo, said: “Our business across the Atlantic will increase in 2015, supported by new routes such as Atlanta and Detroit, and extra frequencies to and from several of our existing US gateways. We also expect to see
further benefits and opportunities for the airline and our customers from our joint venture with Delta Air Lines. Given that we work with many of the same customers on both sides of the Atlantic, Steve’s new role will ensure a single point of contact for those customers and enable us to react to new opportunities faster. We also expect to see continued revenue gains from the other important markets in our international network, driven by Neil and his regional team. As part of these changes to our sales structure, Marie Epstein, regional vice president sales Americas, will be leaving the airline.”
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced Ulf Hüttmeyer as its
Senior Vice President Finance Equity Partners, effective 1 April 2015. Mr Hüttmeyer, 41, joins the Abu Dhabi-based airline from airberlin where he held the position of Chief Financial Officer for the past nine years.
Mr Hüttmeyer was one of the architects of the 2011 transaction in which Etihad Airways became a minority equity investor in airberlin. The new role will see Mr Hüttmeyer work closely with Etihad Airways’ equity partner airlines, and lead the profitability analysis in Etihad Airways and build key relationships with global suppliers.
Mr James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ President and Chief Executive Officer, said Mr Hüttmeyer’s experience and expertise would benefit the airline considerably, “Etihad Airways has minority equity investments in eight airlines around the world and therefore it is vital that we build strength and depth in the financial strategy team to work with these partners on maximizing the potential synergies and mutual benefits. Ulf brings an incredibly valuable perspective to this role which will greatly benefit Etihad Airways and our partners.”
Mr Hüttmeyer, who studied Economics and holds a degree in Business Administration, began his professional career at Commerzbank in 1996. During this time he worked at Commerzbank South East Asia in Singapore for three and a half years, after which he moved to Berlin as key account manager for the eastern region. At the beginning of 2005, Mr Hüttmeyer was appointed as a Director for Commerzbank.
growth story of both dnata and marhaba Services.
Matthias Hansen
Emma Deane
Ulf Hüttmeyer
Steve Hughes
Neil Vernon
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179
Etihad Airways appoints new GM in South Africa
appoiNtmENts / tEChNoLogy
Etihad Airways recently announced the appointment of John Friel as its new General Manager in South
Africa. Based at the airline’s offices in Johannesburg, John is responsible for leading Etihad Airways’ commercial operations in South Africa as it continues to grow its presence and operations across the region.
John, a 16-year veteran in the travel sector, has a strong understanding of managing the challenges and opportunities within the industry having worked for a number of leading international airlines, where he developed excellent contacts and worked closely with the tourism industry and across the aviation and
travel trade, both in South Africa and abroad. He joined Etihad Airways in June 2014 as Regional Business Development Manager in South Africa. “We are very excited to have John take up his new position at our South African office where he will continue to drive commercial success for the airline in cooperation with its partners,” said Maurice Phohleli, Etihad Airways’ Vice President Africa Sub-Sahara and Indian Ocean.
“South Africa is a very important market for us and John has a wealth of commercial management experience and the right credentials to accelerate the growth of our business there.”
Etihad Airways currently operates seven flights a week between Abu Dhabi and Johannesburg. This, combined with a new daily service operated by its codeshare partner, South African Airways, scheduled to start on 29 March, will provide passengers with a double-daily service between South Africa and the UAE, with access to key destinations on Etihad Airways’ fast growing global network in the Indian Subcontinent, Asia, Europe and North America.
The airline has announced plans to launch new daily services to Entebbe and Dar es Salaam in May and December this year, bringing to 11 the total number of routes into Africa and the Indian Ocean, alongside Cairo, Casablanca, Johannesburg, Khartoum, Lagos, Mahé, Male, Nairobi and Tripoli.
The ‘future is personal’ in air travel
The ‘connected passenger’ has become a reality, with 97 per cent of airline passengers carrying at
least one personal electronic device. But global usage rates indicate passengers have been slow to adopt new airline and airport mobile services when travelling. Deeper analysis however, shows that some industry players are bucking the trend and achieving high levels of usage. This is according to The Future is Personal, the latest industry report from SITA, the leading global IT provider to the air transport industry.
SITA’s industry insights are based on in-depth research directly with more than 6,000 passengers; carried out at 106 airports across the world which handled 2.35 billion passengers last year and with airlines that together carried more than half the world’s passenger traffic. The research shows airlines have made significant investments in mobile services over the past four years as smartphone adoption surged and the majority now enable passengers to buy tickets, check-in and access flight information via smartphone apps. Meanwhile half of the worlds’ airports also provide flight information via apps.
Still global rollout and adoption is proving to be slower and more complex than was anticipated. Half of passengers are keen to use their mobiles to find their way around the airport, access lounges or the aircraft, provide identification at checkpoints, or make payments. The reality is though, that despite these and other services, including mobile check-in and boarding passes provided by airlines, 24 per cent of passengers have not yet used travel apps at all on their journey.
Nigel Pickford, Director Market Insight, SITA, said: “At a glance, airlines and airports might be discouraged by the slower than expected global usage rates but this hides the huge success that some airlines and airports are experiencing. Our analysis has shown that the successful ’outliers’, be they
airports or airlines, are focusing on providing excellent customer service experiences that their passengers want. They are harnessing new technologies to give personalized services at the right moment of the journey.”
SITA’s report details the desire for passengers to experience personalized services throughout their journey and explains how personalization is now expected both on the ground and in-flight. This era of continuous engagement means that passengers also expect to be kept informed during periods of disruption and given the ability to manage the changing circumstances of their journey.
The Future is Personal combines SITA’s global research with commentary and cases studies from airports and airlines that have focused particularly on using mobile services to improve the passenger experience to great success. Those featured include Alaska Airlines, easyJet, Emirates, JetBlue, Philippine Airlines, Qantas, SWISS, Cork Airport, Dubai Airports, Frankfurt Airport, Miami Airport, and Toronto Pearson International.
Kale recognised for the 6th successive year as ‘Best IT Solutions Provider’
Kale Logistics announced today it has won “Best IT Solutions Provider of the Year-2015” at
this year’s Indian Logistics & Supply Chain Summit organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC). The summit was presided over by the Hon’ble Union Minister of Road Transport, Highways & Shipping, Government of India, Nitin Gadkari. Kale has been recognized successively at prominent industry forums for its global and industry focused IT solutions.
This prestigious award have been instituted to honour and recognise the exemplary work done by IT service providers in creating global industry benchmarks and adopting industry standard best practices in delivering Logistics IT solutions to the Indian logistics industry. Kale Logistics was
conferred with the award on the basis of innovation & initiatives undertaken by it and successful deployment of its solutions for the benefit of supply chain industry.
The nominations under each category were independently evaluated by a jury formed of eminent industry luminaries and experts and the awards process was validated by Deloitte.
Chairman and MD of Kale Logistics Solutions Vipul Jain while accepting the award on behalf of Kale Logistics said, “We are very pleased to accept this recognition, especially coming from a prestigious industry body like ICC. It only gives further impetus to our efforts at unifying the Indian Logistics industry with their Global counterparts and deliver innovative and industry compliant systems.”
across Oman, a complete e-Visa solution and a centralized Visitor Information System. The entire solution, which will be fully integrated into the country’s existing border management systems, provides officers with complete information about each individual, such as biometrics and historical information, so they can focus on high-risk travellers and make timely and fully-informed decisions.
iBorders will be deployed at 28 airports, seaports and land border crossings across Oman, as well as more than 15 regional offices and more than 50 Omani embassies and consulates located across the world. All this is supported
by four data centres, providing scalable capacity and redundancy. In addition, SITA delivers a comprehensive training program to ensure all government users and technical staff have the capability to operate the system.
Dan Ebbinghaus, Vice President, Government and Security, SITA, said: “SITA has extensive expertise in delivering complex border management solutions to cater for different countries’ needs. In addition, we have particular expertise in this region because we already provide border management solutions for many of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.”
Oman boosts border security with SITA Continued from page 23
John Friel Nigel Pickford
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179
SDC Trailers continues ‘stellar growth’ with the launch of SDC Middle East
SDC Trailers, one of the largest trailer manufacturers in Europe, has announced that it has formally
established its operations in the region with the launch of SDC Middle East. The official launch took place recently at an exclusive gala event held at the Atlantis Hotel in Dubai, UAE. In an email Q&A with Consignments Mark Cuskeran, Managing Director, SDC Group discusses about the products and services with us.
What are the products offered by you for the logistics companies? Can you brief us on the after sales services provided locally?
SDC Trailers offer a wide range of products for the transport and logistics industry ranging from flat beds, skeletals and curtain siders to box vans and car transporters. Our philosophy is to provide a bespoke engineering service to our customers, offering a high value product and solid return on their trailer investment.
The trailer chassis is built at our UK production facilities and shipped to our Middle Eastern partner, a Saudi Arabian manufacturing company, to final assemble the trailers. After sales care is a high priority with SDC, we will have staff on the ground liaising with customers and working closely with our
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regional partner to ensure SDC’s quality standards and after sales service are maintained.
SDC also stock an extensive range of over five thousand OE and aftermarket truck and trailer parts, available through subsidiary company SDC Parts who will also have a presence in the region. SDC Parts portfolio includes industry leading axles, suspensions, ABS, air brakes, electrical components, landing legs, body parts and consumables. We are continually sourcing and developing our truck and trailer parts stock to ensure our customers get the best price and product offered.
What is you market share in the region and which are you key markets in Middle East?
SDC have secured a number of sizable orders in the Middle East with current customers in Saudi Arabia and Dubai. In 2014 we received a €1.5million trailer order from the Rezayat Group in Saudi Arabia and we believe there is a lot more business to be done there. Over the course of the last few years, we have identified a gap in the export market for a stronger, sturdier trailer for heavy haulage. By working closely with our existing customers we aim to increase awareness of the SDC brand and products in order to further increase our market share.
Design plays an important role, what advantageous your products provide in improving supply chain efficiency?
Innovation is at the centre of SDC’s operations and we are continually striving to streamline our product offering and improve supply chain efficiency. With significant industry experience, SDC have developed a number of innovative and flexible design features that set their trailers aside from the competition. Our unique bolt on body concept offers a highly durable chassis and minimal downtime. Easy accident repair means the trailer is
off the road for the minimum amount of time, saving operator time and money.
Safety of both materials and driver is an important part; can you brief us on the safety features of your products?
Safety is a vital aspect of the transport and logistics industry and SDC strive to meet quality standards at every stage of the manufacturing process. From 3D solid modelling of chassis frames to steel selection, chassis stress analysis, fabrication and assembly of the finished product, SDC have direct control over the trailer manufacturing process. We only install components of the highest quality, while in the process of design and manufacturing we strictly adhere to all current technical standards and safety regulations including European Whole Vehicle Type Approval (ECWVTA) and EN12642XL accreditation.
SDC’s Trombone Trailer with onboard safety features was recently shortlisted for Trailer Innovation Award. Our ability to offer flexibility in the design and manufacturing process allows customers to bespoke build a product in line with their specific requirements.
With the ‘Go green’ initiatives everywhere, can you tell us how environmental is your products?
Over the last three decades SDC have streamlined their products with
pioneering solutions that enhance trailer aerodynamics, reduce fuel consumption and associated environmental impacts. SDC have introduced a number of ‘industry firsts’ in the UK including longer length semi-trailers and our aerodynamic ‘Aeroliner’ Trailer, designed to improve fuel economy and reduce carbon footprint.
The Aeroliner curtainsider was designed so that the airflow coming from the tractor unit will flow smoothly over the trailer surfaces. The trailer has a curved rear end to the chassis, as well as a rear roof slope that incorporates vortex generators to help reduce drag behind the trailer. Manufactured to produce a 2.058m-wide rear access for loading, the trailer can hold 26 pallets while creating 12 per cent fuel savings. Other features include an air deflector at the front of the trailer, superstructure curves, an aerodynamic side skirt, aerodynamically designed curtains and mud flaps.
In 2013 the innovative manufacturer SDC launched the ‘Autoliner 7’ and ‘Autoliner 8’ trailers in response to a demand from vehicle transport operators. The semi-trailer offers increased flexibility over the standard car transporter, with additional operational and fuel saving benefits.
Royal Jet, the Middle East’s foremost private charter company, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, has
awarded SR Technics a five-year contract to maintain, repair and overhaul their CFM56-7B engine fleet. The CFM56-7B engines are currently in service on Royal Jet’s six luxurious Boeing Business Jet (B737-700 IGW) aircraft, which are used by the carrier’s prestigious VIP guests.
The work on the engines will be carried out at SR Technics’ world renowned facilities at Zurich Airport, Switzerland. The maintenance, repair and overhaul of the first of the twelve Royal Jet CFM
Royal Jet picks SR Technics engines MROengines began in the second week of February, 2015.
Commenting on the contract win, SR Technics’ CEO André Wall said, “The fact that a carrier that puts luxury, quality and unsurpassed reliability at the top of its agenda chose SR Technics as its MRO provider is significant. Royal Jet’s guests pay for a truly exceptional service. They expect the pinnacle of performance and reliability and the highest benchmarks in terms of safety. So of course we are pleased that Royal Jet has entrusted SR Technics to deliver that level of quality competitively. We
now look forward to building on our collaboration in future.”
Captain Patrick Gordon, Acting President and CEO of Royal Jet commented, “Royal Jet is recognized globally for its standard of luxury, reliability, confidentiality and safety in the private aviation industry. We are proud to only partner with suppliers who provide a first class service. The extensive technical audit and thorough tender process highlighted the superior offering from SR Technics. We look forward to working together on many future projects.”
Mark Cuskeran
Patrick Gordon
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179
Massar Solutions modernises cold chain fleet with GORICA KRONE reefers
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Massar Solutions, a market leader in vehicle rental, fleet and supply chain solutions
announced the acquisition of GORICA designed by Krone Reefer Body Semi Trailers, manufactured by GORICA Group, in a move to modernise its growing supply chain business.
The 15 metre long, state of the art semi-trailers are equipped with Thermo King SLX 400-50 chiller units. The units are capable of keeping produce frozen, chilled and fresh at temperatures ranging between -20 and +18 degrees Celsius throughout the supply chain.
Commenting, Brent Melvin, Massar’s General Manager of Supply Chain Solutions, said: “Advanced, optimized logistics solutions are imperative to meet the challenges presented by transporting food and pharmaceutical products for long distances in a harsh climate. We decided to modernise our current fleet after careful consideration of our growing operational needs alongside our clients’ requirements. We also chose technology that goes beyond the current regulatory standards in place.
According to a study by the United Nations, one third of perishables is lost or wasted globally – this equals 1.3 billion tonnes per year. Consumer health, as well as billions of dollars is at risk, as perishables move through the global chain. As the UAE imports 90 per cent of its food and it’s positioned at the centre of a USUS$9.4 billion market serving the GCC and Africa, a high level of supply chain safety becomes even more critical.
At an official ceremony, Domen Bockor, GORICA’s General Manager of Sales and Marketing handed the new trailers over to Brent Melvin, Massar’s General Manager of Supply Chain Solutions, in the presence of key representatives from both companies.
The trailers are aesthetically pleasing, as well as being more cost effective and time efficient. Highlights include consistent use of state-of-the-art telematic systems, quality fitting of best of breed components, and an innovative rear space monitoring system.
“As a market leader, it is vital for us to keep ahead of the technology curve so as to provide customised solutions that ensure an efficient, cost-effective and seamless flow of goods. The quality of the Krone vehicles manufactured by GORICA is exemplary and we are delighted to have partnered with them,” Melvin added.
The intelligent telematics system provides Massar and its customers with the ability to record and constantly monitor in real time a whole range of data via a web portal. This includes engine and driver performance, trailer temperature and payload condition,
door openings, tyre pressure, travel time and, route progress. In case of irregularities, fluctuations or unexpected events, an immediate alert is sent directly to the user’s PC via SMS, e-mail, or a popup window.
“At Massar Solutions, we consider supply chain service as not only our business but a responsibility to the wider community. A single weak link could result in food and pharmaceutical products being left in an unusable or even potentially dangerous state, and reduced waste has broader economic and environmental benefits. The tracking system is supported by dedicated customer service operators who monitor the trucks 24/7, utilising online portal and exception alerts. They are dedicated to ensuring all parameters are consistently maintained,” Melvin added.
Ivan Fornazaric, the owner and Managing Director of GORICA Group
said: “The future focus on our GORICA Frigo division and all the product options that come along with it is an imperative part of our long term strategy where we aim to penetrate and cater to the growing food and medicine distribution industry. Our aim is to offer a superior product that exceeds client’s expectations and is the market leader is setting standards. The new GORICA designed by KRONE reefer does just this, and we are honoured to be able to partner up with a market leader such as Massar Solutions to be able to offer best solutions to the cold chain market.”
Last year, GORICA Group purchased a suite of plant equipment from German company Krone in a bid to increase its refrigerated semi-trailer production capacity. GORICA Group operates three production facilities in Jebel Ali Industrial Zone Area 2 and a production facility in Dubai Industrial City (DIC).
CHAMP Cargosystems is “International IT Systems Provider of the Year in Africa”
CHAMP Cargosystems announced that it has won “International IT Systems Provider of the Year in Africa” for the second time in a row. This award
recognizes CHAMP’s contribution as an industry leader in the provision of the most comprehensive range of integrated IT (Information Technology) solutions and distribution services for the air cargo industry. CHAMP has achieved this position through the support of its customers and partners.
James Fernandez, VP of Cargo Services at CHAMP Cargosystems, commented, “As a leading provider of IT solutions to the air logistics community we are delighted to accept this award. I would like to thank all our customers and partners for their support throughout the year. We are honoured to have so
many African companies in the CHAMP community. Information technology plays a pivotal role in the transformation and modernization of the air cargo industry.
“Many African carriers, GHAs and other industry service providers have recognized this, and together with CHAMP Cargosystems continue to innovate, invest, and grow in support of the wider air cargo community. This award recognizes our efforts in delivering world-class solutions and support to world-class carriers and their service providers and partners. Our experience in delivering hundreds of projects all around the globe provides African companies with access to an extraordinary wealth of knowledge. We are a proven and reliable partner,” he concluded.
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179 traDE
Jebel Ali Free Zone ( Jafza ), the flagship free zone operation of Dubai and the trade and logistics hub for the wider Middle East Region, has inaugurated its new integrated Service Centre in Jafza South. Jafza seeks to provide all administrative services to Jafza -based companies, particularly rapidly growing business community in Jafza South and TechnoPark from the new facility. In the first-phase Jafza Service Centre will be providing all residency related services to Jafza and TechnoPark customers, under one roof.
The new Jafza Service Centre was inaugurated by HE Salma Hareb, CEO of Economic Zones World (EZW), the parent company of Jafza , and HE Engineer Essa Al Maidoor, Director-General of the Dubai Health Authority.
HE Salma Hareb in her brief address reiterated EZW and Jafza commitment to provide its customers all that is required to enhance their operational efficiency and ease of doing business.
She said, “The Service Centre will reduce lead time for residency services by more than a half. Jafza initiative reinforces our commitment to service excellence and our continued focus on providing the best - in - class services to our valued customers. Jafza is the first free zone in the entire region to provide such services under one roof following one-stop-shop concept. The credit for such a distinctive achievement goes to all our partners - DNRD, DHA, EIDA and others, and the entire team.”
HE Engineer Essa Al Maidoor in his comments on the opening of the Jafza Service Centre said it is fully in line with DHA’s strategy, which focuses on meeting the needs of customers at the fastest speed. The initiative corresponds to Dubai’s strategy to keep enhancing customer experience continuously, in terms of operational efficiency, he said. The service centre has dedicated facilities for medical check-up, Emirates ID and GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs), which are run by DHA, EIDA and DNRD respectively. The centre has a dedicated fast track VIP services which aims at facilitating its customers with immediate and effective services.
scottish exports to middle East reach 1.5 billion gbp
uaE, saudi and Egypt drive prepaid growth
Scottish exports have grown to GBP 1.5 billion in the Middle East, according to the most recent Global Connections Survey from Scottish Development International, SDI, the Scottish Government’s investment and business development agency. The UAE remains the largest market in the region, accounting for 605 million Pounds of Scottish exports, up 22 per cent from the prior year in 2012.
The GCC’s economic growth and modest inflation, combined with its broad-based commitment to helping companies to conduct business in the region, have contributed and resulted in increased figures of exports from Scotland to the Middle East. This was driven primarily by food and drink, energy, business and financial services, along with the metals, metal goods and mechanical engineering sectors.
Commenting on the global connections survey results, Tom Marchbanks, Regional Manager Middle East, Scottish Development International said, “Trade figures clearly show that the Middle East has remained a key market for Scottish companies, with food and drink being a particular success story, to a growing demand on energy, education and financial services in this region, particularly the UAE doubling its import numbers compared to larger markets in the region.’’
He continued, “Scotland has always provided an immense pool of talent that has spawned world leading products and services across the globe. The Middle East and especially Dubai has a vast demand for quality products and services.”
He concluded, “We are aware of the competition for inward investment, and we continue to increase our resources in new and emerging markets so that we can respond to global opportunities.’’ The Middle East is considered as a priority market for Scotland. Over the past few years, Scotland has participated in multiple visits with Scottish Ministerial and senior SDI teams visiting the GCC to be part of major exhibitions and conferences. This has resulted in a number of new deals and partnerships between Scottish and Middle Eastern companies.
The UAE’s prepaid sector is on track to top US$18 billion in the next five years, according to Douglas Blakey, Group Editor for Consumer Finance, speaking before the upcoming Prepaid Summit: Middle East, later this week in Dubai.
“The Middle East is experiencing rapid growth in the prepaid sector, with the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Egypt leading the way. This has been driven by top-down support for electronic payroll systems rather than
cash-based systems, alongside a rapid surge in the use of the internet and mobile devices,” he said.
Blakey predicts that growth will bring in its wake ‘innovative, practical payment solutions developed by nimble service providers across all complementary payment services’. “It is an exciting time to be involved in a sector that is able to seamlessly sync the consumer’s ability to pay across financial, retail, government and leisure spend,” Blakey stated.
He confirmed that more than 150 global and regional industry players within the prepaid sector are expected to attend the event, set to take place on March 18th at the Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi.
The Fourth Annual Prepaid Middle East Awards, supported by Visa, is once more set to recognise developments made and performance achieved over the past year
Jabel ali Freezone inaugurates service Centre in Jafza south
The Dubai Airport Freezone Authority (DAFZA) has announced that its net profit grew 48 per cent in 2014 over the previous year, with total revenues up by 13 per cent. The authority, whose total assets also climbed by 3.42 per cent, contributed Dhs 109 billion to Dubai’s non-oil foreign trade last year.
As a result of Dubai’s dynamic business activity, the demand for high-quality office spaces rose, meeting the needs of investors from around the world. Consequently, DAFZA witnessed an 11.25 per cent increase in office space acquisition and related revenue growth of 18 per cent in 2014.
HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of DAFZA said, “DAFZA’s strong performance in 2014 reflects our commitment to effectively contribute to Dubai’s economic development and solidify the leadership of Dubai as a global hub for business and investment. The positive financial results for 2014 reflect DAFZA’s vital role in attracting international investors and increasing more foreign capital inflows, which add value to the national economy.”
HH Al Maktoum added, “The successive achievements drive us to further intensify our efforts to consolidate the leadership of DAFZA as one of the best free zones in the world. We seek to continue the hard work to ensure the success of our expansion plans and strategies and keep up with current and future changes in the regional and international markets. This is in line with the vision and directions of the UAE Government.”
Dr Mohammed Al Zarooni, Director General, DAFZA said, “DAFZA continues to lead the march of leadership and excellence year after year, backed by an ambitious strategy and competitive and world-class elements, including advanced infrastructure, new projects and services, smart applications and facilities, and investment incentives. We are proud of our strong performance in 2014 which saw our remarkable progress in the implementation of projects and initiatives that will enhance DAFZA’s status as one of the most sophisticated free zones in the world.“
DaFZa records 48 per cent net profit growth in 2014
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Issue 3 March 2015 Vol. 179traDE
saudi arabia named ‘Country of honour’ for aim
Dubai Chamber to open repre-sentative office in sao paulo
DUBAI AIRPORTSEDITORLorne Riley Director of Corporate Communications
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Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry delegation from UAE visited Sao Paulo recently to finalise Dubai Chamber’s preparations of opening a representative office in Brazil’s most populous city of Sao Pauloas the Chamber delegation headed by its President and CEO Hamad Buamim carried out a series of meetings and interviews with various Brazilian economic entities.
During the two-day visit, the Dubai Chamber delegation met the Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce, and the Brazilian Stock Exchange in Sao Paulo, the Federation of Goods, Services and Tourism of the State of Sao Paulo, Association of Exporter Industries of Beef, Brazilian Association of Animal Protein, and Federation of Muslims Association in Brazil.
The delegation concluded the meetings with MarcioFranca, Vice-Governor and Secretary of Economic Development Science, Technology and Innovation, and Mr. Elias Hadad, Vice-President, Federation of the Industries of the State of Sao Paulo.
Buamim said that the Chamber delegation’s visit to Sao Paulo was very fruitful,” Our quest to raise the competitiveness of Dubai’s business community in line with the Chamber’s strategy of exploring promising markets of the world for its stakeholders while promoting the emirate’s attractive investment environment globally are showing positive signs in the Latin American market,” Buamim added.
The opening of the representative office in Sao Paulo this year will increase the number of Dubai Chamber’s overseas representative offices to five as it already has offices in Azerbaijani capital, Baku, Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa, and Erbil in Iraq’s Kurdistan region as well as one in the Ghanaian capital Accra.
One of the largest cities of Brazil, Sao Paulo attracted the greatest share of foreign direct investment during the period 2003-2013 with over 800 investment projects, followed by the city of Rio de Janeiro which had more than 200 investment projects.
Following an invitation extended to Dubai Customs, Dubai Police and Emirates Intellectual Property Association (EIPA) by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), officials from Dubai Customs took part in a joint visit to Japan. Dubai Customs’ delegation comprised Yousuf Ozair Mubarak, IPR Director, and Faisal Eissa Lutfi, Acting External Relations Director.
The delegation toured around Japanese cities, starting from Tokyo and passing through major cities such as Nagoya, Osaka and Kyoto. They visited Japan Customs where they got briefed about adopted techniques for seizing counterfeits in express mail. They were also introduced to the processes and hi-tech systems implemented by the Operations and e-Clearance Office to facilitate customs procedures.
Meeting with major Japanese trademark owners, namely Sony, Hitachi and Toyota, was productive, as the delegation explored state-of-the-art technologies used in manufacturing electronics and discussed IP protection measures. The delegation visited Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, where Mr Mubarak presented to Japanese officials Dubai Customs’ IPR protection experience and its vital role in deterring the smuggling of counterfeits into the country.
“Cooperation with Japanese companies in this domain has paid off. In 2014 alone, Dubai Customs’ trademark protection efforts involved 14 Japanese trademarks, making Japan one of the top five beneficiaries of DC’s fight against counterfeiting,” Mubarak said, pointing out to Dubai Customs’ strive to join hands with businesses from around the world in facing the global scourge of piracy and counterfeiting.
“To ensure the provision of best customs facilities to traders and businesses from all countries, Dubai Customs seeks to network with foreign business councils, as part of Irtibat, an initiative launched by Dubai Customs to nurture closer ties with foreign business communities,” Mubarak added.
Dubai Customs and Japanese officials explore joint ipr protection measures
The UAE Ministry of Economy, the organising body of Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) 2015 to be held under the patronage of Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has named the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as the ‘Country of Honour’ for this year’s event.
The move is part of ongoing collaboration between the two countries and a shared vision on supporting Foreign Direct Investment, FDI, and technology transfer in regional economies. As part of the cooperation, Invest Saudi has invited its affiliates and companies operating under its umbrella to participate in AIM 2015 which is being held under the theme ‘Sustainable Development through FDI Induced Innovation and Technology Transfer’.
Mohammed Ahmed bin Abdul Aziz Al Shehhi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Economy, says “We welcome the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as the ‘Country of Honour’ for the region’s top investment event, the Annual Investment Meeting. The move underscores the collaboration between UAE and Saudi Arabia economies focused on boosting Foreign Direct Investment in both countries. This collaboration will be extended to the rest of the participating countries in this year’s AIM.”
“Through stronger cooperation with regional and global industry leaders, we seek to exchange experiences in emerging markets and remove investment hurdles so as to allow companies to grow fast and expand their operations. These collaborations hold great potential with the wide range of Saudi participants this year, and confirmed attendance of senior officials at the Ministerial Roundtable as well,” added Al Shehhi. Saudi Arabia has always supported the Foreign Direct Investment approach as an effective way to raise the GDP and ensure active investment movement in regional markets.
