Development and expansion across the Middle East, Africa and Indian Subcontinent as well as the major issues affecting operators, local authorities, airlines and passengers, all come under the spotlight as the seventh Airport Show opens in Dubai.According to research carried out by the organisers, Streamline Marketing Group, airport development and expansions worth nearly US$60 billion are currently taking place across the region, with US$ 20 billion in the UAE alone.

More than 500 suppliers - up 25% on last year - have been attracted to the three-day event at Airport Expo Dubai, including key projects such as the US$ 8.2 billion Dubai World Central International Airport, the US$ 5.5 billion New Doha International Airport project, the US$ 6.8 billion expansion of Abu Dhabi International Airport and the US$ 4.5 billion revamp of Dubai International Airport.

The suppliers represent three main areas - ‘Build’, which includes airport planning, design and construction; ‘Supply’, including technical systems and installations, security and lighting; and ‘Operate’, which includes ground handling, fuelling and air traffic control.

This year the UAE, Germany and the UK have the biggest national representation while the USA and Canada have the greatest increase in exhibitor numbers. The show also includes national pavilions from Canada, Denmark, Belgium, Italy, Singapore and the USA for the first time. All exhibitors have pre-arranged meetings with buyers representing a record 30 civil aviation authorities from across the region, including Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Egypt, China and India.

Three conferences, focusing on aviation security, ground handling and air traffic control, run alongside the show for the first time this year and will be a major highlight. The conferences, beginning today, have attracted an impressive line-up of international speakers and topics, which will generate thought-provoking debates. Sessions include ‘Securing Baghdad International Airport’; ‘Emergency response during a terrorist situation’; ‘Air traffic forecast: Outlook for 2020 and beyond’ and ‘Servicing the A380’.
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