H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, inaugurated the 23rd edition of Airport Show at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) on Tuesday, 14th May 2024.
The leading annual exhibition dedicated to the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA) was opened amidst the brightest outlook for the global aviation industry, the Middle East in particular, after complete recovery, prospects for all-time record in passenger numbers, grand airport expansions – all consolidating Dubai’s pre-eminence as the global hub of civil aviation.
Opening the Show, Sheikh Ahmed said,
“Airport Show has evolved into a prominent B2B platform and a driving force for the airport industry to source their requirements, learn about fast-changing business dynamics and emerging trends and disruptive technologies. Every major airport is aiming to go big – in terms of growth targets, investments and innovations. This event will provide airport leaders a unique opportunity to delve into the latest advancements in airport sustainability, digitalisation, and urban air mobility.”
This year’s Airport Show is organised in the wake of the grand announcement by Dubai the plans for the construction of the world’s largest airport terminal.
The US$35 billion Al Maktoum International Airport is envisaged to have a capacity for 260 million passengers upon completion, five times the size of the current DXB. All operations at Dubai International (DXB) will be transferred to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) over the next few years. A new AED128 billion passenger terminal at the Dubai World Central will scale up passenger capacity to 260 million annually and fully absorb DXB’s operations in 10 years. It will have five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates.
The future growth of the aviation industry is exemplified by the results of Emirates, the world's largest long-haul airline, which is in a strong position for future growth after it posted a record annual profit US$4.7 billion in its financial year that ended on 31st March, up 63 percent from US$2.72 billion profit in the previous year.
Commenting on the future of Dubai’s aviation sector, Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said,
“The expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) signifies a monumental leap for Dubai's aviation landscape. With a significant investment of AED128 billion, we're not just building another airport; we're shaping the very future of air travel and reimagining the airport of tomorrow. This project underscores Dubai's unwavering commitment to providing our diverse and rapidly growing number of guests, world-class infrastructure and experiences.”
Griffiths, who addressed the Global Aviation Leaders’ Forum (GALF) collocated at the Airport Show on the opening day, added,
“As DXB continues to thrive, DWC's expansion will unlock new opportunities for travel, tourism, logistics, and trade globally. We're excited to collaborate with our partners and stakeholders on this transformative and ambitious journey, ensuring that Dubai remains at the forefront of the aviation industry for years to come.”
The Airports Council International predicts a milestone in global passenger traffic recovery in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. The Airport Show, organized by RX, brings together over 6,000 trade professionals for three days, featuring events like the Air Traffic Control Forum and the Global Airport Leaders’ Forum. Over 150 exhibitors from 20+ countries showcase advanced airport technologies. Key airport project leaders from various countries participate, supported by prominent entities including Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Dubai Airports, and Emirates Airline.
Also Read: Dubai World Trade Centre - Reasons Why You Must visit
News Source: Emirates News Agency
