Aviation Expo Set For Next March

A middle-eastern Farnborough? Well, maybe not, but Abu Dhabi would like expand their growing aviation presence in the middle east.

To that end, officials have announced APEX, or Aviation Procurement Expo. From 19 through 21 March next year, Abu Dhabi, one of seven Emirates comprising the United Arab Emirates, will host the event.

The ultimate goal is the further expansion of the Emirate's Etihad Airways, and the city's airport. Etihad is one of the world's fastest growing airlines with a current $8 billion order for 29 new aircraft. Passenger levels are expected to grow by 150 per cent from 1.2 million in 2005 to 3 million by the end of this year, with equally strong cargo growth.

Abu Dhabi's airport is also expanding. Abu Dhabi Airports Company began an ambitious $6.8 billion dollar project to upgrade the city's airport and facilities.

Abu Dhabi already boasts one of the regions largest and most active maintenance and repair facilities. The Gulf Aircraft Maintenance Company, or GAMCO, maintains facilities at the airport and contracts with several major airlines in the area.

Air France and Lufthansa, in cooperation with GAMCO, are planning new maintenance facilities there as well.

Etihad Airways and GAMCO will sponsor APEX, which will focus on three sectors, aircraft, airports and airlines, each with its own pavilion.

The event's organizer says APEX is a highly targeted commercial forum. They want face to face time between the world's aviation movers and shakers and key decision makers in Abu Dhabi aviation.

Dubai, another of the seven Emirates, recently announced the formation of the Dubai Aerospace Enterprise. That organization has pledged a $15 billion  investment toward regional aviation development.

The United Arab Emirates is home to Emirates Airline, Etihad Airways, Air Arabia and Royal Jet.

Abu Dhabi sees in APEX an opportunity to remain at the forefront of the aviation industry in the area.

FMI: www.aviation-uae.com