Aviation key UAE growth driver: Sheikh Ahmed

Sheikh Ahmed tours the Dubai Airport Show. - Supplied photo

Aviation sector will continue to drive the UAE's all round economic growth on the back of rising passenger numbers and airport expansion projects, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, said on Monday.
"With passenger numbers expected to continue their growth trajectory and drive airport expansion projects to accommodate the demand, the UAE's aviation sector remains a key driver of our economic growth," Sheikh Ahmed, who is also Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates airline and Group, said at the inauguration of the Dubai Airport Show.
The three-day show has lined up the participation of 375 exhibitors from 60 countries showcasing more than 50 new technologies and innovative products at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Organisers said with all the co-located events, the 19th edition of the event is offering an ideal platform the Middle East, Africa and South Asia's aviation authorities, companies and individuals to come together and collaborate with international experts and leaders to improve global aviation.
The co-located events include Air Traffic Control Forum, Airport Security Middle East, Global Airport Leaders Forum, Women in Aviation, General Assembly and CAPA Middle East & Africa Aviation Summit.
Daniyal Qureshi, group exhibition director at Reed Exhibitions Middle East, organisers of the Airport Show, said the show has been a clear sell-out, reflecting the industry's continuing vibrancy and investment potential for expanding facilities and new technologies at airports and the aviation industry in general.
Delivering the Airport Keynote address at CAPA Aviation Summit, Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports Corporation, said Dubai World Central is set to handle 240 million passengers with personalised experience in the future. 
"The hub model is the right and sustainable model, which is benefiting Dubai," he said. - issacjohn@khaleejtimes.com