MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)
The UAE's strategic location, state-of-the-art infrastructure and progressive policies have propelled the country to become a major player in the global aviation industry, Didier Mary, Founder and CEO of Air Expo, said in an exclusive interview with Aletihad.
Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024, underway from 19 to 21 November at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), brings together global industry leaders, innovators and aviation enthusiasts to explore the latest advancements and emerging trends in the sector.
The Air Expo has contributed to strengthening the UAE's standing in the international aviation arena since its launch in 2012, said Mary.
"By providing a forum for the execution and exchange of ideas, driving global aviation discussions, and advancing projects that will influence the future of the industry, the event aims to support Abu Dhabi 2030's vision of becoming an aviation hub," he added.
Embracing Emerging Trends
The aviation industry is undergoing rapid transformation, with trends like digital transformation, AI, and sustainable propulsion systems gaining momentum, according to Mary.
"The UAE has embraced a number of new initiatives, including air mobility and advanced pilot training programmes. By developing the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council, the Emirates has reiterated its goals to become a global leader in smart mobility, led by H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council," he said.
The Air Expo 2024 is committed to supporting this visionary initiative by hosting a high-level conference on Advanced Air Mobility, while also unveiling the first UAE-made electric aircraft, developed in Abu Dhabi, on the opening day of Air Expo 2024 on Tuesday, Mary added.
Sustainability Takes Centre Stage
Sustainability is a key theme of Air Expo 2024, and the event itself is focused on minimising its environmental impact.
"We believe that aviation's future depends on our shared commitment to sustainability," Mary stated.
To reduce the Expo's carbon footprint, organisers have adopted renewable energy solutions, waste reduction programmes, and carbon offset initiatives. The event also features paperless operations, including digital registration and e-catalogues.
"Our goal is to encourage the aviation industry to embrace environmentally responsible practices. We envision the Expo to be a catalyst in promoting sustainable aviation, encouraging practices and innovations that advance environmental objectives across the board," said Mary.
In keeping with this goal, this year's discussion will cover pertinent subjects such as "Expansion of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) & Lower Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF)" and "Navigating the Future of Air Cargo: Digitisation, E-commerce, and Sustainability."
Championing Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion remain a top priority for Air Expo, according to Mary.
He outlined the event's ongoing efforts to promote the contributions of women in aviation and inspire more participation in the industry from newer generations of women.
"Improving inclusivity and representation, in our opinion, will bring new perspectives, spur innovation, and move the aviation sector closer to improved equity, all of which will contribute to the industry's overall strength," he said.
Mary further noted that the "Women in Aviation Middle East" conference, which takes place during Air Expo Abu Dhabi 2024 under the leadership of Mevat Sultan, plays a crucial role in furthering this mission.
The conference consists of insightful panel discussions and sessions that highlight the accomplishments of women in a range of aviation roles.
Future of Aviation
Developments in drone technology and urban air mobility, along with the modernisation of commercial aviation, herald an "exciting future ahead" for the industry, said Mary.
Air Expo 2024 is set to witness the exhibition of transformative solutions, from cutting-edge air taxi prototypes to self-governing drones for a range of uses, he noted.
"By connecting industry leaders, start-ups, and innovators together, the Expo serves as a launchpad for these technologies, which we believe will revolutionise travel in the near future."
Long-term Vision for Air Expo
Looking ahead, the Air Expo's long-term vision is consistent with the Abu Dhabi Vision, which seeks to be a catalyst for technological advancement, policy development, and international cooperation in the aviation sector, Mary said.
"By supporting cutting-edge technologies, fostering discussions on regulatory frameworks, and fortifying ties among international stakeholders, the Expo hopes to broaden its impact as it grows," he added.
Mary also cited industry forecasts, which indicate that aviation manufacturers anticipate over 500,000 new jobs to be created in the sector over the next decade.
In order to facilitate this expansion, he noted that the Air Expo 2024 is hosting the first Middle East Aviation Career (MEAC) initiative this year, which offers youth training opportunities in all areas of aviation, from flight to ground operations.