Events

Dubai,13 November 2024: flydubai, the Dubai-based carrier, makes its debut at the Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS) 2024, taking place between 13 and 15 November at the Sakhir Airbase in Manama. The carrier will showcase the retrofitted cabin interiors on a Boeing 737-800 aircraft, featuring its flagship lie-flat seats in Business Class. Visitors on day one and day two of the show will be able to experience the new onboard cabin interior which is now available across the majority of flydubai’s fleet, providing customers with a more consistent and elevated travel experience. Commenting on flydubai’s participation in the Bahrain International Airshow, Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said: “The Bahrain International Airshow is an important event that highlights the advancements and innovations within the aviation industry in the region. We are excited to be here for the first time underscoring our commitment to the Bahraini market which we have been proudly serving since 2009. This Airshow represents an opportunity for us to showcase our newly retrofitted cabin interior and reflects our commitment to passenger comfort, integrating cutting-edge technology and design to elevate the flying experience.” The multimillion dollar retrofit programme was launched earlier in 2024. The carrier has retrofitted 15 Boeing 737-800 aircraft this year and will complete the retrofit on two more aircraft before the end of the year. The programme will continue into 2025 which will see the airline complete the retrofit on up to 20 aircraft in its fleet, providing its passengers with a consistent and enhanced experience across its fleet. flydubai’s retrofitted cabin interior also features exceptional inflight entertainment in Economy Class with a full HD, 11.6-inch screen, with a wide selection of movies, TV shows, music and games in English, Arabic and Russian. Bahrain is an important market for flydubai where the carrier operated more than 2,800 flights between January and October this year. The carrier first started operating to the market in 2009 and has carried more than four million passengers between Dubai and Bahrain to date. The carrier currently operates 31 weekly flights between Dubai and Bahrain and continues to see strong demand on the route. Today flydubai has built a growing network of more than 125 destinations in 55 countries across Africa, Central Asia, the Caucasus, Central and Southeast Europe, the GCC and the Middle East, South Asia as well as Southeast Asia. The carrier has opened more than 90 new routes that did not previously have direct air links to Dubai and is served by a young and efficient fleet of 88 Boeing 737 aircraft.

Hong Kong,6th November 2024: The inaugural Super Terminal Expo 2024 opened today at AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong,to more than 500 international and local aviation professionals. The opening ceremony was graced by a host of dignitaries including the Honourable Michael Wong Wai-lun, GBS, JP, Acting Financial Secretary of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and Vivian Cheung, Acting CEO, Airport Authority Hong Kong.Esteemed government officials and influential members from industry associations were also present, signalling the event’s considerable significance and their shared dedication to driving innovation in terminal operations.This groundbreaking event, set to run from 5 to 7 November, attracts industry professionals from all around Asia and beyond, focusing on the future of passenger and cargo handling. The vast exhibition space is alive with activities, showcasing a range of exhibitors from the global arena, all united by the theme: “Redefining Passenger and Cargo Handling Experience through Technological Innovation.” More than 60 airports and related authorities, including Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). Others (in alphabetical order) include Airports of Thailand, Beijing Daxing International Airport, Changi Airport Group, Clark International Airport, Haneda Airport, Incheon International Airport, PT Angkasa Pura Indonesia, Shanghai Airport Authority, Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, Zhejiang Airport Group and more. Over 100 participating companies include (in alphabetical order): ADB Safegate, AECOM, Arup, Collins Aerospace, COMAC, HKIA, Huawei,Keeta Drone, Leonardo, NEC, Nuctech , SITA, The Second Research Institute of CAAC and many more. “As technology continues to weave intricate connections within our airports, the significance of uniting to address endless challenges and opportunities cannot be overstated,” said Paul Burton, Managing Director, Asia-Pacific, Aviation Week Network, and STE advisory board member. “The Super Terminal Expo 2024 exhibition and conference provides the perfect platform for industry leaders and innovators to come together, share insights, and collaborate on solutions that will shape the future of terminal operations.” Focusing Content on Cultivating the Future of Air Passenger and Freight Hubs Beyond the dynamic exhibition floor, the STE conference program further enriches the experience. It features a distinguished roster of speakers—industry leaders, visionaries, and experts—who are set to deliver insightful presentations and participate in engaging panel discussions. These activities aim to address the latest challenges, trends, and advancements in airport and terminal technologies, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of how to shape the future of air travel and logistics. Notable Sessions include: • Airport Hub Strategies and APAC Challenges: An insightful panel discussion on airport hub development strategies featuring leaders from Airport Authority Hong Kong, IATA, Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) APAC, SITA and Huawei. Moderated by Air Transport World, the session explores collaborations with governments and key challenges in the Asia-Pacific aviation sector. • Safe Skies, Seamless Journeys: Harmonising Safety Standards and Airport Systems: This panel discusses innovative strategies and technologies to enhance safety and security in passenger terminals. Featuring experts from Nuctech, Arup, and TAPA APAC, the session covers advanced threat detection, crowd control, and solutions to global airport challenges for a secure and seamless travel experience. • Elevating Efficiency: Innovations and Challenges in Air Cargo and Terminal Ground Handling in Asia: The session features industry leaders from HACTL, CAUC, Airport Authority Hong Kong, and IBS Software, exploring the opportunities and challenges in building a comprehensive air cargo ecosystem. Participants evaluate strategic options and discuss factors influencing airports’ air cargo performance and competitiveness. • Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Forum | From Concept to Reality: Unlocking Air Mobility in China: The AAM Forum, held with the main conference, examines urban air mobility’s potential and challenges, particularly eVTOL aircraft testing. Session 1, moderated by Aviation Week Network, includes insights from Beihang University, Arup, and Skyports. Session 2 features representatives from EHang, Autoflight, Aerofugia, and Volocopter GmbH. Other activities expected at Super Terminal Expo include: • Airports Meet Up – Networking Luncheon: An exclusive lunch for representatives from HKIA and other major airports, operators and authorities from around Asia and further. This event provides a unique opportunity to engage with industry peers, share insights, and discuss the latest trends and challenges in airport operations. • Super Terminal Expo Gala Dinner & Awards: Celebrate the Super Terminal Expo Awards 2024 winners at a gala dinner on November 5 held at the Regala Skycity Hotel. It is collocated with the CAPA Environmental Sustainability Awards for Excellence this year, which provides a unique opportunity to network with industry leaders, including key figures from both the airport and airline industry. • Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Pavilion: A dedicated pavilion in Hall 5 to discover leading AAM companies showcasing cutting-edge technologies and innovations that are set to revolutionise urban air transport. • Showcase: Voices of Passengers: A gallery in Hall 7 featuring quotes and testimonials, offering insights into passenger perspectives and highlighting the importance of enhancing airport experiences. • Airport Meet Up with Corporate Travel Managers: Designed for corporate travel professionals and airport representatives to explore collaborative opportunities, share insights, and discuss strategies for enhancing travel experiences and operational efficiency. Super Terminal Expo’s attendees encompass of airport executives with records of enhancing terminal operations, consultants specialising in airport development, security and technology providers equipped with the latest advancements for safer and more efficient terminals, key decision makers from airlines and ground handling companies, policymakers, financial investors interested in airport infrastructure, along with architects and designers who shape the future of airport spaces. As Michael Duck, EVP Commercial Development, Informa Markets, said in his opening speech, “The ideas we generate in these halls can shape the future of terminal operations and design, influence aviation policies, and improve the passenger and cargo handling experience worldwide. So I encourage each of you to approach this event not just as attendees, but as active participants in shaping the airports of tomorrow. Dive into those interesting discussions. Seek out different perspectives. Be bold with your ideas and generous with your insights.” Caption for the top picture: [From left to right] Mr Greg Hamilton, President, Aviation Week Network; Mr Tony Lugg, Chairman, Transported Asset Protection Association, APAC; Mr Michael Duck, EVP Commercial Development, Informa Markets;

Astana,3rd Nov 2024: Air Astana has received an Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) 2025 Five Star Major Airline Award at a ceremony held in California (USA) on 30th October 2024. This is the 5th time that Air Astana has received this particular award over the past seven years and it has also previously received Passenger Experience Awards in the Best Cabin Service, Best Inflight Food and Beverage, Best Seat Comfort and Best Onboard Entertainment System Excellence categories in recent years.“On behalf of Air Astana, I am delighted to receive this prestigious APEX Award, which is a testament to the airline’s total dedication to service excellence and passenger satisfaction,” said Zhamilya Jaxybekova, Manager of Inflight Service of Air Astana at the ceremony. “We deeply appreciate the positive feedback from so many of our passengers, which has resulted in us receiving this latest APEX award.” The APEX Five Star and Four Star Airline Awards stand as the global awards entirely based on neutral, third-party passenger feedback and insights gathered through APEX’s partnership with TripIt® from Concur®, the world’s most used travel-organizing app. For the 2025 Awards, over one million PNR verified flights have been rated by passengers spanning over 600 airlines from around the world using a five-star scale. The APEX Five Star and Four Star Airline Awards are independently certified by a professional external auditing company. In June 2024, Air Astana was honored by Skytrax, another globally renowned awards organization, for the 12th year in succession. Skytrax awards follow an in-depth audit assessment and analysis of each airline’s front-line Product and Service quality standards, covering the onboard and airport environments. Together, these two recognitions affirm Air Astana’s holistic commitment to service excellence across every stage of the passenger journey.

Bangkok, 28th October 2024: The 7th edition of Civil Aviation South East Asia Summit 2024 (CASEA 2024) will be held in Bangkok on 26-27 November, 2024. CASEA is the most enduring & impactful civil aviation event in Thailand. CASEA 2024 aims to build an ideal platform for the civil aviation industry professionals to connect, network, share and discuss the outlook, prospectus and challenges facing the whole industry. Southeast Asia is lagging in post-COVID because none of the top six nations by capacity has reached 2019 levels. It is reported that in December 2023, Thailand reached 78% of 2019 levels, Indonesia 82%, Vietnam 89%, Malaysia 78%, the Philippines 90% and Singapore 91%. In 2023, Thailand was fourth in terms of traffic recovery in Southeast Asia. Its aviation sector saw a remarkable recovery in 2023, with 121 million passengers and record profits driven by a resurgence in the country’s tourism industry. Aviation bodies project Thailand’s passenger numbers to a full recovery by 2025, though economic uncertainties and the slow rebound of some supply chains still hamper the industry. Despite the continuing growth in Thailand’s aviation industry, it remains short of meeting the increased demand. The Airlines Association of Thailand has urged the government to elevate more regional airports to become international airports, aiming to generate higher tourism revenue for 55 second-tier cities. Simultaneously, regulatory adjustments are being considered to make it easier for airlines to acquire additional aircraft to meet the growing passenger demand. Other than supply chain issues, such as fleet resumption and outdated infrastructure, along with a lack of spare parts and staff in the aviation sector also play a crucial role. Join this event to learn the state of the Thai and ASEAN aviation industry, share regional and global trends, and showcase innovations and best practices to full recovery of the air travel industry. Join this event at year end to summarize 2024 and shape your agenda for 2025! Aviation World is the official Media Partner of CASEA 2024. Email: info @innowinn.com | Web: www.civilaviationsea.com For sales and sponsorships, please contact Max via: maxtan@innowinn.com For speaking opportunities, please contact Simon via: simony@innowinn.com

Excitement is building as Dubai Helishow 2024 opens its doors this week Tuesday, October 22-24, 2024, at Skydive Dubai. This year’s show promises to be a pivotal event for companies looking to fill their order books while showcasing the latest advancements in the VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing), UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles), and helicopter industries. Attendees can expect three action packed days of exhibitions, live demonstrations, and insightful discussions, making Dubai Helishow 2024 the place to be for industry professionals eager to explore innovative solutions and forge valuable partnerships. A highlight of the event will be the NSRC; National Search and Rescue Center’s Sea rescue display, taking place on the first day. This live demonstration will showcase the skill, bravery, and cutting edge technology behind search and rescue operations, offering attendees a real time look at life saving missions in action. Maysoon Abulhoul, Chief Operating Officer of Domus Group, the organisers of Dubai Helishow 2024, shared her excitement for this year’s edition, “Dubai Helishow 2024 will be our most exciting event yet. We’re not only showcasing the future of vertical flight but also creating opportunities for industry professionals to connect and collaborate. This event offers the perfect platform to build relationships, exchange ideas, and stay at the forefront of what’s happening in the UAV and helicopter sectors.” Dubai Heliconference 2024 – A Glimpse into the Future of Vertical Aviation Running alongside the exhibition, and in the same location, the Dubai Heliconference 2024 will feature over 45 expert speakers from around the globe. They’ll dive into some of the most pressing topics in the industry, including the future of eVTOL (Electric Vertical Take Off and Landing), challenges confronting helicopter operators amidst the rise of heavy lift drone transport, and drones in military operations focusing on unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) drones. Additionally, the conference will cover AI integration in helicopters and military drone technologies. Sharief Fahmy, Executive Director of Kaman Middle East, highlighted why Dubai Helishow is a must-attend event, “Dubai Helishow is where we can meet face-to-face with the real decision makers who shape the future of the VTOL, UAV, and helicopter sectors. It’s the perfect setting for us to showcase our latest technologies and stay connected with the key stakeholders.” A Hub for Networking and New Opportunities Beyond the exhibition and conference, Dubai Helishow 2024 will offer unmatched opportunities to create valuable connections. Industry leaders from the defence, civil, and commercial aviation sectors will be in attendance, and the event is expected to attract over 8,000 visitors. It’s an ideal setting for exhibitors and attendees to explore new partnerships, exchange insights, and unlock new business opportunities.

Bahrain, 9th October 2024: Routes World, which brings together decision makers from airlines, airports and destinations to define the world’s air route networks, is heading to Hong Kong from 24-26 September in 2025. As the 2024 edition of the event drew to a close, Bahrain International Airport handed over the hosting responsibilities of the event to Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), who will be hosting next year’s event with support from Hong Kong Tourism Board. HKIA has witnessed strong passenger growth in 2024. In August, the hub handled 4.92 million passengers and 31,605 flight movements, representing year-on-year increases of 23.0% and 26.1%, respectively. Significant infrastructure investments will see the airport handle over 120 million passengers annually by 2035. HKIA is one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs, boasting an extensive global network. Over 120 airlines connect HKIA to approximately 220 destinations worldwide, including around 50 destinations in Mainland China. Since 2010, HKIA has also held the title of being the world’s busiest cargo airport. HKIA is transforming into an Airport City at pace. This vision involves rigorous development in many aspects including core passenger and cargo services, multimodal regional connectivity, retail, hospitality, conference and exhibitions, entertainment, marina, and office facilities. The Airport City will be a destination in itself, a driver for local and regional business growth, a centre of technovation and a high-value cargo hub which will reinforce HKIA’s role as a growth engine for Hong Kong. By consistently uniting decision-makers from the global route development community on an international platform, Routes World has made a real impact on the world’s air services – over half of the world’s new routes are connected to meetings at the event. VPs and Heads of Network Planning from 260 carriers are expected to attend Routes World in 2025. Speaking at the handover ceremony, Steven Small, Director of Routes, said: “With half the world’s population within a five-hour flight, Hong Kong is where East-meets-West. To strengthen Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub, and to cater for the city’s long-term air traffic demand, Hong Kong International Airport is developing into a three-runway system which is due to be completed at the end of this year. Routes World 2025 will be the perfect platform for HKIA to showcase this investment.” Vivian Cheung, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Airport Authority Hong Kong, said: “It is with great honor and anticipation that HKIA carries forward the mission and prepares for hosting Routes World in September 2025, in our beautiful city of Hong Kong. Routes World 2025 will provide unparalleled opportunities for industry professionals to come together, witness firsthand the various advancements at HKIA, and experience the unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures that define our city.” Routes World 2025 will take place at AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong, from 24-26 September 2025.

On Saturday 5 October, decision makers from the world’s airlines, airports and destinations will come together at Bahrain International Circuit to mark the start of Routes World 2024, the annual global route development forum. According to IATA, total global passenger numbers are expected to increase 10.4% year-on-year in 2024. Recognising the critical role of the air transport sector in supporting millions of jobs worldwide, Routes World is set to convene in Bahrain this week (6–8 October), bringing together more than 2,300 decision makers from airlines, airports, and destinations to define future global air connectivity. Marking its 29th edition, this year’s event will be attended by vice presidents and heads of network planning from 230 of the world’s biggest airlines, who will engage in over 9,000 meetings with airport and destination representatives to identify new route opportunities. Carriers in attendance will include Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Emirates Airline, Delta Air Lines, China Eastern Airlines, Lufthansa Group, Air Canada, International Airlines Group, Riyadh Air, Turkish Airlines, Japan Airlines, Air France, Gulf Air, Oman Air and Air China, among others. View the attendee list. Association leaders, airline CEOs and industry heavyweights will deliver over 10 hours of actionable insight during the Conference Programme. Confirmed speakers include: • Jeffrey Goh, Chief Executive Officer, Gulf Air Group Holding • Con Korfiatis, Chief Executive Officer, Oman Air • Tony Douglas, Chief Executive Officer, Riyadh Air • Adel Abdullah Ali, Chief Executive Officer, Air Arabia • Steven Greenway, Chief Executive Officer, flyadeal • Justin Erbacci, Director General, ACI World • Vivian Cheung, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Airport Authority Hong Kong • Christoph Schnellmann, Chief Executive Officer, Noida International Airport • Julian Jäger, Chief Executive Officer, Vienna Airport The Routes World conference programme is sponsored by Airbus, Expedia Group Media Solutions, and Noida International Airport. In partnership with Low Season Traveller and the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), Routes World 2024 will host the inaugural Tourism Seasonality Summit. Taking place on October 8, the summit will bring together thought-leaders from destinations, airports and airlines to explore innovative solutions for sustainable growth beyond peak tourist seasons. Confirmed speakers include: • Sara Ahmed Buhiji, Chief Executive Officer, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) • Sthembiso Dlamini, Chief Executive Officer, Gauteng Tourism Authority • Stacy Cox, Chief Executive Officer, Turks & Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association • Colin James, Chief Executive Officer, Antigua & Barbuda Tourism • Petra Roach, Chief Executive Officer, Grenada Tourism Authority • Yrjötapio Kivisaari, President and Chief Executive Officer, Visit Oulu The Tourism Seasonality Summit is sponsored by Milan Airports and YesMilano. This year’s event will be hosted by Bahrain International Airport. Capacity from Bahrain hit a record high in August 2024, helped by the addition of several new routes launched in recent months. Bahrain Airport Company also reported a 13.2% increase in passenger volume at the airport, serving 4.6 million travellers in the first half of 2024. Opened in January 2021, the new Passenger Terminal offers greater capacity for passengers, cargo and commercial activities. It has doubled the airport’s capacity to more than 14 million passengers and 130,000 aircraft flights annually, in addition to a handling capacity of 4,700 bags per hour. Hosting Routes World will showcase the significant opportunities that the Kingdom has to offer to airline decision makers from across the world. Steven Small, director of Routes, said: “We are delighted to be holding the 29th edition of our flagship event, Routes World, at Exhibition World Bahrain. The Kingdom of Bahrain has emerged as a prominent regional hub for exhibition and conference tourism. It is a destination set for growth with significant investment in strategic infrastructure and tourism projects which are set to further catalyse growth and reinforce Bahrain as an international tourism hub.” With previous host destinations of Routes World seeing air route network expansion outpace competitors by 5.2%, I am confident that this event will fuel further growth of the MICE and tourism industries for the Kingdom. Over 680 of the world’s leading airlines, airports, destinations and industry suppliers will be represented at the event this week, with more than 100 of these organisations exhibiting or sponsoring. This is a global platform for the Kingdom of Bahrain – over 110 countries will witness first-hand the opportunities it has to offer.” Mohamed Yousif AlBinfalah, Chief Executive Officer of Bahrain Airport Company, said: “We are honoured to host Routes World 2024 and welcome aviation leaders from across the globe to experience Bahrain’s exceptional hospitality and connectivity. This event aligns perfectly with our vision to establish Bahrain as a global aviation and tourism hub, leveraging our strategic location and world-class infrastructure. This is also in line with Bahrain’s vision and our five-year strategy to connect the Kingdom to 100 destinations by 2026 and increase the number of airlines operating out of Bahrain International Airport.” Routes World provides a significant platform for industry leaders to connect, collaborate, and shape the future of aviation. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in high-level discussions, share insights on emerging trends, and explore new partnerships that can drive growth and innovation across the sector. The presence of such influential decision-makers creates a fertile ground for forging collaboration and unlocking new opportunities within the global aviation market.” About Routes Events Routes events, part of Aviation Week Network, are unique annual forums dedicated to the development of new air services. Regional route development forums are held in the Americas, Asia, Europe and Africa/Middle East. The flagship Routes World event takes place in October. The events revolve around pre-scheduled meetings, an exhibition and conference which are delivered in partnership with host stakeholders. Hosts tend to be a collaboration between airports, tourism authorities and investment partners (the bidding process takes place two to three years before the event takes place). For more information, please visit www.routesonline.com.

ADVERTORIAL As the aviation industry continues to evolve, the concept of the aerotropolis—a metropolitan subregion where the layout, infrastructure, and economy are centred around an airport—has gained significant traction. The aerotropolis model, initially developed in the West, is now rapidly emerging in Asia. Major airports like Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA), Incheon International Airport, and Delhi Aerotropolis are leading the way. These hubs are not just transportation centers but are evolving into economic powerhouses that drive regional development. This article explores the emerging trends and strategies that are shaping the future of aerotropolises, particularly in Asia, and highlights 5 key themes from the upcoming Super Terminal Expo (STE) Conference 2024. 1. Terminal Passenger Experience & Innovation The integration of advanced technologies is revolutionising airport operations, enhancing both efficiency and passenger experience. Biometrics and artificial intelligence (AI) are streamlining security processes and personalising services, ensuring a seamless journey for all travellers. Digital identities and wallets are transforming the travel experience by providing secure, convenient access to travel credentials, enabling personalised flight shopping, contactless check-in, and biometric boarding. That said, it’s essential to strike a balance between technological innovation and human interaction. While robots and holograms can provide valuable assistance, they cannot replace the empathy and understanding that human staff offer. Airports must ensure that technology complements rather than replaces human interaction, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of passengers. At the STE Conference 2024, expect sessions like Passenger Experience at Airports, with panellists from Amadeus and Malaysia Airports, to go into discussion about passenger-centric approaches, enhancing the passenger experience through innovative technologies, seamless travel processes, and personalised services. 2. Terminal Security & Facilitation Aviation security remains a top priority, with evolving threats such as cyber-attacks and the potential use of hazardous materials. The integration of biometric facial recognition and AI into security protocols offers enhanced efficiency and safety. However, these technologies also raise important questions about privacy and the balance between security and civil liberties. The conference will explore how airports can implement robust security measures without compromising passenger rights. The Safe Skies, Seamless Journeys: Harmonising Safety Standards & Airport Systems session at the STE Conference 2024 will dissect intricate challenges around cybersecurity threats and border security procedures. Experts from Nuctech and Arup will provide insights into innovative strategies, best practices, and emerging technologies that can enhance safety and security in passenger terminals. 3. Future Terminals & Sustainability The design and development of future airport terminals are undergoing a transformation, with a strong focus on sustainability. Airports are increasingly adopting green finance initiatives and exploring the use of electric aircraft to reduce their environmental footprint. Strategies for decarbonising existing airports and building new terminals that adhere to stringent environmental standards will be discussed at the conference. Environmental stewardship is becoming a cornerstone of airport operations, with energy-efficient designs and renewable energy sources being incorporated into infrastructure. Expect to sit in sessions about sustainable airports and decarbonising strategies and technology for airports and hear experts from Collins Aerospace discuss ways to reach zero carbon by 2023 during the STE Conference 2024. 4. Intermodal Excellence Maintaining robust intermodal infrastructures that facilitate seamless connectivity for passengers and cargo is crucial. This involves creating interconnected hubs of mobility that integrate various modes of transport, ensuring efficient and smooth transitions. The development of comprehensive transport networks that link air, rail, road, and maritime transport is essential for supporting the aerotropolis model. TheIntermodal Innovators: Pioneering Excellence in Logistics and Infrastructure session at the STE Conference 2024 will delve into the complex landscape of creating interconnected hubs of mobility for passengers and cargo. Experts from McKinsey and Cathay Cargo Terminals will share insights into intermodal operations. 5. Advanced Air Mobility The emphasis is shifting towards advanced air mobility solutions to enhance connectivity. The development of vertiports and the integration of eVTOL aircraft into airport operations will be crucial. The conference will feature discussions on urban air mobility with leading eVTOL suppliers and sky terminal suppliers, highlighting the future of this innovative transportation mode. Look at for the exclusive AAM forum where discussions on urban air mobility with the leading eVTOL suppliers including eHang, AutoFlight and Aerofugia and sky terminal suppliers, such as Skyports will happen. Furture of Aerotropolises: Balancing Growth, Sustainability and Passenger Experience The future of aerotropolises is shaped by a combination of technological innovation, sustainability, and a commitment to enhancing the passenger experience. As airports evolve into economic hubs, they must balance the demands of growth with the need for environmental responsibility and operational efficiency. The STE conference 2024 provides a platform for industry leaders to share insights and strategies that will drive the next wave of innovation in airport design and operations. By embracing these trends and addressing the challenges ahead, the aviation industry can create a more connected, sustainable, and passenger-centric future. The aerotropolis model, with its focus on integrating transportation, technology, and economic development, offers a blueprint for the airports of tomorrow. CALLING FOR AIRPORTS TO BECOME SUPER TERMINAL EXPO’S HOSTED BUYERS Be part of our hosted buyer program and get access to 100+ expert speakers across 80+ content sessions as they tackle key industry issues, share groundbreaking ideas, and unveil the latest innovations, FOR FREE! Plus: • Access to networking events including the STE-GALA dinner on November 5, and a hosted event at the Happy Valley Racecourse on November 6. • Take part in an “Airports Showcase”, where airports can opt to do a short presentation or have a display on-site to showcase their airport, at no costs at all. • Possible travel and accommodation sponsorship packages and more! Find out more about our tailored sponsorship program and apply to become our hosted buyer today: https://www.superterminalexpo.com/hosted-buyer-program/ About Super Terminal Expo: Super Terminal Expo is Asia’s pioneering design, construction and operations event showcasing the next wave of innovation in passenger and cargo terminal, bringing together experts and decision-makers to shape the future of terminals. Organised by Informa Markets, the world’s largest event organiser, Super Terminal Expo has strategically chosen aviation as

The 2nd Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation (APMC) was inaugurated by the Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. The event witnessed the participation of Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation, Murlidhar Mohol, President of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Salvatore Sciacchitano and Secretary of the Ministry of Civil Aviation,Vumlunmang Vualnam along with Directors General and distinguished delegates from 29 countries from the Asia-Pacific region. Addressing the conference, Rammohan Naidu expressed his gratitude to the President of ICAO for his unwavering support and congratulated ICAO on its 80th anniversary, recognizing its role in advancing global aviation standards and safety. He lauded the enthusiasm of the delegates and emphasized that the conference reflects the shared vision of the Asia-Pacific region to build a more connected, resilient and robust aviation landscape. One of the highlights was Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu’s nomination as Chairman of the APMC after being nominated by Singapore and recommended by Bhutan. Solomon Islands and Nepal supported the nomination of Viliame Rogoibuli Gavoka, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation of Fiji, as Vice Chairman of the conference. Highlighting the Growth Story of Civil Aviation in the Asia-Pacific Region, the Union Minister noted that commercial aviation in the region began nearly a century ago, and today, the region is poised to become the largest aviation market by 2035, with over 3.5 billion passengers annually. He called for strategic investments in infrastructure and collaboration among regional stakeholders to ensure sustainable and balanced growth across the sector. Growth of Indian Aviation Rammohan Naidu outlined India’s rapid advancements in aviation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said, “India’s airport infrastructure has expanded from 74 operational airports in 2014 to 157 in 2024, with plans to increase this number to 350-400 by 2047”. He also added that the domestic air passengers have more than doubled in the past decade, with Indian airlines significantly expanding their fleets. He also emphasized the government’s focus on world-class infrastructure with the development of new international airports and the expansion of major airports like Delhi, Kolkata, and Chennai. The Civil Aviation Minister also shared India’s successful Regional Connectivity Model through the UDAN scheme, which has opened up 583 new regional routes and made air travel accessible to underserved and unserved regions. He reiterated India’s commitment to making flying affordable for all citizens, with a vision of integrating helicopters, seaplanes, and widebody aircraft under the UDAN scheme.   Pillars of Aviation Emphasizing on the three pillars of aviation—Infrastructure, Integration, and Innovation, Rammohan Naidu underscored “How India has been leading the way in incorporating modern technologies like Digi Yatra, a biometric-based digital tool for seamless travel. He also highlighted India’s recent regulatory advancements in Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft, paving the way for sustainable and innovative urban air mobility.” Recalling India’s efforts in fostering a robust drone innovation ecosystem with initiatives like the Drone Didi Yojna, which aims to train 15,000 women in operating drones for agricultural purposes. The minister shared that drones have been effectively used in sectors like healthcare, rural development, and disaster relief, further enhancing economic growth and job creation. Rammohan Naidu also stressed on the government’s focus on creating a conducive business environment in aviation, with policies supporting Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services, aircraft leasing, and indigenous manufacturing. The Minister highlighted the introduction of new MRO Guidelines and the permitting of 100% FDI through automatic route have been key steps towards making India a global aviation hub. The aviation minister reaffirmed India’s commitment to safe and secure air travel, calling for greater collaboration among nations to uphold aviation safety standards. He also urged the nations in Asia-Pacific region to work together on improving navigation systems and safety in air traffic management. Sustainable Aviation Recognizing the global need for sustainable aviation, Rammohan Naidu called for increased adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and energy-efficient airport infrastructure. He highlighted India’s goal to blend SAF with jet fuel for international flights and shared the success of carbon-neutral airports in Delhi, Mumbai, and Cochin. The Minister emphasized India’s leadership in promoting gender equality in aviation, with women constituting 15% of the country’s pilots, three times the global average. India’s target is to increase women’s participation in the aviation workforce to 25% by 2025.Shri Naidu concluded by calling for a collaborative effort among Asia-Pacific members to build a skilled aviation workforce, integrate advanced air mobility technologies, and ensure the sector’s sustainability. He expressed optimism for the adoption of the Delhi Declaration, which will serve as a roadmap for elevating aviation in the Asia-Pacific region. Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol stated, “It is an honour to stand together and be a part of one of the largest events of the aviation industry in the Asia-Pacific region. It is heartening to be part of deliberations on the crucial aspects of aviation ranging from aviation safety to air navigation and from security to green aviation. The collective outcome of these deliberations would be the cornerstone of regional cooperation among various countries and will go a long way in ensuring a sustainable future of civil aviation.” Other Dignitaries Speaks Vumlunmang Vualnam, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation, in his welcome address, stated that we are honoured to gather here today with senior policymakers, aviation professionals, and delegates from Asia Pacific countries to discuss the future of civil aviation. He said “As we celebrate 80 years of ICAO, it is a moment to reflect on how far we have come and how robust our journey has been, despite the challenges faced in the past. Civil aviation in the Asia Pacific region holds great potential for growth, and this conference offers a platform to address key issues and opportunities collaboratively”. Addressing the Gathering, President, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Salvatore Sciacchitano expressed his gratefulness to the Government of India for hosting this important conference in collaboration with ICAO’s Asia Pacific Regional Office. According to