The Emirates airline business alone banked $2.9 billion, another record, after returning a $1.1 billion loss in the previous financial year as passengers began to return to the skies
AFP

The 23rd edition of the Airport Show was inaugurated by 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, at the Dubai World Trade Centre on Tuesday.

This annual exhibition for the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia (MEASA) began amid a favorable outlook for the global aviation industry, with a particular focus on the Middle East.

"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," Al Maktoum was quoted as saying by WAM.

"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, digitalization, and urban air mobility," he added.

The airport show was held after Dubai's big announcement to build the world's largest terminal. According to the announcement last month, the new terminal will handle a passenger capacity of 260 million annually and is set to be built for AED 128 billion.

Commenting on the future of Dubai's aviation sector during the 23rd edition of Airport Show, Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, said that the "expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) signifies a monumental leap for Dubai's aviation landscape."

He noted that the AED 128 billion investment will be used for building another airport as well as for "shaping the very future of air travel and reimagining the airport of tomorrow," adding that this project highlights Dubai's commitment to providing "diverse and rapidly growing number of guests, world-class infrastructure and experiences."

While DXB continues to thrive, DWC's expansion will unlock new opportunities for travel, tourism, logistics, and trade globally, as per Griffiths. He also expressed excitement about collaborating with partners and stakeholders on this transformative and ambitious journey.

The Airports Council International (ACI), predicting global passenger traffic, noted that the numbers this year will reach 9.4 billion passengers and surpass the previous record of 9.2 billion passengers handled in 2019.

The 23rd edition of the Airport Show will last for three days when more than 150 exhibitors from over 20 countries will be participating, featuring four country pavilions and over 120 buyers from more than 35 countries.

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