The Comfort Quotient

Belying fears of an economic recession in the US, spiralling fuel costs and challenging environmental concerns, the two-day Aircraft Interiors Middle East in Dubai drew the spotlight on in-flight accoutrements that make flying not just pleasurable but also actualising.

Dubai played host to the Middle East’s first dedicated aircraft interiors show with the President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Dubai Airports, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed al Maktoum, declaring that the Gulf would again drive aviation forward.

Inaugurating the two-day Aircraft Interiors Middle East (AIME) on June 16, Sheikh Ahmed said, At the IATA (International Air Transport Association) annual general meeting two weeks ago, the world’s airlines expressed their concerns about the spiralling costs of aviation fuel, the economic downturn in the US and the challenge of environmental pressures all of which, they say, could lead to a slump in the airline industry over the next year. While we hear of airlines around the world cutting back routes and cancelling orders, in the Gulf we are continuing to see growth. Although some routes may be affected, others are growing at a rapid pace. That is why Emirates Airlines continues to push for the deliveries we need for our new fleet and why we believe our growth will continue. We need and expect the 22 aircraft due to be delivered this year.

Stressing on the growing significance of the aircraft interiors market, Sheikh Ahmed said, Increasingly, what is happening in the cabin through design and installation is having a huge impact on areas such as weight, connectivity and, of course, passenger satisfaction. This industry is producing new ideas that save weight, which in turn saves fuel and, therefore, save money. Outlining the advantages to aviation companies setting up shop in Dubai, he said, Innovation, breathtaking and imaginative design, challenging and creative thought are all embraced by Dubai.