Wednesday 30 March 2011

Google may soon launch Apple iTunes rival



Computerworld - Reports are swirling around the Internet that Google is in the advanced stages of testing a music service that could one day rival Apple iTunes.

The latest reports the the company is internally testing the service, dubbed Google Music, come just weeks after a developer at the XDA Developers forum noted online that he stumbled upon Google Music when he fired up the Honeycomb version of Google's Android operating system on a smartphone.

Both reports come amid ongoing online murmurings that Google is working away on a social networking platform behind closed doors.

For months now, online chatter has focused on whether Google is secretly trying to build its own social network, which would focus on gaming, music and/or movies. Potential names for the service include Google Me and Google Circle.

Analysts say Google Music is not likely to be the social platform that the industry has been anticipating.

However, some do note that it could be a big piece of Google's social puzzle.

"I don't see this serving as Google's primary, stand-alone social networking service with which it will compete with Facebook et al," said Brad Shimmin, an analyst with Current Analysis.

"That won't preclude Google from releasing a broader, general social networking platform. If anything, this music service will incorporate social networking facilities, perhaps tying into ... any potential Google offerings, such as the rumors surrounding a Google Me service," he added.

Hadley Reynolds, an analyst with IDC, agreed that Google Music won't be the company's social platform. "The music service category is well-defined on its own terms at this point," he said.

Reynolds said it would be a good idea for Google to take on Apple and its popular iTunes service. While iTunes has had a significant head start, a similar service from Google for Android devices could chip away at Apple in a lucrative business.

"The iPod and iTunes, and later the iPhone and the iPad and iTunes, has given Apple close to a decade to define this mobile music experience in its own terms," said Reynolds. "The proliferation of Android devices is creating a customer base that will pull Google into competition with Apple in these areas."

And this might be a good time for Google to go after iTunes as Apple must make moves to fend off competition on another front as well.

Amazon.com announced today that its new Cloud Drive online storage service will enables users to store music in the cloud and, in the U.S., stream it to an Android app.

Previously, Amazon has offered an MP3 store where customers can buy music using a Web browser or the MP3 app for Android, which now includes the Cloud Player functionality.

That means Google, Apple and Amazon may just be vying for a lot of the same customers.

"Interestingly, both Google and Amazon target the Android device as their player of choice, which in a way does encourage greater competition between Android and iOS in terms of offering customers with a rich music experience on both devices," said Shimmin.

Shimmin said Google has a good shot at making a go of a music service if it's able to build a strong record label ecosystem.

"I don't think this can turn into a losing proposition for Google," he added. "I think it's an important move to further secure and bolster Android's popularity as a mobile device capable of matching Apple's iOS blow for blow."

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GCAA and GCAS Sign a Cooperation Agreement to Develop Specialized Human Resources

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: In line with the UAE government's strategy aimed at establishing active partnerships between government and non-government entities in order to achieve the country's main objectives, the UAE General Civil Aviation AuthorityGeneral Civil Aviation AuthorityLoading... (GCAAGCAA
General Civil Aviation Authority
GCAA
UAE | Governmental Institutions
 News | Profile | Officers
) signed yesterday (28 March) a cooperation agreement with the Abu Dhabi Airports CompanyAbu Dhabi Airports Company
Abu Dhabi Airports Company
ADAC
UAE | Transport
 News | Profile | Officers
's Gulf Centre for Aviation Studies (GCAS) with the aim of developing specialized civil aviation human resources through the provision of specialized scientific, technical and administrative training courses.

This agreement falls under the GCAAGCAA
General Civil Aviation Authority
GCAA
UAE | Governmental Institutions
 News | Profile | Officers
's efforts to contribute to the development of the civil aviation sector so that it meets world standards through the establishment of frameworks for mutual cooperation with local and federal training centers in order to develop human resources and enable them to keep abreast of the latest developments in the civil aviation sector and enhance safety and security in the sector.

The agreement was signed by Mr. Omar bin Ghalib, Deputy Director General of GCAAGCAA
General Civil Aviation Authority
GCAA
UAE | Governmental Institutions
 News | Profile | Officers
, and Mr. Mohammed Abdullah Al Belooki, Director General of Gulf Centre for Aviation Studies (GCAS) on behalf of ADACADACLoading... and in the presence of official from both sides.

Under the agreement, the two parties will cooperate through all means to support initiatives and programs proposed and provided by either of them in order to achieve the goals of the agreement. The agreement allows the GCAAGCAA
General Civil Aviation Authority
GCAA
UAE | Governmental Institutions
 News | Profile | Officers
to use the free seats allocated to it for non-profit purposes under the terms of the agreement and to send lists of candidates for the training courses. On the other hand, GCAS will provide the GCAAGCAA
General Civil Aviation Authority
GCAA
UAE | Governmental Institutions
 News | Profile | Officers
with experienced trainers as and when needed, subject to availability.

"Through various mechanisms and agreements, the GCAAGCAA
General Civil Aviation Authority
GCAA
UAE | Governmental Institutions
 News | Profile | Officers
aims at promoting specialized human resources, particularly UAE nationals, in the civil aviation sector. There is a remarkable shortage of UAE nationals who are qualified to work in this sector, and one of the priorities of the GCAAGCAA
General Civil Aviation Authority
GCAA
UAE | Governmental Institutions
 News | Profile | Officers
is to enhance safety in this sector, which is strongly connected with the safety and security of the civil aviation staff and customers." said bin Ghalib.

"This agreement with the GCAS is part of the GCAAGCAA
General Civil Aviation Authority
GCAA
UAE | Governmental Institutions
 News | Profile | Officers
's efforts in this respect. It also highlights the recognition by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) of the significant role played the GCAAGCAA
General Civil Aviation Authority
GCAA
UAE | Governmental Institutions
 News | Profile | Officers
in providing specialized training courses, conducting and publishing research, hosting conferences and organizing forum for the Middle East aviation sector. This shows the leading position of the GCAAGCAA
General Civil Aviation Authority
GCAA
UAE | Governmental Institutions
 News | Profile | Officers
in this regard." He added.

On his side, H.E. Khalifa Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Airports CompanyAbu Dhabi Airports Company
Abu Dhabi Airports Company
ADAC
UAE | Transport
 News | Profile | Officers
(ADACADACLoading...) said that "the GCAS was able to occupy a leading position in the field of civil aviation training through an international network of training centers and specialized world class trainers. This agreement will enable us to have more contribution to the development of specialized UAE cadres in this vital sector which is a key component of the economic development of the UAE."

The Gulf Centre for Aviation Studies is a leading and specialized training center for the aviation sector. It has contracted with global and regional specialized providers of training courses, and employs many qualified trainers in various fields. It aims at enhancing the level of safety and security in the aviation sector.
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Burj Khalifa stages Education Without Borders in Dubai

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai was present at the inauguration of the Education Without Borders (EWB) 2011 at the Burj Khalifa in Dubai on Monday. Prominent persons present during the opening ceremony were Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, and Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chief Executive of Emirates Group Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

Other prominent persons who graced the occasion were Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research; Minister of Cabinet Affairs Mohammed Abdullah Al Gergawi; Minister of Education Humaid Mohammed Obeid Al Qattami; Director General of Dubai Department of Information Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum Al Maktoum; Mohammed Ibrahim Al Shebani, Director of Dubai Ruler's Court; and Commander General of Dubai Police Lt. General His Excellency Dahi Khalfan Tamim.

Renowned educational leaders from across the world and a large gathering of national and international students were also part of the inauguration. EWB conference, hosted by the Higher Colleges of Technology, is expected to host about more than 1,000 students representing 300 universities from around 130 different countries, including UAE.
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UAE General Civil Aviation Authority discusses Air transport ties with Aeronautical Authority of Austria

WAM Dubai, March 28th, 2011 (WAM) -- The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has discussed bilateral air transport relations with Aeronautical Authority of Austria.

This came during a meeting of Omar bin Ghaleb, Deputy Director General, UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), with officials of Aeronautical Authority of Austria at Vienna.

During the meeting, both countries expressed their desire to further promote their aeronautical relations and progress was achieved on the Air Services Agreement text.

Finally, the Austrian Authorities advised the UAE GCAA about the approval they have granted for Emirates additional frequencies to Vienna on Summer 2011 schedule, reaffirming the excellent air transport relations between the two countries.


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Tuesday 29 March 2011

Foul by 3 European carriers

A top official of the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has accused three European airlines of using unfair means of competing against UAE carriers. “Lufthansa, British Airways and Air France are hindering UAE carriers by any and all means,” Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the (GCAA), was quoted in a report by Emarat Al Youm.

He added that Canadian airlines were also allied with these three companies in their plans.

“The three companies are seeking through dishonest methods of competition to strike alliances with other global airlines and close airspace to UAE companies, to restrict movement in global air navigation and reduce their competitiveness,” Suwaidi was quoted as saying.

He, however, also said: “The GCAA is conducting studies to address this situation, including the option to negotiate with these companies. But this takes time, because it needs to issue new laws and regulations.” Al Suwaidi also revealed that Deputy Director-General of the GCAA, Omar Bin Al Ghalib, has started talks with the Austrian authorities in Vienna on the request of Emirates to double its flights to the European country.

Al Suwaidi said the GCAA is seeking to open new markets for carriers in Africa, Asia and Europe, and Latin America, and that the UAE plans to conclude 25 agreements during the current year, focusing on open skies, which allows increasing the number of the flights significantly.

He added that the airports of Seer Bani Yas and Dalma will begin work before the end of the year, while the GCAA is still considering a request by the Ajman International Airport.


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Wing and a prayer

Gulf carriers are ruling the world of aviation, and they have no plans to rest on their laurels

The roots of Middle Eastern aviation can be traced back to 1937, when an air agreement was signed to allow flying boats to use Dubai as a base. It was not until 1960 that a runway – made of compacted sand – was built, and that runway is now less than the length of the terminal buildings at the current Dubai International Airport. By any measure, the growth of the aviation industry in the Gulf has been exceptional.

Helped by its strategic location as an ideal location in which to refuel intercontinental flights, the big European carriers selected the Gulf as an ideal stopping-off point, but local authorities soon realised that this was a potentially massive revenue stream. First came Gulf Air – which was originally owned by Qatar, Bahrain, the UAE and Oman – followed by Emirates, launched in 1985. In its 25 years of operation, Emirates has grown to become an international powerhouse, led by chairman and CEO Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, who ranks fourth on our list.

Emirates is now the world’s third-biggest airline by capacity, and its biggest in terms of international scheduled passenger kilometres flown. By 2020, the airline will be operating around 250 aircraft, boosted by around 70 A380 ‘superjumbo’ aircraft.

Aside from Dubai International Airport, Emirates is likely to move to its new home in the next 15 years or so, out in the desert near Jebel Ali. Al Maktoum International Airport is part of the $33bn Dubai World Central project, and is set to be the world’s largest airport.

But Emirates is not the only carrier to take advantage. Qatar Airways – led by CEO Akbar Al Baker (ranked  at No.24 on our list) has built a brand based on luxury and affordability. Like Emirates, it is investing hugely in infrastructure, with its landmark New Doha International Airport set to open next year. The UAE’s flag-carrier, Etihad, also has significant growth plans, and is set to break even for the first time this year.

All three airlines have sucked intercontinental traffic through the Gulf’s hubs, raising hackles at more traditional carriers in the process. But if British Airways, Lufthansa and the like are worried now, they are likely to be even more concerned over the next decade or so, if the Gulf’s aviation plans amount to fruition.


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Google Nexus Tablet Idea Makes Sense: 10 Reasons Why

News analysis: Google might be closing in on plans to develop its own tablet. It’s an idea that makes perfect sense and something that the company should stick with. A Nexus tablet would help both Google and its Android partners.
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Google Nexus Tablet Idea Makes Sense: 10 Reasons Why
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 A new report has surfaced, claiming Google is in the process of working with LG to release a Nexus tablet over the summer. For now, details are slim and neither Google nor LG have commented on the possibility of such a launch. But that hasn’t stopped the rumor mill from guessing what the device will offer, when it will actually be released, and much more.

Rather than do that, however, perhaps it’s a better time to consider whether or not Google should really launch its own Nexus tablet. To some, Google’s decision to release an Android-based tablet might make little sense. As a software provider, its goal should be to attract hardware vendors so its operating system will run on those devices; not to compete with them. But those comments are short-sighted. As Google has shown in the smartphone market, offering its own Nexus device hasn’t hurt its relationship with vendors one bit.

It’s undoubtedly a smart idea on Google’s part to launch its own Nexus tablet. Such a device could do wonders for its Android operation and the tablet market as a whole. The sooner its tablet comes out, the better.

Here’s why:

1. A proof-of-concept

A Google Nexus tablet could be the proof-of-concept that the company needs to get Android off the ground in the tablet market. Though many are launching soon, right now, there are few Android tablets on store shelves. For the most part, customers don’t know what to expect. Google has the opportunity to use its own Nexus tablet to show both customers and other vendors what a true Android tablet can offer.

2. Google’s brand can help Android devices

Right now, the top companies in the Android tablet space, including Motorola and Samsung, are having trouble selling their devices. Consumers and enterprise customers are turning to the iPad 2 to whet their tablet appetites. But Google can change that. It has the brand recognition that not even those companies can match. For the most part, consumers trust Google. If customers like what they find with Google’s Nexus Tablet, and Android vendors do their best to follow the search giant’s lead, Android-based devices should see stronger sales after the release of Google’s option.

3. It worked in the smartphone market

This wouldn’t be the first time that Google would deliver its own hardware in partnership with another company. It has done the same in the smartphone space. And as history has shown, Google-branded products have done nothing to hurt Android sales or the company’s relationship with other vendors. In fact, it helped turn customers’ attention towards Android. Now, the platform is selling extremely well. If that plan has worked in the smartphone space, why wouldn’t it work in tablets?

4. LG seems like a winner

If Google is in fact partnering with LG for its Nexus tablet, it’s a smart move. LG has developed some worthwhile Android-based smartphones and the company’s tablet, the T-Mobile G-Slate by LG, looks to be a fine platform for those who don’t want the iPad 2. LG has a long history of making solid products, and by partnering with the company, Google could dramatically improve the chances of its tablet succeeding.


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Google, MasterCard, Citigroup Huddle on Android Phone Payments

Google, MasterCard, Citigroup Huddle on Android Phone PaymentsFurther details have emerged regarding Google's mobile-payment plans for Android smartphones, which includes using near-field communication technology.

Google is working with credit card providers MasterCard and Citigroup to let consumers make purchases by waving their smartphones at point-of-sale terminals made by VeriFone Systems, the Wall Street Journal said.

The service, which involves embedding chips, software and sensors based on the NFC (near-field communication) short-range wireless technology in Android mobile devices, will launch later this year. Google declined to comment on this report.

MasterCard and Citigroup debit and credit card owners would pay for goods and services with a mobile-payment application for the Samsung Nexus S, a smartphone based on Google's Android 2.3 "Gingerbread" operating system, which includes native NFC support to enable mobile payments.

Future Gingerbread phone models, such as the Samsung Galaxy S II, could also include this technology.

To entice users to try its mobile-payment system (and to make money from it), Google would offer targeted ads for discount offers from local merchants.

Google is testing Google Offers, a fledgling, Groupon-like local deals service. A Nexus S smartphone user could come within close proximity to a participating store and receive offers for discounted goods. Google could take a cut of any transaction facilitated by this deal connection.

The Journal's report comes less than two weeks after Bloomberg said Google teamed with VeriFone Systems to test mobile payments on thousands of cash registers in New York and San Francisco. VeriFone Systems makes credit card readers for cash registers that let consumers pay by tapping their smartphones.

Google's move with the credit card giants is part of a broader push to turn the smartphone into a wallet across several vertical markets. Making the smartphone a wallet would help users transition away from feature phones.

Phone makers appreciate this because it would help their handsets find homes among hundreds of millions of consumers. Carriers are pushing the mobile-payment plan because it means more data consumed, which translates to more dollars. To wit, Verizon Wireless, AT&T and T-Mobile have teamed on ISIS to enable such mobile payments.        

Internet companies such as Google can insert themselves in the middle of the commerce equation, connecting businesses with consumers. Google would learn a lot more about consumer behavior in the process, boosting its ad targeting capabilities.

Google isn't the only smartphone platform proprietor looking at NFC. Research in Motion is building Blackberry phones with NFC, while Apple is building NFC for a future iPhone release.   
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Monday 28 March 2011

UAE accuses 3 European carriers of 'dishonest competition'

A top official of the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) has accused three European airlines of using unfair means of competing against UAE carriers. “Lufthansa, British Airways and Air France are hindering UAE carriers by any and all means,” Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the (GCAA), was quoted in a report by Emarat Al Youm.

He added that Canadian airlines were also allied with these three companies in their plans.

“The three companies are seeking through dishonest methods of competition to strike alliances with other global airlines and close airspace to UAE companies, to restrict movement in global air navigation and reduce their competitiveness,” Suwaidi was quoted as saying.

He, however, also said: “The GCAA is conducting studies to address this situation, including the option to negotiate with these companies. But this takes time, because it needs to issue new laws and regulations.” Al Suwaidi also revealed that Deputy Director-General of the GCAA, Omar Bin Al Ghalib, has started talks with the Austrian authorities in Vienna on the request of Emirates to double its flights to the European country.

Al Suwaidi said the GCAA is seeking to open new markets for carriers in Africa, Asia and Europe, and Latin America, and that the UAE plans to conclude 25 agreements during the current year, focusing on open skies, which allows increasing the number of the flights significantly.

He added that the airports of Seer Bani Yas and Dalma will begin work before the end of the year, while the GCAA is still considering a request by the Ajman International Airport


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UAE seeks investments in aviation to meet demand

ABU DHABI — The UAE on Tuesday called for more investments in aircraft, airports and new aviation facilities to help cater the growing number of passengers in the region.

The call was made by Minister of Economy Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri at the first meeting of the Directors General of Civil Aviation in the Middle East hosted by the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), in cooperation with theInternational Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

The minister pointed out that the current stage required a shift in focus to keep pace with the current changes and emerging challenges with demand for air transport is growing rapidly.

The ICAO estimates that the number of passengers will grow at a yearly rate of 4.6 per cent until 2030, which means that the number of passengers, currently 2.3 billion, could double to 5 billion, and it will definitely be higher by 2050.

“We need more investments in aircrafts, airports and new aviation facilities in order to cater to the hundreds of millions of additional passengers. This means that several hundred thousand of air aviation staff members need to be trained on managing and operating complex systems and technologies yet to be invented.

“This also requires close cooperation with other countries and other stakeholders in the industry, including passengers, to maintain an integrated global air transport system and facilitate its growth in order to meet the unprecedented growth in demand for air transport.”

The three-day meeting is attended by many directors general and officials of civil aviation authorities in the region.

Al Mansouri stressed that a united vision was essential for the effective implementation of the aviation safety and security system worldwide, and that inefficiency in any part of the system would threaten the whole 
global network.

“Therefore, countries are collectively responsible for the implementation and maintenance of an efficient safety and security system. Regional cooperation and coordination is necessary to ensure proper safety and security mechanisms are in place to enhance regional dialogue and sharing information in order to protect and develop aviation interests in the region,” he added.

The minister further emphasised the necessity to adopt open sky policy in the region saying that some countries are slow when it comes to adopting open sky policies despite all efforts made by the ICAO in encouraging all contracted countries to adopt the free policy, and that still some countries are committed to hold onto protective restrictions.

Raymond Benjamin, the Secretary General of ICAO, said in his speech the global air transport system is arguably as safe as it has ever been, and that ICAO has completed the development of a global safety information exchange mechanism and system.

He said that at the last ICOA assembly meeting, member states adopted a resolution which made ICAO the first United Nations agency to lead a sector in the establishment of a globally harmonised agreement for addressing its CO2 emissions.

“The Resolution includes a global goal of 2 per cent annual fuel efficiency improvement up the year 2050,” Benjamin added. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General, GCAA said: “The meeting discussed a number of topics and issues related to the development of the civil aviation sector. Points of view varied, but all aimed at achieving this goal in the light of the many changes in the region, which call for intensive efforts to reach an advanced level of bilateral and regional cooperation in all fields of interest to all stakeholders in line with the future outlook of the sector.”


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Crashed plane had no flight recorder

Investigators trying to piece together the cause of a plane crash in the UAE that killed four people are facing delays over a lack of any data recording device on the plane.

The news emerged yesterday as the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) released details of a preliminary report into the fatal accident.

All four people on board were killed when the American Grumman G-21 amphibious aircraft crashed on February 17 at Al Ain Airport about 4pm.

The report said that shortly after take-off, the aircraft veered to the left and crashed at taxiway K, which is parallel to the runway.

“The marks that were left by the aircraft at the taxiway exhibited that it had impacted the ground in nose down and left bank attitude,” the GCAA said in a statement. “No signs of inflight break-up or pre-impact fire were observed in the vicinity of the accident site.” It said that the aircraft had been modified some time before entering the UAE last August, however investigators are trying to get more details on the modifications from the American National Transport Safety Board.

The GCAA added that the investigation was being slowed down as, under Federal Aviation Regulations of the United States, the aircraft was not required to be equipped with flight recorders.

The aviation body said it is using alternative methods to unravel what happened, such as forensic examinations of the wreckage.
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Wing and a prayer

Gulf carriers are ruling the world of aviation, and they have no plans to rest on their laurels

The roots of Middle Eastern aviation can be traced back to 1937, when an air agreement was signed to allow flying boats to use Dubai as a base. It was not until 1960 that a runway – made of compacted sand – was built, and that runway is now less than the length of the terminal buildings at the current Dubai International Airport. By any measure, the growth of the aviation industry in the Gulf has been exceptional.

Helped by its strategic location as an ideal location in which to refuel intercontinental flights, the big European carriers selected the Gulf as an ideal stopping-off point, but local authorities soon realised that this was a potentially massive revenue stream. First came Gulf Air – which was originally owned by Qatar, Bahrain, the UAE and Oman – followed by Emirates, launched in 1985. In its 25 years of operation, Emirates has grown to become an international powerhouse, led by chairman and CEO Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, who ranks fourth on our list.

Emirates is now the world’s third-biggest airline by capacity, and its biggest in terms of international scheduled passenger kilometres flown. By 2020, the airline will be operating around 250 aircraft, boosted by around 70 A380 ‘superjumbo’ aircraft.
Aside from Dubai International Airport, Emirates is likely to move to its new home in the next 15 years or so, out in the desert near Jebel Ali. Al Maktoum International Airport is part of the $33bn Dubai World Central project, and is set to be the world’s largest airport.

But Emirates is not the only carrier to take advantage. Qatar Airways – led by CEO Akbar Al Baker (ranked  at No.24 on our list) has built a brand based on luxury and affordability. Like Emirates, it is investing hugely in infrastructure, with its landmark New Doha International Airport set to open next year. The UAE’s flag-carrier, Etihad, also has significant growth plans, and is set to break even for the first time this year.

All three airlines have sucked intercontinental traffic through the Gulf’s hubs, raising hackles at more traditional carriers in the process. But if British Airways, Lufthansa and the like are worried now, they are likely to be even more concerned over the next decade or so, if the Gulf’s aviation plans amount to fruition.
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Saturday 26 March 2011

Thales says near agreement on UAE offsets

(Reuters) - France's Thales (TCFP.PA) said on Friday it was close to agreement with the United Arab Emirates on the offset rules in possible arms contracts after a diplomatic row was disclosed by a French newspaper.

La Tribune daily reported that French diplomats had warned Thales that French interests were at risk over the company's stand on offsets, or counter-trade, as France campaigns to sell Rafale warplanes to the Emirates. [ID:nLDE72N2B0]

"This negotiation has been going on for several months and like all negotiations has experienced some highs and lows. We are currently in a state of convergence," a Thales spokesman said, adding the company was surprised about the leak.

"The negotiation should be completed in coming weeks."

Thales makes radar for the French warplane, which is built by Dassault Aviation (AVMD.PA).


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UAE seeks investments in aviation to meet demand

ABU DHABI — The UAE on Tuesday called for more investments in aircraft, airports and new aviation facilities to help cater the growing number of passengers in the region.

The call was made by Minister of Economy Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansouri at the first meeting of the Directors General of Civil Aviation in the Middle East hosted by the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), in cooperation with theInternational Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

The minister pointed out that the current stage required a shift in focus to keep pace with the current changes and emerging challenges with demand for air transport is growing rapidly.

The ICAO estimates that the number of passengers will grow at a yearly rate of 4.6 per cent until 2030, which means that the number of passengers, currently 2.3 billion, could double to 5 billion, and it will definitely be higher by 2050.

“We need more investments in aircrafts, airports and new aviation facilities in order to cater to the hundreds of millions of additional passengers. This means that several hundred thousand of air aviation staff members need to be trained on managing and operating complex systems and technologies yet to be invented.

“This also requires close cooperation with other countries and other stakeholders in the industry, including passengers, to maintain an integrated global air transport system and facilitate its growth in order to meet the unprecedented growth in demand for air transport.”

The three-day meeting is attended by many directors general and officials of civil aviation authorities in the region.

Al Mansouri stressed that a united vision was essential for the effective implementation of the aviation safety and security system worldwide, and that inefficiency in any part of the system would threaten the whole 
global network.

“Therefore, countries are collectively responsible for the implementation and maintenance of an efficient safety and security system. Regional cooperation and coordination is necessary to ensure proper safety and security mechanisms are in place to enhance regional dialogue and sharing information in order to protect and develop aviation interests in the region,” he added.

The minister further emphasised the necessity to adopt open sky policy in the region saying that some countries are slow when it comes to adopting open sky policies despite all efforts made by the ICAO in encouraging all contracted countries to adopt the free policy, and that still some countries are committed to hold onto protective restrictions.

Raymond Benjamin, the Secretary General of ICAO, said in his speech the global air transport system is arguably as safe as it has ever been, and that ICAO has completed the development of a global safety information exchange mechanism and system.

He said that at the last ICOA assembly meeting, member states adopted a resolution which made ICAO the first United Nations agency to lead a sector in the establishment of a globally harmonised agreement for addressing its CO2 emissions.

“The Resolution includes a global goal of 2 per cent annual fuel efficiency improvement up the year 2050,” Benjamin added. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General, GCAA said: “The meeting discussed a number of topics and issues related to the development of the civil aviation sector. Points of view varied, but all aimed at achieving this goal in the light of the many changes in the region, which call for intensive efforts to reach an advanced level of bilateral and regional cooperation in all fields of interest to all stakeholders in line with the future outlook of the sector.”


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Dubai World signs final debt restructuring deal

Dubai: Dubai World has signed the final agreement on its debt restructuring plans with all 80 creditors, signifying an end to approximately 12 months of negotiations.

"We appreciate the cooperation of all the bodies for the completion of the restructuring agreement," Shaikh Ahmad Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation and Chairman and CEO of Emirates airline and Group, announced in a statement released by the Dubai Government Media Office and the Dubai World board of directors.

"We are very optimistic in Dubai World's capability to overcome the repercussions of the global financial crisis and all its challenges," he said.

The deal to restructure its nearly $25 billion debt has been divided into two phases. In the first phase, $4.4 billion will be paid over five years and in the second phase $10.3 billion will be paid over eight years at a fixed interest rate of 2.4 per cent. The amount includes debt held by the banks while the remaining debt is held by the Dubai government.

"The announcement has been largely expected since September but now it's been finalised there is more confidence that the restructuring plans of other entities will happen. There are other similar structured entities with the similar creditors. One detail we didn't know before was the exact interest rate. Now that it has been announced it gives you a blue print for future restructuring plans," Joe Kawkabani, managing director of equities asset management at Algebra Capital told Gulf News.

Dubai World's main lenders include Royal Bank of Scotland Group, HSBC Holdings, Lloyds Banking Group, Standard Chartered, Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank and Emirates NBD who, according to Dubai World have offered their full support to the restructuring plan.

"Standard Chartered welcomes the agreement and we remain confident about the prospects of the UAE, which is the largest business for us in the region," a spokesperson from Standard Chartered said.

Ensuring fairness

Mohammad Al Shaibani, director general of the Dubai Ruler's Court and a Dubai World board member, said the terms of the deal were set up to ensure fairness. The conglomerate will now continue with its operations and focus on its development and growth goals in the next phase.

"We are determined to take this organisation to a new phase of growth to help it continue its role along other prominent Dubai organisations in consolidating a strong and highly developed economic base that takes into account the highest standards of integrity and transparency," said Shaikh Ahmad.

The statement added that the value of Dubai World assets in various parts of Dubai World have recorded very good growth in the past few months. DP World which published its results today has announced a 35 per cent profit in 2010.

State-owned Dubai World shocked the financial world when it first announced in November 2009 that it would delay payments on its debt worth $23.8 billion. This was followed by the formation of a three-member Supreme Committee chaired by Shaikh Ahmad to oversee the company and its restructuriong plans.


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Emirates confident of Vienna flights

Emirates Airline says it is confident plans to almost double its flights to Vienna will go ahead despite a disagreement with authorities in Austria.

The claim follows a series of disputes over landing rights in countries including Germany, as flag carriers try to fight off competition from the Dubai airline.

Emirates is aiming to increase its number of flights to the Austrian capital from Dubai by six to 13 a week from next Sunday.

"Talks continue with the Austrian authorities to resolve a technical disagreement concerning the air services agreement between the UAE and Austria, and our additional flights [for] which passengers have booked [and] Emirates has invested in promoting and hired new staff for," Emirates said.

The additional services would help the Austrian economy, the airline added. "Emirates is a strong partner for Austria, supporting business, trade, exports and tourism - not only within Austria but throughout our network of destinations," it said. "Key stakeholders in Austria agree the additional flights will be an important boost to the Austrian economy."

The carrier said it had decided to launch the extra services in response to strong demand, as it had flown more than 1 million passengers to Vienna since its flights to the city started in 2004.

The Austrian civil aviation authority declined to comment, but confirmed negotiations were taking place between the two parties.

Peter Malanik, the co-chairman of Austrian Airlines, which is owned by Lufthansa has spoken out against Emirates in the country's press, accusing the airline of expanding without concern for profitability and claiming Austrian had to scrap services to Mauritius and Australia because of competition from Emirates.

The airline has faced a number of obstacles as it expands its fleet and network. Emirates also clashed with Lufthansa this year after the German carrier tried to prevent it from being granted landing rights at an airport in Berlin that is due to open next year. Lufthansa said it was concerned that Emirates had an unfair advantage, with the carrier flying to four airports in Germany, while it flies only to Dubai International Airport.

Last year, Air France tried to block Emirates and Etihad Airways from expanding their services to French cities.

But in January the airlines were given the green light by French aviation authorities for plans to increase flights to cities including Paris.

Emirates has also had attempts to increase its flights to Canada blocked, despite years of talks, resulting in a diplomatic row.


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Friday 25 March 2011

The world first certified 'TrainAir Plus' Centre by ICAO is GCAS in Abu Dhabi


Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: Gulf Centre for Aviation Studies (GCAS), the training arm of Abu Dhabi Airports CompanyAbu Dhabi Airports Company
Abu Dhabi Airports Company
ADAC
UAE | Transport
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(ADACADAC
Abu Dhabi Airports Company
ADAC
UAE | Transport
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), was certified today from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAOInternational Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO
International Civil Aviation Organization - Middle East
ICAO
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) as an advanced 'TRAINAIR PLUS' training centre, effectively becoming the world's first certified aviation training centre.

The certificate was delivered in a ceremony held at Al Bateen Executive Airport attended by H.E. Raymond Benjamin, ICAOICAOLoading... Secretary General, H.E. Omar bin Ghaleb, Deputy Director General, UAE General Civil Aviation AuthorityGeneral Civil Aviation Authority
General Civil Aviation Authority
GCAA
UAE | Governmental Institutions
 News | Profile | Officers
(GCAAGCAALoading...), and H.E. Khalifa Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Airports CompanyAbu Dhabi Airports Company
Abu Dhabi Airports Company
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.

The certification followed an extensive audit upon which GCAS has successfully met the membership requirements to become a TRAINAIR PLUS training centre. The audit was conducted by ICAOICAOLoading... at the centre's facilities late last year covering the facilities' quality, instructors' qualifications, training materials, teaching methods and the centre's reputation within the international aviation training community. TRAINAIR PLUS is an evolution of the TRAINAIR programme launched in 1992 featuring a modern, effective course development methodology and certification framework that revolves around a decentralised approval process for courses and education materials. The new upgrade in the program adopts the ICAOICAOLoading... Training Policy and the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals initiatives.

Speaking on the occasion, H.E. Khalifa Mohamed Al Mazrouei, ADACADAC
Abu Dhabi Airports Company
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Chairman, said: "GCAS continues to excel in its field and is quickly getting noticed in the international arena as a leading training centre based in the UAE. The advanced TRAINAIR PLUS programme will allow GCAS to share its educational resources with other members, promoting the country's knowledge sharing and exporting capabilities."

From his side, H.E. Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General, GCAAGCAALoading..., said: "This is an achievement that the UAE aviation industry should be proud of. We have today demonstrated that aviation training capabilities here in the UAE are on par, and in this case, exceeded that of other countries with leading aviation industries.

Commenting on the certification, H.E. Raymond Benjamin ICAOICAOLoading... Secretary General said: "By certifying Gulf Centre for Aviation Studies as the first associate member in the TRAINAIR PLUS programme, we have today marked the final milestone in the process of enhancing the current TRAINAIR programme. The overhauled programme ensures that it is capable of continuing to play an instrumental role in aiding aviation training centres to develop and share valuable knowledge to meet future challenges within the aviation community."

Over the past months, GCAS has quickly risen in the ranks of aviation training centres globally, becoming one of the leading facilities of world-class calibre. Last year the centre became the exclusive JAATO aviation training centre in the region and the first certified centre to deliver courses by Airport Council International and has also won the accolade of "Training and Education Provider of the year 2010 in the Middle East Region" during the Aviation Business Awards 2010 ceremony held at the Emirates Palace.

-Ends-

About GCAS
The Gulf Centre for Aviation Studies (GCAS), a GCAAGCAALoading... certified centre of excellence, was created to serve the aviation security training needs of Abu Dhabi Airport Company, its subsidiaries and the region. GCAS has partnered with leading international organizations such as JAA-TO and ACI to ensure that industry best practices and leading-edge courses are brought to the Middle East. Through its own proprietary courses and those of its partners, GCAS provides the region with cost effective training solutions to address the challenges of the 21st century aviation industry.

With its new facilities at Al Bateen Executive Airport, GCAS offers its students the unique chance to observe a leading international airport in operational circumstances. No other training organization can provide the relationships that GCAS has created to ensure that the latest technologies and trends are observed in practice.

The Gulf Centre for Aviation Studies will offer ongoing training programs covering all sectors of the aviation business including:

    * Airline

    * Airport

    * Cargo

    * Management

    * Regulatory / Civil Aviation

    * Safety and Security

Go to GCAS's website at www.gcas.ae to see our latest course offerings, or contact training@gcas.ae for more information.

About Abu Dhabi Airports CompanyAbu Dhabi Airports Company
Abu Dhabi Airports Company
ADAC
UAE | Transport
 News | Profile | Officers
(ADACADAC
Abu Dhabi Airports Company
ADAC
UAE | Transport
 News | Profile | Officers
)
Abu Dhabi Airports CompanyAbu Dhabi Airports Company
Abu Dhabi Airports Company
ADAC
UAE | Transport
 News | Profile | Officers
(ADACADAC
Abu Dhabi Airports Company
ADAC
UAE | Transport
 News | Profile | Officers
) is a public joint-stock company wholly owned by the Abu Dhabi Government. It was incorporated by Amiri Decree number 5, issued on 4 March 2006, to spearhead the development of the Emirate's aviation infrastructure. In September 2006, ADACADAC
Abu Dhabi Airports Company
ADAC
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assumed responsibility for the operation and management of Abu Dhabi and Al Ain International Airports. In 2008, ADACADAC
Abu Dhabi Airports Company
ADAC
UAE | Transport
 News | Profile | Officers
added Al Bateen Executive Airport (an exclusive private aviation airport), and Sir Bani Yas and Delma Island Airports to its portfolio. These airports are geared to serve the various segments of air travellers, the aviation marketplace, and will help contribute to Abu Dhabi's development as a destination for both business and leisure tourism.

Currently under way is the multi-billion dollar re-development and expansion of Abu Dhabi International Airport designed to increase the overall capacity of the airport to more than 20 million passengers per year. As part of this redevelopment, a second runway and a third terminal have been completed.

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