DWC Aviation City endorses inaugural Aircraft Interiors Show

The project which targets global aircraft interiors, airline cabin systems and in-flight entertainment manufacturers, providers and suppliers is a sponsor of the show which responds to a growing demand from the Middle East's rapidly expanding commercial and business aviation operators.

"'The business aviation sector in the GCC which has an over 400-strong fleet has been forecast to double within the next five years. Dubai's aviation future is being driven by projects like Dubai World Central which reflect the emirate's strategic vision of transforming the region into a global hub for trade and commerce," explained Khalifa Al Zaffin, DWC's Executive Chairman.

"The MRO centre at DWC Aviation City announced at last year's Dubai Air Show will be the world's biggest in land area earmarked for development, and will be able to handle all types of aircraft from light jets to superjumbos such as the A-380.

"'The region's commercial aviation sector is buoyant. The business jet industry itself is a case in point with 15,000 jets worth a total of Dhs700bn that will be purchased over the next ten years."

DWC Aviation City, spread over 6.7 square kilometres, is being designed as a one-stop centre for all aviation related operations.

"This DWC component will host all aviation manufacturing, MRO, aviation support services, design and consultancy, research and development, aviation training, product and parts, light manufacturing units and high-technology industries," said Abdulla Al Qurashi, CEO, DWC Aviation City.

"We have already initiated discussions with all top global aircraft suppliers and buyers and we intend to reach out to many more during AIME 2008."

Infrastructure work is ongoing on phase 1 of DWC Aviation City.

Individual developers will be given an opportunity to build their own hangars and facilities within a free zone area on long term lease.

Tenants will also be given air side and land side access to the adjacent Al Maktoum International Airport.

This will provide direct access to tenants, reducing turnaround time and improving customer service.

Construction on DWC Aviation City has already commenced, with start of operations planned for 2009.

Al Maktoum International Airport goes live with initial operations by end-2008 and has been designed to handle in excess of 120-150 million passengers and 12 million tons of cargo annually.

Infrastructure costs for Dubai World Central currently stand at Dhs120bn.