Palm Aviation appoints regional industry veteran to senior management position

Mr Saideh is a 25-year veteran of the regional aviation industry, and joins Palm Aviation from SR Technics where he was Middle East Regional Sales Director for the largest independent MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul) business.

He has also operated as a consultant to the business jet sector, working across a range of aircraft manufacturers and types, as well as business jet operators. He will take up his new position in January 2009.

Commenting on his appointment, Mohammad Saideh said:

"This is an exciting new challenge with a company that has clear and ambitious plans. The timing is perfect as the GCC aviation market continues to grow and mature, even within the context of a difficult global economy which is hurting the industry in other regions but which is also creating opportunity. We aim to develop the current services portfolio, through new alliances and partnerships, and attract new customers."

Palm Aviation has set itself the goal of achieving 35% revenue growth per annum by extending its services to air traffic inbound to the Middle East and Africa originating from Europe and the CIS countries. The company recently signed an MOU with JorAMCo in Jordan, and has announced an investment in a new FBO (fixed base operation) at Dubai World Central.

Samer Dabbagh, Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of Palm Aviation, adds:

"Mohammad Saideh will have a special responsibility for marketing, including branding, advertising and new business development. He brings with him substantial aviation industry experience and a strong network of contacts in the Middle East and in international markets, including the UK, Switzerland, Germany and France. His appointment is a significant step in our development and is a clear signal of our intention to rapidly develop the business base and reach of Palm Aviation, beyond the Middle East."

Palm Aviation recently announced the first fixed base operation (FBO) at Dubai World Central (DWC) Aviation City in Maktoum International Airport at Jebel Ali, which is home to the world's largest Maintenance Repair Overhaul (MRO) centre. The FBO investment will total around Dhs40m. Under the agreement, Palm Aviation will extend its existing global flight support operations centre from its existing Dubai Airport Free Zone office to DWC Aviation City.