Global IT companies seek share of Middle East's USD10 billion airport spend

"Aviation technology is a globally competitive market, as integrated data systems form the backbone of modern airport operations," said Georges Hannouche, managing director, Bayanat-DPS. "The increasing flight volume and emergence of new airlines mean airports are looking for the most effective data management systems to safely control airplanes in the sky and on the ground."

Infrastructure spending at the UAE's flagship airports of Abu Dhabi and Dubai is set to hit nearly US$3 billion alone, as preparations for the next generation of air travel gets well underway. In addition, investment at Doha International Airport and Kuwait International Airport has seen spending on technology across the region reach record levels.

"Technology spending at airports throughout the Middle East and particularly within the GCC is increasing rapidly as governments diversify their economies to capitalize on the boom in tourism across the region," said Hannouche. "We are seeing an exponential growth in demand for the latest data and communication systems, as airports seek to upgrade their flight management capabilities."

In recent weeks DPS and its partner Park Air Systems, have completed the installation of a multi-million Dirham ground movement radar system, at Dubai Airport, which will track and monitor aircraft as they move around the taxiways and aprons. Other major contracts will be announced soon.

DPS, the region's leading integrator of airport data infrastructure, is showcasing the latest technological innovations during the Middle East's premier airport supplies event, together with its partners Park Air Systems, Sensis Corporation, Barco and Tailor Made Systems.

DPS, which has over 20 years experience in data and telecommunication systems, designs and implements state-of-the-art data communication and turnkey airport projects across the region. It has installed instrument landing systems, radars and flight information displays at airports across the UAE, including Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Fujeirah.

As some airlines struggle to survive in today's competitive landscape, airports continue to invest in technology, says Hannouche. "Airports throughout the Middle East are advancing their technological capabilities. They see it is as necessary to their long-term prospects," he said.

The trade show, at the Airport Expo in Dubai, has attracted more than 130 exhibitors from almost 30 countries.