AviTrader_Monthly_MRO_e-Magazine_2013-11

Cover Story: Destination Dubai
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points out.
TAI has taken steps in reducing carbon footprint in
the manufacturing processes. “We have also taken
other environmental measures to assist the global
activities in this area. Coming to the products, we
are focused on lighter materials in our designs to
reduce the fuel consumption and carbon footprint
as well as to increase the endurance. We are following
alternative fuel initiatives in order to utilise
them in our products,” affirms Altuğ Muftuoglu.
Mr Muftuoglu adds that regarding the renewable
energy, “we have started R&D programmes with
our partners in Turkey to develop wind turbines.
Hopefully the first prototype will be in use shortly.”
ExecuJet established a base in Dubai in 1999.
centres that have sprouted all around the region
due to sudden spurts in aircraft orders and traffic.
Turkey’s location is interesting as a bridge between
the Middle East, Asia and Europe. According
to Altuğ Muftuoglu, Manager, Strategy Management,
this unique location helps to position
Turkish Aerospace Industries, Inc. (TAI) as an important
contributor to the aerospace sector in the
Middle East.
“The Middle East is an important area for Turkey,
historically and geographically,” notes Muftuoglu.
“TAI is well aware of Dubai Air Show’s importance
for the region’s countries and potential opportunities.
We are exhibiting at the show, presenting our
capabilities with a particular emphasise on indigenous
products - ANKA, T-129 and HÜRKUŞ.”
Photo: Execujet
our 36 line stations, are carried out by using environmentally
friendly materials.” Furthermore,
Mr Kavaliauskas says they [FL Technics] are always
advocating the introduction of new technologies
and digitalisation of aircraft documentation that
would have a direct positive ecological effect.
Worldwide, AAR has taken on several sustainability
initiatives within their facilities. Rahul Shah indicates
that these include smart-energy opportunities
such as replacing older, less efficient lighting
with new energy-efficient lighting and installing
motion detectors. “At our corporate headquarters
and Chicago warehouse location alone, this led to
a 50 per cent reduction in energy consumption
and we’ve replicated the approach at other AAR
manufacturing, and warehouse locations,” Shah
Despite the impressive growth figures, the Middle
East and the wider North African markets come
with challenges. TAI is enthusiastic about increasing
collaboration with the Middle East and North
African countries. “Of course, potentials come
with challenges,” admits Muftuoglu. “We believe
these challenges could be best addressed with
increased communication with our partners and
such challenges will create better product offerings
for both sides.
“We hope that the Dubai Air Show will create opportunities
to further our partnership in the aerospace
and defence fields with our friends in the
region,” says Muftuoglu.
Mr Kavaliauskas from FL Technics brings to light
the most recent political developments in the
region, particularly in North Africa, which have
influenced all aviation players. “We are closely
monitoring the development of the situation
in separate countries as well as in the region as
whole,” he says.
The theme of this year’s Dubai Air Show is “Green”
referring to environmentally friendly initiatives. A
conference and dedicated area at the show takes a
closer look at carbon trading, bio-fuels, emissions
and technology. Airlines, airports, authorities and
industry were able to present their latest ideas,
plans and new findings at the conference and to
the aviation industry and press. So what ‘green’
credentials are some of the exhibitors engaged?
FL Technics and its sister companies for example
are actively implementing and developing green
initiatives in both internal and external operations,
according to Paulius Kavaliauskas, Head of
Business Development at FL Technics.
“With regard to aircraft maintenance, for instance,
our engine washing services, delivered at all of
All roads led to Dubai.
Photo: Airbus
AviTrader MRO - November 2013