Expert: Global IT firms seek share of regional US$10 billion airport investment

Published June 8th, 2004 - 03:00 GMT

Spending on airport infrastructure is estimated to hit US$10 billion over the next five years - with an increased emphasis on the latest forms of communication, navigation and surveillance systems technology - according to senior executives of Bayanat-DPS, a regional integrator of airport systems.

“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. (menareport.com)