MEBAA
CONVENTION NEWS
DAY 3
DECEMBER 12, 2024
AINONLINE.COM
The MEBAA static display area has seen steady foot traffic since the show opened on Tuesday.
OPERATIONS Bizav in Dubai Low-cost carrier shift to DWC helps free up more room for bizav at Dubai Int’l Airport | 04
POWERPLANTS Tiny turboprop Green Power aims to get EASA approval next year for a 260-shp turboprop engine | 08
DAVID McINTOSH
CHARTER Gama growing
UAE REGULATORS STREAMLINE BIZAV By Matt Thurber In an effort to attract more business aviation operators and reduce the bureaucracy involved with obtaining operational and other approvals, the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) is simplifying its processes and making it easier to communicate with GCAA officials, it said yesterday at MEBAA 2024. Under the move, GCAA is encouraging business aviation companies and those wishing to open shop in Dubai to engage with its officials. The agency has also established a new Business Aviation Advisory Council to further foster open communications. “Looking around at the stunning fleet of private aircraft, it is clear how far the UAE has come,” said Aqeel Ahmed Al Zarouni, GCAA assistant director general for aviation safety
affairs. “These efforts align seamlessly with the UAE ambitions—‘We the UAE 2031’—which underscores our commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability growth in the aviation sector. We aim to enhance our operational flexibility and appeal to private aviation operators.” The government has seen business aviation demand rising in the local market and wants to encourage this trend. “We [are here] to explore how the UAE continues to redefine business aviation through transformative initiatives designed to meet the evolving needs of our dynamic industry,” Al Zarouni added. “This growth is driven by various factors, rising wealth, evolving business travel needs, and an increasing demand for premium travel experiences. With its strategic location and world-class infrastructure, the UAE stands as one of the continues on page 20
UK-based Gama Aviation adds mobile maintenance and gains Maltese AOC | 12
WORKFORCE Help wanted in Gulf High demand for bizav in region means many open jobs, says recruiter Zenon | 18
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