A Spectacular Showcase of Aircraft & Collaborations

The MEBAA show 2024 concluded on a high note, cementing its status as a transformative platform for the business aviation industry. Over its duration, the event was marked by a series of groundbreaking announcements and collaborations, reflecting the sector’s innovation, growth, and adaptability to emerging trends.

The MEBAA show also highlighted the growing role of sustainability and technology in aviation. The show also spotlighted regional and global business expansions. Gama Aviation secured its first post-Brexit EASA air operator certificate (AOC) in Malta, allowing its managed fleet, including Gulfstream G650 and Bombardier Global aircraft, full access to the EU charter market. Similarly, Aero-Dienst received certification from the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) as an approved maintenance organisation, enhancing its MRO capabilities in the Gulf region.

THE MEBAA SHOW 2024 SHOWCASED THE MIDDLE EAST’S GROWING INFLUENCE IN BUSINESS AVIATION, WITH GROUNDBREAKING ADVANCEMENTS IN TECHNOLOGY, SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES, AND A DYNAMIC ARRAY OF AIRCRAFT, SOLIDIFYING THE REGION’S ROLE AS A GLOBAL HUB

The MEBAA Show 2024’s dynamic array of announcements and partnerships reaffirmed its reputation as a cornerstone event for the global business aviation community. From technological advancements to sustainability initiatives, the event provided a glimpse into the future of the industry, highlighting its resilience and capacity for innovation amidst evolving challenges. Some of the key announcements and deals from the show are highlighted here.

• Honeywell signed a pivotal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sino Jet, focusing on advancing aviation services and developing cutting-edge technologies.
• Ayla Aviation LLC revealed a strategic partnership with Satpelda Satellite Imagery to integrate satellite technology into aerial operations, enhancing both safety and efficiency.
• MD ONBOARD, in collaboration with Laerdal, introduced advanced inflight medical advisory solutions, redefining passenger safety and operational standards in the skies.
• Qatar Executive announced significant enhancements to its fleet. Its Gulfstream G650ER jets are set to feature Starlink connectivity, ensuring superior onboard internet access, while its Gulfstream G700 aircraft integrated the MedAire360 system. This advanced solution provides real-time medical diagnostics and security intelligence, prioritising passenger and crew safety during flights.
• Victor, a private charter platform, launched the first Arabic-language jet charter app, catering to the rapidly growing MENA market. The app reflects the region’s increasing demand for private aviation, with Victor reporting a 166 per cent surge in UAE-based bookings over the past seven months. This innovative platform also allows users to select sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for flights, underscoring a commitment to eco-conscious travel.
• Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Civil Aviation (GACA) introduced annual permits for private aircraft owners, streamlining processes and reducing bureaucratic hurdles for non-commercial flights. The initiative complements Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by facilitating private air travel and supporting the country’s growing aviation ambitions.
• Airbus Corporate Jets celebrated a standout year, with eight orders and three commitments for its aircraft, marking one of its strongest performances in 17 years. In a fireside chat, Chadi Saade, President of Airbus Corporate Jets, celebrated a record year with eight orders and three commitments, crediting post-COVID momentum for boosting business aviation as a vital tool for diplomacy, business, and cooperation. He highlighted the ACJ TwoTwenty’s unique positioning in terms of space, pricing, and operational efficiency.
• Pilatus appointed Jet Aviation at Dubai International Airport as an authorised service center for its PC-24 jets, expanding support for operators in the region.
• AMAC Aerospace diversified its offerings by introducing Starlink satellite communication systems and advanced missile defence technology for aircraft upgrades.
• UAS International Trip Support ventured into business aircraft sales and management, launching a managed fleet anchored by a Bombardier Global Express based in Sharjah. This move reflects the booming demand for private aviation in the Middle East.
• Essential Jet Solutions (EJS) partnered with MySky to leverage AI-powered spend management in procurement, streamlining processes for business aviation operators. MedAire expanded its offerings with AI-driven security updates and enhanced crew training programmes tailored for operators in the Middle East.

AN ARRAY OF DISPLAY AND UNVEILING MOMENTS

The MEBAA Show 2024 brought together an extraordinary array of aircraft, state-of-the-art technologies, and pioneering solutions, solidifying its status as the premier platform for business aviation in the Middle East and North Africa. The static display, one of the most highly anticipated highlights of the event, featured 30 aircraft from industry leaders, including Airbus Corporate Jets, Boeing Business Jets, Bombardier, Dassault Aviation, Embraer, Gulfstream, Textron, RoyalJet, Qatar Executive, VISTA, Falcon, Comlux, and Aloula Aviation. Notably, 12 exhibitors showcased their aircraft for the first time at the event, adding a fresh dimension to the static display.

Among the star attractions, Boeing Business Jets returned to the MEBAA Show with three VIP Bizliners on display: two BBJ1s and the larger BBJ2, based on the Boeing 737-700 and -800 platforms, respectively. Dubai-based Action Aviation partnered with Boeing to showcase its BBJ1 (tail number P4-999), while Abu Dhabi-based Royal Jet displayed another BBJ1. As the world’s largest BBJ operator, Royal Jet emphasised its leadership in executive aviation. Meanwhile, Monacobased Opus Aero exhibited the BBJ2, which boasts 25 per cent more cabin space, double the cargo volume of the BBJ1, and luxurious features like a private stateroom with an ensuite shower, a dining area, and a lounge.

Greenpoint Technologies, a leader in VVIP interior design, highlighted its innovative concepts for large aircraft such as the BBJ 777-9 and 787-9. The company presented its “Oasis” interior for the BBJ 777-9 and announced that its “AeroSuite” design for the BBJ 787-9 is slated for certification next year.

First-time exhibitor Green Power Turbine Systems unveiled its compact TPE200 turboprop engine, which delivers 260 shp and features a fully digital electronic control. Expected to receive EASA certification within a year, the TPE200 drew significant interest for its advanced capabilities and compact design.

Austria-based VOO Flights demonstrated its software solution, which integrates seamlessly with charter operators’ workflows, enabling “tech brokers” to access a wide range of aircraft options with ease.

This year’s MEBAA Show was not just about showcasing aircraft—it was a celebration of innovation and progress in business aviation. From advanced aircraft interiors to groundbreaking propulsion systems and digital solutions, the event highlighted the industry’s dynamic future while reinforcing the Middle East’s role as a global hub for business aviation.

LANDMARK DEALS LAID

The MEBAA Show 2024 in Dubai concluded with a series of groundbreaking partnerships and announcements that underscored its role as the Middle East’s premier platform for business aviation. Collaboration took center stage, with industry leaders forging alliances and unveiling initiatives to drive the sector forward.

RoyalJet made headlines by signing a MoU with Airbus Corporate Jets, committing to purchase three ACJ320neo VVIP jets with options for six additional aircraft. The deal, valued between $330 million and $1 billion, represents a decade of negotiations between the two companies. Delivery of the jets is scheduled for 2026, with outfitting expected to take 10 to 14 months. RoyalJet’s CEO, Shafiul Syed, emphasised the significance of the agreement, calling it a milestone in the company’s charter fleet diversification.

Honeywell also announced an MoU with Sino Jet, focusing on advanced aviation services and next-generation connectivity technologies. Central to this collaboration is the JetWave X Satcom system, which promises enhanced data speeds exceeding 30 Mbps, with the potential for 100 Mbps in high-traffic corridors. This partnership aligns with Honeywell’s strategic focus on aviation megatrends and future technology development.

Further expanding its fleet, Dubai-based IC Leasing inked a deal for its second Dassault Falcon 2000LXS. The aircraft, set for delivery in the second quarter of 2025, will be operated by DC Aviation from Stuttgart, Germany. The lease-to-purchase program offered by IC Leasing highlights its innovative approach to making jet acquisition more accessible.

UAS International Trip Support and Leon Software announced a partnership to integrate their trip management and flight planning platforms. This collaboration aims to streamline operations for business aircraft operators, enabling seamless data management and operational efficiency. Customers will benefit from a unified system that simplifies tasks ranging from trip creation to flight scheduling.

Jetex and Joby Aviation revealed plans to install electric aircraft charging infrastructure at Jetex’s FBOs in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This initiative supports Joby’s vision of launching eVTOL air taxi services in the UAE by 2025, with the chargers being compatible with other electric aircraft, promoting sustainable aviation solutions.

European FBO operator AviaVIP unveiled the AviaVIP Club in collaboration with Egypt’s Aviary and the UAE’s Falcon Elite, enhancing VIP services across 13 Egyptian airports and beyond. Meanwhile, AMAC Aerospace announced its diversification into advanced technologies, offering installations for Starlink satellite communications and Elbit’s missile defense systems.

As the MEBAA Show continues to foster innovation and collaboration, these deals and initiatives underline the region’s growing influence in the global business aviation landscape.