This official visit to the United Kingdom aims to strengthen bilateral relations between Egypt and the UK in aviation-related areas of mutual interest, including technology, infrastructure, maintenance services, and other air transport issues.

This visit aligns with the Ministry of Civil Aviation’s broader strategy to enhance international cooperation, attract foreign investment, and position Egypt as a leading aviation hub. It supports Egypt’s Vision 2030 for the sector's development.

Ambassador Sherif Kamel, Egypt’s Ambassador to the UK, hosted the session, which was moderated by Karim Rafaat, Chairman of NGAGE. Key participants included Magid Elmenshawy, Vice Chairman of the British Egyptian Business Association (BEBA); Dr. Mohannad Khaled, Chairman of the British Chamber of Commerce (EBCC) ; and Chris Dane from Baker Tilly.

More than 85 business leaders and investors from major British aviation companies also attended.

Dr. Elhefny emphasised that such meetings provide an ideal platform for exchanging insights and fostering partnerships in aviation, investment, and technology, which pave the way for sectoral growth in alignment with global standards. He reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation, particularly in civil aviation. He also highlighted the historical ties between Egypt and the UK as a foundation for developing air transport as a key collaboration area.

He noted that the Egyptian Ministry of Civil Aviation is currently working on strategic projects to improve Egyptian airports. These include plans to expand Cairo International Airport to become a regional hub and increase EgyptAir’s fleet to 97 aircraft by 2028, despite the challenges facing the global aviation industry.

The Minister reiterated the government’s support for private sector participation by providing private airlines various incentives and facilities to enhance their market competitiveness. He also emphasised Egypt’s commitment to expanding Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services through EgyptAir Maintenance & Engineering Company, which is set to use advanced technologies to grow globally.

He added that the Cairo Air Cargo City project aims to position Egypt as a regional hub for air cargo and trade to reinforce its strategic role in Africa and the Middle East.

And there are plans for a comprehensive strategic study on targeted airport investments, with an international consultancy firm assessing airports suitable for private sector management. The initiative aims to improve management efficiency, service quality, and investment appeal, which reinforces Egypt’s commitment to global aviation partnerships. The Ministry also intends to expand annual airport capacity to 100 million passengers by 2030, with projections estimating 50.5 million passengers by the end of 2025. These numbers reflect significant progress toward this goal.

During the session, Aiman Arab, Chairman of the Egyptian Holding Company for Airports and Air Navigation, highlighted the government’s commitment to transforming Egyptian airports into world-class aviation hubs. He outlined the company’s efforts to modernise airport infrastructure, implement advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and biometric systems, and strengthen international partnerships to ensure operational excellence.

He added that Cairo International Airport is set to become Africa’s ‘primary hub’ for long-haul travel, which is part of Egypt’s broader strategy to enhance its regional and international aviation standing. The holding company will also host global aviation conferences and exhibitions to enhance Egypt’s positioning in the international aviation sector.

The event will be held under the gracious patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, in Abu Dhabi, from February 10 to 12.

The event will see participation of over 1.500 aviation professionals from 193 member states of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), aiming to enhance international cooperation and exchange expertise on the future of sustainable aviation, as well as to innovate practical solutions to support environmental transformations in the aviation industry.

It will also feature several discussion sessions and forums bringing together representatives from governments, aviation industries, regional and international organisations, global companies, financial institutions, energy companies, as well as thought leaders from various disciplines. The focus will be on two main themes: AI-driven solutions and efforts to transform the aviation sector toward sustainability.

His Excellency Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of the GCAA, said: "The number of partners supporting this event reflects its importance in making significant strides in international efforts toward a more sustainable aviation system. The ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium is a key event on ICAO’s agenda, addressing all initiatives under the organisation’s umbrella to enhance a safer, more secure, and sustainable aviation system. The UAE hosting this massive event is of special significance, particularly with the launch of the first edition of the

Global Sustainable Aviation Marketplace, aimed at uniting global efforts to achieve sustainable development goals in the aviation sector." Al Suwaidi continued: "There is no doubt that the sector needs to develop innovative solutions to enhance the efficiency of the aviation industry and reduce its environmental impact."

The list of partners supporting this global event, alongside the Sustainable Aviation Futures MENA, includes: Abu Dhabi Airports, Abu Dhabi Investment Office, Etihad Airways, Emirates Airlines, flydubai, United Aviation, AO- Creative Drones Lighting, Falcon Aviation Services, Archer Aviation, Smart & Autonomous Vehicle Industries (SAVI), Integrated Transport Center (Abu Dhabi Mobility), Sanad -Mubadala, Airbus, Boeing, Indra, ADNOC, Volar Air Mobility, and Qatar Aeronautical Academy.

Additionally, a group of global companies specialising in sustainable aviation technologies includes: Lummus Technology, ZR2 Group, TOPOSE - Energy Transition Solutions, LODD Autonomous Logistics Services, SmartEnergy, Freqpuentis, Johnson Matthey JM, Skies Fifty (an investment company specialising in aviation sustainability and accelerating carbon neutrality for the aviation industry), and King & Spalding.

The launch of the first edition of the "Global Sustainable Aviation Marketplace GSAM" is a pioneering UAE initiative, aimed at bringing together all stakeholders involved in the production, distribution, financing, storage, and consumption of sustainable aviation fuel. This will create an integrated platform to drive global efforts to develop sustainable solutions that meet the needs of the civil aviation sector. The marketplace is being organised in collaboration with the "Sustainable Aviation Future Congress" of the Sustainable Aviation Futures MENA.

Gulf Air last week participated in the third edition of the Sustainability Forum Middle East, held from January 28 to 29 in Bahrain.

Sponsored by Gulf Air, the first day of the forum featured interactive discussions led by more than 50 prominent speakers from regions including the Middle East and North Africa, Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Brazil. The sessions addressed critical topics essential to achieving regional net-zero ambitions.

Gulf Air Group chief executive officer Jeffrey Goh participated in a panel titled “The Strategic Intersection of Climate Action and Long-Term Value Creation,” where he highlighted Gulf Air’s initiatives to reduce carbon emissions. He also emphasised the airline’s efforts to preserve the environment and minimise its global footprint while aligning with Bahrain’s sustainability goals.

The two companies have signed a contract extension for a further four years. Jettainer will continue to manage the fleet of currently around 2,000 ULDs tailored to the needs of the national airline of the Sultanate of Oman, contributing to increased revenue, sustainability, flexibility, and reduced costs.

Oman Air has benefitted from Jettainer's ULD management services since 2017. With the strong trust developed over the years, and as genuine partners invested in helping to enhance customer success, Jettainer and Oman Air navigated the many challenges, such as the Covid pandemic, and adapted nimbly to changes during these years, including the network, schedules, and fleet.

In 2023, Oman Air took delivery of its first freighter, a B737-800 (BCF). This was followed by one Boeing B787-9 in 2024 and most recently a B737 Max 9, with twelve more aircraft expected by 2029. Jettainer ensured support for the introduction and expansion of cargo flight operations. In the future, the ULD fleet will continue to be adjusted to the airline's needs and further optimized with new innovative developments and services.

Michael Duggan, Vice President Cargo at Oman Air, explains: “Jettainer has been our partner of choice for ULD management for several years now, and their expertise and services have ensured that we are always optimally supplied with ULDs. The combination of innovative solutions, excellent customer service, and absolute reliability convinces us that Jettainer is the right partner for us now and in the future.”

Dr. Jan-Wilhelm Breithaupt, managing director and CEO of Jettainer added: “The contract renewal with Oman Air underlines our strong partnership and the quality of our service. Jettainer stands firmly with Oman Air in its transformation journey. With our focus on efficiency, digitalisation, and innovation, we will continue to contribute to Oman Air ́s competitiveness in the coming years.”

Organised by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) the event will take place from February 10 to 12, 2025.

It will also mark the launch of the inaugural edition of the "Global Sustainable Aviation Marketplace," a significant UAE initiative under the ICAO umbrella, aimed at accelerating global efforts to produce alternative and low-carbon fuels for the international aviation sector.

The event will bring together over 1,500 participants, including representatives from ICAO's 193 member states, a large number of ministers, heads, and directors general specialising in transport, aviation, and energy. The agenda also features 150 speakers, including experts, senior government officials, and CEOs from leading companies in these vital industries.

The accompanying exhibition will showcase 75 global companies specialising in aviation, energy, and advanced technologies.

The symposium will be inaugurated by H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the GCAA Board, and H.E. Salvatore Sciacchitano, President of the ICAO Council.

His Excellency Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Chairman of the GCAA, said: " Hosting the UAE of these major and influential international events in the civil aviation sector reflects its pioneering position at both the regional and global levels, and its continuous commitment to supporting international efforts to enhance sustainability in this vital sector." His Excellency expressed his hope that these events would contribute to launching new programs, initiatives, and recommendations that support international efforts to develop the civil aviation sector, enhance its competitiveness and sustainability, and promote investment in innovation, technology, and advanced technologies to achieve this goal.

Salvatore Sciacchitano, ICAO Council President, said: “The ICAO Global Implementation Support Symposium (GISS) 2025 will bring together states, industry leaders, and stakeholders to shape the future of aviation. This symposium will focus on two critical areas transforming the industry: sustainability and artificial intelligence, while ensuring the safety and security of aviation operations. Sustainability in aviation goes beyond its environmental impact; it encompasses long-term economic viability and operational efficiency. The GISS will explore the evolving regulatory landscape, global standards, and the safe integration of new technologies into aviation operations.”

Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director General of GCAA, said:“The holding of this event in Abu Dhabi reflects the UAE's leading position as a strategic partner in the development of the civil aviation sector and its pivotal role in supporting innovation and enhancing sustainability in this field. His Excellency also emphasised that the launch of the country's initiative, the "Global Sustainable Aviation Marketplace," adds special significance to the event, as this initiative aligns with the pressing needs of the international aviation sector to achieve a true global consensus on low-carbon alternative fuels and work towards boosting their production in the coming years.”

The agenda of the international event will also include the participation of prominent officials from around the world, including H.E Barbara Creecy, Minister of Transport of South Africa, H.E Viliame Rogoibulu Gavoka, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism & Civil Aviation of Fiji, H.E Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe, Minister for Public Works and Transport of Eswatini, H.E Alhaji Fanday Turay, Minister of Transport and Aviation of Sierra Leone and H.E Abdul Wahab Teffaha Secretary General of the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO), along with other international speakers representing government agencies, major companies, and academic institutions specialising in aviation, energy, sustainability, and technology.

Taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 28 April to 1 May 2025, this year’s theme is: ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity.’

Several leaders from the international aviation sector are expected to participate in the 32nd edition, and a number of sessions are slated to take place throughout the four-day event, covering a variety of trending topics, ranging from sustainable aviation and new technology to the return of corporate travel and the rise of airport entertainment, under the show theme, ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’.

One particular topic expected to garner attention is the anticipated increase of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which, according to the latest findings from the International Aviation Transport Association (IATA), has seen SAF production double in 2024 to 1 million tonnes, with production expected to top 2.1 million tonnes in 2025.

Regionally, Emirates and Etihad have significantly reduced CO2 emissions using SAF on routes including Singapore Changi Airport, Amsterdam, London Heathrow, Paris, Lyon, Oslo, and Japan.

New technology will also be addressed due to its increasing role in supporting airports and airlines to drive operational efficiencies and reduce costs. Artificial intelligence (AI), for example, supports aviation industry professionals in various ways, from streamlining the customer journey to tracking weather, optimising routes, and even undertaking predictive maintenance. It has become an integral tool for the aviation industry, analysing scenarios to determine potential disruptions and providing data-driven decisions that minimise risk.

Leading examples include London Heathrow Airport’s pilot AI-assisted air traffic control system, the Japan Airlines AI-powered baggage management system, and Gatwick Airport’s AI-powered smart-stand technology, developed to enhance how aircraft turnarounds are managed.

Danielle Curtis, exhibition director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said: “At ATM, we recognise the critical importance of addressing the latest trends and innovations shaping the aviation industry. New technology and the increased use of sustainable fuels will be a game-changer for the sector, with far-reaching benefits for years to come.”

The sector's growth is a topic anticipated to create substantial discussion on the show floor. In 2025, industry revenues will surpass US$1 trillion for the first time, according to IATA. In addition, traveller numbers are expected to hit 5.2 billion, up 6.7% compared to 2024, exceeding the five-billion mark for the first time, with the number of flights expected to reach 40 million.

Business travel will feature high on the agenda, particularly as part of ATM’s new feature, IBTM@ATM. According to Flight Centre Corporate, business travel is set to increase in 2025, with 40% of businesses planning to increase travel from July to June, and 42% of corporates are forecast to spend more than in 2024.

Another trend for 2025, which has already become prominent in several airports in the Middle East, is the ‘gate escape’. For modern travellers, particularly Gen Z and millennials, the airport is transitioning to a hub for entertainment, luxury and relaxation. 

According to Booking.com’s annual travel prediction research, 43% of Gen Z and millennials consider destinations based on their airport, opting for indulgent experiences, including sleep pods (37% Gen Z, 35% millennials) and spas (31% Gen Z, 29% millennials) to Michelin star restaurants (22% Gen Z, 24% millennials).

This year, ATM will welcome several new and returning exhibitors from the aviation sector, including Emirates, flydubai, flynas, flyadeal, Air Charter Service, and Mayfair Jests. In 2024, 4.5% of exhibitors were from the aviation sector, occupying 10% of the show’s space, with significant growth expected in 2025.

Sessions already confirmed include the Global Stage’s Connecting the Future of Travel: Aviation, Cruise & Rail, the next steps in enhancing tourism offerings. There, an expert panel will take a deep dive into how advancements in aviation, cruise, and rail enhance connectivity regionally and internationally by discussing sustainable developments, transformative projects, and the future of integrated networks.

“Through dedicated sessions, we are bringing together thought leaders, innovators, and industry stakeholders to explore how cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices can redefine air travel. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, ATM continues to serve as a vital platform for advancing the future of aviation and global connectivity,” added Curtis.

Using the 4R strategy (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover), the project aims to minimise the environmental impact of airport operations and set a new standard for sustainable waste management in aviation. Focused on behavioural change, training and stakeholder engagement, the initiative seeks to set a new standard for sustainable waste management in the aviation industry.

Indore Airport is now poised to embrace ‘Zero Waste’ practices through the 4R approach – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover. The new waste processing plant will process the airport’s daily waste of 750 kgs on-site, significantly reducing landfill dependency.

The Zero Waste Project features a cutting-edge Wet Waste Processing Unit that transforms organic waste into nutrient-rich compost. This compost will be utilised to enhance the airport's landscaping. Additionally, a state-of-the-art Material Recovery Facility (MRF) will meticulously sort dry waste into 10 distinct categories for recycling. To foster a culture of sustainability, the project includes comprehensive waste segregation practices and public awareness campaigns to encourage responsible waste disposal among passengers and staff.

The project is designed as a self-sustaining model. Income generated from compost and recycled materials will be utilised to fund the salaries of dedicated green workers from the third year onwards, ensuring the project's long-term viability.

Sunsip Irrigation Systems, a student startup from Archbishop Porter Girls High School in Ghana, has won the Boeing Sustainable Innovation Award at the 14th Junior Achievement (JA) Africa Company of the Year competition in Mauritius.

The Boeing award celebrates innovative business ideas that advance environmental stewardship and resource conservation.

The Ghanaian team of young women impressed judges with their solar-powered irrigation system, designed to address the inefficiencies of traditional, non-renewable energy-based irrigation methods.

Kuljit Ghata-Aura, president of Boeing Middle East, Africa, Türkiye, and Central Asia, commented: “It’s essential to engage and equip young people with the critical skills needed to develop solutions that help us build a more sustainable future. They are the leaders of tomorrow, and we are proud to support initiatives like JA Africa’s competition that benefit both local communities and the environment.”

The JA Africa Company of the Year competition has been running for 14 years as an impactful catalyst for empowering Africa’s youth through entrepreneurship. This year, the competition focused on sustainability and brought together 36 student entrepreneurs from nine African countries: Eswatini, Ghana, Mauritius, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Simi Nwogugu, president and CEO of Junior Achievement Africa, said: “Over the past four years, our partnership with Boeing has inspired over 5,000 young Africans to harness their potential and innovate for a sustainable future. This collaboration shows what is possible when we invest in the creativity and determination of Africa's youth, empowering them to lead the charge in building a better world for generations to come.'

In 2021, Boeing began supporting the Company of the Year and other JA Africa’s programs dedicated to sustainability, STEM, and entrepreneurship. Together, Boeing and JA Africa have implemented community initiatives in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Madagascar, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.

The two companies will focus initially on Jetex locations across the Middle East, where Joby plans to install its Global Electric Aviation Charging System (GEACS), to support Joby operations that will connect Jetex passengers to a network of vertiports, offering efficient and sustainable travel across the region and between Emirates.

“At Jetex, sustainability is a key focus of our strategy, and our partnership with Joby represents an important step forward in achieving our vision of greener skies,” says Adel Mardini, Founder & CEO of Jetex. “We are committed to driving innovation that reduces our industry’s environmental impact, and integrating Joby’s electric air taxis into our network allows us to deliver cleaner, quieter, and more sustainable travel experiences, starting in the UAE.”

In 2024, SAF production volumes reached 1 million tonnes (1.3 billion liters), double the 0.5 million tonnes (600 million liters) produced in 2023. SAF accounted for 0.3% of global jet fuel production and 11% of global renewable fuel.

This is significantly below previous estimates that projected SAF production in 2024 at 1.5 million tonnes (1.9 billion liters), as key SAF production facilities in the US have pushed back their production ramp up to the first half of 2025.

In 2025, SAF production is expected to reach 2.1 million tonnes (2.7 billion liters) or 0.7% of total jet fuel production and 13% of global renewable fuel capacity.

“SAF volumes are increasing, but disappointingly slowly. Governments are sending mixed signals to oil companies which continue to receive subsidies for their exploration and production of fossil oil and gas. And investors in new generation fuel producers seem to be waiting for guarantees of easy money before going full throttle. With airlines, the core of the value chain, earning just a 3.6% net margin, profitability expectations for SAF investors need to be slow and steady, not fast and furious. But make no mistake that airlines are eager to buy SAF and there is money to be made by investors and companies who see the long-term future of decarbonisation. Governments can accelerate progress by winding down fossil fuel production subsidies and replacing them with strategic production incentives and clear policies supporting a future built on renewable energies, including SAF,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s director general.

“The airline industry’s decarbonisation must be seen as part of the global energy transition, not compartmentalised as a transport issue. That’s because solving the energy transition challenge for aviation will also benefit the wider economy, as renewable fuel refineries will produce a broad range of fuels used by other industries, and only a minor share will be SAF, used by airlines. We need the whole world to produce as much renewable energy as possible for everybody. Airlines simply want to access their fair share of that output,” added Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s senior vice president sustainability and chief economist.

To reach net zero CO2 emissions by 2050, IATA analysis shows that between 3,000 to over 6,500 new renewable fuel plants will be needed. These will also produce renewable diesel and other fuels for other industries. The annual average capex needed to build the new facilities over the 30-year period is about $128 billion per year, in a best-case scenario. Importantly, this amount is significantly less than the estimated total sum of investments in the solar and wind energy markets at $280 billion per annum between 2004 and 2022.

“Governments must quickly deliver concrete policy incentives to rapidly accelerate renewable energy production. There is already a model to follow with the transition to wind and solar power. The good news is that the energy transition, which includes SAF, will need less than half the annual investments that realising wind and solar production at scale required. And a good portion of the needed funding could be realised by redirecting a portion of the retrograde subsidies that governments give to the fossil fuel industry,” said Walsh.