< PreviousCOVER STORY | EVTOLS NOVEMBER 2024 20 networks of vertiports, integrated with cities’ existing public transport ecosystems to facilitate seamless, multi-modal journeys, and enhance urban connectivity. These facilities, dedicated to eVTOL take-offs, landings, and charging, are already being developed at key cities both in the region and globally, to support the planned roll-out of commercial air taxi services. In February, the UK developer of A AM infrastructure, Sk yports Infrastructure (Skyports), inked a defi nitive agreement with Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA) and Joby to design, construct, own and operate vertiports at key locations across the emirate, positioning Dubai as the world’s fi rst city with a commercial, city-wide electric air taxi service. Dubai’s initial A AM network will consist of four vertiports, strategically positioned at Dubai International Airport (DXB), Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Downtown and Dubai Marina, offering access to key locations across the city while reducing travel times. Dubai, however, will not be the only city in the UAE with an advanced AAM vertiport network. In March, Archer entered into a strategic partnership with the UAE-based provider of aviation services, Falcon Aviation, to develop vertiport infrastructure across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, marking a signifi cant step towards the scheduled launch of Archer’s air taxi services in the UAE by 2026. Following the steps of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) and Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority signed a memorandum of unders tanding (MoU) with Sk ypor ts in May, to develop a ver tipor t s network and eV TOL By 2040, the eVTOL industry could be worth $1.5 trillion, creating vast opportunities for signifi cant advancements in battery technology Skyports will design, construct, own and operate vertiports at key locations across Dubai Joby signed an MoU with Saudi Mukamalah to introduce air taxi services in the kingdom AVB_Nov2024_16-21_Cover Story_13430418.indd 2025/10/2024 17:21EVTOLS | COVER STORY 21 NOVEMBER 2024 The next decade will be crucial as eV TOL developers, governments, urban planners, and regulators work together to develop the necessary infrastructure and establish clear safety standards to capitalise on air taxis’ potential as a widely accessible, fi nancially viable and environmentally sustainable mode of transport. With billions of dollars already invested and test fl ights underway, the race to transform urban air mobility has only just begun. ecosystem in the emirate by 2027. According to Skyports, the planned vertiports will seamlessly integrate with RAK TA’s existing transport n etwo rk, p rov i din g fa st an d convenient zero-emission transport to the emirate's popular tourist attractions, including Al Marjan Island, Al Hamra and Jebel Jais. These developments have not been limited to the UAE. In May, Joby signed an MoU with Saudi Aramco’s wholly- owned subsidiary, Mukamalah, to introduce air taxi services in Saudi Arabia. Future outlook As we look to the future, it’s clear that eVTOLs and air taxis have the potential to reshape urban landscapes and transform the way cities and airports are connected. By offering a faster, greener, and far more effi cient mode of transport, these technologies promise to ease the strain on congested roads and drastically reduce travel times. However, for thi s v i sion to become a reality, the road is fraught with signif icant technological, regulatory, and social challenges, which must be addressed. The UAE and Saudi Arabia have positioned themselves as early adopters in the Middle East, with commercial eVTOL operations set to be launched by 2026 Morgan Stanley estimates the eVTOL industry could be worth $1.5 trillion by 2040 Archer Aviation is slated to launch operations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi by 2026 AVB_Nov2024_16-21_Cover Story_13430418.indd 2125/10/2024 17:22We were meant to fly. Untitled-9 224/10/2024 20:35Our engines power flight. A love of flight powers us. Untitled-9 324/10/2024 20:35NOVEMBER 2024 24 PARTNER CONTENT | THC Under the leadership of CEO Captain Arnaud Martinez, The Helicopter Company (THC) is transforming Saudi Arabia’s aviation landscape through innovation, sustainability, and strategic alignment with Vision 2030 BY ANGITHA PRADEEP Since its inception in 2018, The Helicopter Company (THC) has been a transformative force in Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector, redefi ning the kingdom’s aviation and economic landscapes by introducing cutting-edge technology and services. “Innovation is the cornerstone of our operations,” THC’s CEO, Capt. Arnaud Martinez, says. “We’re continuously breaking new ground and are committed to setting unprecedented standards in the aviation industry,” he adds. THC’s innovative approach permeates its fleet, services, and operational strategies, ensuring the company remains at the forefront of aviation technology and practices. With a fl eet of more than 60 aircraft by the end of 2024, serving diverse segments, including emergency medical services (EMS), aerial work, private charters, and tourism, THC is positioned for remarkable growth, according to Capt. Martinez. Initially providing tailor-made solutions for gigaprojects including Red Sea Global and NEOM, THC is expanding its offerings as these projects evolve. “As these mega-projects progress, we’re adapting to meet their changing needs,” he explains, adding that THC growingly supports hospitality and tourism, sectors expected to become key drivers of the kingdom’s non-oil economy. Amidst this expansion, THC’s commitment to sustainability remains unwavering. “Prioritising sustainability is a core objective for us,” notes Capt. Martinez. The company’s strategy includes adopting sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), with an emphasis on waste-derived or renewable sources to signifi cantly reduce aviation’s carbon footprint. Additionally, THC invests in quieter, more effi cient aircraft, such as its fl eet of ten H160 helicopters featuring the latest in rotorcraft technology. “These aircraft signifi cantly reduce noise levels and showcase our commitment to environmentally THC’S SKYWARD JOURNEY AVB_Nov2024_24-25_Interview THC_13431996.indd 2429/10/2024 14:5225 NOVEMBER 2024 THC | PARTNER CONTENT responsible aviation,” he adds. Safety remains the bedrock of THC’s operations. With more than 30,000 fl ight hours without a single accident, Capt. Martinez emphasises, “Our commitment to safety and excellence underpins everything we do. We provide reliable and secure services to our clients, and that trust is paramount.” Propelling Vision 2030 THC is not only transforming the skies but also aligning closely with Vision 2030’s economic diversifi cation goals. The company is pushing for increased urban air mobility and progressing the larger rotary ecosystem. “Being a unique company in a unique country with a unique vision, we’ve grown at a scale unseen in the rotary and general aviation industry,” Capt. Martinez says. Strategic agreements bolster THC’s unprecedented growth. At the HAI Heli-Expo 2024 in California, THC announced framework agreements with Leonardo for over 100 aircraft and with Airbus for up to 120 helicopters over the next five to seven years. “With these partnerships, everything is possible in aviation,” asserts Capt. Martinez, highlighting the business’ eagerness to share its successes and lessons learned to support the wider industry, both in the region and globally. THC is enhancing urban air mobility through agreements with Altanfeethi and Riyadh Municipality to develop advanced transportation services and establish helicopter landing sites in strategic locations. Collaborations with Bristow Arabia Aircraft and Maintenance Services further position THC as a leader in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). “We’re developing a future vision for air mobility in Riyadh and beyond,” Capt. Martinez explains. Charting the Future Dedicated to creating job opportunities, THC is rapidly building a diverse workforce. “We onboard 30 to 40 new employees every month and aim to employ over 900 by the end of this year,” Capt. Martinez reveals. The company nurtures local talent through the Qimam Aviation Programme for helicopters, designed to train helicopter pilots and maintenance technicians “We’re proud to have the first two Saudi female pilots graduating from our Qimam Aviation programme,” he adds. Furthermore, THC contributes signifi cantly to the kingdom’s tourism sector, by collaborating with various entities including Red Sea Global and the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU). “By providing emergency medical services and on-site operational support, we’re ensuring the success and safety of these transformative projects,” he says, also revealing that THC’s partnership with RCU offers year-round scenic tours, allowing visitors to explore Saudi Arabia’s heritage and natural beauty. Through a strategic collaboration with Saudia Private, THC has expanded access to ground handling services across Saudi airports. “This allows us to offer a wider range of services and enhance the overall travel experience from the very start,” notes Capt. Martinez. THC has also demonstrated its capabilities by supporting high-profi le events including Formula 1, Formula E, MDLBEAST, and Rally Dakar. “These engagements underscore our role in promoting Vision 2030’s objectives to grow the country’s sports, cultural, and tourism sectors,” he states. THC’s impact on Saudi Arabia’s aviation industry and broader economic ambitions is profound. “We’re determined to prove that with the right partners, everything is possible in aviation; we’re not just shaping the future of travel in Saudi Arabia; we’re setting a global example,” Capt. Martinez concludes. THC is set to expand its fl eet to more than 60 aircraft by the end of 2024 Arnaud Martinez, CEO, THC Innovation is the cornerstone of our operations— we’re continuously breaking new ground and are committed to setting unprecedented standards in the aviation industry AVB_Nov2024_24-25_Interview THC_13431996.indd 2529/10/2024 14:52NOVEMBER 2024 26 FEATURE | EMIRATES A350 With Emirates’ Airbus A350 taking to the skies, we explore how the new aircraft will impact the passenger experience and fuel the airline’s network expansion Emirates, one of the world’s largest international airlines, recognised for its modern all-wide-body fl eet and world-class passenger experience, is gearing up to welcome its fi rst Airbus A350 in the coming weeks, marking a key milestone in its fl eet expansion and modernisation strategy. With the fi rst aircraft scheduled for delivery in November and four more expected by the end of 2024, the A350 is set to enhance Emirates’ operations and passenger experience across key markets. The fi rst aircraft, spotted at Airbus’ facility in Toulouse earlier this year, sporting Emirates’ iconic UAE flag livery, has recently undergone various tests, ahead of its integration into the airline’s fl eet. Currently, Emirates has 65 A350-900s on order, scheduled to be deployed on regional and international routes starting in December. What to expect? Designed to deliver a superior passenger experience while optimising capacity, the fi rst 10 aircraft of Emirates’ A350 fl eet will be confi gured in three cabin classes. Meanwhile, future deliveries may feature a different confi guration, including First Class cabins. The aircraft, set to serve short and medium-haul routes across the airline’s network, will be equipped with 32 next-generation Business Class seats, 21 Premium Economy seats, and 259 Economy Class seats. The Premium Economy cabin will offer Emirates’ latest seat design and passenger amenities, including extra legroom, wider seats, and enhanced meal services. Designed with passenger comfort in mind, the airline’s Premium Economy cabin features spacious 19.5-inch-wide leather seats with a generous pitch of up to 40 inches, a recline of 8 inches and ample leg room for added comfort. Additionally, each seat features calf rests, footrests, a six-way adjustable headrest, easily accessible in-seat charging points, a side cocktail table, EMIRATES A350 WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE AIRLINE’S LATEST FLEET UPGRADE? AVB_Nov2024_26-27_Feature-Emirates A350_13420290.indd 2625/10/2024 17:2327 NOVEMBER 2024 EMIRATES A350 | FEATURE and a 13.3-inch TV screen, one of the largest in its class. Passengers can also enjoy eco-friendly amenities including blankets made from recycled plastic bottles, large pillows, and complimentary amenity kits. Upon boarding, they will be greeted with a welcome drink served in fi ne glassware, setting the tone for a refi ned travel experience. Over and above, passengers will experience Emirates’ next-generation Business Class for the fi rst time on short and medium-haul routes across the Middle East and GCC, West Asia and Europe. “The A350 will be a game-changer for Emirates, enabling us to serve regional points with superior operating effi ciency and fl exibility across the Middle East and GCC, West Asia and Europe,” Emirates Deputy President and CCO, Adnan Kazim said, noting that by introducing the latest generation cabin products including Premium Economy to more cities, top-notch in-fl ight entertainment technologies and other customer- centric features, the A350 builds upon the airline’s commitm en t to investing in delivering the best possible customer experience. “Flying the A350 to nine cities in such a short span of time adds more premium cabin options and choices across geographies for our customers, and ensures we maintain our competitive edge and industry-leading position,” Kazim added. Network adjustments Emirates originally planned to debut its A350 fl eet in September, on flights to nine destinations including Kuwait, Muscat, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Colombo, Bologna, Lyon, and Edinburgh, starting with Bahrain. However, due to delays in aircraft delivery, the inaugural flight was rescheduled for early November, with Edinburgh as the fi rst destination, marking Emirates’ return to the city and complementing its daily service to Glasgow. This timeline was adjusted again in October, with the A350’s entry into service now set for December 16th. The aircraft will then be deployed on routes to Bahrain and Kuwait, with additional destinations, including Mumbai, Muscat, and Lyon, scheduled to be added in 2025. As more A350s join its fl eet, Emirates will have greater fl exibility to adjust its network strategy and deploy the aircraft on high-demand routes requiring additional capacity and enhanced range. Extended capabilities The integration of the A350 marks a key step in Emirates’ long-term strategy to modernise its fl eet and elevate its overall passenger experience. The aircraft will also complement Emirates’ existing wide-body fl eet of Boeing 777 and Airbus A380 aircraft, offering the airline greater versatility to serve a variety of routes and explore new destinations, which were less feasible previously. The aircraft’s extensive range of over 9,700 nautical miles would also allow Emirates to serve longer routes with greater effi ciency, making it an ideal fi t for the airline’s network expansion strategy. Additionally, the aircraft saves up to 25% fuel compared to previous generation models. This will contribute to reducing Emirates’ operational costs and minimising its carbon footprint. With its advanced technology and customer-centric amenities, Airbus’ A350 is set to become a key asset in Emirates’ fl eet, enabling the airline to maintain its competitive edge and deliver an elevated passenger experience across its network. Emirates’ Premium Economy features its latest seat design and passenger amenities The A350 will be a game-changer for Emirates, enabling us to serve regional points with superior operating effi ciency and fl exibility across the Middle East and GCC, West Asia and Europe Adnan Kazim, Deputy President and CCO, Emirates AVB_Nov2024_26-27_Feature-Emirates A350_13420290.indd 2725/10/2024 17:23INTERVIEW | JORAMCO NOVEMBER 2024 28 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF MRO IN THE MIDDLE EAST JORAMCO’S CEO, FRASER CURRIE, ON THE ROLE OF TECHNOLOGY AND DIGITALISATION IN SHAPING THE FUTURE OF MRO OPERATIONS AVB_Nov2024_28-33_Interview - Joramco_13427542.indd 2825/10/2024 17:24JORAMCO | INTERVIEW 29 NOVEMBER 2024 The c o m m er c i a l a i r c ra f t maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) sector stands as a key pillar of aviation operations, ensuring the safe and uninterrupted operations of airline fl eets. As the demand for air travel continues to soar, and the global aircraft fl eet continues to grow, effi cient, reliable, and fast MRO services become increasingly vital to accommodate the industry’s accelerated expansion. According to Mordor Intelligence, the MRO market, currently valued at $78 billion, is projected to reach a staggering $99 billion by 2029, growing at an annual CAGR of 4.88%. Like the broader aviation industry, the rapid technological advancements, co up l e d w i th th e in du s tr y ' s accelerated digital transformation and the increasing adoption of ground-breaking innovations such as artifi cial intelligence (AI), are reshaping the MRO landscape, both in the Middle East and globally. These innovations are of fering unprecedented ef ficiencies and operational enhancements, paving the way for a safer, more technologically driven future for the industry. To explore how digitalisation and technology are transforming MRO operations and addressing the industry’s unique challenges, particularly in the Middle East, we sit down with Fraser Currie, the Fraser Currie, CEO, Joramco AVB_Nov2024_28-33_Interview - Joramco_13427542.indd 2925/10/2024 17:25Next >