How would you describe the aviation market in the Middle East?

 

The Middle Eastern Market has been on the rise for the better part of a decade. Benefitting from a capacity growth that has doubled from 2009 to 2018, the aviation industry in the region remains strong. It is important to note that studies of the region have shown that growth rate has been slowing slightly in recent years, but that the overall impression heading into 2019 was that there is still high passenger growth especially when compared with other markets. The market is one that is volatile and is dependent on numerous factors with various influential aspects as outlined by Victoria Tozer-Pennington in “The Aviation Industry Leaders Report 2019: Tackling Headwinds.” Examples of such include trade wars, unpredictable oil prices, infrastructure capacity and maintenance and repair cost capacity limitations. Taking these factors into consideration it can be said that although growth rates are reducing  slightly, the industry as a whole is progressing, and along with technological advances that increase the fuel efficiency of aircrafts, the airline industry with regards to the Middle East is definitely one to keep an eye on.

 

Can you tell us about APSCO? 

 

APSCO was established in 1960 with the aim of being the region’s leading supplier of aviation fuel and lubricants. This is reflected in our mission which outlines our objective of providing class leading goods and services to our customers, respecting and nurturing our employees, supporting our community, delivering consistent and superior financial results while adhering to the highest ethical standards. These values remain true in every facet of our business activity, and are  manifested in our projects and services which seek to assist our customer base in developing safe and reliable into-plane facilities and fuel depots. Our services range across a broad spectrum including aviation fuel management which covers into-plane operations, aviation fuel depot operations, and hydrant system operations, as well as maintenance and quality control of fuel transportation, design review and compliance to JIG/EI Standards, conducting Hazard and Operability Studies (HAZOP), revision of technical specifications, and facilitating front end engineering design of facilities from conceptual design to full implementation. The application of all our services help airports develop a model that supports best practices to maximize efficiency while following safety protocols, helping us better serve our customers and shareholders.

 

APSCO as a 100% Saudi Arabian Company has traditionally operated primarily in the Saudi market. What benefits do you bring to the wider market across MENA?

 

APSCO has a deep understanding of the aviation industry. This depth of knowledge stems from over 50 years of experience in the field, along with our dedication to providing service solutions across the board as mentioned previously. In addition to our years of experience APSCO has strived for excellence every step of the way. An example of how this was our recognition in 2018 in being the first company to acquire the GACAR 151 License, which was awarded to APSCO for updating our operational standards and systems. This is only one example of how APSCO’s drive to push for safety and quality stems from our desire to constantly achieve excellence in every aspect of our work.

 

What impact do you predict Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to have on the wider Middle East aviation industry?

 

Looking ahead, on both a global and local scale, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals will positively impact the aviation industry. The various programs in play such as the Human Capital Development Vision Realization Program, the Quality of Life Program and the Financial Sector Development Vision Development Program, will bring about a number of positive and exciting changes to the country with wide reaching benefits which will certainly impact all stakeholders. This growth will rely on the aviation industry’s ability to bring in not just passengers but also to assist in the logistics of raw materials for programs such as the housing program and the national industrial development and logistics program. These programs will provide a platform for economic growth impacting many segments our our economy and the aviation industry will be the catalyst that facilities these programs from a logistical perspective.

 

Aviation Fuel is often a popular topic of discussion in the industry. What do you consider the main opportunities and challenges currently facing the market?

 

The opportunities for this market are quite numerous. As previously mentioned, the growth of the aviation sector due to business growth and an influx of people, means that there will be a higher dependency on the aviation sector to provide support for businesses and individuals alike to enter and exit the country and in turn a higher demand for fuel suppliers to provide airlines with the necessary support for the increase in flights. This is the primary opportunity looking ahead. However, the challenge that comes along with this is the need to manage such a high demand. It is imperative for the aviation fuel industry to remain organized and for suppliers and airliners to communicate to tackle the market’s demands. 

 

How is APSCO in particular preparing to meet these opportunities and challenges?

 

APSCO has undertaken several local projects and planning implementations, and has already proved itself as a leader in the fuel handling service industry. In addition, APSCO has experience with airports on a domestic, regional and international level and is no stranger to tackling challenges that arise unexpectedly. Our strategic alliances and network of professionals also lends itself to ensuring that we have the necessary support to meet challenges head on with trained experts with relevant experience in each segment of our industry.

 

APSCO is sponsoring the inaugural CXO Summit ahead of the Dubai Airshow. What are your reasons for supporting this summit? 

 

APSCO is a dynamic company that seeks to meet and raise industry standards. One way of remaining active and relevant in the industry is by showing support, through sponsorship as well as other means, to events such as the Dubai Airshow. This allows APSCO to share its vision, forge stronger business relations, target airline leaders and be part of an international gathering with the aim of leading the industry forward through mutual learning and growth.

 

What activities do you have planned for your stand at the Dubai Airshow? 

 

APSCO is interested in potential aviation collaboration opportunities and showcasing our newly developed technical and marketing services. We are eager to explore aviation collaboration opportunities and expand our business network with fellow enthusiastic professionals in the industry.

To find out more about the inaugural CXO Summit, visit our Airline CXO website.