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For the 5th consecutive year, Hong Kong International Airport has been voted the world's Best Airport, in the largest customer survey of airport standards. Singapore's Changi Airport takes the Silver Award as runner-up, in what proved to be an exciting and close finish to the Survey. These two airports achieved more than 130,000 votes each, with the final margin between 1st and 2nd position being less than 500 votes.

Dr David J Pang, Chief Executive Officer of the Airport Authority Hong Kong, said "We are indeed proud to receive this accolade. To be named among the many excellent airports in the world is an honour in itself. As customer service standards improve continually in the airport industry, the recognition and appreciation of travellers inspires us to continue to raise our standards and to strengthen our culture of service excellence."

The 2005 World Airport Awards are based on the annual Airport Survey conducted by Skytrax - between June 2004 and March 2005. The survey measures over 30 aspects of passenger satisfaction for airport product and service standards, evaluating the 'typical' airport experience. This independent survey is regarded as the primary benchmarking tool for Passenger Satisfaction levels at airports throughout the world.

Peter Miller, Director Marketing at Skytrax commented "it is important to note we do not charge airport operators to be included in the survey, nor are the results based on a finite number of 40-50 airport choices - the passenger interviews covering over 150 airports. This level of true independence is a key reason for this survey being regarded as the primary benchmarking tool for Passenger Satisfaction levels at airports throughout the world."

Worldwide survey interviews totalled a massive 5,584,365 respondents - a 15 per cent increase on the 2004 result. Over 90 different passenger nationalities participated, the highest contingent from Europe and North America, with Asian countries of Korea, China/Hong Kong and Taiwan also very well represented.

The World's Top 10 Airports - 2005

• 1 Hong Kong International Airport
• 2 Singapore Changi Airpor
• 3 Seoul Incheon Airport
• 4 Munich Airport
• 5 Kansai International Airport
• 6 Dubai International Airport
• 7 KLIA Kuala Lumpur
• 8 Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
• 9 Copenhagen Airport
• 10 Sydney Airport

In a travel stress survey Skytrax conducted in 2004, 90 per cent of passengers stated that they find the air travel experience stressful - either all of the time (30%) or sometimes (60%). The departure airport was named by 66 per cent of respondents as the single, largest cause of stress in today's air travel - onboard the flight was cited by 15 per cent, and the arrival airport by 19 per cent.

The airport experience continues to grow in stature as part of the overall air travel experience today, with customers more discerning about their likes and dislikes, together their accumulation of greater knowledge (and higher expectations) as they experience different airports around the world".

"It no surprise to see many Asian airports dominating the top end of the World Airline Awards or on a less positive aspect, some US airports slipping in popularity. The ongoing impact of US airport security and immigration changes is still being felt. Whilst air travellers appreciate the need for enhanced security in post 9/11 times, we found the impact of this on the US airport rankings was quite considerable. Overly aggressive security checkpoint procedures and very varied US Immigration services resulted in the airport experience being downgraded by many customers. With the TSA stating that 'it is always seeking ways to refine processes that improve customer service at checkpoints' one hopes that such factors may be lessened in the future" added Miller.

Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) named World's Best Airport was particularly praised for 'space, light, airy, clean, efficient, ground transportation' - key words that were repeated thousands of times for HKIA. Singapore's Changi Airport, second Best Airport in the world, was most frequently praised for the abundant range of facilities, and particularly favoured by customers in it's pivotal role as a transit airport.

At the end of the day, a customer will rate an airport experience upon a mixed bag of product and service features, dependent upon their travel purpose. A business traveller with only 60 minutes in the terminal may be more interested in the ability to keep in touch - internet access, wifi and other communications being an important factor, and they might have access to the comforts of an airline lounge. In contrast, a leisure traveller with several hours to while away in transit, may prefer to take in the dining options, have a shower, browse the shops - or in Singapore, enjoy the bonus of a swimming pool and free cinema!

One of Asia's newest airports, Seoul Incheon in South Korea was ranked third Best Airport in the world - well ranked for ease of navigation, terminal cleanliness and facilities. A drawback for Incheon appears to be the lack of express ground transportation. An airport becoming more popular with transit passengers, Incheon needs a high-speed rail connection into downtown Seoul to better satisfy passengers departing from, or arriving into Seoul itself.

In Japan, Osaka's Kansai International was named 5th Best airport in the world - being specifically praised for high standards of cleanliness, and quality of airport staff service across all front-line functions.

Munich Airport is ranked 4th Best Airport in the world, and Europe's best. With 33 per cent of the traffic at Munich Airport being in transit (2004), the airport recently celebrated a milestone by welcoming its 250 millionth passenger since the airport opened nearly 13 years ago.

Munich Airport CEO and President, Dr. Michael Kerkloh, welcomed the award, noting that "The survey results have confirmed that our ambition to develop Munich Airport into the most attractive and efficient hub in Europe is bearing fruit. Being named as the world's 4Top Airport and Europe's Number 1 provides a positive impulse for us to further improve our passenger-friendly service and hub quality - and to strive to move up in the charts in 2006!"

Amsterdam Schiphol ranks second in Europe (8th worldwide), with Copenhagen as Europe's 3rd Best airport, and ranked 9th worldwide. A comment echoed in many Copenhagen survey interviewees is that the airport has the feel of an IKEA showroom!

The major European airports of London Heathrow, Frankfurt Main and Paris Charles de Gaulle failed to make into the listing of Top 10 European airports.

Dubai International Airport maintains its position as Best Airport in the Middle East, ranking 6th overall worldwide - despite ongoing construction works that require excessive walking for arriving and departing passenger for Dubai.

Cape Town International Airport is Africa's Best Airport, with Johannesburg ranked 2nd and Addis Ababa 3rd place for the region.

Best Airport North America is Minneapolis-St Paul - ranked 20th on a global basis. Cincinnati is North America's 2nd Best Airport, with San Francisco 3rd in this category.

For those wanting an unusual airport experience, Barra in the western islands of Scotland is recommended - a beach airport washed by the tide twice a day, where a runway obstruction may possibly be a stranded dolphin or seal!

For further information, please contact Peter Miller at [email protected]
Website: http://www.airlinequality.com

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ACI Worldwide Air Transport Forecasts 2005-2020
Passenger, Freight, Aircraft Movements

ACI’s forecasts for the next fifteen years indicate that passenger traffic will grow at the rate of 4.1%, effectively doubling the number of passengers served at airports by 2020. For airports worldwide this means providing quality services to 7.4 billion passengers worldwide. Freight traffic will increase by 5.4% and aircraft movements by 3.5% over the same period. These trends are illustrated in figures 1 and 2 below. The Asia/Pacific and Middle East regions project the highest rates of growth for all three parameters.

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AVIAPARTNER agrees major contract with SAS in Düseldorf and Hanover

Aviapartner is proud to announce the agreement of a major three-year contract with SAS Scandinavian Airlines for the provision of Ramp Handling services at both Düsseldorf and Hanover airports, which will take effect on 1st October 2005.

Picture provided and copyrighted by AVIAPARTNER

From this date, Aviapartner will provide the complete range of Ramp Handling services for SAS at these two airports, including loading and unloading of aircraft, pushback and towing, headset, toilet and water services, ground power, airstart, cleaning, de-icing supervision, freight and baggage transfer, weight & balance, and the production of loadsheets.

From Hanover, SAS operates up to four daily flights to Copenhagen, using Dash 8-400 aircraft, which will be handled by Aviapartner.

From Düsseldorf, SAS operates five daily flights to Copenhagen, as well as single daily flights to both Stockholm and Oslo. The aircraft used are Boeing 737-600 (Oslo), MD-80 series (Copenhagen) and Dash 8-400 (Copenhagen and Stockholm), which will all be handled by Aviapartner.

These two contracts represent a major step forward for our Hanover station, as well as a significant improvement to our business base and market position in Düsseldorf.

The fruitful co-operation between Aviapartner and SAS Scandinavian Airlines in other airports of Aviapartner’s network, such as Brussels, Lyon, Nice, Turin, and Venice, contributed to the airline’s decision to switch to Aviapartner in these two additional airports.

For further information, please contact:
Email : [email protected]
Website: www.aviapartner.aero

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AVIAPARTNER signs major 5-year catering contract
with Continental Airlines in Brussels

Aviapartner Catering Brussels provides the full range of catering services including meal production, logistics, soft drinks & dry stores, and loading and unloading of catering. Our Brussels unit currently serves 80 different menu types per day for 30 airlines. In our 11,000 m² facilities, our 270 staff prepare some 2.5 million meals a year (i.e. an average of 7,000 meals a day) for some 20,000 flights, according to the most stringent quality standards, such as BRC. Aviapartner has been awarded higher level status in this BRC standard, which incorporates a HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) food safety system, specific operating procedures and good manufacturing practices.

For further information, please contact:
Email : [email protected]
Website: www.aviapartner.aero

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Sale of Aviapartner to 3i and management

The shareholders of Aviapartner NV are pleased to announce that they have reached an agreement on the acquisition by Aviapartner LH3 SARL of 100% of the shares of Aviapartner. Aviapartner LH3 SARL is a vehicle backed by 3i, Europe’s leading private equity investor, in which certain managers of the Aviapartner group have invested.

Picture provided and copyrighted by AVIAPARTNER

Alex Verougstraete, CEO of Aviapartner, commented: "With its industry knowledge and its financial capabilities, 3i is the ideal partner to accompany Aviapartner and its management team in exploiting the growth opportunities in the European ground handling markets.” Sofinim, a leading Belgian private equity house and a subsidiary of Ackermans & van Haaren, is selling its 25% stake, which it acquired in 1995 to support Aviapartner in the international expansion of its ground handling activities. Mark Redman, 3i Director Benelux said: “Through our network and experience in this sector, we identified Aviapartner as a strong business operating on a pan-European basis with exceptional growth potential.

Going forward, we will work in close partnership with the Aviapartner management team to support its growth and further its international expansion.” Jonathan Russell, 3i’s Head of Buy-Outs, commented: “The investment in Aviapartner comes soon after our appointment of Robert van Goethem as 3i Director in Benelux and confirms our commitment to Belgium”. Over the coming months, Alex Verougstraete will assume the position of Non-Executive Director and Theo Dilissen will become CEO.

Theo Dilissen, who has a proven track record in service businesses such as ISS, is looking forward to be taking the lead of Aviapartner and strongly believes that the company can further grow its activities within Europe. His entrepreneurial and leadership skills make him ideally qualified for this role. The completion of the transaction, which is subject to customary conditions, is currently anticipated to occur around the end of August.

For further information, please contact:
Email : [email protected]
Website: www.aviapartner.aero

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Malaysia Airports Selects Preston Gate Allocation System

MELBOURNE, Australia, July 7, 2005 – Preston Aviation Solutions Pty Ltd, a Boeing [NYSE: BA] wholly owned subsidiary, has been commissioned by Malaysia Airports to replace the existing gate-allocation system at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) with its dynamic airport resource management system – Airport Solutions.

Airport Solutions will be installed at Malaysia’s premier airport hub to assist the team at KLIA’s airport operations to better manage the forecasted growth and ongoing expansion of the airport. Preston’s integrated suite of decision support tools will provide KLIA with a sophisticated and reliable resource management system, which will meet the day-of-operations and strategic planning requirements of its gate and remote parking resources, check-in desks and baggage carousels.

"Allocating the right resources at the right time is a challenging task for any major international airport hub, which is why a system like Airport Solutions will enable us to confidently handle KLIA’s current and future resource demands," said Dato’ Seri Bashir Ahmad, Managing Director of Malaysia Airports.

"Preston’s new resource management system will also assist us to evaluate past, current and future passenger processing operations at KL International Airport."

The implementation of Airport Solutions at KLIA commenced in February and is expected to be operational by September 2005.

Airport Solutions is currently in use by many of the world’s leading international airports including: Auckland International Airport, New Zealand; Bangkok International Airport, Thailand, Chek Lap Kok, Hong Kong; Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted International Airports, London; Narita Airport, Japan; Stockholm-Arlanda International Airport, Stockholm; and Vancouver International Airport; Canada.

Preston Aviation Solutions is a leader in the development of advanced airspace and airport simulation, decision support and airport resource allocation systems. A wholly owned subsidiary of The Boeing Company, Preston is an integral part of the Boeing Commercial Aviation Services unit. The established market presence and reach of Boeing, coupled with Preston's world-leading technology and extensive customer base, allow Preston to offer unprecedented levels of aviation expertise, knowledge and support.

Malaysia Airports is responsible for the management, operation, maintenance and future development of KLIA and the provision of airport-related services. KLIA is the result of visionary strategy to meet the needs of aviation traffic in the 21st century. Managing over 21 million passengers a year, KLIA is recognized as one of the leading modern airports of the world and the ultimate gateway to Malaysia.

For further information, please contact:
Preston Aviation Solutions - Cameron Baillie
Business Development Manager Middle East / South East Asia
Telephone: +61 39428 8899
http://www.preston.net

Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad
Dato’ Seri Bashir Ahmad - Managing Director
Telephone: 03-7846 3990
http://www.malaysiaairports.com.my

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JET AVIATION Biggin Hill now offers fueling and reports:
A 43% increase in FBO traffic in 2005

LONDON BIGGIN HILL, U.K. – Jet Aviation London Biggin Hill recently signed an agreement with BP (British Petrol) to offer fueling services at its FBO. The company can now provide the full range of FBO services at the Biggin Hill airport and reports an increase in FBO traffic of 43 % from January through July 2005 over the same period in 2004.

Picture provided and copyrighted by JET AVIATION

“We certainly benefit from the fact that more and more aircraft operators discover the convenience of Biggin Hill as the closest airport to the city of London. They know that they can expect the highest level of services at Jet Aviation and this at competitive service fees and fuel prices,” states Stephan Koss, senior vice president and general manager of Jet Aviation’s London Biggin Hill FBO and maintenance facility. “The fact that we now can offer fuel services will help to further attract customers to our FBO,” adds Koss.

Jet Aviation's London Biggin Hill operation is the most convenient gateway to and from the country's capitol, located just 12 miles (20 km) from central London. The facility provides FBO services, maintenance, avionics installations, refurbishment and exterior painting. The operation consists of two hangars totaling 5,188 square meters (55,830 square feet) and is an EASA part 145 (#EASA 145.00788) approved maintenance organization as well as an authorized service center for Embraer for the Embraer Legacy and Dassault for the Falcon 900 series. The facility provides airframe maintenance to Falcons, Gulfstreams 400, 500 and 550, the Raytheon Hawker series, the Citations 550 & 560 series and to Bombardier Canadair Challenger 601 and 604 as well as Global Express.

Jet Aviation was founded in Switzerland in 1967 and is the leading business aviation service company today. More than 3,500 personnel are employed in over 60 facilities and stations worldwide. The company provides maintenance, completions and engineering services, fixed base operations, along with aircraft sales, charter, and management on a global basis. Jet Aviation's U.S. and European aircraft management and charter divisions jointly operate a fleet of more than 160 aircraft and provided close to 60,000 hours in global flight operations in 2004.

For further informaton, please contact:
Heinz Aebi, Senior Vice President Corporate Marketing & Communications
or Evelyne Gordon, Manager PR & Advertising, at +41 58 158 8888 or by e-mail at [email protected]
Website: www.jetaviation.com

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Permira Funds acquire a majority stake in Jet Aviation

Frankfurt/Zurich, August 11, 2005 – Jet Aviation, one of the leading business aviation service companies, based in Zurich, announces changes in its ownership structure: The Permira Funds yesterday signed an agreement with Jet Aviation to acquire the majority shareholding of Hirschmann-/Jet Aviation Group. Both parties have agreed that further details about the transaction, including the transaction size, will not be disclosed.

The deal is subject to antitrust clearance and is expected to be closed by the end of September 2005. “With the acquisition by the Permira Funds, Jet Aviation will continue to maintain its leading position in the business aviation service industry and be able to strategically expand into new markets to better serve our customers around the world,” says Prof. Wolf-Rüdiger Bub, Chairman of the Hirschmann-/Jet Aviation Group. “Jet Aviation is an extremely well positioned company and an attractive investment for the Permira Funds. We look forward to working with management and employees to continue the company’s success”, added Thomas Krenz, Managing Director of Permira in Frankfurt.

Jet Aviation, with its worldwide headquarters in Zurich, was founded in Switzerland in 1967 and is the leading business aviation service company today. More than 3,500 personnel are employed in over 60 facilities and stations around the world. The company provides maintenance, completions and engineering services, fixed base operations, airline handling, along with aircraft sales, charter, and management on a global basis. In addition, Jet Aviation operates an aircraft management and charter fleet of more than 160 aircraft in Europe (Zurich), Asia (Hong Kong), in the Middle East (Dubai) and in the U.S. (Teterboro, New Jersey).

For additional information on Jet Aviation, please visit the web site at: http://www.jetaviation.com.

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Plattsburgh International Airport breaks ground on terminal:
Taking Up Position as "Montreal's U.S. Airport"

In 1995, Plattsburgh Air Force Base in Plattsburgh, N.Y. was officially closed, leaving the 5000 acre facility with an uncertain future. Just ten years later, it has become an economic success story and a profitable air industrial park known as Plattsburgh International Airport.

Today (August 16, 2005), that rapid evolution from air force to airport took its final historic step as ground was broken for the construction of more than $20 million (U.S.) worth of new facilities, including a much anticipated passenger terminal. Already a fully operating industrial airport with several aviation tenants and a number of other companies on site, Plattsburgh International will now be fully ready for passenger operations by 2007. It is being recognized as "MONTREAL'S U.S. AIRPORT" based on its strategic location just one hour south of downtown Montreal, conveniently accessible for the 3.5 million people and extensive aerospace sector in metropolitan Montreal.

It will also serve nearby Lake Placid, the two time site of the Winter Olympics and a world reknowned resort just 45 minutes away.

Its tenants already include Pratt & Whitney Canada's U.S. operations, including jet engine development and testing, and the first of two U.S. Department of Homeland Security air centers along the U.S.-Canadian border.

The 31,620 square foot, two story terminal has been designed to accommodate all types of aircraft, and will include a jet bridge. It will also be easily expandable, with almost unlimited free parking for cars. It is being constructed with no borrowing or debt, thanks to $20 million (U.S.) provided by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and the U.S. Congress, who see the opportunity for development of a successful new airport at the former base.

Among leaders in Washington who have actively supported the airport's development are Congressmen John McHugh and John Sweeney and U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Hillary Clinton.

Plattsburgh International Airport is located directly off Interstate 87 with its own interchange. It also offers major multimodal opportunities for manufacturing, cargo handling and distribution, including a direct spur and new railyard tied to the main Canadian Pacific Railway line from New York City to Montreal. In addition, it has direct highway and rail links to the Port of Montreal just one hour north.

Plattsburgh Air Force Base was a jewel of the U.S. Air Force, which was modernizing its facilities right up until its unexpected closure by the U.S. Base Realignment and Closure Commission as part of post-Cold War downsizing of the U. S. military. It features massive and flexible aviation assets, including a 12,000 foot runway, a 12 million square foot concrete ramp for aircraft parking and staging, and 1.5 million square feet of aviation related building space.

Thanks to its proximity to Montreal and its location on the main transportation connections between Quebec and New York, the former base has become what many consider to be the first private sector redevelopment success story among U.S. bases closed in the 1990's. The total 5000 acre site now hosts more than 80 tenants employing more people than were employed there by the Air Force.

Most of the commercial and industrial tenants are U.S. divisions of Canadian based companies, taking advantage of Plattsburgh's status as "Montreal's U.S. corporate suburb". More than 200 Canadian companies now have some type of U.S. location in the Plattsburgh area, generating an annual economic impact of more than $1.4 billion (U.S.) for the small but prospering community. This year, Plattsburgh was ranked among the Top 5 Small Communities in America for economic development by Site Selection Magazine for the fifth year in a row.

Today's passenger terminal groundbreaking was attended by federal, state and regional leaders, as well as by a number of aviation and aerospace representatives from Quebec, showing interest in the future opportunities inherent in such a massive and flexible multi-modal airport just over the border from Montreal.

When the terminal is complete in 2007, the nearby Clinton County Airport in Plattsburgh will be closed. Plattsburgh International will then be fully open for airlines and charters looking to tap the Montreal market from the U. S. side of the border, as well as the untapped potential of nearby Lake Placid.

In the meantime, Plattsburgh International is already open and available for other aviation and aerospace operations, including aircraft maintenance and manufacturing, cargo and distribution, testing and other activities. These and other air related operations will be further supported by the planned establishment of Plattsburgh Aeronautical Institute, an FAA Part 147 Airframe & Power Plant school, at the airport by 2007.

For more information, call (518) 563-1000 or visit www.montrealairport-us.com

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Swissport and PMSi conclude strategic alliance
to provide global cargo security services

With a workforce of some 21 000 personnel, Swissport International Ltd. (which is majority-owned by London-based Candover Partners Ltd., a leading European buyout specialist) provides ground services for over 70 million passengers and three million tonnes of cargo a year on behalf of some 600 client companies. Swissport is active at 177 airports in 40 countries on five continents, and generated consolidated revenues of CHF 1.3 billion (around USD 1.14 billion) last year. / www.swissport.com

Further information on PMSi is available at www.portmaritimesecurity.com
or from David Anthony, Commercial Director, phone +44 1303 288 655, e-mail [email protected].

Pictures provided and copyrighted by SWISSPORT

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Ferrovial enters the airport handling business
by acquiring Swissport, the world's leading independent operator

Zurich/London/Madrid, August 22, 2005 – Swissport International, the world's leading aviation service group, and Candover*, a leading European private equity house, have announced the sale of Swissport to the Spanish-based Ferrovial Group. The transaction is expected to be completed by the end of September, subject to competition and regulatory approval. The transaction values Swissport at EUR 646 million (CHF 1,002 billion) – in shares and assumed debt – and positions Ferrovial in a market with high growth potential. Swissport, which is the world's number-one independent passenger and cargo handling operator, serves more than 170 airports in 40 countries, and generates over 90% of its revenues in Europe and North America.

Ferrovial has reached an agreement to acquire Swissport, one of the world's leading handling companies, which operates at over 170 airports in 40 countries. The transaction values Swissport at EUR 646 million (CHF 1.002 billion) . Ferrovial will pay EUR 336 million (CHF 520.8 million) for the shares of the Swiss-based company and will assume its debt, which amounted to EUR 310 million (CHF 481.2 million) in December 2004.

Independent and global at over 170 airports in 40 countries
Swissport, the world's leading independent handling operator (which is not associated with any airline or airport) reported total revenues of EUR 836 million (CHF 1297 million) in 2004. Swissport operates in two main lines of business: passenger and ramp services (ground handling) and cargo handling, and occupies a leading position in both. The company also provides other airport services such as fuelling, security, management of ULDs (air cargo containers) and executive aviation handling. The Zurich-based company has over 50 years of experience in the sector and is managed by a solid and seasoned executive team led by Joseph In Albon, who will remain at the helm after the acquisition. Under the current management, Swissport has expanded rapidly into other countries since the late 1990s, setting up operations at new stations and acquiring local companies with leading market shares.

A sector with growth potential
The passenger and cargo handling business, which is traditionally associated with the airlines and airports themselves, is estimated to be worth EUR 26 billion (CHF 40 billion) in annual revenues. The business is also projected to expand rapidly, at over 5% per year in the coming years. The growth in air traffic (both passenger and cargo), the worldwide liberalisation of airport management and the growing trend among airlines to outsource their ground handling all support this favourable forecast.

Ferrovial in the services business
The acquisition of Swissport strengthens Ferrovial's position in the services sector, where it has become one of Europe's leading players in the fields of urban services, facility management and infrastructure maintenance in recent years. Ferrovial's Services Division – which has operations in Spain, Portugal and the United Kingdom – generated revenues of EUR 2.458 billion (CHF 3.810 billion) in 2004. Ferrovial is also involved in airport management through its Infrastructure Division. It currently manages four airports, in Europe (Bristol and Belfast), Australia (Sydney) and Chile, which are used by over 35 million passengers each year. Ferrovial was also recently selected as the preferred bidder for the management concession at Exeter Airport in the UK.

"Swissport has been an excellent investment for the Candover 2001 Fund,” says Charlie Green, Director of Candover. “Under our ownership, the company has played a leading role in the consolidation of the European aviation services industry, and sales have grown by 25%. I have every confidence that the business will continue its growth and development under Ferrovial’s ownership. We wish the management team every success for the future, and thank them for their contribution over the last three-and-a-half years."

"We will continue to foster the proven Swissport values with regard to quality, growth, innovation and cost control in order to offer our customer airlines an optimum product,” adds Joseph In Albon, CEO of Swissport International. “Thanks to Ferrovial's involvement, we can be sure that we can continue to realise certain plans for growth."

For further information, please visit: http://www.swissport.com

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Swissport selected to trial new Airbus A380 tow tractor at Zurich Airport

Zurich, July 6, 2005 – Swissport International, the world’s leading aviation ground services group, is currently conducting trials of an aircraft tow tractor that has been specially developed to handle the new Airbus A380 aircraft. The 800-horsepower tractor, which is manufactured by the Goldhofer company, is being assessed for its performance and compatibility in Swissport’s day-to-day operations at Zurich Airport. Swissport is one of the world’s first ground handlers to conduct such extensive in-service trials of the new towing vehicle.

Pictures provided and copyrighted by SWISSPORT

While there are currently no plans by any air carrier to operate Airbus A380s to Zurich, the Goldhofer company, which specialises in the manufacture of airport apron vehicles, has selected Swissport to trial the new AST-1X tow tractor which the company has developed to handle the new giant widebody. The choice is rooted in Goldhofer’s long-standing and successful collaboration with the Swissport Group, and in Swissport’s strong reputation for professional ground handling.

The new AST-1X tow tractor is being trialled at Zurich before being put into ground handling service for the Airbus A380 in autumn next year. The vehicle will be used at all the world’s airports to which the A380 is operated. In Europe, this will initially be London Heathrow and Paris Charles de Gaulle.

The new tow tractor is currently being used in Swissport’s day-to-day operations at Zurich Airport, to monitor its performance and ensure its compatibility with all types of long-haul jet. The experience gained will provide Goldhofer and its engineers with valuable findings which can then be assimilated into the vehicle’s upcoming series production.

The AST-1X offers some impressive statistics: fuel consumption of 35 litres of diesel per operating hour, a price tag per tractor of over CHF 1 million, a vehicle weight of 43 tonnes, a maximum load of 60 tonnes and a maximum tractive effort of 24 tonnes. The two engines combine to produce an impressive 800 horsepower.

“We’re delighted that these first experiences with the new tow tractor are being gained in Zurich,” says Peter Sturzenegger, Vice President Global Supply Management at Swissport International. “With our worldwide network of operations, we expect to be handling the new Airbus A380 ourselves at our Los Angeles, New York, Singapore and Johannesburg stations.”

Stefan Fuchs, CEO of Goldhofer, which is based in Memmingen, Germany, is equally pleased with the arrangement: “Swissport is a competent and cooperative partner who can provide us with invaluable feedback and suggestions for improvements,” he explains. “The close collaboration between our two companies goes back a long way,” Fuchs continues. “We trialled our first towbarless tractor in Zurich in 1987, and it’s been in service there ever since. And with its strong tradition of innovation and its global operating network, we hope that Swissport will continue to provide valuable input to help us further develop and refine the ground services vehicles we supply.”

With a workforce of some 21 000 personnel, Swissport International Ltd. (which is majority-owned by London-based Candover Partners Ltd., a leading European buyout specialist) provides ground services for over 70 million passengers and three million tonnes of cargo a year on behalf of some 600 client companies. Swissport is active at 177 airports in 40 countries on four continents, and generated consolidated revenues of CHF 1.3 billion (around USD 1.14 billion) last year. / www.swissport.com

For further technical and background details, any interested suppliers, other business partners or media representatives are invited to contact:
Peter Sturzenegger directly by phone on +41 43 812 0189 or by e-mail at [email protected].

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Sydney Airport will be ready to welcome first A380

Sydney Airport will be ready to welcome the world’s first A380 next year, with the necessary airfield and terminal works ahead of schedule. The Chief Executive of Singapore Airlines, the first carrier to fly the new aircraft, yesterday announced that Sydney would be the ‘very first port of call for the plane on its entry into service’ as part of the inaugural Singapore-Sydney-London flight late next year.

Sydney Airport Corporation Ltd (SACL) is spending over $100 million to prepare the airport for the arrival of the Airbus A380. Work includes widening of two runways as well as several taxiways, the strengthening of the General Holmes Drive tunnel; relocation of airfield navigational and visual aid equipment and the construction of aerobridges, as well as work within the International Terminal.

The design and construction of the first of the new aerobridges started on site this week and involves three new aerobridges across each of four bays as well as the preparation of an additional two bays to meet forecast growth through to 2008.

Every night during Sydney Airport’s curfew, the airfield is transformed into a work site and, for example, the portion of the tarmac that runs over General Holmes Drive is dug up and replaced with a stronger material so as to cope with the additional weight of the new large aircraft.

Further contracts to be awarded involve taxiway realignment and further work to upgrade terminal facilities. Max Moore-Wilton, Executive Chairman & CEO of SACL said Sydney would be ready to welcome the world’s first A380 flight ahead of schedule.

“Sydney Airport will play a significant role is this historic aviation event and we look forward to working with Singapore Airlines to bring about this exciting new travel option for travelers,” Mr Moore-Wilton said.

For further information, please visit: http://www.sydneyairport.com.au

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Sydney Airport to go to market for Australia's largest Duty Free contract

Sydney Airport will be offering its AUS$220M per annum Duty Free & Tax Free Contract in the market place early next year for a new contract commencement date of 1st November 2006. The contract has been held by The Nuance Group since it acquired Downtown Duty Free in the mid 1990s and expires 31 October 2006.

Sydney Airport Corporation's Executive Chairman and Chief Executive, Mr Max Moore-Wilton said that the Airport 'has an excellent working relationship with Nuance', its current operator.

The decision to take the contract to market is reflective of changes within the tourism retail industry, the general evolution of duty free and renewed interest of duty free operators in being part of Sydney Airport's high profile and well performing duty free business. "This is the first opportunity since privatisation to interact with the market about Australia's largest duty free business and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead."

The current partnership with Nuance has brought about significant innovations and developments, and as a result created a world class duty and tax free shopping environment for passengers. This is the type professionalism, commitment and involvement we will be seeking moving forward," Mr Moore-Wilton said.

The Australian market has major duty free appeal for passengers. To have the opportunity to service all international passengers, both arrivals and departures, as duty free customers is an attractive proposition to duty free operators. Similarly the increase in Australia's duty free concession allowance in early 2005 provides further stimulus for professional operators.

Sydney Airport will formally seek Requests for Proposal in early 2006.

For further information, please visit: http://www.sydneyairport.com.au

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What's new at Paris Airport ?

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Aeroporti di Roma: no vacation for the Leonardo da Vinci
Airport Development Project

Aeroporti di Roma unveils new infrastructure

Aeroporti di Roma unveils new infrastructure work in the service of its passengers. No August holidays for the development project of Italy’s first intercontinental airport. With the aim of further improving the quality of service at Fiumicino and of responding to the increase in traffic, Aeroporti di Roma has unveiled today, August 1st, the new infrastructure project for Leonardo da Vinci airport.

In the presence of Institutions, authorities and the press, the Mayor of Fiumicino, Mario Canapini, and the Managing Director of ADR, Francesco Di Giovanni, symbolically cut the ribbon to mark the launch of the new Terminal AA, reserved but not limited to charter traffic. During the event participants were shown the structural and functional details of the various works, available in the next few days, as included in ADR’s approved Investment plan, a total investment of 660 million euro for the 2005-2014 period. In detail:

• a new passenger Terminal, adjacent to domestic flights Terminal A, covering 9000 square metres, of which approximately 6000 dedicated
  to the check-in area with 18 check-in desks, and 3 000 square metres for remote boarding lounges.
  
• a 5th module for the Covered Multi-level Parking Area, built on 6 levels with a total of 45 000 square metres, located opposite Terminal A
  and providing 1 800 parking spaces, in addition to the 3 700 spaces already available at the other three existing multi-level Parking Areas.
  
• the expansion of the Long Term Parking Area, covering approximately 35 000 square metres, with 1 400 parking spaces, available for passenger
  use until such time as they are assigned to airport staff, thus providing a total of 5 400 spaces in the Long Term Parking Area.
  
• the extension of the West Pier: 2 700 square metres and 16 new boarding gates for international flights.
  
• a new check-in area covering approximately 1 000 square metres in Terminal C international departures, replacing the former Protocol Office area:
  18 new check-in desks, served by baggage conveyors connected to the BHS system for automatic baggage handling and sorting.
  
• 15 new “Echo” and “Whiskey” aircraft parking stands in the airport’s south-eastern section, as well as taxiways in the western section.
  
• a 2nd module for the building hosting international transit baggage handling, equipped with an 80 metre-long carousel.
  
• “We are working with total commitment, so much so that the infrastructure unveiled today may be considered as a mere introduction to future
  developments – only a milestone in the journey, certainly not its conclusion –“ said Francesco Di Giovanni, Managing Director of Aeroporti di Roma.
  “For the future, ADR has already made a start on doubling Fiumicino’s “Bravo” taxiway, and work will soon commence on the new Pier C, the extension
  of the transit area, and the construction of another office Tower”. “Finally” – the MD concluded – “by 2006, the second airport hotel - a Scandic by Hilton -
  will be opened next to the Cargo City”.

For further information please visit: http://www.adr.it


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CPH shortlisted to make final and binding bid for Budapest airport

On 9 August 2005, Copenhagen Airports A/S (CPH) made an indicative bid to acquire Budapest Ferihegy International Airport (BA). The Hungarian Privatization and State Holding Company Ltd (APV), which is acting as the seller of BA, has today announced that CPH and four other tenderers have been shortlisted to make final and binding bids for BA.

The other tenderers are: Hochtief Airport and Hochtief Airport Capital, British Airports Authorities (BAA) and the Hungarian investment company Wallis, Fraport AG and Deutsche Bank AG plus Macquarie Airports.

One of the oldest capitals in Europe, Budapest offers an abundance of culture and history. In recent years, the city has become increasingly popular as a holiday and weekend destination. A surge in the number of tourists has led to a boom in hotel capacity. Hungary’s accession to the EU has been a prime driver of this development, and Hungary and Budapest are therefore expected to see significant growth in air traffic in the years ahead.

In 2004, BA had 6.5 million passengers, an increase of 28.5% from 2003. Located a few kilometres outside Budapest, the airport has a catchment area of almost six million people within two hours’ driving distance.

CPH believes that over the next few years BA will demonstrate one of the strongest growth potentials in the European aviation industry and that BA presents a unique opportunity for CPH to transfer and develop the company’s know-how within commercial airport operation.

The current bidding process for BA will conclude with the submission of a final bid on 2 November 2005. In connection with the bidding process, CPH has signed a confidentiality agreement and is therefore unable at the present time to comment on aspects concerning BA or the acquisition process in general.

For further information, please visit: http://www.cph.dk

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Schengen Treaty Implementation at Malta International Airport:
Works commenced and are on schedule

Malta’s membership of the European Union and the consequent adherence to the Schengen Treaty requirements has led Malta International Airport plc to comply with the requisites imposed by the Treaty to ensure that works are completed within the stipulated datelines.

The Schengen Treaty has been signed by most European countries with the aim of alleviating border controls between signatory states. This effectively creates a single and wider external border whereby immigration control procedures are common to all adhering countries.

Preliminary works at MIA for the implementation of Schengen requirements have already been initiated and are on schedule. The entire project involves a LM 1.5 million investment and should be completed by the first quarter of 2007. This comprises the eventual expansion of the air terminal to provide a Schengen Arrivals’ area complete with all facilities and a direct transfer access to the respective Schengen and non-Schengen areas at the departures area. Other works scheduled in the project plans will include new retail outlets, the relocation of services and the structural segregation of Schengen and non-Schengen areas.

In this regard, illustrative billboards have been erected by MIA on the air terminal grounds depicting the works in course and regretting any undue inconvenience that may be caused to customers in the process.

For further information, please visit: http://www.maltairport.com

Pictures provided and copyrighted by MIA

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Dallas Forth Worth International Airport
receives $4M grant from FAA for perimeter taxiways

Successful Experiment With NASA To Begin Implementation; Airport Continues Global Leadership in Airfield Safety

DFW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, TEXAS (August 18, 2005) – Continuing its global leadership in airfield safety and cutting-edge implementation of new safety standards, DFW International Airport this week accepted a $4M grant from the Federal Aviation Administration to fund construction of the first phase of perimeter taxiways around the Airport. DFW is expected to have the taxiway project completed by 2008, increasing runway safety while speeding passengers to their gate without having to stop to wait for opportunities to cross an active runway. The grant is the latest success story in DFW’s globally–recognized achievement in the critical area of airfield safety in collaboration with the FAA and NASA.

“At DFW, safety and security are our top priorities, and it all begins as soon as a plane reaches our 18,000 acres,“ says Jim Crites, executive vice president of operations at DFW. “What this Airport team has done over the past five years to improve airfield safety has put new safety programs and procedures in airports around the world. We are extremely proud of that – and now perimeter taxiways will be the latest innovation that will improve an already phenomenal track record at DFW.”

Perimeter taxiways – ribbons of concrete that will circle DFW’s massive airfield and seven runways – enable aircraft to taxi around runways rather than having to cross them, avoiding possible incursions while decreasing radio communications traffic between pilots and controllers. The precedent-setting program was successfully tested by DFW and by NASA at its Ames FutureFlight Central, virtual reality control tower, the FAA’s William J. Hughes Technical Center. Active-duty pilots and air traffic controllers who fly out of and work at DFW took part in the testing.

"The Federal Aviation Administration has been working in partnership with the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport for over 11 years on a safety and efficiency initiative, known as the Perimeter Taxiway System, an initiative that will reduce significantly the over 1,700 daily runway crossings, "said Mike Nicely, manager of the FAA’s Texas Airport Development Office. "The FAA is very impressed with DFW’s continued commitment toward enhancing safety at the airport with initiatives such as the Perimeter Taxiway System and look forward to this first quadrant becoming operational."

In addition, DFW’s airfield safety programs were recently recognized for a recordsetting fourth consecutive year of zero-discrepancies in its FAA certification process – covering more than 3.8 million take-offs and landings in that period. And the Airport’s active and leading participation in a wide range of cutting edge safety initiatives continues to set new standards in aviation safety. For example:

Bird Radar:
DFW International Airport served as a test site last fall for an experimental radar system designed to track location and movement of birds in close proximity to airport runways. The eventual goal of the system is to increase aviation safety by providing real-time information to air traffic controllers and pilots about potential bird hazards and by tracking bird movement and migration patterns.

Runway Status Lights:
The FAA at DFW is testing a new system that works like traffic lights on the airfield by informing pilots if it is unsafe to cross an active runway or for departing aircraft if it is unsafe to start a take-off roll because of another aircraft on or crossing the runway. Two ground radar systems interact with a computer system to turn red lights on if an unsafe condition exists in an effort to further reduce the chance of runway accidents.

Surface Movement Guidance and Control System:
DFW operates a surface movement guidance and control system to ensure the safe movement of vehicles during times of low visibility. The flashing yellow runway guard lights are the heart of the DFW System and are operated 24 hours a day to better ensure pilots and vehicle operators realize that they are approaching a runway.

“I Brake for Runways” and Wildlife Campaigns:
DFW executes education campaigns for Airport employees to ensure runway safety and reduce wildlife incidents with aircraft. The “I Brake For Runways” campaign ended earlier this year and was hugely successful in educating the airport community about proper operations when crossing runways. The “Wildlife Campaign” just kicked off this month with posters, fliers, brochures and CD’s distributed around the airport, encouraging employees not to feed wildlife because of the inherent dangers to aviation.

Area Navigation (RNAV):
DFW has worked with the FAA to improve the efficiency of airport operations. The RNAV program is a global satellite navigation system that guides pilots along more direct departure routes. When implemented in the fall of this year it is expected to increase efficiency by 15-20 percent and will also reduce communication congestion, reduce flying time and distance, provide better utilization of the runways and improved departure route consistency.

Aircraft Vortex Spacing System (AVOSS):
DFW supported the testing of the Aircraft Vortex Spacing System by NASA and Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lincoln Labs for three years. This system
promises to allow closer spacing of aircraft on landing approach without adversely affecting safety.

Runway Incursion Prevention System (RIPS):
DFW supported a demonstration of NASA's Runway Incursion Prevention System that provides runway incursion alerts directly on cockpit instruments to reduce runway incursion accidents.

Runway Incursion Reduction Program (RIRP):
DFW worked with the FAA on its Runway Incursion Reduction Program that integrated several surface surveillance systems into a common display that alerts air traffic controllers to runway incursions with the potential of also providing alerts to pilots and vehicle operators.

About DFW International Airport
Located halfway between the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, DFW International Airport is the world's third busiest, offering nearly 2,000 flights per day and serving 57 million passengers a year. DFW International Airport provides non-stop service to 130 domestic and 38 international destinations worldwide.

For further information, please log on to www.dfwairport.com

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Denver International Airport secures highest honors
in ACI-NA's Marketing and Communications Contest

Airports Council International - North America (ACI-NA) today announced the winners of its 2005 Excellence in Marketing and Communications Contest. Denver International Airport received the Peggy G. Hereford Overall Award for Excellence widely recognized throughout the airport industry as the highest honor airports can earn in the marketing and communications field. The official presentation to Denver will be held Wednesday, Sept. 21, during the Chairman’s Honor Luncheon at the ACI-NA 14th Annual Conference & Exhibition in Toronto.


The Hereford award recognizes creativity in illustrating the airport’s message, effectiveness in connecting with audiences, and the overall scope of the airport’s effort in marketing and public relations. The award’s goal is to spotlight the commitment and dedication of the winning airport’s accomplishments in marketing and communications.

“Denver used its tenth anniversary as an opportunity to “re-launch” the airport and reposition their brand in the community. Their efforts, focusing on the “Den is Ten” theme across virtually all of Denver’s communications programs, provided the airport the ability to leverage the milestone anniversary for maximum media coverage and community interest,” said Juliet Wright, ACI-NA’s senior director of public affairs. “Their entire campaign was sleek, clean and effective, and I can’t think of a better way for Denver to celebrate its tenth anniversary,” she continued.

In addition to winning the Hereford Award, Denver took first place in five categories: Newsletters: Black/White or Email; Special Events; Corporate Branding Campaigns; Creative Innovations – Technology; and Video and Film Productions. The airport received two second place awards representing excellence in Press Kits and Public Relations Campaigns; and also received a third place award for Radio Advertising.

Denver International Airport was one of 54 airports and airport authorities that submitted entries in the contest, which encompasses categories that recognize work in marketing and public relations and provides airports the opportunity to be honored for the quality of their work. Award categories cover a wide range of media including brochures, advertising, marketing and public relations campaigns, newsletters, special events, video and film productions, and websites. “The competition among airports for this prestigious award is intense, and to win it is extremely exciting for all of us at Denver International Airport,” said Vicki Braunagel, Denver’s Co-Manager of Aviation. “Our 10th-anniversary celebration focused on recognizing the hard work and support of the community and our employees in getting Denver International Airport built and operating, and this award is a fitting tribute to that hard work and dedication.”

Airports Council International - North America represents local, regional and state governing bodies that own and operate commercial airports in the United States and Canada. ACI-NA member airports enplane more than 98 percent of the domestic and virtually all the international airline passenger and cargo traffic in North America. Over 300 aviation-related businesses are also members of the association, which is the largest of the six worldwide regions of Airports Council International.

For further information, please visit: http://www.flydenver.com

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Atlanta International Airport unveils latest explosive detection technology

Atlanta Airport Police Department will use new truck and equipment to enhance airport security and safety

Atlanta, GA – The City of Atlanta Police Department at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is one of several law enforcement agencies responsible for the safety and security of the millions of passengers that travel through the Airport annually. Ben DeCosta, general manager of Hartsfield-Jackson; Richard Duncan, aviation security director; and Robert Bailey, sergeant and bomb technician with the Airport Police K-9/Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) Unit today unveiled new containment technology and an explosive response truck that equips the Airport to handle weapons of mass destruction, including bio-chemical weaponry.

The Atlanta Airport Police K-9/EOD Unit was established in the 1970s. Since that time its responsibility has increased with the unit being activated more than 100 times per year. As terrorist threats have escalated over the years—from hi-jackings in the 1980s to mass bombings and biochemical threats in the 21st century—the technology to guard against them has advanced.

“The Olympic Park bombing and the terrorist incidents in Spain and London highlight the need for preparedness to respond to suspicious items quickly and safely,” said Duncan.

To get certified, the bomb technicians in the K-9/EOD Unit completed 200 hours of initial training, and are required to get a minimum of 24 hours of training per month to be in good standing. The Federal Bureau of Investigation provides the Unit’s certification and training.

The Airport Police K-9/EOD Unit has acquired the latest technology to guard against potential attacks, in keeping with Hartsfield-Jackson’s mission to be efficient, safe and prepared.

For further information, please visit: http://www.atlanta-airport.com

Picture provided and copyrighted by ATLANTA AIRPORT

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Airport Authority human resources manager co-authors book
about employee training

New book is a practical guide for small and large organizations

SAN DIEGO – August 26, 2005 A human resources manager for the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority has co-authored the newly published book, The Other Blended Learning: A Classroom-Centered Approach. Diann Wilson, the Airport Authority’s Training and Organizational Development Manager, wrote the book with Ellen Smilanich.

The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority was established by state law in 2003 to operate San Diego International Airport and to address the region’s long-term air transportation needs. The Airport Authority is governed by a nine-member appointed Board representing all areas of the County. San Diego International Airport—funded through user fees and not local taxes—is the nation’s busiest single-runway commercial airport, serving some 16.4 million passengers in 2004.

For further information, please visit: http://www.san.org

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Philadelphia Airport System Website Gains in Popularity:
www.phl.org Handled More Than 1.1 Billion Hits In The Past 18 Months

Philadelphia - The Philadelphia Airport System website, www.phl.org, received a record 1.1 billion hits in the past 18 months. The site, which debuted in 1997 and was re-designed in 2003, now averages more than 63 million web hits per month. A hit represents information that has been downloaded from a website.

"Philadelphia is proud to be on the cutting edge of the information technology industry, and Philadelphia International Airport plays a leading role in the City's plans to stay there," said Mayor John F. Street.

Phl.org, which was the first airport website in the country to provide live video of the airfield, has proved to be a vital resource for travelers in their search for information regarding the Philadelphia Airport System. The System is composed of Philadelphia International (PHL) and Northeast Philadelphia (PNE) airports. Both Airports are owned and operated by the City of Philadelphia.

"Phl.org is a constant work in progress, and we continue to revise and upgrade it based on comments from our passengers," said Charles J. Isdell, the City's Director of Aviation. "Our website has become an integral part of the passenger's trip planning process."

In 2004, the website received nearly 667 million hits. Combined with the first six months of 2005, phl.org registered a whopping total of more than 1.1 billion hits. The highest single-day total of 11.4 million hits occurred on January 23, 2005 during a major snowstorm.

Among the website's many features is the Flight Information Display System (FIDS), which enables visitors to check the status of arriving and departing flights. This popular feature, which records the most hits, reflects the same real-time information shown on the flight monitors at the Airport. PHL was one of the first airports in the world to offer real-time flight information on-line.

The website also offers a real-time flight tracker, travel tips and traffic reports and provides detailed information on a variety of Airport programs, services and parking, helpful terminal maps, and links to airlines and other aviation and transportation sites. The site also enables visitors to submit comments and questions. In the past 18 months, nearly 10,000 e-mails have been received through the website.

In addition, Phl.org contains sections on Northeast Airport, PHL's general aviation reliever airport, and cargo activity. Visitors can find answers to frequently asked questions; learn about PHL's history, airline competition plan, accessibility and environmental stewardship endeavors; keep up to date on Airport news; and view and request brochures. The site also contains a "Kid's Corner" area designed to appeal to young visitors, who can download games and puzzles and learn about the exciting world of aviation.

The Philadelphia Airport System is owned and operated by the City of Philadelphia and is composed of Philadelphia International Airport and Northeast Philadelphia Airport. The Airport System is a self-sustaining entity that operates without the use of local tax dollars. It is one of the largest economic engines in Pennsylvania, generating an estimated $8.3 billion in spending to the regional economy and employing a workforce of nearly 28,000.

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Los Angeles Airport awarded Top Honor
in airport industry environmental achievement

(Los Angeles, California – July 12, 2005) Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has won this year’s Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA) Environmental Achievement Award in the large-airport class for constructing the first retail hydrogen-fueling and generation station at an airport. The 10,500-square-foot station, that opened last Oct. 22, incorporates a commercial retail-friendly design, which will pave the way for future retail outlets.

”Airports’ efforts in environmental stewardship continue to remain a priority in our industry. The recipients of this year’s award demonstrate tremendous vision in addition to dedication in protecting the natural environment,” said Sara Massey, ACI-NA manager of Technical and Environmental Affairs. “The award winners exemplify the strides airports take on a daily basis to exceed local, state, and federal regulations,” she added.

LAWA Executive Director Kim Day said, “For over a decade, Los Angeles World Airports has been proud to embrace our responsibility to the environment by adopting clean-fuel technologies throughout our vehicle fleet.” She added, “We believe hydrogen-fuel-cell vehicles and fueling stations such as the one at LAX are important elements to meeting California’s future energy needs.”

LAWA has a program to identify and replace fossil-fuel vehicles and equipment with alternative-fuel models. Currently, over 400 (or more than half) of LAX’s vehicle fleet is comprised of alternative-fuel vehicles – including LNG-CNG (liquefied natural gas/compressed natural gas), electric and hybrid – and further expansion of the fleet is planned.

The hydrogen-fueling station at LAX is a joint project among BP, Praxair, LAWA, South Coast Air Quality Management District, California Energy Commission and the U.S. Department of Energy – all of which helped fund the nearly $2-million construction cost.

The station is being used to fuel hydrogen-powered demonstration cars supplied by a variety of automobile manufacturers. The facility also serves other Los Angeles City departments that have hydrogen-powered vehicles, and in the future, will serve private customers and other public agencies.

Airports Council International-North America represents national, state, regional and local governing bodies that own and operate commercial airports in the United States, Canada and the Virgin Islands. ACI-NA member airports enplane more than 95 percent of the domestic and virtually all of the international airline passenger and cargo traffic in North America.

Los Angeles World Airports is a self-sustaining City of Los Angeles department that owns and operates four airports: LAX, Ontario International, Palmdale Regional and Van Nuys.

For further information, please visit: http://www.lawa.org

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EVA AIR awards major multi-station contract to Aviapartner

Eva Air signed a major cargo-handling contract with Aviapartner on 31 August 2005,
which covers up to twelve stations in Germany.

With view to this multi-station contract, Eva Air had been testing Aviapartner Cargo in five German stations since the beginning of the year (in Berlin-Tegel, Cologne, Hamburg, Hanover, and Münster-Osnabrück). In the meantime, Eva Air has added seven stations to this network: Dortmund, Dresden, Düsseldorf, Leipzig, Munich, Nuremberg, and Stuttgart. This has brought to twelve the number of stations in Germany where Aviapartner will handle Eva Air’s import cargo, with an expected volume of about 10,000 tons per year.

Aviapartner is providing warehousing and documentation services for Eva Air’s import cargo at Hanover, Berlin-Tegel, Leipzig, Dresden, Stuttgart, Dusseldorf, and Cologne. In Hamburg, Münster-Osnabrück, and Dortmund, Aviapartner is providing warehousing and documentation services for both import and export cargo.

Aviapartner Cargo has already been handling Eva Air’s cargo for many years in Brussels.
Luc Arnouts, Aviapartner Vice-President Cargo, said: “We are very proud that Eva Air has chosen us as their long-term business partner. The new German contract confirms the good working relationship between the two companies, based on the experience of quality service Eva Air has had with Aviapartner in Brussels. It also demonstrates Aviapartner’s ability to offer network-wide solutions to our customers.”

For further information, please contact:
Christine Karels, Communications Manager, AVIAPARTNER HEAD OFFICE
Heidestraat 32 – B-1930 Zaventem (Belgium)
Tel.: +32 (0)2 723 03 84 - Fax: +32 (0)2 723 09 81 – Mobile : +32 (0)476 90 67 28
Email : [email protected]
Website: www.aviapartner.aero

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