8th Edition of inter airport SEA Set for 2025

inter airport Southeast Asia, the premier trade exhibition and conference for airport innovation and technology in Asia, will return to Singapore from 25 to 27 March 2025 at the Marina Bay Sands.

The 8th edition is expected to bring together over 3,500 representatives of the aviation industry in Asia, influencers in the airports and airlines community, and 150+ exhibitors, including world-class solution providers and airport equipment suppliers, to connect, find synergies, build partnerships, and innovate.

As the aviation industry advances and new airport projects and investments surge globally, groundbreaking innovations are essential to drive its transformation. Themed “Airport Operations for Tomorrow” conversations at the exhibition and conference will highlight innovation, technology, and sustainable solutions to optimise terminal and ramp operations of the future.

Asia driving majority in airport projects  

With visitor arrivals projected to reach 564 million in the Asia Pacific, the region is now positioned at the forefront of significant airport development, leading the global aviation recovery. APAC currently boasts 575 existing or new airport projects, valued at a staggering USD 488 billion, while the investment at existing airports amounts to 170 projects, valued at USD 217 billion.

“Thailand is one of the high growths in emerging aviation market in Asia-Pacific. The passenger volume is expected to double by 2032, and Thailand will be one of the top 10 markets in total passenger traffic by 2042.  To manage the increased passenger capacity, AOT developed a strategic master plan that includes the construction of new airports, expansion of existing facilities, and upgrades to key infrastructure to enhance capacity to accommodate 240 million annual passengers (MAP) by 2032,” said Latchida Apaphant, EVP, Foreign Affair, Airports of Thailand PLC (AOT). “To make Thailand a regional aviation hub, and a goal to bring Suvarnabhumi International Airport rank among the top airport operators by 2037, massive investments are also be made to procure automated technology and biometric identification system to reduce international passenger processing times. Given the increasing complexity of airport operations and the need to innovate, inter airport Southeast Asia conference offers timely discussions and an exhibition to explore emerging technologies for the future of airports.”

Ms Latchida will join some of the C-suite speakers confirmed at inter airport Southeast Asia conference:

  1. Ricia Montejo, Head, Customer Experience, Aboitiz GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corporation
  2. Ibrahim Mohd Salleh, Chief Operating Officer, Aerodarat Services Sdn Bhd – a wholly owned subsidiary of Malaysia Aviation Group
  3. Lye Teck Tan, EVP, Safety & Security, Changi Airport Group
  4. Saurabh Dalvi, Head of Operations, Mumbai, Goa, Hyderabad, Celebi Nas
  5. Musdalifa Abdullah, CEO, GTR Malaysia
  6. Megat Ardian, Senior General Manager, Strategy, Malaysia Airports
  7. Raymond Lo, CEO, Menzies CNAC Aviation Services Ltd
  8. Simon Lotter, Head of Market for Asia & Pacific, Munich Airport International
  9. Tatsuya Izumi, Deputy General Manager, Narita International Airport Corporation
  10. Ranjiv Ramanathan, SVP, SG Hub Transformation & Development, SATS Ltd
  11. Brad Moore, CEO APAC, Swissport International AG

For the complete list of speakers, visit www.interairport-southeastasia.com.

inter airport Southeast Asia – the reference point for the Future of Airports

According to Airports Council International (ACI), global passenger volume is foreseen to reach 9.5 billion in 2024, while the Asia-Pacific region is said to lead in year-on-year (YoY) growth in 2024, with a 13% increase, reaching 3.4 billion passengers by year-end. With air travel playing a vital role in global trade and tourism, the sector must adopt innovative approaches to make airport more sustainable and resilient.

inter airport Southeast Asia 2025 will highlight global and regional solutions that support the scaling up of airport tech to boost operation efficiency and greener solutions in ground operations to reduce carbon emissions. Prominent exhibitors on the exhibition front include ADB Safegate, Alstef Group, BSLBatt, Charlatte Manutention – FAYAT Group, Dynell GmbH, ElectroAir, Fastcharge GSE, ITW GSE, JBT AeroTech, Runway Safe Group, Roypow, Smith Detection, TLD Asia Ltd, Weihai Guangtai Airport Equipment, just to name a few.

“Ground support equipment is a critical component of driving airport operations, and the advancements in GSE technology are paramount for driving sustainability and efficiency. By embracing advanced GSE technologies, such as electric and autonomous vehicles, we can reduce emissions and improve operational efficiency, all while enhancing safety. It’s important to discuss how we can reimagine ground handling operations to establish new benchmarks in turnaround efficiency, and I’m excited to discuss this with fellow panellists at the upcoming inter airport SEA,” said Brad Moore, CEO – APAC, Swissport.

Japan pavilion will also be showcased for the first time at inter airport Southeast Asia.  The pavilion will present a dynamic line-up of companies including NEC, Japan Radio Co., Ltd (JRC), RION, ShinMaywa Industries, Ltd., Sugie Seito Co., Ltd. and Toyota Industries Corporation as they showcase cutting-edge airport equipment for ground operation and touchless technology to enhance airport experiences.

In line with the industry’s focus on innovation and safety, Singapore is also taking steps to advance aerospace manufacturing standards. A Working Group on Additive Manufacturing for Aerospace Manufacturing, established under the Singapore Standards Council, will launch a new standard: SS 708 Additive Manufacturing (AM) for Aviation – Filament Layer Manufacturing (FLM) Process Specifications. The standard seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for FLM parts producers supplying to the aerospace industry, covering process control and qualification of hardware, facility, materials, and operations. The standardisation of terminology and processes will also facilitate procurement officers of FLM parts to better evaluate new industry entrants to the FLM supply chain, ultimately contributing to enhanced safety in both commercial and military aircraft operations. More details will be made available at the event in March.

All registered professionals for inter airport Southeast Asia 2025 will be granted free access to both the exhibition and conference floors. For the latest information on inter airport Southeast Asia, please visit the event website, LinkedIn, or Facebook pages.

Air Creebec Adds First ATR 72-500 LCD Freighter to Fleet

ACIA Aero Leasing has sold an ATR 72-500 LCD freighter (MSN727) to Canadian regional airline Air Creebec, marking the airline’s first ATR aircraft.

The freighter, upgraded with a Large Cargo Door (LCD) by Empire Aerospace in Idaho, will commence operations in December 2024, supporting Air Creebec’s cargo contracts across Canada.

“The Canadian market offers numerous opportunities for the ATR platform in both passenger and cargo operations,” said Mark Dunnachie, Senior Vice President Commercial at ACIA Aero Leasing. “Reconfiguring the aircraft to an LCD variant within six months highlights our leadership in ATR freighter solutions.”

Tanya Pash, President and CEO of Air Creebec, highlighted the aircraft’s significance: “The LCD variant enhances our flexibility in cargo operations, ensuring essential supplies reach remote northern clients. This delivery strengthens our position as a pioneer in cargo transportation for our region.”

The move underscores Air Creebec’s commitment to innovation and improving access for its diverse clientele in remote areas.

Duvenbeck Group Strengthens Logistics with Sander Acquisition

The Duvenbeck Group is expanding its presence and performance capability in northern Germany by taking over the Sander Logistics Group.

Thanks to having business sites in Hamburg, Itzehoe, Rostock, Halle and Moosburg, Sander will complement the current Duvenbeck network and improve access to key markets in northern and eastern Germany.

“The acquisition of Sander represents a logical and consistent implementation of the goals that we’ve set ourselves. We’re expanding our presence both geographically and in terms of customers’ industries,” says Hakan Bicil, the CEO of the Duvenbeck Group, explaining the latest development. “We’ll create additional benefits for Duvenbeck and for Sander’s customers through the new business sites, particularly in northern Germany, and through the well-founded expertise that Sander provides.”

Sander will continue to operate in the marketplace using the long-standing Sander brand. This will ensure that established customer relationships and individual services will be retained, while the company can make use of the Duvenbeck Group’s resources and its network at the same time.

Dr Jörg Schmeidler, the Managing Director of the Sander Logistics Group, believes that the merger creates a strong foundation for joint growth. “Becoming part of the Duvenbeck Group as a subsidiary allows us to offer our logistics solutions within a broader network and provide our customers with even more comprehensive support. We’re receiving the necessary flexibility as a self-contained subsidiary to maintain our well-established working methods and individual customer relations. Working together, we’ll create significant benefits and tap into new market opportunities in Germany and in Europe.”

Kale Logistics Joins Cargo iQ as Strategic Partner

Kale Logistics Solutions (Kale) has joined Cargo iQ as a new strategic associate partner, specialising in digitalisation and supporting digital reporting capabilities.

The Partnership will further Cargo iQ’s ambitions to ensure air cargo quality standards are met and continuously improved through data reporting and collaboration.

As a Strategic Associate member, Kale will be offering insight to help members optimise their digital capabilities and improve stakeholders’ communication, in line with Cargo iQ quality standards.

“As facilitators of collaboration and drivers of digitilisation for the global air cargo industry, it is great to work with Kale as a strategic partner,” said Marie Seco-Köppen, Executive Director, Cargo iQ.

“Their proven expertise in helping logistics export/import stakeholders achieve better coordination, visibility, resource optimisation, and rapid information exchange, will enable more industry stakeholders to improve process quality across their operations.”

Kale has been recognised twice by the United Nations for trade facilitation and reducing cargo’s impact on the environment.

“We are proud to work with Cargo iQ, to help improve the air cargo industry through collaboration and bring more digital solutions to the community,” said Amar More, CEO, Kale Logistics Solutions.

“Our team is excited to work with Cargo iQ especially with our cargo community systems and expertise in digital harmonisation that support the quality standards Cargo iQ continuously improving.”

Cargo iQ currently has nearly 70 members, which incorporate major cargo airlines, freight forwarders, ground handlers, SME intermediaries, IT companies and industry bodies among other air cargo sector providers.

Norse Atlantic Airways to establish at Stockholm Arlanda Airport – will launch a direct route to Bangkok

Norse Atlantic Airways (Norse Atlantic), will establish at Stockholm Arlanda Airport ahead of winter 2025 with a direct route to Bangkok.

Norse Atlantic will be an important addition to Stockholm Arlanda, further connecting Sweden with the important markets in Thailand.

The route will be operated two times a week, on Wednesdays and Sundays.

Founded in March 2021, Norse Atlantic Airways (Norse Atlantic), is an airline specializing in affordable, long-haul, direct flights to popular destinations. Norse Atlantic will establish at Stockholm Arlanda Airport with a direct route to Bangkok, Thailand, ahead of the 2025 winter schedule. The route will not only serve as an important connection to the Thai capital but also as an important link in the supply chain with cargo such as technology benefitting from faster delivery times.

– There is great confidence in the Swedish air travel market and Norse Atlantic’s investment in a direct route from Stockholm Arlanda Airport to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Int’l is a clear sign of this. Norse Atlantic will play an important role in connecting Sweden to Thailand. Swedavia’s main goal is to increase the connectivity, and this addition to the airports overall offer further facilitates for people to meet, whether it is for business, leisure or to visit family and friends, says Jonas Abrahamsson, president and CEO of Swedavia.

– With our entry in Sweden and the launch of our Stockholm-Bangkok route, Norse Atlantic Airways is redefining long-haul travel, challenging a market long dominated by legacy carriers. This new route ensures travelers have a premium yet budget-friendly choice on one of the most in-demand long-haul routes. Our modern Boeing 787 Dreamliners, combined with exceptional service from our crew, deliver affordable and comfortable flights to cost-conscious travelers, making global connections more accessible, seamless and enjoyable for everyone, says Bjørn Tore Larsen, CEO and Founder of Norse Atlantic Airways.

Starting on October 29th 2025, Norse Atlantic will operate Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) – Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Int’l (BKK) route two times a week, on Wednesdays and Sundays, until the end of the winter season. The route will be operated by a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, seating 338 passengers featuring Premium and Economy Class.

Duvenbeck appoints a COO for the north/west region

The Duvenbeck Group welcomes Christian Seidl as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the north/west region.

He is responsible for the operating business in the Road and Contract Logistics divisions in this new position.

Christian Seidl can look back on a great deal of experience during his 35-year career in the sector. Among other things, Mr Seidl has held management positions at Ceva, Dachser, Imperial (now DP World) and Schnellecke during his career.

The graduate in business management, who has a great deal of expertise in the fields of contract, road and automotive logistics, will report directly to Hakan Bicil, the CEO of the Duvenbeck Group.

KLN Receives Best Initiative in Environmental Responsibility Award

Kerry Logistics Network Limited (‘Kerry Logistics Network’, ‘KLN’; Stock Code 0636.HK) is honoured to be recognised for its sustainability achievements by receiving the Platinum Award from The Asset ESG Corporate Awards 2024 (the ‘Awards’), presented in Singapore last night.

During the event, KLN also won the accolade of Best Initiative in Environmental Responsibility for the first time and was named the Best Sustainability Team for the third consecutive year.

KLN has been making significant progress towards achieving sustainability. For example, in its warehouse operations, KLN officially began using refrigerants at one of the cold storage facilities in Hong Kong with an environmentally friendly mixture of natural gases in 2023, which earned it the Best Initiative in Environmental Responsibility at the Awards.

Ellis Cheng, Executive Director and Chairman of the Sustainability Committee at Kerry Logistics Network, said, “We are delighted with the accolades conferred by the Awards, which serve as affirmation and encouragement for our ongoing programmes to drive transformation towards a more sustainable logistics industry. Apart from taking major strides towards achieving our net zero target by 2050, our Sustainability Action Teams have further developed a relevant plan to work collaboratively with business partners and other key stakeholders towards our collective decarbonisation and net zero goals. We will continue to advance our strategy of pursuing responsible growth by implementing sustainable logistics solutions as we strive to create long-lasting value for our stakeholders.”

Celebrating its 25th edition this year, the Awards are organised annually by the regional financial magazine The Asset since 2000, making the programme the longest running ESG awards in Asia.

Silk Way Group unveils new cargo airport in the Alat Free Economic Zone at COP29

Silk Way Group held an unveiling ceremony during COP29 to announce plans for a significant infrastructure project: the development of a new cargo airport in the Alat Free Economic Zone.

This ambitious initiative aims to enhance the group’s operational capabilities, foster growth, and leverage the zone’s strategic potential to increase business prospects and efficiencies.

The new airport will operate under the Silk Way Alat Free Economic Zone Company, a registered entity established to advance Silk Way Group’s logistics and infrastructural initiatives in the region. This corporate designation underlines Silk Way Group’s commitment to structured growth in keeping with the Alat Free Economic Zone’s objectives, ensuring the project’s integration with Azerbaijan’s national economic development strategy.

The project includes the construction of individual forwarder warehouses, state-of-the-art perishables airside facilities, and modern office buildings. This comprehensive plan aligns with the dynamic needs of the logistics industry, ensuring adaptability and innovation in operations.

A highlight of the ceremony was a speech by Mr. Sander Doves, Director of TKH Airport Solutions, a key technology partner in the project. Mr. Doves emphasized the implementation of sustainable technologies and energy-saving solutions, specifically focusing on CEDD AGL, TKH’s advanced airfield ground lighting technology to be used in the construction of the runway. The company’s contribution underscores a commitment to eco-friendly and efficient practices that align with the overarching goals of COP29 and sustainable development.

This partnership and the ambitious scope of the airport will create new opportunities for Silk Way Group while contributing significantly to the economic growth of both Azerbaijan and the region as a whole.

Designed as an advanced logistics hub, the airport will include 18 aircraft stands, a 4,000-meter runway and taxiway as well as an air traffic control center, fuel and fire services, and other related amenities. The project is not only envisioned to enhance the transportation capabilities of the country but also to stimulate the comprehensive economic development of the surrounding region. By doing so, it aspires to enhance the quality of life and wellbeing of the local population, contributing to broader socio-economic progress.

In line with a commitment to environmental responsibility, construction of the new facility will incorporate advanced sustainable technologies, including the utilization of alternative energy sources, positioning the cargo airport as a beacon of eco-friendly infrastructure.

Upon completion of the project in 2026, the wider Alat Free Economic Zone will become a prominent transit hub, featuring integrated logistics infrastructure. The zone’s facilities will have access to the Baku International Sea Trade Port and extensive railway and motorway networks as well as to the newly built airport, collectively enhancing Azerbaijan’s transportation and distribution capabilities.

Mr. Zaur Akhundov, President of Silk Way Group, expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting: “The establishment of the new cargo airport in the Alat Free Economic Zone represents a significant milestone in the country’s history, signifying a shift towards new opportunities that will effectively address the increasing local and global demand for freight transport. This initiative not only bolsters our standing within the Middle Corridor but also opens up new avenues for growth, offering promising prospects for our business, as well as for our valued partners and investors.”

Jawad Dbila, CEO of Silk Way Alat Free Economic Zone Company, also emphasized the importance of this project, stating: “The new cargo airport will serve as a pillar of the Alat Free Economic Zone, transforming our vision for Azerbaijan’s logistics and transportation capabilities into reality. As an official Silk Way entity, our focus is on integrating sustainable practices and advanced infrastructure to enhance connectivity, attract international partnerships, and reinforce Azerbaijan’s role as a transit logistics hub. We look forward to witnessing this project’s impact on our region’s economic landscape and the opportunities it will generate.”

Erik Velderman, CEO of TKH Airport Solutions, commented on the collaboration: “We are pleased that Silk Way has selected TKH Airport Solutions and CEDD Airfield Ground Lighting technology for the new CAT III Cargo Airport. Our state-of-the-art low voltage CEDD technology enables significant energy savings for the airport and supports the sustainable transformation of airport operations. We look forward to contributing to reducing the environmental impact of air cargo.”

Constanta Airlines Expands Fleet with Boeing 737-300 Freighter

Ukraine-based Constanta Airlines has added a Boeing 737-300F to its fleet, marking a significant step into medium-range cargo operations.

Enhanced Humanitarian and Governmental Services
Specializing in humanitarian missions, the airline will use the freighter to support clients such as the UN, World Food Program (WFP), and U.S. government agencies, while also exploring new charter opportunities.

Versatile Cargo Capabilities
The 737-300F will handle specialized cargo, including oil, gas materials, and dangerous goods. It offers increased efficiency and fuel economy compared to existing fleet models.

Strategic Investment for Growth
Roman Mileshko, Constanta Airlines’ owner, highlighted the acquisition as a “strategic step” to open new opportunities in medium-range cargo transportation.

Global Operations with Regional Focus
The freighter, based in Eastern Europe, will operate globally except in sanctioned jurisdictions, enhancing Constanta’s reach and versatility.

Operational Highlights
The 26-year-old aircraft, leased from UAE-based Ex Fusion, conducted its first flight on October 9, flying from Chisinau to Iasi, Piestany, and Liège.

Fleet Expansion Plans
The 737-300F joins Constanta’s fleet of eight Antonov An-26s and plans for further 737 acquisitions are underway to expand capabilities.

Humanitarian Leadership
With a focus on humanitarian projects since 2017, Constanta became a UN partner in 2019 and has transported over 14.5 million kilograms of cargo.

Leadership and Expertise
Retired U.S. Army Major General David Grange chairs the airline’s supervisory board, bringing expertise in humanitarian and military operations to Constanta’s mission.

BBN Airlines Indonesia Adds Boeing 737-400 to Expand Cargo Fleet

BBN Airlines Indonesia has bolstered its fleet with a Boeing 737-400 freighter to meet growing domestic and international logistics demand in the Asia-Pacific region.

The aircraft, converted by Aeronautical Engineers Inc. in 2017, features a maximum take-off weight of 65,090 kg and a total cargo volume capacity of 129 m³.

Strengthening Regional Market Position
This addition aligns with BBN Airlines Indonesia’s expansion strategy to strengthen its air logistics offerings. Chairman Martynas Grigas stated, “The 737-400SF is a trusted platform, enabling fast, reliable, and wide-ranging cargo delivery services.”

Expanding Fleet to Meet Industry Needs
The 737-400 joins a fleet that includes two 737-800BCFs and three passenger 737-800s. The airline, a subsidiary of Avia Solutions Group, obtained its Airline Operator Certificate (AOC) in August 2023 and plans further fleet expansions to enhance its competitive edge.

Asia-Pacific Cargo Market Trends
The Asia-Pacific cargo market remains robust, with WorldACD reporting a recent 2% increase in cargo rates. This growth underscores the strategic importance of BBN Airlines Indonesia’s investment in dependable freighter aircraft to meet regional logistics demands.

Operational Synergies with Trusted Aircraft
Grigas emphasized the reliability of the 737-400SF, adding, “This addition ensures operational synergy and supports our commitment to delivering quality services for various industries across Indonesia.”