The Middle East aviation sector has played a pivotal role in steering economic activity, despite political and economic challenges, said delegates at the recently concluded second edition of the Arab Aviation and Media Summit in Sharjah.

Organised by Air Arabia in association with CNBC Arabia and the American University of Sharjah, the summit brought together industry experts and regional media to discuss the growth of the Arab aviation sector and how it has led to increased mobility in the wider Mena region.

A panel of experts discussed key challenges faced by the industry and the role of aviation in emerging economies as well as the impact of Arab Spring on the regional aviation sector.

According to event participants, oil price fluctuation, lack of true open skies policy, and the impact of Arab Spring represent real challenges for regional air carriers, especially those who operate intra-Arab services. Additionally, the experts have placed a greater emphasis on the need for increased skilled and trained manpower availability in the Middle East aviation industry.

Omar Bin Ghaleb, deputy director general, Department of Civil Aviation Authority, UAE, Dr Peter Heath, chancellor, American University of Sharjah and Adel Ali, Group chief executive officer, Air Arabia were among the speakers at the summit.

The experts stated: “The Middle East is in a very advantageous position. Examples can be taken from experiences of other parts of the world, and see which are the correct steps to take, and which to avoid. Opening the industry here to increased private investment is a step in the right direction; timing it properly will require careful analysis and guidance.”

“The only difficulty, according to participants in the Arab Aviation and Media Summit, is finding the impetus to make it happen.” – TradeArabia News Service