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IATA called on governments, air navigation service providers and aviation groups urgently
US President Barack Obama has climate change as a top agenda item
Airbus started construction on the A350 XWB
US Depts. of Energy and Agriculture will release up to $25 million
Air Transport Action Group announced

Eco-Aviation Today, February 10, 2009, p.7

IATA called on governments, air navigation service providers and aviation groups urgently to address air traffic inefficiencies that are jeopardizing the sustainability of Middle East aviation. "The Middle East is one of the most dynamic aviation markets in the world expanding, from 5% of international traffic to 10% in the past seven years. But we are not immune to the global recession," said Majdi Sabri, IATA Regional VP-Middle East/North Africa. "Airlines in this region will lose $200 million in 2009 as traffic growth slows dramatically. In this environment every cent counts and both aviation and the environment can no longer afford a wasteful air traffic control system."

During a speech delivered to delegates attending the Civil Air Navigation Services Organization Middle East ANSP Conference, Sabri pointed to performance issues that are threatening the financial health and future expansion of the industry in the region. "In the Middle East, infrastructure and air traffic control procedures are not keeping up with growth. Military restrictions limit airspace expansion and the fragmentation of airspace and suboptimal routes are costing millions," he said. "We need better coordination to find workable solutions and that means involving governments, airlines, ANSPs and industry groups such as ICAO, CANSO and IATA."

US President Barack Obama has climate change as a top agenda item for his new administration. "The federal government must work with, not against, states to reduce greenhouse gas emissions," he said. "My administration will not deny facts; we will be guided by them." Obama has ordered the Dept. of Transportation to submit new plans by March for lowering fuel consumption beginning in 2011. His proposed economic stimulus package doubles the capacity to generate alternative energy within three years.

Airbus started construction on the A350 XWB final assembly factory, which it says will be the most eco-efficient Airbus final assembly hall. During construction, concrete and foundations of the old buildings being demolished will be recycled and reused in the new facility. The plant will feature a photovoltaic roof that will provide much of its electricity requirements. A new streamlined aircraft assembly process will reduce the time from start of final assembly to delivery by 30%.

US Depts. of Energy and Agriculture will release up to $25 million in funding for research and development of biofuels, including aviation biofuels.

Air Transport Action Group announced that "driving aviation efficiency" and "exploring the world of biofuels" are the key issues to be discussed at the 4th Aviation & Environment Summit taking place March 31-April 1 in Geneva. The event website is now live at enviro.aero.

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