Challenges in Maritime Trade: Impact on the Global Economy and Contingency Plans

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Maritime trade, the engine of the global economy, is facing a series of challenges that could have significant repercussions both in the short and long term. The National Foreign Trade Association (Analdex) has presented a comprehensive report that deeply analyzes the factors hindering the maritime transportation of goods and their impact on the development of this activity. Among the most prominent factors are the conflict in the Red Sea and the weather-related issues affecting the Panama Canal.

Maritime Trade and the Impact of the Conflict in the Red Sea

One of the most notable challenges facing maritime trade is the conflict in the Red Sea, which has had a direct impact on the global transportation of goods. One of the most visible effects is the disruption in the transit and shipment of vessels through the Suez Canal, a crucial route for trade between Asia and Europe. This interruption has negatively affected the supply chain and raised concerns in the industry.

Analdex’s report indicates that this disruption in transit through the Suez Canal could continue for the coming weeks and may worsen if carriers opt for alternative routes with higher shipping demand. This has created uncertainty in maritime trade and led to extended transit times, which, in turn, could result in a shortage of containers.

Challenges in the Panama Canal

In addition to the conflict in the Red Sea, the Panama Canal also faces significant challenges. The rerouting of goods through alternative routes has been disrupted due to weather-related issues affecting this maritime route, especially related to the El Niño phenomenon and decreasing water levels. As a result, the Cape of Good Hope has become the primary alternative ocean route. However, this route adds an average of 14 days to transit times, depending on the origin and destination of the goods.

This situation has led to a reduced availability of containers and a lack of alternative routes, contributing to the rising freight prices. According to the Drewry World Container Index, freight prices have experienced a significant increase of 85% in recent weeks.

Impact on the Global Economy

The increase in freight prices has direct implications for the global economy. One of the main potential effects is the impact on inflation expectations. Analdex’s report states that goods inflation could become a concern if it intensifies due to rising prices in global transportation services.

Furthermore, if this situation becomes persistent, it could affect aggregate demand and reduce prospects for global economic recovery, especially considering the economic slowdown experienced in 2023. Increased transportation costs could lead to reduced demand for goods and services, potentially slowing economic growth.

Contingency Plans in the Maritime Trade Industry

Despite the mentioned challenges, the maritime trade industry is not standing idly by and has implemented contingency plans to address the situation. These plans include a combination of maritime and air solutions to mitigate issues affecting the transportation of goods.

Maritime solutions involve searching for alternative routes and optimizing transit times, as well as increasing the cargo capacity of vessels. Additionally, strategies to improve efficiency at ports and reduce waiting times are being explored.

Regarding air solutions, air transportation services are being used to meet the urgent demand for goods. This includes the transportation of perishable products and high-value goods on cargo planes. While these solutions may be more costly than maritime transportation, they are an effective response to the need for rapid delivery.

Maritime trade faces significant challenges due to the conflict in the Red Sea and issues in the Panama Canal. These challenges have a direct impact on freight prices and, ultimately, the global economy. However, the industry is responding with contingency plans aimed at maintaining the flow of goods transportation and mitigating negative effects. The situation remains dynamic, and it will be crucial to closely monitor how these factors evolve in the coming months and their impact on the global economy.

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Renewable Energy in Maritime Logistics

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The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has embarked on a bold journey towards sustainability, setting an ambitious target for the shipping industry: by 2030, at least 5% of energy used in maritime transport should come from near-zero greenhouse gas emission fuels, with aspirations to reach 10%. This goal is not just an environmental imperative but also a significant step towards transforming the logistics and shipping industry into a more sustainable and eco-friendly sector.

 

Current State of Affairs in Maritime Logistics

 

As of now, the industry is at a growing stage in meeting these ambitious goals. Niels Rasmussen, the chief shipping analyst at BIMCO, notes that merely 1% of bulk carriers, container ships, and tankers are equipped to use alternative fuels, and their availability is quite limited. The transition to renewable energy in maritime logistics is laden with challenges, yet it is a crucial endeavor to mitigate the environmental impact of one of the world’s biggest and essential industries.

 

The Road Ahead for Renewable Energy in the Maritime Industry

 

Looking forward, the forecast is optimistic. It’s projected that 29% of new ships and 42% of the deadweight capacity from the order book will be delivered ready or adaptable for alternative fuels. However, even with no recycling of existing ships, only 4% of the fleet’s deadweight capacity will be ready to utilize alternative fuels by 2028, with another 4% prepared for conversion.

 

The Container Sector Leading the Changes

 

The container sector is poised to lead this green revolution. It’s estimated that at least 23% of the deadweight capacity of the container fleet will be ready or adaptable for alternative fuels. Tankers and bulk carriers are also making strides, with projections reaching around 7% and 4%, respectively.

 

Alternative Fuels

 

Currently, Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is the most popular alternative fuel. However, methanol and ammonia are fast gaining popularity due to their lower environmental impact and potential for sustainability. The selection of alternative fuels is crucial, as each has different infrastructural needs, availability issues, and environmental impacts.

 

Strategies and Innovations to Propel Renewable Energy in Maritime Logistics

 

Investment in Research and Development: Continuous investment in R&D is essential for developing more efficient and cost-effective green technologies. This includes advancements in fuel technology, engine efficiency, and alternative propulsion methods.

 

Global and Local Incentives: Governments and international bodies must provide incentives to accelerate the shift towards renewable energy. This could include subsidies for green technology adoption, tax rebates for low-emission ships, and funding for research initiatives.

 

Infrastructure Development: Developing the necessary infrastructure for alternative fuels, such as refueling stations and maintenance facilities, is crucial. This also involves upgrading ports and shipping lanes to accommodate new technologies.

 

Collaborative Programs: Collaborative programs between governments, private companies, and educational institutions can spur innovation and facilitate knowledge sharing. Initiatives like the IMO’s GloMEEP project and the European Union’s Horizon 2020 program are excellent examples of such collaborations.

 

Adoption of Green Energy Sources: Integrating renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and biofuels into the maritime sector can significantly reduce reliance on traditional fuels. Solar panels on ships, wind propulsion systems, and biofuel-compatible engines are some of the technologies that can pave the way for a greener future.

 

Digitalization and Smart Technologies: Utilizing AI, IoT, and big data can optimize routes, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce emissions. Smart logistics solutions can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of shipping operations.

 

Challenges and Future Prospects

 

Despite the promising outlook, the industry faces considerable challenges. The uncertainty surrounding the availability of sufficient eco-friendly fuels by 2030 is a significant concern. However, the recent calls from COP-28 to triple the capacity of renewable energy by 2030 provide a glimmer of hope. This ambitious goal suggests that meeting the IMO’s targets might be achievable with a concerted global effort and continued innovation.

 

The journey towards renewable energy in maritime logistics is complex and filled with challenges. However, with the right strategies and innovative thoughts, the industry can achieve a more sustainable and eco-friendly future. The commitment of the IMO, coupled with the industry’s gradual shift towards alternative fuels, sets course for the future of maritime logistics.

 

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Maritime Safety: Keys for the Prevention and Management of Fires on Container Ships

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Fires on container ships pose a significant threat to maritime safety. Recognizing this issue, experts from around the world have gathered at the headquarters of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London to enhance strategies for prevention, detection, and containment of these incidents.

The Importance of Formal Safety Assessment in Maritime Safety

In an effort to strengthen safety and mitigate risks, a critical meeting of the Expert Group on Formal Safety Assessment (FSA) has been conducted to examine and review the CARGOSAFE study. This study is essential in assessing the risks associated with fires in the cargo spaces of container ships.

The CARGOSAFE Methodology and Its Impact

CARGOSAFE focuses on measuring the effectiveness of preventive and firefighting measures on container ships. The methodology follows IMO guidelines and adopts a holistic approach to address risks, emphasizing prevention and mitigation.

The Role of Experts in Maritime Safety

Approximately 25 specialists, under the leadership of Koichi Yoshida (Japan) and Therese Christensen (Denmark), have evaluated whether the study complies with updated FSA guidelines, ensuring that the recommendations are robust and practical.

Next Steps in Fire Safety on Container Ships

The results of this meeting will be presented at the upcoming session of the Ship Systems and Equipment Subcommittee (SSE) with a view to developing amendments to the SOLAS Convention and the SSCI Code. With a target set for 2025, these improvements aim to strike a balance between safety, environmental protection, and operational costs.

The meeting is just one step in an ongoing process to enhance maritime safety. It is anticipated that future sessions of the SSE Subcommittee and collaboration with the CCC Subcommittee will shape the next phases of developing more robust and effective regulations in the fight against fires on container ships.

Safety in Shipping and Maritime Logistics Companies: Why is it Important?

While safety on board container ships is critical, safety in shipping and maritime logistics companies is equally essential. These companies are responsible for ensuring the implementation of safety practices from the point of origin to the final destination.

Implementing Safety Strategies in Maritime Logistics

Shipping companies play a crucial role in implementing safety recommendations. Through the adoption of advanced technologies and personnel training, these organizations can ensure early risk detection and a rapid response to emergencies. Here are some of the few actions that companies can engage in to implement safety strategies.

  • Technology and Innovation in Fire Prevention: Investment in technology is vital for fire detection and prevention in the logistics chain. If companies equip with the latest safety and fire detection systems, it increases the safety for cargo and container ships.
  • Training and Safety Awareness: Equally important is ongoing staff training. Companies must prioritize safety and fire response training, creating a safety culture that permeates all levels of the operation.
  • Integration of Safety Guidelines into Daily Operations: Compliance with maritime safety guidelines is non-negotiable. Logistics companies must integrate best practices into their daily operations, ensuring that safety measures are an intrinsic part of the maritime supply chain.

 

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Source: International Maritime Organization

Innovation: Virtual Reality Training Simulator at the Airspace Integration Week 2023

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From September 25th to 28th, Madrid was the epicenter for aviation and space navigation, alongside cutting-edge drone technology, during the international event Airspace Integration Week 2023.

ENAIRE, leading air traffic management company in Spain, showcased a range of innovative simulators and state-of-the-art displays, while actively participating in high-level conferences.

Virtual Reality Training Simulator

One of the standout achievements of this event was the unveiling of a virtual reality training simulator for air traffic controllers. This tool empowers future air traffic controllers to gain experience within a virtual environment, preparing them for the complexities that can arise in air traffic management.

The iFOCUCS display proved to be another highlight, demonstrating the capabilities of the groundbreaking air traffic control position. This state-of-the-art technology not only enhances airspace management but also symbolizes the industry’s commitment to progress and efficiency.

In addition, the ICARO Maps and Flow Tools screens, sophisticated traffic flow management tools, aim to provide real-time critical information for air traffic control, further streamlining operations and ensuring safety. This includes real-time data on flights, weather conditions, and more.

Airspace Integration Week 2023

The significance of technology and innovation in the aviation industry was the main focus during Airspace Integration Week 2023. Such advancements not only enhance safety but also redefine the learning curve, ensuring a new generation of controllers is well-prepared to navigate the evolving airspace landscape.

Furthermore, the discussions held at the event delved into key industry topics, ranging from cutting-edge air navigation systems to harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence and satellite navigation. Collectively, these advancements propel the aviation and space navigation industry forward, offering unprecedented opportunities for efficiency, safety, and sustainability. The event exemplified how technology and innovation continue to be the driving forces behind the industry’s progress, shaping the future of air travel and navigation on a global scale.

Airspace Integration Week 2023 relies on three foundational pillars: the advancement of air traffic management, the evolution of drone operations management (U-Space), and the space traffic management.

Airspace Integration Week 2023 not only was a transformative event in the realm of air and space navigation but also underscored the potential of advanced technology within the industry, setting new standards for the future.

For more new, visit our blog.

Source: Enaire.es

Sustainable Energy: 6 Projects to Transform the Future of Shipping Logistics

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Sustainable energy is the main focus in the journey towards innovation. Today, we want to share with you 6 groundbreaking projects that focus on energy transition in 2023. These initiatives are not just milestones, but beacons of hope in our collective mission towards a greener, more sustainable future.

Sustainable Energy 

WarmtelinQ: Underground Potential

Meet WarmtelinQ, the visionary underground pipeline channeling residual heat from Rotterdam’s bustling port to homes and businesses in The Hague. More than a construction project, it’s a step towards harnessing energy for a better use.

 

Porthos: Charting a Course for Carbon Capture

Porthos plan is to transport CO2 from industrial giants within Rotterdam’s port and store it beneath the North Sea. This feat capture a 2.5 million tons of CO2 annually, an essential measure propelling Dutch climate goals. Porthos construction is set to start in early 2024 and operations by 2026.

Sustainable Fuel

Shell’s Biodiesel Refinery: Crafting Eco-friendly Elixirs

Shell’s visionary biodiesel refinery in Pernis is a haven for sustainable aviation fuel, ensuring more green flights an reducing the pollution.

 

NESTE’s Biofuel Oasis: Pioneering Sustainable Flights

Neste’s biofuel stronghold in Maasvlakte is crafting a legacy of eco-conscious aviation fuel, promoting cleaner journeys from start to finish.

 

Hydrogen Energy Projects

Holland Hydrogen 1: Crafting a Green Symphony

Maasvlakte’s conversion park is a canvas for crafting the largest green hydrogen plant in Europe. The 200 MW electrolyzer, set in Rotterdam’s heart, will produce 60,000 kilograms of renewable hydrogen daily, a huge progress to set start in 2025.

 

Hydrogen Imports: Bridging Continents with Green Power

Hydrogen imports are bridging nations and industries, uniting to replace natural gas. Energy-hungry sectors are embracing the power of hydrogen, with the Northwestern European region leading the charge.

 

These projects aren’t just about energy; they’re about a shared commitment to a better world. They’re proof that innovation and conservation can dance hand in hand, creating a symphony that resonates for generations to come.

 

Learn more about sustainability here.

 

Source: Hub.com.pa

Maritime Safety in the Era of New Technologies and Sustainable Fuels

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The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has recognized the role that maritime safety and sustainability play in a world where technological advancements and environmental concerns shape industries. As proof to this commitment, the IMO has chosen “Navigating the Future: Safety First” as the World Maritime Theme for 2024, reflecting its dedication to ensuring safe and sustainable maritime operations.

 

The Significance of the Theme

 

The theme encapsulates the maritime industry’s journey towards embracing innovation while prioritizing safety. The integration of new technologies and alternative fuels allow the maritime landscape to transform and evolve fast. The IMO’s choice of theme also underscores the importance of proactive regulatory measures and anticipatory approaches.

 

Advancing Maritime Safety

 

Safety has always been at the heart of the IMO’s activities since its inception in 1948. Sure, the maritime sector is integrating digitalization, automation, and other technological advancements even more. This new wave of technology aims to improve safety, protection, and efficiency. That’s why embracing technologies like autonomous surface ships aligns with the IMO’s dedication to ensure that these innovations complement safety measures rather than compromise them.

 

Sustainable Practices and Alternative Fuels

 

Not everything is about tech, the theme also aligns with the global push towards sustainability. By exploring alternative fuels with lower environmental impact, the maritime industry reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and the IMO is actively promoting the use of alternative fuels. 

 

Synchronization with the United Nations’ SDGs

 

The World Maritime Theme for 2024 closely aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), by emphasizing safety, environmental protection, and innovation. The theme contributes to SDGs such as ensuring access to sustainable energy, promoting economic growth, building resilient infrastructure, combating climate change, and preserving marine resources.

 

The maritime sector is embarking on a transformative journey that intertwines innovation with environmental responsibility. With this theme, the IMO reaffirms its commitment to steering the maritime sector towards a future that is not only technologically advanced but also safe, sustainable, and environmentally responsible. 

 

To learn more about how the maritime sector is evolving, you can read here.

Solar Farms Out at Sea: Pioneering Clean Energy Advancements

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Picture solar farms like this: rows of solar panels generating electricity on circular rafts, braving waves as high as 10 meters in China’s Yellow Sea, about 30 kilometers off the coast of Shandong province. This experiment by State Power Investment Corp. and Ocean Sun AS is a groundbreaking test of offshore solar technology, offering new possibilities for clean energy.

 

Offshore solar farms have the potential to change the renewable energy sector by allowing renewable installations in sea locations. It offers a way for land-constrained regions to accelerate their transition away from fossil fuels. 

 

The versatility of offshore solar knows no bounds. Regions such as parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia, including places like Singapore and Hong Kong, are constrained by land, so this technology is of great interest. Shandong, an industrial hub, has ambitious plans to add over 11 gigawatts of solar offshore by 2025, and Jiangsu aims to add 12.7 gigawatts. Japan, the Netherlands, Malaysia, and other nations are also exploring similar ventures.

 

How can we benefit from solar farms?

 

The potential benefits are immense, with locations like Huainan in China’s Anhui province showcasing installations of about half a million floating solar panels on artificial lakes. Research suggests that adding solar systems on existing reservoirs could enable more than 6,000 global cities and communities to develop self-sufficient power systems.

 

While the idea holds great potential, there are still some unknowns. We need more studies to understand the lasting effects of placing solar panels on water bodies. In China, they have limited certain freshwater locations due to worries about how it might impact the environment.

 

Developers are actively experimenting with different concepts, such as Ocean Sun’s innovative ring-shaped floaters and SolarDuck AS’s triangular platforms. Although offshore solar may come with higher installation costs compared to onshore solar, it offers a unique opportunity for land-starved coastal cities like Singapore to embrace renewable energy.

 

In China alone, the forecast suggests a potential of about 700 gigawatts of offshore solar—equivalent to India and Japan’s combined electricity generation capacity. As this promising sector gains momentum, we have only begun to scratch the surface of its vast potential.

 

The future of renewable energy could very well lie offshore, where the sun’s rays meet the sea’s expanse.

BlueTechPort: Port of Barcelona and Tech Barcelona Join Forces for Innovation.

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Port of Barcelona and Tech Barcelona have opened the doors to BlueTechPort, a new innovation space for companies aiming to drive progress in all sectors related to the blue economy.

 

Located at Pier 01 in Palau de Mar and owned by Tech Barcelona, this place will host businesses and entrepreneurial projects linked to the port, logistics, and blue tourism sectors, as well as more cutting-edge fields such as underwater robotics, artificial intelligence applied to the marine environment, marine biodiversity conservation, and even the development of pharmaceutical components derived from marine products.

 

As emphasized by Port of Barcelona’s President, Lluís Salvadó, during the space’s unveiling, these sectors represent fresh opportunities for the maritime and port ecosystem.

 

Innovation in the Blue Economy

 

As the first of its kind at Port of Barcelona, BlueTechPort represents another step forward in the commitment to drive innovation in the blue economy, as outlined in the approved 2021 Innovation Plan. The objective? To become a more sustainable and competitive port, generating benefits for the logistics and port community, clients, and citizens.

 

Collaborating with Tech Barcelona will enable companies establishing themselves at BlueTechPort to enjoy the benefits offered by startups within the ecosystem. This ecosystem will shape the Blue District, a space designed to foster synergies among various institutions and companies present at Port of Barcelona, while also attracting renowned enterprises and research centers beyond the port area.

 

“In 2013, with the foundation of Tech Barcelona, we pioneered the consolidation and strengthening of Barcelona’s technological and digital ecosystem alongside the city’s most outstanding entrepreneurs. Now, 10 years later, the creation of BlueTechPort in collaboration with Port of Barcelona will allow us to consolidate and develop the blue economy, a strategic sector that will play a fundamental role in the city’s transformation,” declared Miquel Martí, CEO of Tech Barcelona, during the inauguration ceremony.

 

Sustainability as the Goal for BlueTechPort

 

Sustainability is one of the key pillars for companies within Barcelona’s technological and digital ecosystem. Therefore, the collaboration between Port of Barcelona and Tech Barcelona represents a unique opportunity to develop the city’s blue economy and establish the sector as an international benchmark.

 

BlueTechPort is designed to accommodate emerging companies, scale-ups, and innovative projects by established enterprises, benefiting from the support and collaboration of Port of Barcelona to conduct pilot tests or prototype their projects. The port will serve as a testing environment for their ideas and proposals to drive sustainability in the blue economy.

 

Source: Port de Barcelona

Clean Shipping Act of 2023 Aims to Safeguard the Environment

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The US Congress introduced a legislation known as the Clean Shipping Act of 2023, which sets out to tackle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ocean shipping companies operating within the United States. This bill, led by Congressman Robert Garcia and Senator Alex Padilla, aims to address the environmental impact of the shipping industry, protect the health of port communities, and combat climate change.

 

Protecting Our Oceans, Combatting Climate Change

 

Ocean vessels have long been contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for approximately 3% of the world’s total annually. But the Clean Shipping Act of 2023 empowers the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish and enforce carbon intensity standards for maritime fuel, signaling a new era of environmental responsibility. Therefore, this legislation not only protects our precious oceans but also sparks a race for sustainable innovation.

 

A Call for Forward Thinking and Ambition

 

The bill also acknowledges the urgent need to protect coastal communities and reduce emissions, particularly in California, which has borne the brunt of shipping pollution. According to this note on Port Technology, Senator Padilla remarked “The health of our communities and the health of our planet requires us to be forward thinking and ambitious—we owe it to future generations.” This legislation reflects the collective responsibility to leave a cleaner and healthier world, urging us to think beyond the present and embrace ambitious environmental solutions.

 

Industry Support and Corporate Responsibility

 

The Clean Shipping Act has gained support from various environmental organizations and major players in the shipping industry. Maersk North America, a leading shipping company committed to decarbonizing operations by 2040, expressed its support for the legislation. Lee Kindberg, Head of Environment & Sustainability at Maersk North America, affirmed the company’s commitment to cleaner practices. Such endorsements demonstrate the growing recognition within the industry of the need for sustainable shipping practices and environmental responsibility.

 

Looking Ahead

 

Moreover, the introduction of the Clean Shipping Act of 2023 marks a significant milestone in promoting cleaner and more sustainable shipping practices while safeguarding the well-being of port communities. Also, the bill’s focus on regulating emissions and establishing environmental standards highlights the collective determination to address climate change and protect our oceans.

As discussions and deliberations progress, this legislation could be a model for other nations to go towards a greener and more ecologically balanced future for the shipping industry.

Exciting News: GP Nauticals is Thrilled to Attend Aviation Festival Americas!

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The aviation industry is constantly evolving, and staying up-to-date with the latest trends and innovations is crucial to success. That’s why we’re more than thrilled to announce our upcoming attendance at the Aviation Festival Americas!

 

The Aviation Festival Americas is one of the most important events in the aviation industry, and it brings together industry leaders from around the world to discuss the latest trends, insights, and innovations shaping the future of aviation. It has quickly become a must-attend for professionals in the aviation industry from all over the world. And this year’s festival promises to be one of the biggest yet!

 

The Aviation Festival Americas isn’t just about innovation. In fact, this is a renowned festival for the exceptional quality of its programming. The festival features a range of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking events, all designed to help attendees make valuable connections and gain insights into the most pressing issues facing the industry today.

 

GP Nauticals Takes Flight: An Inside Look at the Aviation Festival Americas

 

As a provider of aviation software and services, we are honored to be part of this event and to have the opportunity to connect with other leaders. At the festival, we’ll be showcasing some of our latest services and progress, always focused on optimizing efficiency and safety for aviation operations, flight planning, with next-generation aeronautical management systems with cloud support, specialized payment platforms, passenger control and facial recognition systems, real-time data analysis with advisory services, and much more.

 

We also aim to learn about the latest trends and insights that are shaping the industry! The Aviation Festival Americas is a must-attend event for everyone in the industry, and we’re excited to be a part of it. If you’re attending the festival, we’d love to connect with you and learn more about your projects. We also have a code for a 50% off for the entry tickets, so if you haven’t got yours yet, click here! 

 

Stop by our booth to say hello! Our team will be more than glad to answer any questions and to provide you with helpful insights into how our products and services can help businesses grow into higher heights. Be sure to ask any questions!

 

We hope to see you there!