As black clouds of economic gloom are reported as gathering over the US – and therefore the world’s – aviation industry, James Reader the group exhibition director responsible for the Aircraft Interiors Expo shows could be forgiven for looking a little glum.
Instead, Reader is bullish about the prospects for both the launch of the first US Aircraft Interiors show in September and for the industry itself.
“There are people who would look at us launching this show into the USA at this time and think we are crazy,” said Reader. “But we are genuinely upbeat. We have already sold 70 percent of the space and with all of the exciting things happening for our industry then we are confident about the rest.
Speaking on the eve of the record-breaking seventh Aircraft Interiors Expo event in Hamburg, Reader said that the Open Skies agreement between the EU and the USA was just one of the drivers behind the need for the US show.
“Airlines need a competitive edge. For years the American carriers have relied on frequent flier miles to lock in their customers. But as routes open up issues such as cabin comfort and IFE systems become more relevant if they want to attract international customers.
“Some US carriers are moving aircraft from domestic duties to international ones because of the more lucrative routes. And that means changing the aircraft interior,” he said.
Reader also sees the likelihood of more airline mergers and the necessary re-branding. He also believes that high oil price is also creating a focus for the interiors industry. “Watch how many people here in Hamburg will be talking about weight saving and the resulting cost savings. As belts tighten and pressure increases to save fuel and keep customers so the importance of Aircraft Interiors Expo as a meeting place increases.”
The Aircraft Interiors Expo Americas takes place in Long Beach, September 9,10,11. “There are a lot of smaller businesses, particularly in the west coast USA, that don’t make it to the global show in Hamburg. This show will focus exclusively on the special demands of the American market,” Reader said.
A press conference giving details of the show and the accompanying conference will take place today at 10am.
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Source: Flight Daily News
