Saudi ‘Mawani’… Destination of Global Navigation Routes

Giant crane to lift containers in a Saudi port. Asharq Al-Awsat
Giant crane to lift containers in a Saudi port. Asharq Al-Awsat
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Saudi ‘Mawani’… Destination of Global Navigation Routes

Giant crane to lift containers in a Saudi port. Asharq Al-Awsat
Giant crane to lift containers in a Saudi port. Asharq Al-Awsat

The total number of transshipment containers in Saudi ports have increased by more than 19 percent in the first half of 2018.

This new indicator confirms the performance, productivity and logistical and operational capacities of Saudi ports.

In this regard, Saudi Ports Authority, Mawani, reported that the total number of transshipment containers in the Saudi ports during the first half of this year has amounted to 1.03 million, an increase of 19.35% compared to 867,000 containers during the same period last year.

The increase comes within Mawani's efforts to enhance the Saudi port services, productivity and operational and logistic capabilities to achieve the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

Transshipment is the process of transferring containers from one vessel to another through the port to transport it to its final destination, which is more like a transit.

It is a value-added service that world major ports seek to add by attracting regular international shipping routes.

These developments come as a statistical report issued by Mawani has revealed that more than six million transshipment and standard containers were delivered during 2017, a high figure reflecting the vitality of the Saudi economy.

According to the same statistical report, the number of standard containers delivered during 2017 amounted to 4.47 million standard containers while the number of transshipment containers reached 1.93 million.

The report pointed out that the Saudi ports have witnessed a noticeable increase in performance and productivity indicators during 2017 compared to 2016.

This improvement is attributed to the efforts exerted by the ports and related parties that aim to strengthen the national economy and enhance the Kingdom's commercial position to achieve the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 by strengthening Saudi Arabia’s status as a global logistics center.



Saudi's flynas Strikes Deal for Additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s

Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
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Saudi's flynas Strikes Deal for Additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s

Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)

flynas, Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost carrier, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for 75 A320neo family aircraft and 15 A330-900. This strategic agreement will expand the airline's capacity, range and enhance its overall fleet capabilities.
Signed during Farnborough International Airshow in the presence of President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia, Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, Chairman of the Board of NAS Holding Ayed Al Jeaid, flynas Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director Bandar Almohanna, and Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer, Airbus said on its website.
The new aircraft will join the carrier’s all Airbus fleet serving international, domestic and regional routes. The new A330-900 aircraft will boast a two-class configuration, accommodating up to 400 passengers.
"We are excited to further strengthen our long-standing partnership with Airbus," said Bander Almohanna, CEO and Managing Director of flynas. "The A320neo Family provides exceptional operational performance and environmental benefits, allowing us to offer unique, low-cost travel experiences. Additionally, the A330neowill enhance our long-haul capabilities with its advanced technology and efficiency while supporting our growth plans and Saudi Arabia’s pilgrim program."
Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer said, "We are delighted to expand our partnership with flynas through this significant milestone for both A320neo and A330-900 aircraft. The A330neo will allow flynas to further grow into widebody markets by building on the A320, benefiting from Airbus’ unique commonality. Both aircraft types offer flynas the perfect versatility and economics to expand into new markets while offering their passengers the latest cabin experience and comfort. We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration with flynas as they embark on this exciting new chapter."
The addition of the A330-900 aircraft will support flynas' ambitious growth plans. The airline anticipates significant operational efficiency gains by combining the new widebody aircraft with its existing A320neo fleet. The A330-900 offers increased capacity and range at unrivaled seat costs, ensuring flynas can compete effectively in the growing regional market, a key focus area for the airline.
The A330neo delivers unbeatable operating economics, powered by the latest-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, featuring new wings and a range of aerodynamic innovations resulting in a 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. The A330neo is capable of flying 8,150 nm / 15,094 km non-stop, providing ultimate comfort with more passenger space, a new lighting system, latest in-flight entertainment systems and full connectivity throughout the cabin.
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A330 family is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The manufacturer is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.