AKX to implement TAV Technologies CUPPS platform

AMS transforms deicing operations with JCAII solutions

Schiphol Airport (AMS ) in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, has utilised JCAII to enhance its deicing operations using the latter’s Icelink and Icelink SmartPad technologies.

Volker contracted JCAII on the airport’s behalf to deliver the solutions, which include its latest generation of electronic message boards (EMBs).

This is said to help Schiphol’s deicing facility feature the “most advanced” deicing coordination solution built on the Icelink technology.

The deployment of Icelink will further improve winter operations with increased connectivity and complete real-time integrations including connectivity between dispatch and deicing crews/trucks and flight deck and docking.

Belgium to impose tax on old and noisy aeroplanes

Belgium is reportedly planning to introduce new taxes on aged and noisy aircraft as part of its efforts to lower noise and air pollution, reported Reuters.

These taxes will also apply to private jets and short-haul flights.

Currently, Brussels Airport (BRU) aircraft need to pay a tax determined by the noise level produced at take-off and landing.

So far, small aeroplanes such as private jets have been exempted from the taxes.

Expected to be implemented from 1 April next year, the new system of duties will collect taxes based on levels of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, besides destination and noise.

The authorities will increase the duties for flights shorter than 500km.

India opens new greenfield international airport in Goa

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has opened a new greenfield international airport at Mopa in the state of Goa.

Developed with an investment of $348m (Rs28.7bn), phase I of Mopa International Airport (Gox) will handle around 4.4 million passengers per annum. It can be extended to a saturation capacity of 33 MPPA.

Developed with a sustainable infrastructure plan, the new airport features a solar power plant, green buildings, LED lights on the runway, rainwater harvesting and a modern sewage treatment plant with recycling facilities.

It also features the latest technologies such as 5G compatible IT infrastructure, StabilRoad, Robomatic Hollow precast walls, and 3D Monolithic Precast buildings, among others.

It has a runway that can handle the world’s largest aircraft and 14 parking bays along with a night parking facility for aircraft.

In addition, Mopa Airport consists of self-baggage drop facilities, as well as advanced air navigation infrastructure.

Linking multiple domestic and international destinations, the new airport will also serve as a key logistics hub.

EU signs agreement to raise price airlines pay for emissions

The EU has revised the carbon regulations for its aviation sector to address climate change, which involves changes in how airlines secure permits.

The Council and the European Parliament signed a provisional political agreement in this regard.

Amendment to the EU emissions trading system (EU ETS  for aviation ensures that the industry plays its part in the EU’s emission reduction goals under the Paris Agreement.

Air carriers operating within Europe are already required to submit permits from the EU’s carbon market to cover their carbon dioxide emissions.

However, most of these permits have been issued at zero charges until now.

The revised regulation lowers the number of these free allowances by 25% in 2024 and 50% in 2025, eventually removing them by 2026.

Royal Schiphol Group divests remaining stake in Groupe ADP

Dutch airport management company Royal Schiphol Group (RSG) has divested its remaining 3.9% stake in French airports operator Aéroports de Paris (Groupe ADP).

The sale was executed via an accelerated book-building process, wherein around 3.87 million shares were sold at €133 apiece.

In addition, Groupe ADP repurchased 296,882 shares or 0.3% of its share capital at €133 per share as part of the transaction, with the buyback amounting to nearly €39.5m.

Groupe ADP funded the buyback using available cash, with the settlement scheduled to occur on or around 8 December this year.

Once the deal is closed, RSG will make a full exit from Groupe ADP’s share capital.