Aviation marks the dawn of a new cycle: CAPA

Singapore, July 11 (UNI) The aviation industry has reached critical turning point in its cycle following the peak fleet orders of 2005, according to the Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation (CAPA).

''While growth remains robust and the environment relatively benign this year, the clouds could be gathering,'' said its executive chairman Peter Harbison.

The prospects for the year ahead will be a central theme of the region's high-level aviation strategy summit titled Outlook 2007 which will return here on November 9 and 10.

The Aviation Outlook 2007 Summit will review the threats posed by sustained high fuel prices, higher interest rates and the potential for overcapacity in key markets, which could drag fares and yields lower.

High calibre speakers will also address the challenges of restructuring in the new cycle, as well as consolidation and alliances trends and the outlook for liberalisation in this region.

The speakers at past outlook summits include Mr Geoff Dixon (CEO, Qantas), Mr Chew Choon Seng (CEO, Singapore Airlines), Mr V Thulasidas (CMD, Air India), Mr Wolfgang Prock Schauer (CEO, Jet Airways), Mr Tony Fernandes, (CEO, AirAsia), Dr Vijay Mallya (chairman, Kingfisher Airlines), Mr Tony Davis (CEO, Tiger Airways) and many others.

Mr Harbison said that this year's programme will deliver a tool-kit for success as a new cycle begins with presentations from the industry's CEOs.

The CAPA is a specialist consultancy group focused on the aviation industry in the Asia Pacific region. It provides advisory and information services to airlines, airports, governments, regulatory agencies and suppliers.

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