World Routes gearing up for Abu Dhabi
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The soon approaching 18th World Route Development Forum scheduled for September 29th – October 2nd, 2012 in Abu Dhabi is witnessed participation from over 450 airline planners representing 250 airlines. The event is hosted by Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) and supported by Etihad Airways and Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority.
23 of the World’s Top 25 carriers by ASK (Available Seat Kilometre) are already registered to attend World Routes with strong presence. The four major US legacy carriers will attend; Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, US Airways and American Airlines. From Asia, China Southern, China Eastern, Hainan Airlines and Air China are amongst those attending with Japanese majors, oneworld member Japan Airlines and Star Alliance carrier All Nippon Airways bringing large delegations to Abu Dhabi.
One of latest registrations is Qantas Airways, who will deliver a briefing focused around its new business units and how this will relate to its route development strategy.
From Europe, British Airways, Iberia, KLM, Air France, SAS, LOT Polish, Alitalia amongst those registered. The low cost carrier market from Europe is represented by easyJet, Norwegian, Wizz Air, Germanwings and Air Berlin. Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, South African Airways, Egypt Air and Royal Air Maroc are amongst major African airlines looking at new opportunities and how to expand into new markets.