DUBAI TO HOST INTERNATIONAL AVIATION FIRE AND SECURITY SHOW 2003 EVENT EMERGES AFTER YEAR-LONG PREPARATIONS

Fairs and Exhibitions, organisers of the internationally-renowned Dubai air show, has announced that it is to stage an international aviation fire and security event in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 2nd - 4th February 2003.

Aviation Fire & Security International (AFSI), which will be held at the Airport Expo Dubai, will be staged under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Department of Civil Aviation, Government of Dubai and Chairman of the Emirates Group.

"This event will address the fire and security challenges facing the global aviation industry," said H.H. Sheikh Ahmed. "Dubai as an acknowledge aviation hub is a prime venue."

Fairs and Exhibitions says the show was to have been launched several weeks ago, however the announcement was put on hold in deference to the events of September 11.

"AFSI will build upon our company's successful working relations with both civil aviation authorities and the international aerospace industry," said Virginia Kern, Chairman, Fairs and Exhibitions. "It will be the only independent event of its kind in the world.

"Late last year, our initial market survey indicated a strong interest in combining these two important safety aspects of modern aviation. This summer, local authorities approved our plans but for obvious reasons, the launch had to be delayed."

Fairs and Exhibitions says it is currently involved in discussions with certain government authorities and a number of professional fire and security bodies to solicit official support for AFSI.

"We envisage these important groups having significant input into an industry-specific conference which will be at the core of a wider industry exhibition," said Clive Richardson, Chief Executive, Fairs and Exhibitions.