Less obvious, but no fringe ones either

In among all the generals, chief executives and VIPs – the type of people you would expect to regularly run into at a prestigious show – and top corporates such as Boeing, Airbus and Emirates, were some less obvious exhibitors.

These were not fringe participants and were at the show because Dubai 2003 means a great deal to them.

I decided to pick out a few and see what they had to say about the show.

Karl G. Berger, general manager of PPG Aero-space, was happy to paint a glowing picture of his company — and the show. Which was no surprise really since the company supplies what most would call aviation paint.

He told me his company: "Is the global leader in the manufacture and supply of aerospace coatings, seal-ants and transparencies.

"We have more than 80 years of experience in providing products that are fundamental to aerospace manufacturing, maintenance and repair processes."

He added that they have been taking part in the Dubai air show since 1989, and find it much more successful than other such shows worldwide.

Michel C. Homst, field manager of Snap On Company, said: "We specialise in quality tools and service equipment for defence, navy and aviation fields. This equipment is basically used for the maintenance of airplanes."

They have been at the Dubai air show since 1991, and it gives them the chance to bring in new clients and improve their relationships with current customers.

William D. Fritz, director of marketing with Spar Aerospace, said his company offers solutions to meet safety, situational awareness and air traffic requirements.

"We have been participating in the air show since it was started in 1991, and we think it is an excellent event.

"It is an opportunity for us to conduct business with the partners in this region," he said.

He added that they have been receiving serious business inquiries, which will hopefully end in successful deals.

General Gary H. Mears, of the Council for Logistics Research Incorporation, said this is their first time at the Dubai air show. He added: "The CLR is a privately-owned small business in the USA.

"We have vast experience in logistics, distribution and related areas. We have extensive experience in providing a wide range of acquisition management, business process re-engineering, and technical support for several programme offices."

Visitors to his stand are primarily interested in the type of planes that can carry heavy oil exploration and mining equipment.

Mike Lumley, general manager of Shell Aviation in the Middle East and Central and South Asia, said his company provides a complete range of aviation products and services, from fuel to lubricants and technical services.