Media Releases

---

Airways was established as a State Owned Enterprise (SOE) in 1987. This means that we are linked to government but can also act as a private company to turn a profit.

The future of Middle Eastern aviation begins in Christchurch

This week marks the arrival of 30 Saudi Arabian air traffic control students in Christchurch, the first ‘batch’ in a contract that will potentially deliver millions of dollars into the local economy and secure Airways reputation as one of the world’s leading providers of specialist aviation training.

State-owned Enterprise, Airways New Zealand, has secured a multi- million dollar contract to provide English language and air traffic control (ATC) training in NZ for the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Airways staff travelled to Saudi Arabia late last year to select the students from a pool of several thousand who applied for the opportunity to train and learn in New Zealand. 

“We’ve been working with the Saudis for the past 18 months to secure this deal. Being chosen to provide their ATC training has meant a ‘whole of business’ effort over a long period of time. Ultimately, it was our reputation for excellence that sealed the deal for Airways” said John McKenzie, Manager Airways Training Sales.

The contract commences in June 2010 and will see Airways delivering a two-year training programme for a total of 60 Saudi students (in two groups of 30); with the possibility of further numbers in subsequent years. The Saudi students will spend their first year in Christchurch studying at Kaplan International College, who will deliver English language proficiency training to meet strict international aviation standards. Upon successful completion of this course, the Saudi students will then undertake a one-year ATC training programme at Airways Campus in Christchurch.

Airways bid was chosen over a number of international suppliers. General Manager Global Training, Bruce Heesterman, said Airways success was based on the company’s international reputation for innovation and experience in air traffic control training and management, and builds on its work in Oman, Kuwait, UAE, Taiwan, China, South Africa and the Philippines.

“The Saudis had looked to Canada, Sweden and South Africa as possible partners for this training, but New Zealand offered not only the best training package, but also the best overall life experience for their students.

“Saudi Arabia, like many other countries around the world, is struggling with an increasing demand for ATCs. This deal will mean a significant boost to their numbers and is designed to meet the predicted future growth in aviation in the Kingdom. The Saudis are keen to have their own nationals providing services in their own country, but they simply don’t have the capacity, resources or available expertise to deliver the volume of trained students. Airways was chosen to provide training for their future ATCs because of the unique and proven products we have on offer, coupled with our previous success in working with students from Middle Eastern countries. Before winning this deal, we had a visit from the Saudi Head of ATC and he was more than impressed with our Christchurch facilities and with our sense of cultural awareness and the value we place on ensuring the wellbeing of their students.”

While in NZ, the Saudi students will live in the community and will have an Airways welfare liaison person assigned to them to ensure they are well taken care of. Contact has already been made with the Muslim community in Christchurch, who have indicated their willingness to ensure the students are engaged and supported during their time here.

“Providing training on this scale is a big deal for Airways, so it’s important we get it right. It will have a very positive economic impact on the city and for our shareholders [the NZ Government] and of course, there is enormous potential for our business as well” said Mr Heesterman.

Ends

For further information:

Bruce Heesterman
GM Global Training
021 402 601

John McKenzie
Airways Training Sales Manager
03 357 2831

About Airways:
Airways New Zealand is the world’s first fully commercial Air Traffic Management Company.
We manage all domestic and international air traffic operating within New Zealand's 30 million square kms of airspace. Last year we controlled over 1 million aircraft movements.

We have operated in over 65 countries, delivering technology, training, systems solutions, communications and consultancy services.

We have twice been voted the best Air Navigation Service provider in the world.

About Kaplan International College:
 Kaplan International Colleges (www.kaplaninternational.com) offers study programs for international students at more than 50 locations in New Zealand, Australia, UK, Ireland, US, and Canada.  Our programs include a wide range of English-language courses for adults and younger students, and an extensive portfolio of university pathway programs delivered in partnership with world-leading universities. 

For more information about KIC, please contact Currie Moore, Marketing Manager New Zealand on 03 379 5452

 

What is Air Traffic Control?

Air Traffic Control comprises the various aircraft navigation and communication systems that use computers, radar, radios, and other instruments and devices to provide guidance to flying aircraft.

Trained personnel working as air traffic controllers at stations on the ground constantly monitor these systems and track the locations and speeds of individual aircraft. Controllers can warn aircraft should they come too close to each other. Air traffic control is also used for the safe coordination of landings and takeoffs at airports.

Learn more about Air Traffic Control>>

---

Vision 2015

Aviation plays a crucial role in New Zealand’s economic wellbeing.

Projected long-term growth of the aviation sector globally means it is essential to maintain the vitality of aviation through safe, effi cient, cost effective and environmentally sustainable air navigation services. To ensure this, future Air Traffic Management (ATM) systems must provide for optimum use of enhanced technology capabilities; both airborne and ground based.

Learn more about Vision 2015 >>