GroundSupportWorldWide.com |

From the new products introduced to the educational seminars, the 2007 Aviation Industry Expo had something to offer everyone in attendance. At its new venue in Orlando, Fla., visitors and exhibitors traveled from around the world to participate in the industry’s largest show.

Notable guests
This year’s expo played host to several notable guests and their annual meetings including NATA, PAMA and the ASC. Productive and educational meetings were held throughout the three-day show, many of which experienced overwhelming attendance. The Disney Institute-hosted seminar entitled “Leadership Begins with World Class Service” was one of the most sought after lectures. At the standing-room-only presentation, attendees learned helpful hints for effective leadership, marketing, and customer service. Through charismatic speakers and interactive discussion, the presenters cited leadership requirements such as commitment and responsibility as necessary for creating a collaborative culture among employees. The presenters cited commitment and responsibility as characteristics which will lead to quality customer service and create positive financial results. The team also discussed the importance of simplicity in regards to running a successful business and holding a productive meeting. Attendees of the Disney Institute presentation referenced a natural flow which made the session move along quickly, effectively delivering their message in a worthwhile and unique presentation.

Crucial discussions
The Aviation Security Council (ASC) held discussions at AIE prompted by the Orlando security breech, in which a baggage handler allegedly used his airport credentials to smuggle more than a dozen firearms onto a commercial jet. The council took the opportunity to discuss ramp security measures and employee screening practices. The group discussed the pros and cons to screening each employee everyday as they arrive at work and also analyzed access points and how to best monitor the activities at each. The ASC decided to reconvene in Washington D.C. to further discuss a formal set of security recommendations.

The topic of cargo security costs to the carriers was also a hot topic at the meeting. Carriers are paying millions of dollars in added security measures and require federal compensation in order to remain profitable.

The interactive element
Another exciting aspect of AIE this year was the video element introduced by Cygnus’ interactive team. For the first time ever, exhibitors had the opportunity to participate in a short interview segment with the editors of Ground Support Worldwide, Aircraft Maintenance Technology, and Airport Business magazines. Many new products were featured and exciting events were captured.

On the second day of the expo, Lektro sold its 3,000th tug to American Eagle. Members of the Cygnus Transportation Video Network were on hand to record the event live. According to interactive managers at Cygnus, the video element is one with great potential for growth.

“The Transportation Video Network is a success story in the making for us,” says Omid Johanbin, creative director for Cygnus Business Media. “We are bringing the power of moving images and sound to the online space and eliminating the costly technological barriers in the process. The impact on a company’s brand and the way we deliver news has been and continues to be tremendous.