DC Aviation’s Middle East Success Story

Back in 2013, the Dubai World Central area was nothing but sand. But along with its joint venture partner, Dubai-based Al-Futtaim, a privately owned UAE business conglomerate, DC Aviation Al-Futtaim VIP Terminal (DCAF) was set up as the first fully integrated facility at Al Maktoum International Airport. Last year, the company celebrated a decade of successful operations.

DCAF capitalizes on Al-Futtaim’s strong fundamentals and presence in the Middle East and DC Aviation’s global reputation as a premium provider of aircraft management, executive charter operations, business jet maintenance, and consultation services.

The DCAF facility boasts two dedicated hangars measuring 5,700sq.m and 7,500sq.m, bringing the total land-side plot area to 24,000sq.m and the apron area to 13,000sq.m.

Located in a prime position just off the airport’s runway, the DCAF hangars and 7,700sq.m dedicated ramp parking enables the company to support, maintain and operate private and business jets of all sizes.

The VVIP Treatment

VVIP customers can also enjoy the recently refurbished 1,300sq.m exclusive VVIP lounge area, which continues to offer the highest levels of comfort and privacy, along with shower areas and a conference room.

In addition to the VVIP lounge, customers also receive 24-hour on-site security, screening facilities, customs and immigration services, thus enjoying a speedy and enjoyable travel experience.

Aircraft Management & Charter

The Aircraft Management division of DCAF helps business jet owners optimize their aircraft assets, by operating aircraft to meet the highest industry standards with regards to flight safety and airworthiness.

Clients also benefit from significant cost-savings on insurance, fuel purchasing and other relevant flight support services. DCAF currently has 10 aircraft in its managed fleet – a mix of Bombardier, Gulfstream, Dassault Falcon and Pilatus aircraft.

Meanwhile, DCAF’s business jet charter clients benefit from the operator’s fleet size and variety, and a 24/7 operation designed to provide immediate response to requests.

Maintenance Capabilities

On the maintenance front, DCAF has steadily expanded its capabilities, investing in staff, training and tools, focusing on both quantitative and qualitative aspects.

Through its line maintenance capabilities catering to various business jet types, owners and operators receive a diverse range of maintenance services, from spare parts supply, procurement and storage to maintenance and airworthiness certification.

DCAF is approved to provide the entire maintenance scope for a variety of aircraft, including the Airbus A320 family, Bombardier Global Express/XRS/5000 (including Global 5000 Vision Flight Deck type aircraft), Bombardier Challenger 604/605, Global 6000 and Dassault Falcon 7Xs, the company is in the process of adding the Global 7500 under EASA approval for line maintenance. 

Wheel shop capability was also added at its facility in Dubai South.

Last year, DCAF achieved a significant milestone by completing its first 60-month maintenance check on a Bombardier Global 6000 aircraft.

Owned by a private customer, the aircraft underwent its first heavy maintenance check at DCAF’s hangar at Al Maktoum International Airport. This inspection, the largest undertaken by the DCAF team, involved over 2,000 man-hours and adept management of several logistical challenges with the support of local and overseas partners.

While performing the comprehensive inspection, the DCAF team provided invaluable support for various line maintenance activities, including Wheel Shop and Battery Shop requests. The successful completion of this complex inspection underscores the investments the company has made in expanding its capabilities, enabling it to provide reliable and cost-effective maintenance services to its customers.

IS-BAH Stage 3 Certified FBO

Last year, DCAF received the International Standard for Business Aircraft Handling (IS-BAH) Stage 3 certification for its aircraft and passenger handling services as part of its FBO.

This makes it one of only two FBOs in the Middle East, and one of 27 organizations globally to attain this highest level of safety standard established by IS-BAH.

The certification verifies that safety management activities are fully integrated into the business, and that a positive safety culture is being sustained. DCAF received its Stage 1 certification in May 2019 and Stage 2 in January 2021.

San Marino Subsidiary AOC

Finally, the DC Aviation Group recently announced its subsidiary DC Aviation San Marino SRL (DCAS), has been issued its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the San Marino Civil Aviation Authority (SM-CAA) marking another significant milestone, as the Group celebrates its 25th anniversary. 

With the AOC in hand, DCAS can now operate and manage third-party business aircraft commercially, including aircraft charter under San Marino’s T7 registration.

More information from www.dc-aviation.ae or call +971 4 870 1800