Move To Boost Cargo Activity At Sharjah International

The Government of Sharjah and Air BP have joined to operate and build a new $32 million jet fuel facility designed to boost Sharjah International Airport's operational capabilities.

The new facility at the growing cargo hub will increase its potential refueling capacity as planned by northern emirate's projected aviation industry growth as part of the deal signed, and announced Sunday.

The 42,900 ton state-of-the-art facility is located in the Hamriyah Free Zone and comprises a 484,300 square foot jet fuel storage terminal and a 28-mile long pipeline linked directly with the airport, according to the Middle East North Africa Financial Network.

The development coincides with the rapid growth of Sharjah's aviation industry spearheaded partly by Air Arabia's following its launch a few years ago as the region's first low cost carrier.

Cargo traffic has also reached record highs in recent years with Sharjah Airport now considered one of the region's largest cargo hubs.

"This is a major milestone in Sharjah's bid to cement its credentials as a forward planning regional aviation hub for both passenger and cargo traffic and is in line with our urban planning policies aimed at reducing road congestion and CO2 emissions," said Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Sharjah Petroleum Company.

"The new facility is a highly strategic asset and it will provide a solid growth platform for Sharjah's aviation sector and its flagship airline Air Arabia, whilst introducing internationally accepted safety and environmental standards for the emirate's people, today and for the future."

The facility will be managed by Anabeeb, a joint venture set up between the Government of Sharjah and Air BP, which was instrumental in the design and build-up of the project.

"Air BP is proud to have contributed to the strategic achievement of Anabeeb. This project has enabled BP to contribute its expertise and utilize state-of-the-art technology and monitoring equipment to ensure a safe and reliable service to the airport. Air BP Chief Executive Officer, Rita Griffin said. 

Air BP is the largest fuel supplier to Air Arabia, and is a 49% partner in Sharjah Aviation Services Co (SASCO) which manages the fuel systems and Into-Plane services at the airport.

FMI: www.sharjah-welcome.com/, www.shj-airport.gov.ae/ www.bp.com