UAS International Trip Support (Booth A22) has recorded a 200 percent increase in demand for VIP Supervisor flight handling since the pandemic began, the Dubai-based company reported at EBACE. The spike reflects the rapid changes in travel rules and procedures implemented in response to Covid, which have “turned the traditional operating environment on its head,” the firm said.

“The unprecedented complexities experienced by operators and ITPs [international trip planners] during the pandemic has highlighted the impact a dedicated supervisor on the ground makes to operators,” said Muhammad Al Husary, UAS co-founder and executive v-p. “Having someone act as an extension of your team, on the ramp navigating last-minute changes or issues, and advocating for their interests at all times, results in more efficient and smooth operations.”

He noted such supervision “also gives a competitive advantage, encouraging transparency on the ground.”

VIP Supervisors are positioned at key travel hubs across the Middle East, Africa, China, Europe, the U.S., and Latin America, and can be placed at any location “to ensure optimal operational efficiency, safety, and quality,” the company said. They can handle all pre-planning and information checks, and mobilize providers of ground services, “to ensure operators and passengers can have a smooth and stress-free travel experience,” according to UAS.

UAS has also been promoting the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) among its customers, and toward that effort announced at EBACE it has eliminated for the next six months handling fees for SAF purchases by operators.