Alternative fuels a focus at air show

With oil prices on a record flight path, the global aerospace industry will be focusing on improved efficiency and developments in alternative fuels at the International Berlin Air Show this week.
The gathering - known formally as the Aerospace Exhibition and Conferences - takes place Tuesday through Sunday at Berlin's Schoenefeld Airport, though it opens to the public only on Friday.
Flight shows and competitions, industry presentations and discussions make up the agenda. A special ceremony marking the 60th anniversary of the Berlin Airlift, the largest airborne humanitarian operation ever, also is planned.
Industry observers will be hoping for clues about market trends and various projects by companies including airline Deutsche Lufthansa AG; German airport operator Fraport AG; and European Aeronautic Defence and Space Co., the Franco-German parent of Airbus.
The biggest challenge at the moment is the cost of oil, which reached new highs of more than $135 a barrel in trading Thursday - before lowering.
Some analysts are forecasting a barrel reaching $150-$200 in the next year, leading the industry to look toward producing lighter, more efficient machinery, as well as alternative fuels. Airports are trying, meanwhile, to streamline operations and reduce bottlenecks and improve efficiency.
26/05/08 George Frey/AP/Kansas City Star, USA

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Categories: Berlin air show 2008