Seawings looks to strengthen its presence in the region
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Seawings LLC, the seaplane operator in the Middle East has strategic plans to augment its presence in the region.
Plans include new leisure introductions, focussed approach to tap into the MICE segment and regional expansions among others.
Talking to Travel Daily Middle East, Stuart Wheeler, director for Seawings LLC elaborates on the company’s performance. “We have developed the market from our launch in 2007, where we carried 7000 – 8,000 passengers to our current numbers, which is around 16,000-17,000 passengers. The growth has been consistent year-on-year with a constant 10% increase however in 2011 we witnessed a 30% growth. Based on growing demand, our focus will be to increase our presence in a gradual manner by next year.”
The Product
Seawings is a high-end product wherein passengers are provided a high level of satisfaction with a positive experience. “We have come a long way and it is extremely encouraging to be rated as one of the top must do events in Dubai,” added Wheeler.
Elaborating on product enhancements, Wheeler explains: “We are putting together a package for Abu Dhabi which will cover major attractions such as Ferrari World, Yas Water World, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island and Golf among others.”
These packages offer more than just the seaplane experience. The destinations Seawings cover provide our passengers with the options to undertake other activities such as boating, marine activities, dolphin watching or dinner and lunches at the Corniche.
Market Segmentation & Product Enhancement
Seawings having established its niche in Dubai is now looking at consolidating its position in Abu Dhabi and other emirates. “We will look at strengthening our position in Abu Dhabi this year and also look at developing Ras Al Khaimah,” added Wheeler.
Gaining market share would directed by tapping into potential segments such as MICE and corporate travel. “We have handled big groups in the past and would like to focus more on these segments. The MICE groups just need to be well-co-ordinated as we can rotate a lot of people within a short span of time.” On an average, Seawings can handle up a group of up to 170-190 people.
Further, the company is planning to launch leisure charters. These are tailored-services for families and smaller groups of people who wish to charter the airplane. For a family, the company can offer a charter price starting from three to five people or even the entire airplane. “We will discount the costing to encourage smaller families to share the experience,” explained Wheeler.
For the leisure charters program, guests will get a first-hand experience of the scenic tour which flies them into the Al Maha Desert Resort. Additional activities include walking safaris, exploring Zigy Bay for an overnight stay, diving or even swimming. The seaplane also connects guests to Zubanair island as well as explore options for pearl diving. The leisure charter program would be a combination of four to five packages on offer this year, which could be either night or a day trips.