With a built-up area of 742,000 square meters, Terminal A is not only one of the largest airport terminals in the world, but it also boasts expansive, stunning architecture that combines heritage and modernity.

The design of the building, which is based on the idea of a “pearl in the desert” and is shaped like undulating sand dunes, is the most notable aspect of the international gateway. The exterior of Terminal A has a long, flowing, shell-like roof, while the interior is dominated by natural light and greenery, giving it a great sense of openness and space.

The symmetrical high ceilings add to the terminal’s expansive and airy appearance, while the discreet placement of the columns and supporting arches facilitates easy pedestrian movement.

Trial Period
The live trial of airport processes, including check-in and baggage, security screening, boarding gates, immigration, and customs, is now being conducted by more than 6,000 volunteers.

All systems including check-in and baggage handling, security screening, boarding gates, immigration, along with boarding routines and flight information procedures, were thoroughly tested by these volunteers, who also examined the speed and accuracy of check-in, including document and customs inspections.

The process for passengers’ speed and accuracy is being tested by volunteers, according to Elena Sorlini, managing director and interim CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, who also added that document and customs inspections are being improved.

“Our commitment to excellence has driven our journey to get ready for the opening of Terminal A,” she said.

“We are focused on conducting extensive large-scale assessments to ensure the speed, efficiency, and delivery of operations,” the official remarked further.

The building will likely accommodate up to 45 million passengers per year, apart from processing 11,000 travellers an hour and operating 79 aircraft at any given time.

At 742,000 square metres, Abu Dhabi Airport’s new facility has become one of the largest airport terminals in the world. Etihad Airways, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi and Air Arabia Abu Dhabi will be moving to Terminal A on the opening day itself.

Modern Technology
In addition to having a highly stunning design, Terminal A is equipped with the most recent technologies for managing airports, such as integrated biometric systems that will give travellers a seamless journey from pre-travel to the boarding gate. Modern luggage handling systems, streamlined security checks, and self-service kiosks are available.

Additionally, the terminal will feature top-notch amenities like opulent lounges, calm areas, and spa facilities where passengers can unwind before or after their flights. There will also be shops and restaurants that appeal to different interests and inclinations.

Photo Credits: Abu Dhabi Airport

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With the festive season starting, passengers are being reminded to follow traffic rules and safety regulations to ensure smooth journeys throughout the festive season. The airport also urged people to contact the airline for the latest travel regulations. Some other tips shared by the airport are to make that that passengers organise all necessary validated documents before arriving at the airport. Visit the website to find out where your terminal is located. Go to the airport at least three hours early and always have your mask on. If it’s a busy day for you, remember to keep yourself hydrated and dress comfortably for your flight.

AUH is the UAE’s second-largest airport and one of the fastest-growing aviation hubs in the world. It is a base for more than 30 airlines that are currently flying to and from more than 100 destinations in more than 50 countries. The airport is also home to national airline Etihad Airways, which announced last week that it was expecting December to be one of its busiest months since the pandemic began.

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The decision to approve Air Arabia Abu Dhabi as the UAE’s national carrier took place during the cabinet’s meeting in the beginning of 2020. In recent years, the UAE government has invested efforts to support all aviation business operations. It is in line with the country’s development plans. 

Tony Douglas, Etihad Aviation Group Chief Executive Officer, told the media that, “Abu Dhabi is a thriving cultural hub with a clear economic vision built on sustainability and diversification. With the emirate’s diverse attractions and hospitality offerings, travel and tourism play a vital role in the economic growth of the capital and the UAE. By partnering with Air Arabia and launching Abu Dhabi’s first low-cost carrier, we are serving this long-term vision.”

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi was formed as an independent joint venture between Etihad Aviation and Air Arabia. It was launched as a low-cost airline. The airline’s hub is at Abu Dhabi International Airport.

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi will focus on flights between India and Abu Dhabi following the downfall of Jet Airways. The UAE’s national carrier will start operations in the first half of 2020. The UAE’s aviation sector is poised for growth as the country is a major tourism hub. More recently, the UAE airlines introduced five-year visa for tourists to build its non-oil economy. 

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The agreement was signed by the two companies during the visit of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces to China this year.

The Global Aerospace logistics facility will improve availability of aircraft spare parts in the UAE and MENA region—and drastically reduce repair times from months to weeks. Under the terms of the agreement, both Global Aerospace and the China company are working toward developing the 1,440-square-foot aircraft warehouse facility. The facility is located near  Abu Dhabi International Airport. 

Sheikh Mohammad bin Hamad bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, vice-chairman of Global Aerospace, told the local media that, “Since its establishment, GAL has been a regional leader in aircraft sustainment solutions. Our collaboration with CATIC is certain to solidify that position, as aviation customers continue to challenge the industry service providers to deliver innovative solutions to complex MRO and supply chain requirements. The bonded warehouse facility will significantly boost domestic MRO capabilities, and minimise the logistics associated with sourcing critical components from international vendors, resulting in substantial time savings and enhancing our customers fleet availability.” 

Global Aerospace Logistics is a leading  integrated aircraft sustainment solutions provider for military and civilian entities. The company has partnered with  AAR, Airbus Helicopter, Bell, Pratt & Whitney, Boeing and Leonardo to help clients ensure fleet preparedness.

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Under the terms of the agreement, Etihad Aviation and Air Arabia will establish a budget airline joint venture. Air Arabia Abu Dhabi will operate out of Abu Dhabi International Airport. 

Tony Douglas, group chief executive officer of Etihad Aviation, told the media that, “With the emirate’s diverse attractions and hospitality offerings, travel and tourism plays a vital role in the economic growth of the capital and the UAE. By partnering with Air Arabia and launching Abu Dhabi’s first low-cost carrier, we are serving this long-term vision.” 

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi ’s board of directors will be nominated by Etihad and Air Arabia. The venture will develop an independent strategy—and the legal framework for its operations is yet to be developed. 

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi is part of Etihad’s transformation programme. The airline has been planning transformation strategies since 2017. Low cost travel is becoming important in the Middle East and North Africa. In 2018, low budget carriers accounted for 17 percent of  seat capacity to and from the Middle East, the media reported. 

Air Arabia has already established hubs in Egypt and Morocco. 

Currently, the UAE has four local carriers Emirates, Etihad, flydubai, and Air Arabia. flydubai, and Air Arabia are the only two low budget carriers from that list. The new venture will contribute to the expanding low cost travel market in the region. 

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