Ishrath Jaigirdar,
Dubai, UAE
Dubai’s flight connectivity is anticipated to surpass 300 destinations by deploying more narrow-bodied aircraft, Paul Griffith, CEO of Dubai Airports, announced at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) on Tuesday. The forecast was revealed following the recent momentous update of Dh128 billion investment in the second phase of Al Maktoum International Airport (AMIA) in Dubai South that will convert the entire area into an Aerotropolis spanning ten times the size of Dubai International Airport (DXB).
Paul Griffith’s comments is in contrast to Dubai International Airport’s position as the world’s biggest hub of wide-bodied aircraft. Dubai International Airport is home to Emirates Airline – which deploys the largest fleet of wide-bodied aircraft, namely Boeing 777s and Airbus A380 Super Jumbos. Dubai is home to the world’s largest A380 and B777 fleets. It is also home to FlyDubai – the emirate’s low-cost airline that operates a fleet of single-aisle Boeing 737s.
Although most global cities maintain a two-airport policy, Dubai Government has announced that it will shift its aviation industry to Dubai South, a 140-square kilometre airport city or Aerotropolis, half of which will be dedicated to the world’s largest airport – Al Maktoum International Airport, a 70-square kilometre facility that will have five parallel runways, 400 aircraft gates that will cater to 260 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo per year.
Aviation and tourism represent about 40 percent of Dubai’s economy – providing economic lifeline to hundreds of thousands of well-paid professionals.
Navigating the future of air travel, Paul Griffith lauded the idea of increasing the count of smaller, efficient planes. This will enable regional, small-scale airports to receive passengers from Dubai and thus improve connectivity. This is a crucial step as the emirate prepares itself to welcome 260 million passengers annually at AMIA.
He further stressed the development of the aviation infrastructure for the economy to thrive. This will not only create job opportunities but also cause an influx of international visitors into the country that will consequently support the tourism industry. In terms of expansion, DXB has reached its maximum capacity, thereby catalysing the development of AMIA to meet future needs. DXB’s passenger capacity has tripled since its commencement of operations, currently accommodating 90 million visitors with a target set to surpass 91 million in 2024. Upon completion, AMIA will continue to build upon DXB’s legacy as the world’s leading international airport with a masterplan that encompasses residential, hospitality, and logistics projects.
Ends
Also read: Dubai to invest Dh128 bn in Phase II of Al Maktoum International Airport
