Abu Dhabi International Airport records 16% increase in visitors during the F1 season

Abu Dhabi International Airport records 16% increase in visitors during the F1 season

Al Bateen Executive Airport records almost 100 Private Aircraft movements .

December 2, 2010 4:26 by Rasha Reslan

Abu Dhabi Airports Company(ADAC) released today the total passenger numbers arriving to Abu Dhabi the week prior to the Etihad Aiways Formula 1 Grand Prix. The published numbers indicate a 16% increase in Abu Dhabi International Airport arrivals prior to the F1 race, between 7th and 13th of November, compared to that of last year’s race, a clear indication of the international awareness of the event and its success in attracting visitors to the Emirate. The increased flight frequencies and destinations served from Abu Dhabi International Airport in 2010 has also played a significant role in this growth.

This growth was also apparent at Al Bateen Executive Airport, ADAC’s dedicated airport for business aviation. Al Bateen recorded nearly 100 aircraft movements during the F1 race period, with 13th and 14th November being the peak days. This growth represents a 17% increase in aircraft movements when compared with the same F1 race period in 2009. The executive airport welcomed aircraft from all over the world carrying VIPs, Formula One drivers and other prominent figures of the international community.

In this regard, James E. Bennett, CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports Company, stated:

“ADAC had an exciting week during the Etihad Airways Formula One Grand Prix, offering its award-winning services to all of the F1 guests at both Abu Dhabi International and Al Bateen Executive Airports. We are glad to be a part of the Emirate’s success during this event ”.