Al Bateen Executive Airport awarded full aerodrome certification.

Summary: * General Civil Aviation Authority certifies the only dedicated executive airport in the Middle East for civil aviation

* AED 200 million invested in airport upgrade

* General Civil Aviation Authority certifies the only dedicated executive airport in the Middle East for civil aviation* AED 200 million invested in airport upgrade

Al Bateen Executive Airport has secured full aerodrome certification from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) in recognition of its high standards in all areas of operations. The certification for compliance with aerodrome regulations for civil aviation marks the completion of the airport's transformation from a military airbase to the private and corporate jet airport managed by the Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC). To achieve certification the airport has demonstrated high standards across all aspects of airport operations, including infrastructure and systems such as all aircraft manoeuvring areas (taxiway, runway and apron) and Air Traffic Control. Procedures and processes related to the safety and security of the airport and its operations are also key to winning the licence, which confirms that Al Bateen Executive Airport is fully compliant with national and international regulations and recommended practices outlined by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Al Bateen Executive Airport is located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, only 10 minutes drive from the capital city's core business district, and it offers unrivaled convenience and comfort to business travelers and VIPs. As the only exclusive luxury business jet airport in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, the demand for its facilities is already high. The airport is currently in the process of being upgraded to meet anticipated future requirements.

HE Khalifa Al Mazrouei, ADAC Chairman, said:

"ADAC plays a key role in actualizing Plan Abu Dhabi 2030 and supporting the projected growth and diversification of the Emirate's economy with the required air transport infrastructure. From the niche private jet facility at Al Bateen Executive Airport, to our busy hub at Abu Dhabi International Airport, and from the idyllic Sir Bani Yas Island Airport to the efficient low cost carrier hub Al Ain International Airport, we serve the full spectrum of aviation needs. "I am delighted to receive this certification on behalf of ADAC for Al Bateen Executive Airport. We are fully committed to safety and security and this aerodrome license acknowledges this dedication and serves as an important milestone for the airport. "Al Bateen Executive Airport offers exceptional convenience and flexibility. Business travelers and VIPs with time pressures will appreciate the fast security clearance, the total lack of queues and waiting time, and direct access to the aircraft. Alternatively, they can relax in one of the luxurious lounges prior to boarding. Private jet operators have the option to provide their own flavour of client service through establishing their own airport lounges, or they can offer access to one of ADAC's existing lounges which are being upgraded this year."

The luxurious airport which is designed to the highest international standards features four premium lounges equipped by the latest technologies, first-class catering, quick and efficient turnaround times and the highest quality of passenger services.

The AED 200 million upgrade of the facilities at Al Bateen Executive Airport will ensure it can meet the increasing demands of the private and business jet market within the region, which is currently valued at between US$500 million and US$700 million a year, and is expected to grow by between 15% and 20% until 2012 (CAPA).

Future developments at the airport include securing additional airport land to create new airside, landside, and facility space. ADAC will manage upgrade of the airfield, which will include the acquiring of new equipment, improvements to the terminal as well as landside access and parking. 2009 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)

2009 Al Bawaba (Albawaba.com)

Provided by Syndigate.info an Albawaba.com company