Abu Dhabi International Airport has been rated as the fastest growing airport in hub connectivity in the world, according to the annual 'Airport Industry Connectivity Report 2017' published by Airports Council International (ACI).

 

The report highlighted that Abu Dhabi has been registering a growth in hub connectivity of 1,479 per cent between 2007 and 2017, exceeding the growth rate of major international hubs in Europe and North America, Khaleej Times said quoting the report.

 

Hub connectivity measures the number of connecting flights, direct and indirect, that can be facilitated through an airport taking into account minimum and maximum connecting times and weighting the quality of the connections by the detour involved and connecting times.

 

The report also highlighted that Gulf and Asian hubs, though not yet in the top 20 global hubs, have been driving a change in hub airport dynamics. Three of the top 20 fastest growing hubs are from the Gulf, with Abu Dhabi in the first place and Dubai in the same group.

 

Acting CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, Abdul Majeed Al Khoori, said: "The ACI report comes at a crucial time when Abu Dhabi International Airport is embarking on a mega expansion move, which adds to our conviction that the Midfield Terminal Building will further support Abu Dhabi's position as a global hub for air transport. Since the establishment of Abu Dhabi Airports in 2006, the strategy was to develop hub connectivity that will serve the airport, the national carrier and the region."

 

"In 2007, Abu Dhabi International Airport saw 3,237,011 transfer and transit passengers, a number that grew to 15,853,770 in 2016. Such change has been as a result of the growth in Etihad Airways and its expanded network and increased connectivity. Abu Dhabi's ideal location and vibrant economy also play a vital role in attracting airlines and passengers to pass through its gateway. From that respect, Abu Dhabi Airports works closely and continuously with all its stakeholders to ensure their needs, plans and strategies are supported with a strong infrastructure and facilities that will take their services to new heights," he said.