Friday, Jun 08, 2012
Abu Dhabi: Gazelles roam around freely in the desert brush, while flamingos stand gracefully in the shallow pools of water. Sir Bani Yas Island has always been a nature lover’s treat, and as Abu Dhabi’s largest desert island, it attracts scores of tourists every year
The 84 square-kilometre island however now feels closer than ever, as a new domestic flight service began operations this month. Connecting the capital city to Sir Bani Yas Airport, the 30-minute flight by Rotana Jet may just encourage more residents and visitors to make their way to the desert island.
Flights depart three times a week from Al Bateen Executive Airport, close to the capital’s business district. For UAE residents, an Emirates ID is sufficient for travel and the airport, although utilitarian, did not have any long queues when I visited.
Check-in was fairly easy, especially as none of the passengers on the flight was carrying much luggage.
A short walk on the tarmac led to the 50-seater aircraft, which had seats in rows of three where a smiling stewardess seated us and took us through the routine safety procedures before take off.
My first sensation was one of weightlessness, which apparently is more common in a small jet than on a larger passenger carrier. In terms of refreshments, we were offered water, so a quick meal beforehand would be ideal for hungry travellers.
The flight was quick however, apart from a harrowing turn in the last few minutes which ensures that the plane heads directly to Sir Bani Yas Island’s small airport.
On arrival, we were handed transit cards, which we were told to keep until the return flight. A quick bus ride through the desert sands takes you to the Anantara Desert Islands Resort and Spa.
Before the flight was introduced, travelling to Sir Bani Yas involved a nearly three-hour road trip from Abu Dhabi to Jabal Dhanna, followed by a 20-minute boat journey to the island. For those looking at simpler ways of reaching the desert retreat, the new connector flight is a viable option.
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By Samihah Zaman?Staff Reporter
Gulf News 2012. All rights reserved.
