Aircraft movements soar by 26% in 2015; passenger traffic grows 17%

Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, 26 January 2016: As it approaches its 40th anniversary year Ras Al Khaimah International Airport has reported a highly successful 2015, during which aircraft movements of scheduled flights increased by 26% over the previous year. New charter operations from Germany, Poland, Latvia and Russia also kicked off.

In addition, Air Arabia, for whom RAK International is a growing hub, increased flight frequencies to the 10 destinations that they service from the emirate. The cumulative effect of these positive results was a 17% rise in passenger traffic over 2014. 

On the cargo front the airport's business grew by 51% year on year following some reconfigurations made early in 2015. 

Moving to non-aeronautical activities RAK International made significant progress too during 2015 with new deals being signed for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul as well as aircraft decommissioning.

2016 will see a number of projects and initiatives happen including a new cargo facility to be ready by April and the expansion of the Arrivals terminal which will be completed by May.

2016 also sees the 40th anniversary of Ras Al Khaimah Airport, leading Mohammed Qazi, RAK International Airport CEO, to say, "This is a moment when we should acknowledge past achievements, celebrate the present, and look forward to a future of growth. On that path, the clear vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, continues to provide us with guidance and support."

Qazi emphasized that the focus ahead is on becoming the leading low cost and charter airport of the Northern Emirates, stating, "We have a long-term vision that is closely linked with the economies and growth trends of the Northern Emirates."

With Qatar Airways set to start operations from February, another major milestone, Ras Al Khaimah International will be able to continue its pursuit of the tourism sector as well as connecting the emirate to long haul destinations around the globe with 'the world's 5-star airline'.

On the short to medium haul routes Air Arabia plays a crucial role in connecting Ras Al Khaimah as the national carrier.   New routes from RAK are anticipated during 2016 for Air Arabia across the Middle East, Asia and Africa.

However, in order to satisfy the continuously growing population and economies of the Northern Emirates RAK Airport is regularly speaking with other airlines and anticipates an announcement in the coming weeks regarding the commencement of another low cost carrier.

"2016 is going to be a challenging yet exciting year for us" concluded Mohammed Qazi, "we are very focused and aware of what lies ahead.  Our target is to increase productivity, be efficient, develop customer intimacy and promote Ras Al Khaimah.  It is about building a long-term and sustainable future that contributes to regional aviation growth."

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© Press Release 2016