Dubai airport manages record 18.4m passengers

The airport handled a record 18.46 million passengers during the first half this year, with March being the busiest month where it flew 3.25 million passengers. February recorded the highest growth rate at 18.80 per cent, a statement from the airport administration said here today.     

"Although it's great news, there's no time to celebrate. We are all working to maintain customer service levels at the airport during the peak summer season, while also testing and preparing the new terminal and air-side facility for opening later this year," Paul Griffiths, CEO, Dubai Airports, said.     

The average passenger movement per day at the airport has increased to nearly 1,00,000 with the cargo also showing a robust growth.     

"The airport is the main gateway to the city of Dubai which is recognised as a global commerce and tourism hub. The growth of the city and that of the airport are entwined in a directly proportional relationship," President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said.    

He further added that the airport's growth reflects the robust economy of Dubai and its emergence as the regional and increasingly global centre for trade, travel and tourism.