Test-running of operations at Abu Dhabi International Airport’s Midfield terminal building has begun ahead of opening in November. As part of the ongoing operational trials for the new Terminal A, Abu Dhabi Airport has conducted its largest live trial and testing exercise to date, with more than 6,000 volunteers selected from the community in Abu Dhabi.
The operational trials involved robust simulations that are designed to stress-test equipment, staff, and procedures, in key operating areas of the terminal, including check-in and baggage handling, security screening, boarding gates, and immigration.
Volunteers assessed the speed and accuracy of check-in, including document and customs inspections.
“Our commitment to excellence has driven our journey to prepare for Terminal A’s opening, as we are focused on conducting extensive, large-scale assessments to ensure the speed, efficiency, and delivery of operations,” said Elena Sorlini, managing director and interim chief executive at Abu Dhabi Airports on Monday.
“I would like to thank the volunteers who have participated in these trials for their unwavering support as we gear up to welcome passengers to Terminal A in November.”
On Monday, the soon-to-be-opened Abu Dhabi International Airport Terminal A welcomed home UAE astronaut Sultan Al Neyadi. The UAE media were also given a peek at the modern airport that is scheduled to begin operations in early November this year.
Covering 742,000 square meters of built-up area, Terminal A is among the world’s biggest airport terminals, and will significantly increase Abu Dhabi International Airport’s passenger and cargo capacity contributing to the acceleration of the emirate’s economic growth.
With the capability to handle 45m passengers per year, and process 11,000 passengers per hour, the terminal will provide the foundation of Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector expansion and cement its position as a global gateway and aviation hub.
The most remarkable feature of the international gateway is the shape of the building – patterned like undulating dunes and based on the concept of a “pearl in the desert”. Terminal A features a long, flowing curved roof that resembles a shell. Its architecture is both expansive and impressive, reflecting an amalgamation of tradition and modernity.
Etihad Airways, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, and Air Arabia Abu Dhabi will be moving to Terminal A on opening.
Construction began in 2012 and it was originally scheduled for completion in 2017.
