Dubai opens 'world's largest' airport for passengers

Dubai has opened passenger operations at its second airport, touted to be the world's largest once it is completed.

Situated in economic zone Dubai World Central (DWC), Al-Maktoum International opened its doors for business on Sunday and welcomed the arrival of a Wizz Air plane from Budapest as the first commercial flight. Also present were aircrafts from Gulf Air and Jazeera Airlines both of which will commence operations at the DWC soon.

The airport was announced open with a large delegation of local dignitaries and aviation officials touring the facility following the unveiling of a commemorative display.

"Al-Maktoum International at Dubai World Central will play a vital role in the future development of Dubai as a centre for trade, commerce, transport and logistics and tourism. I am impressed by the efficiency and convenience of this new terminal," Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of Dubai Airports said.

"The opening of this facility signals the historic beginning of a long-term plan to build the largest airport in the world to accommodate the tremendous passenger growth and contribute to the continued economic and social development of Dubai," he said.

Jazeera Airways said it joined the launch celebrations of the Middle East s newest airport with the operation of a ceremonial flight carrying government officials and media from Kuwait.

"We're glad to be one of the first airlines and the first one in the region to extend our support to the newly-opened DWC which aims to be one of the leading airports in the world in the coming years in terms of both capacity and size," Jazeera Airways Group Chairman Marwan Boodai said.

"Al-Maktoum International at DWC adds another dimension to Dubai's travel market, it is well positioned not only for weekenders from Kuwait for its proximity to Jumeirah and the resorts in that area, but also for customers who want to avoid the city altogether. Additionally, Al Maktoum International at DWC serves customers flying to Abu Dhabi," Boodai said.

Jazeera Airways' flights to Al-Maktoum International Airport will complement the airline's operation to Dubai International Airport (DXB), which will remain unchanged at an average of 25 flights per week.

Jazeera Airways will operate two flights a week every Thursday and Saturday to the new Al Maktoum International Airport. Al-Maktoum International is a key component of Dubai Airports' long-term expansion plan.

The airport starts receiving passengers with an immediate capacity to handle seven million passengers annually. Upon completion, Al-Maktoum International will become the world's largest airport with five runways and an ultimate capacity of 160 million passengers and 12 million tonnes of cargo per annum.

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