Abu Dhabi Int'l passenger traffic rises 21% in Q1

Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) said on Saturday that more than 3.4 million passengers passed through Abu Dhabi International Airport during the first quarter of 2012.

The traffic figure represented an increase of 21.2 percent compared to the same period last year, ADAC said in a statement.

Between the months of January and March, the airport welcomed 29,123 flights, while cargo traffic was also on the rise, with an increase of 11 percent, it added.

ADAC said March saw a significant surge in traffic with passenger numbers reaching 1,196,000, up 22 percent compared with the same month last year, while cargo grew by 11 percent.

Harib Al Hameli, vice president of operations, Abu Dhabi International Airport, ADAC, said: "The first quarter of this year has proven to be yet another successful period for Abu Dhabi International Airport.

"The double-digit growth in the number of passengers reflects the level of attraction the Emirate holds as a soaring business and tourism destination in the region, and the dynamic developments of Etihad and other airline partners.

"Based on the first quarter results and the increased aircraft movement and passenger traffic projected during the rest of the year, 2012 looks set to be another record year for Abu Dhabi International Airport."

Doha, Bangkok, London, Manila and Jeddah registered the highest traffic from Abu Dhabi International Airport during the first quarter of 2012, while the Far East ranked as the top region.