BY A STAFF REPORTER
SHARJAH — The year end summary for 2006 shows strong growth in the commercial sector for the Sharjah International Airport .
Sharjah International Airport is known for its freight services in the region. However, its commercial strategy has taken major strides with increased movement of passengers and aircrafts over the year. The latest statistics show a total of 39,671 flights which is a 13.93 per cent increase compared to November 2005.
Sharjah International Airport is also home to the Middle East's first Low cost carrier — Air Arabia — which saw its route portfolio expand in 2006 with new destinations such as Istanbul, Kabul, Mumbai, Jaipur, Nagpur, Kochi, Chennai Thiruvananthapuram, Kathmandu, Latakia and recently Armenia.
New commercial carriers inaugurated their flights during this year to serve both cargo and industries, besides existing operators who have either increased their frequencies or launched new destinations to cope with the growing regional and local market demand of Sharjah International Airport during 2006.
Seasonal operators resumed their winter schedules with new routes in their plans from Europe to leisure hotspots in South Asia , Indian subcontinent and Far East. |
With so many new routes available to passengers for the first time, it comes as no surprise when the Sharjah International Airport saw passenger traffic increase by 36.33 per cent compared to 2005. Record increase in travellers from Sharjah International Airport has seen flight frequency rise for so many commercial airlines, making the airport a busy hub for passenger flights this year. The airport crossed the two million mark in passenger traffic and the figures for November show passenger movement has reached 2,722,306.
Sharjah Dufry outlets opened in more locations at the airport. Sharjah International Airport saw an increase in retail interest as more passengers participated in the promotion and explored the expanded retail outlets and extended product variety.
Ali Salem Al Midfa, Director Sharjah Airport Authority, said, " Sharjah International Airport has seen an increase in demand from commercial passengers over the recent years. To accommodate the increase in passenger traffic and aircraft movement the airport embarked on a massive expansion project. We have already seen the results in 2006 with the usage of the new arrival hall and aim to provide all travellers flying through the Sharjah International Airport with the best services and facilities that match international airport standards." |