Abu Dhabi Airports passenger traffic hits 21.7 million in 9 months

London was lead outbound destination, followed by Mumbai and Kochi

Abu Dhabi Airports has revealed growth figures for 2024, with the first nine months of the year seeing the capital’s five commercial airports welcoming 21.7 million passengers.

The data represents a 31.2% increase compared to the 16.5 million passengers served during the same period in 2023.

Abu Dhabi Airports operates five hubs in the emirate, including Zayed International Airport, Al Ain  International Airport and Sir Bani Yas Airport.

This boost in passenger traffic was driven by an expanded route network through existing partners and the addition of new partnering airlines using the airports, including Turkmenistan Airlines, Hainan Airlines, US Bangla, British Airways, Akasa Air, Flynas, Air Samarkand and the resumption of Aeroflot’s seasonal operations.

The growth was reflected in the third quarter, with 7.7 million passengers passing through its airports, which again was a substantial 27% increase compared to the third quarter of 2023.

RELATED:
Abu Dhabi sees 242% growth in stopover visitors
Etihad’s 2024 passenger numbers nudge 12 million
UAE carrier Etihad flies 1.7 million passengers in July

The emirate's aviation growth was driven by the expansion of Zayed International Airport (AUH), recognised as the fastest-growing airport in the Middle East in terms of international seat capacity by the Official Airline Guide.

Notably, on 2 August this year, AUH recorded its busiest day on record, facilitating the travel of 92,677 passengers.

Aircraft movements also saw a positive trend, reaching 185,485 for the year to date, a 10.2% increase compared to 168,377 movements in 2023, according to Abu Dhabi Airports’ latest report.

London maintained its position as the airports' lead outbound destination, followed by Mumbai, Kochi, Cairo and Doha.

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO at Abu Dhabi Airports, said: "We are thrilled to report these strong YTD [year-to-date] results, which demonstrate the pace and robustness of our growth across Abu Dhabi Airports.

“The addition of new airlines and the strong performance of our existing partners reflect the confidence in Abu Dhabi as a leading aviation hub.”

For more information, visit www.adairports.ae

FIND OUT MORE