RAK Airport records major achievements in 2015

As it approaches its 40th anniversary, Ras Al Khaimah International Airport has reported a highly

successful 2015, during which aircraft movements of scheduled flights increased by 26% over

the previous year. New charter operations from Germany, Poland, Latvia and Russia also

kicked off.

In addition, Air Arabia, for whom RAK International is a growing hub, increased flight

frequencies to the 10 destinations that they service from the emirate. The cumulative effect of

these positive results was a 17% rise in passenger traffic over 2014.

On the cargo front the airport’s business grew by 51% year on year following some

reconfigurations made early in 2015.

Moving to non-aeronautical activities RAK International made significant progress too during

2015 with new deals being signed for Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul as well as aircraft

decommissioning.

2016 will see a number of projects and initiatives happen including a new cargo facility to be

ready by April and the expansion of the Arrivals terminal which will be completed by May.

2016 also sees the 40th anniversary of Ras Al Khaimah Airport, leading Mohammed Qazi, RAK

International Airport CEO, notes, “This is a moment when we should acknowledge past

achievements, celebrate the present, and look forward to a future of growth. On that path, the

clear vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah,

continues to provide us with guidance and support.”

Mr. Qazi emphasized that the focus ahead is on becoming the leading low cost and charter

airport of the Northern Emirates, stating, “We have a long-term vision that is closely linked with

the economies and growth trends of the Northern Emirates.”

With Qatar Airways set to start operations from February, another major milestone, Ras Al

Khaimah International will be able to continue its pursuit of the tourism sector as well as

connecting the emirate to long haul destinations around the globe with ‘the world’s 5-star

airline’.

On the short to medium haul routes Air Arabia plays a crucial role in connecting Ras Al Khaimah

as the national carrier. New routes from RAK are anticipated during 2016 for Air Arabia across

the Middle East, Asia and Africa.

However, in order to satisfy the continuously growing population and economies of the Northern

Emirates RAK Airport is regularly speaking with other airlines and anticipates an announcement

in the coming weeks regarding the commencement of another low cost carrier.