Dubai International Airport defied last year’s downturn in international travel, recording a record 47 million passengers for 2010, a 15% rise over the previous year and 2% higher than projected.
President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and chairman of Dubai Airports Shaikh Ahmad Bin Saeed Al Maktoum attributed Dubai International’s growth to the state’s progressive aviation model.
"The key to our success has been our coordinated and supportive approach to aviation," he said.
"Dubai has a model, unlike Europe and elsewhere, that recognises aviation’s strategic importance and promotes growth in the sector. It starts with an open skies policy, competitive rates and a tax-free environment that has attracted over 130 airlines to Dubai and extends to strategic investments in top-flight aviation infrastructure that promote high service standards and sustain rapid growth."
CEO of Dubai Airports Paul Griffiths added: "The growth story continues in 2011 with passenger numbers expected to surge another 11 per cent to 52.2 million. As a result, we have plans to boost capacity on the ground and in the air to ensure we can accommodate the growth while improving service across the airport."
By Linsey McNeill
