15% increase in air traffic at UAE airports during COP28

The UAE's airports witnessed a 15 per cent increase in air traffic during the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28), which was held at Expo City Dubai from November 30 to December 12.

That's according to Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the UAE's General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

He told the Emirates News Agency (WAM) that Dubai's Al Maktoum International Airport recorded the highest number of scheduled and unscheduled flights, such as private jets and business jets, on the first day of the conference on November 30.

It was also the day that witnessed the highest daily air traffic rate in the history of civil aviation in the UAE with 2,848 flights.

He added that the GCAA, in coordination with its strategic partners, launched preparations well in advance to host this major international event.

They organised meetings and daily sessions to discuss plans, improve air navigation management systems to handle the expected increase in air traffic and conduct simulation exercises.

This was especially crucial as the conference coincided with the country's peak tourism season.

A dedicated electronic platform was also launched to control air traffic and closely monitor incoming flights in close coordination with air traffic administrations in neighbouring countries.

15% increase in air traffic at #UAE airports during #COP28 : @gcaauae Director-General #WamNews https://t.co/yStCR7nP3G pic.twitter.com/j4aCbVTbiu

— WAM English (@WAMNEWS_ENG) December 19, 2023