RAK International Airport’s efforts at providing world-class quality airport services has gained substantial ground as both passenger numbers and financial performance figures posted impressive growth throughout 2012.
Under the vision and guidance of HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and Member of the Supreme Council, the strategic and rapid development of RAK International Airport has resulted in a 24 per cent growth in passenger numbers and over 60 per cent growth in financial performance from the previous year.
In addition, its operations performance reached a 98 per cent achievement rate, and aircraft movements, duty-free sales and cargo tonnage, too showed positive growth.
“Our accomplishments in 2012 are the fruits of a focused and unique business strategy based on a stakeholder analysis approach,” said Andrew Gower, CEO, RAK International Airport. “And 2012, in spite of being just the first year of operations under a new management team, such accomplishments have already exceeded our expectations.”
During the early months of 2012, the airport awarded its ground handling operations contract to National Aviation Services (NAS), which now provides a comprehensive ground handling service that includes ramp handling, check-in, arrival, transit and cargo services. Pearl Assist, NAS’s worldwide network of lounge and meet and assist services has also been made available at RAK International Airport.
In addition, RAK International Airport is the first commercial airport in the UAE to have partnered with Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL) for the provision of comprehensive Air Traffic Services (ATS). This partnership highlights the availability of globally acceptable, local ATS providers of international standards to UAE airports.
These include a full array of air traffic control services – from manning to the analysis of standards, procedures and facilities at the airport. This partnership ensures that operational requirements are met and that maximum effort is made to ensure flight safety.
Another comprehensive factor in RAK Airport’s 2012 growth is the commercial packages offered to airlines and other aviation associated businesses, which was the best in the region. Other factors included the development of new routes, improvements to its tour service and in-terminal facilities. These include the opening of a new business lounge, a café, and the substantial increase of its Duty-Free offerings.
“RAK International Airport has relatively quieter skies and ample take-off and landing slots with no restrictions,” Gower revealed. “And as we continue to explore new opportunities and markets, we listen to these markets and adapt to the changes of an ever-evolving aviation industry.
“Therefore, under our unique business strategy and approach, we are confident that the growth momentum gained in 2012 will carry over in 2013 and further into the future,” Gower concluded.