THE volcanic ash cloud, which grounded flights around the world for six days in April, had a minimal impact on growth at the UAE’s major airports.

At Dubai International (pictured) in April passenger numbers rose 13.9 per cent from 3,289,037 to 3,745,016 and cargo volumes increased 19.6 per cent on the same period last year from 149,169 tonnes to 178,357 tonnes.

The year to date passenger traffic increased 18.7 per cent to 15,215,536, while cargo grew by 24.6 per cent to 715,628 tonnes compared to April 2009.

Figures released by Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) showed traffic increased by 10.1 per cent, up to 866,475, and aircraft movements increased by 11.1 per cent. Cargo movement through the airport also increased substantially in April, with tonnage handled up by 21.3 per cent over the same period last year.

For Abu Dhabi London, Doha, Bangkok, Manila and Jeddah were the top five city destinations while the US was the fastest growing country destination for the month, with a 160 per cent increase in passenger traffic largely due to the launch of Etihad’s Chicago route and its growing connectivity to the American market through its code share agreement with American Airlines.