Press Release

Issued by Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC).

November 18, 2015

Al Bateen Executive Airport is gearing up to welcome race teams and fans from around the world ahead of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The season's final race is set to take place at the spectacular Yas Marina circuit on November 29.

Abu Dhabi Airports anticipates a 20% increase in aircraft movements this year at Al Bateen Executive Airport in the week leading up to the race, compared to the same period last year. During the 2014 race season, the airport recorded 200 total aircraft movements, and a 5% increase in movements from aircraft using the facility without having a base there. 

This year, Al Bateen Executive Airport is likely to experience one of its busiest ever periods, with cars, cargo, race teams, fans and sponsors from all over the globe flying in for race weekend. Staffing will be increased to facilitate the anticipated high levels of F1-related traffic.

Al Bateen Executive Airport, the only dedicated business aviation airport in the Middle East, recently underwent an infrastructure upgrade, including the refurbishment of several hangars, the extension of available maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) facilities, and the development of high end retail provisions in the VIP lounges. The taxiway, airfield and the Sheikh Zayed Terminal have also been enhanced as part of the refurbishment. With comfortable majlis and seamless immigration processing, Al Bateen Executive Airport provides the ultimate experience in privacy and luxury.

Eng. Ahmed Al Haddabi, chief operations officer at Abu Dhabi Airports said: “We are very excited to welcome thousands of travelers for the finale to the Formula 1 season. Al Bateen Executive Airport understands the specific needs of executive jet passengers, and with its fast-on-fast-off processing services and high quality operational, administrative and maintenance facilities, it remains the premiere choice for prominent figures of the local and international community. Following the recent upgrades to the airport's infrastructure, we are confident we will exceed expectations of new and returning passengers, providing them with the highest possible levels of comfort and service.”

Located in the heart of Abu Dhabi and only 15 minutes from Yas Marina circuit, Al Bateen Executive Airport has aircraft parking capacity for up to 90 private jets with fast turnarounds, no holding patterns, and short taxi times. Carriers already operating out of the airport include Al Jaber Aviation, Falcon Aviation Services and Rotana Jet.