Abu Dhabi airport first in region to be upgraded

Dubai: Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) on Monday said Abu Dhabi International Airport has received regulatory approval for enhanced low visibility operations.

This approval, the first of its kind in the Middle East, allows for aircraft to be able to safely manoeuvre in low visibility conditions.

The newly operational second runway is planned to be CAT III B approach rated in 2009. Yesterday's announcement reflects the upgrading of the airport's original runway which can now be utilised when visibility falls below 200 metres.

Widely expected to help reduce delays associated with weather conditions the new classification puts Abu Dhabi International Airport among a select number of airports in the world.

A key feature of the upgrade is the ability of the airport to operate during very low visibility.

Under the previous classification (CAT II) and General Civil Aviation Authority regulations, Abu Dhabi International Airport was unable to allow take off or landings if visibility fell below 200 metres. With CAT IIIB status, visibility can drop below this level and aircraft may still safely take off and land.

Khalifa Bin Mazroui, ADAC chairman, said: "Safety is the number one priority for ADAC and is something we look to reflect across all our operations.

"The classification of Abu Dhabi International as CAT IIIB compliant demonstrates our commitment to offering safe and convenient travel experiences."