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With a fleet of 30 aircraft, Air Arabia has been successfully expanding its reach in the region and beyond to markets in Europe and Russia. It today flies to 74 destinations from its three hubs. S Image Credit: upplied

Dubai: Air Arabia will now be flying from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport in addition to its existing base in Sharjah, according to a deal the budget carrier signed on Sunday with Ras Al Khaimah’s Department of Civil Aviation (DCA).

Under the agreement, Air Arabia becomes the designated carrier for Ras Al Khaimah in a bid to boost tourism numbers in the emirate. “Ras Al Khaimah continues to position itself as an attractive tourist destination. We are confident that this partnership will help us achieve our long-term goals,” Shaikh Salem Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the DCA, stated.

The partnership follows the demise of RAK Airways, which last December abruptly announced the immediate suspension of services. It previously said it would resume operations. However, last week Gulf News reported that the airline would not be flying again following comments from Saif Mohammad Al Suwaidi, Director General of the General Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA).

RAK Airways officials have not responded to requests for comment on the future of the airline.