The skies over the Emirates get busier

Air traffic movements in the skies over the UAE jumped almost 7 per cent last month compared with the same month last year, according to the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).

Its Air Traffic Monthly Report showed total air traffic movements were 59,940, with an average of 1,934 air traffic movements per day. The number of over-flights were 12,903 and local flights between UAE airports showed 4,392 movements.

Breaking down the figures, the report showed Dubai International was the busiest airport with 27,199 traffic movements.

Abu Dhabi ranked next with 8,919 air traffic movements, followed by Sharjah with 5,320 movements and Dubai's Al Maktoum International Airport with 655 movements. Ras Al Khaimah International Airport had 291 air traffic movements and Al Ain Airport had 139. Fujairah International Airport had 122 movements. The report indicated the GCAA issued three Air Operator Certificates as part of Aviation Safety activities, completed 23 licensing transactions for aircraft maintenance companies. GCAA also conducted eight inspections and audits and issued 19 simulator certificates.

The GCAA was established in 1996 by federal Cabinet Decree to regulate civil aviation and provide designated aviation services with emphasis on safety and security and to strengthen the aviation industry within the UAE and its upper airspace. The main office is located in Abu Dhabi.

The GCAA is responsible for the provision of en-route air navigation services and all aspects of flight safety. In late 2009, the GCAA opened its new Air Navigation Centre, The Sheikh Zayed Centre, which is considered the largest and busiest air traffic management facility in the Middle East as well as one of the world's most technically advanced.