Abu Dhabi's dedicated executive airport Al Bateen plans to export its Dhabi Jet fixed-base operation brand to other key markets across the world in an attempt to build awareness of its VIP trademark and expand its share of the global business aviation services market.
"Dhabi Jet symbolises top quality facilities and a highly personalised service," says Steve Jones, general manager of Al Bateen, the Middle East's first airport that solely caters for business aircraft.
"We want to establish this exclusive brand within other Gulf Co-operation Council countries and beyond. There is more strength in a chain."
Al Bateen Executive - one of five airports operated and managed by Abu Dhabi Airports (ADAC) - has seen movements soar since its conception more than two years ago as tourists and businesses flock to Abu Dhabi in increasing numbers.
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Jones expects the former air base to secure around 10,000 take-off and landings this year - about 12% more than 2010. "Next year we should see the same hike in numbers," he concedes.
"Abu Dhabi has become the engine room for growth within the Middle East," Jones continues. "Not only is the UAE capital one of the richest cities in the world with over 7% of all known oil reserves, it is also a global and strategic hub for commerce and travel.
"Today, more than $500 billion has been invested in projects that are already in development."
ADAC has invested heavily in Al Bateen and continues to expand its service offering. "We have six base operators now - including Falcon Jet Service and Rotana Aviation - and plan to add more," says Jones.
Jet Aviation is on site to perform third-party maintenance, repair and overhaul, and our plan is to offer maintenance on a wide range of business aircraft types.
"Extra hangars are also planned as the military releases more space for us," he adds.
Source: Flight International
