Al Bateen Airport re-opens after major upgrade

Al Bateen Executive Airport in Abu Dhabi has reopened following the successful completion of a major refurbishment project.

The changes will allow the airport to cater to increased operational demand while meeting the highest levels of safety, compliance, and accreditation.

The upgrade works were carried out in close cooperation between the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and Abu Dhabi Airports (AD Airports).

"The refurbishment project at Al Bateen Executive Airport embodies the commitment of our aviation partners in the UAE to invest in the safety, modernisation and sustainability of the region's only dedicated executive airport," said Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of the General Civil Aviation Authority.

The essential work, completed in under 90 days, involved resurfacing and widening the existing 3.2 km runway to accommodate wide-body aircraft and a substantial new boundary wall, upgraded ground lighting, enhanced signage and landscape.

The refurbishment also included upgrades to the Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL), certifying the airport to operate Code 4D Aircrafts.

"The upgrades to Al Bateen Executive Airport will result in several tangible benefits such as increased airport capacity to accommodate larger aircrafts, extending the lifetime of the runway, and decreasing maintenance time and cost," said Shareef Hashim Al Hashmi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports.

Over 105,000 tons of asphalt was used on varying areas of the runway, shoulder areas and taxiways, amounting to approximately 240,000 square metres and a combined 23 km of cable were laid down, in addition to 15.5 km of duct and the installation of over 400 new manholes.

"Over 800 dedicated personnel were involved in the successful completion of this project, while ensuring minimal disruption to residents, demonstrating our collaboration and determination to drive development," said Frank McCrorie, Chief Operations Officer, Abu Dhabi Airports.