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The United Arab Emirates’ aviation sector has achieved a remarkable milestone, with approximately 98 million passengers passing through its airports in the first eight months of 2024. This announcement, made by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) on ‘UAE Civil Aviation Day’, underscores the country’s position as a global aviation powerhouse.

UAE Civil Aviation Day: A Historic Commemoration

Every 5th of October, the UAE celebrates its Civil Aviation Day, marking a pivotal moment in the region’s aviation history. This date commemorates the landing of the first airplane in Sharjah in 1932, when the emirate was still part of the Trucial States. The British Imperial Airways aircraft ‘Hanno’ touched down on a runway in Al Mahatta, now part of Sharjah’s Al Qasimia area, establishing the first airport in the Arabian region.

From Humble Beginnings to Global Leadership

In the span of 90 years, the UAE’s civil aviation sector has transformed dramatically:

1. National Carriers: The UAE now boasts six national airlines:
   • Emirates
   • Etihad Airways
   • flydubai
   • Air Arabia
   • Air Arabia Abu Dhabi
   • Wizz Air Abu Dhabi
2. Impressive Flight Operations: In the first eight months of 2024, these carriers operated 4,807 weekly flights to destinations worldwide.
3. World-Class Airports: The UAE has 10 airports, including 8 international facilities ranked among the world’s best and busiest.
4. Passenger Growth: The 97.9 million passengers welcomed in the first eight months of 2024 represent a 12.6% increase from the 86.9 million during the same period in 2023.

Economic Impact and Future Projections

Abdullah Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and GCAA board chairman, highlighted the sector’s economic significance:

• Aviation now contributes 13.3% to the UAE’s GDP, up from less than 1% in 1971.
• The International Air Transport Association (IATA) projects 170% growth in the UAE’s air transport market over the next two decades.
• By 2037, this growth could add 101 million passenger flights, contributing approximately $127.7 billion to the national economy and creating 1.4 million jobs.

Dubai’s Aviation Success Story

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, emphasised Dubai International Airport’s (DXB) role:

• DXB serves over 90 million international passengers annually.
• The airport is a global model for growth and quality in the aviation sector.

Abu Dhabi’s World-Class Infrastructure

Mohamed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities and Transport – Abu Dhabi, praised Zayed International Airport as a prime example of modern, sustainable airport design, supporting the growth of Abu Dhabi’s aviation sector.

Sharjah’s Historic Role and Future Vision

Sheikh Khalid Bin Isam Al Qasmi, Chairman of Sharjah Department of Civil Aviation, highlighted Sharjah’s historical significance and ongoing development:

• Sharjah International Airport is a key hub in the UAE and regional air transport network.
• Ongoing expansion projects aim to enhance the airport’s capacity to accommodate growing air traffic.

Commitment to Sustainable Growth

UAE aviation officials have pledged to continue developing strategies that enhance safety, security, and support efforts towards a green, low-carbon aviation system.

As the UAE’s aviation sector continues to soar, it not only connects millions of travellers but also plays a crucial role in the nation’s economic diversification and global connectivity strategies.