Airport News

The Executive Council has granted Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) permission to construct the new Midfield Terminal Complex (MTC) at Abu Dhabi International Airport.

The Midfield Terminal Building, key to the MTC, is expected to begin operations in 2017 and will act as a primary gateway to airlines operating to the country. It will also become the official home of the UAE’s national airline, Etihad Airways.

Commenting on the government approval, Chairman of ADAC, H.E. Khalifa Al Mazrouei said, "The approval of the Executive Council on the capacity expansion programme for Abu Dhabi International Airport confirms Abu Dhabi’s commitment to deliver a world class airport for the emirate that will be on a par with the best international airports in the world.”

H.E. added, “This development represents one of the largest investments by the Government to deliver the needed infrastructure, in line with Abu Dhabi Plan 2030, that will cater to the growth of the aviation sector in the region and confirms Abu Dhabi's strong position in the global air transportation network. ADAC looks forward to appointing the Midfield Terminal Building contractors and creating this key infrastructure asset for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.”

The planned 700,000m2 Midfield Terminal Building will handle 27-30 million passengers annually when it begins operations and, following the completion of extensive site preparation, piling and foundation works in 2010 and 2011, construction of the terminal is planned to commence during the second quarter of 2012.

A general contractor for the terminal has yet to be appointed but ADAC is currently evaluating proposals put forward in November 2011 and will make an announcement shortly.