Countdown to Midfield Terminal Complex opening quickens with full-scale operational trials

UAE. Abu Dhabi Airports has conducted intermediate full operational trials of the Midfield Terminal Complex (MTC), set to be one of the world’s great airports upon completion.

The final opening date is still uncertain. It had been delayed until the final quarter of 2019 but could be in 2020 instead.

The trials were part of the continuing development of the MTC and the ongoing Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) process.

The trials were designed to thoroughly test the new building’s capacity and facilities. They involved more than 800 volunteers and two Etihad Aviation Group aircraft  in simulating the terminal’s operation on 30 June.

Taking shape: The aerial views above and below underline the epic scale of the Midfield Terminal Complex

The volunteers acted as passengers using the terminal building, while an Etihad Aviation Group Airbus A330-200 and A330-300 simulated the process of performing a full 80-minute turnaround, including the loading of catering, refueling, and conducting checks ahead of take-off.

The trial teams and volunteers simulated passengers arriving and transiting through the terminal, boarding and disembarking the aircraft, passing through customs and immigration, utilising concierge services, and departing from the terminal.

During the trial, Abu Dhabi Airports’ staff and strategic stakeholders were able to assess processes related to immigration, security, hand-baggage handling, immigration, baggage reclaim and customs.

“The MTC is a magnificent piece of engineering, and its distinctive architectural profile will soon be synonymous with the incredible city of Abu Dhabi, a key destination and transport hub for the region and the world” – Abu Dhabi Airports Chief Executive Officer Bryan Thompson

Abu Dhabi Airports Chief Executive Officer Bryan Thompson commented: “The MTC is a magnificent piece of engineering, and its distinctive architectural profile will soon be synonymous with the incredible city of Abu Dhabi, a key destination and transport hub for the region and the world. We are committed to ensuring the highest levels of operational excellence as we continue our journey toward becoming the world’s leading airports group.”

Thompson continued: “Trials are an important step in the delivery of the MTC project, as we safely and securely assess the terminal’s operational capacities and processes. Through conducting trials of this scale and fully assessing the results therein, we will be able to make sure that passengers enjoy an efficient and smooth journey through the MTC from the very first day of operation.”

With the Midfield Terminal Building designed to handle over 8,500 people per hour, conducting operational tests ahead of the terminal’s operation is of paramount importance, Abu Dhabi Airports said. The terminal, which will be one of the region’s largest, is designed to handle tens of millions of passengers a year, with a baggage handling system that can process almost half a million bags a day.

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