Abu Dhabi International Airport receives first advanced airport classification in Middle East

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This approval, the first of its kind in the Middle East, allows for aircraft to be able to safely maneuver in low visibility conditions when previously aircraft would have stopped operating.

The newly operational second runway is planned to be CAT III B approach rated in 2009. Today's announcement reflects the upgrading of the airport's original runway which can now be utilized when visibility falls below 200m.

Widely expected to help reduce delays associated with weather conditions, such as heavy fog, the new classification puts Abu Dhabi International Airport up among a select number of airports in the world.

A key feature of the upgrade is the ability of the airport to operate during very low visibility. Under the previous classification (CAT II) and General Civil Aviation Authority regulations, Abu Dhabi International Airport was unable to allow for take off or landings if visibility fell below 200m. With CAT IIIB status, visibility can drop below this level and aircraft can still safely arrive and depart the airport.

H. E. Khalifa bin Mazrouei, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Airports Company, said:

'Safety is the number one priority for ADAC and is something we look to reflect across all our operations. The classification of Abu Dhabi International as CAT III B compliant demonstrates our commitment to offering safe and convenient travel experiences to all our passengers and our airline partners.

We are proud to join a select few other airports worldwide on this classification and to be one of the first in the region to be classified as such.'