Low-cost Indian carrier GoAir has launched daily flights to Abu Dhabi International Airport from New Delhi and Mumbai, further connecting the UAE capital to the two major Indian cities.
Abu Dhabi Airports yesterday (July 19) welcomed the new flights, the first between Mumbai International Airport (BOM) and Abu Dhabi, and the second to Delhi International Airport (DEL).
The debut flights from India’s capital and the financial capital of the world’s sixth largest economy to Abu Dhabi, was received with warmth and fanfare, as the Indian subcontinent remains one of the most popular destinations for travellers departing from Abu Dhabi.
Maarten De Groof, the chief commercial officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “GoAir is one of our most promising new partners and we are pleased to welcome the Mumbai and Delhi flights to Abu Dhabi.”
“India continues to be one of our largest and most important areas of operation, and we look forward to ensuring that GoAir’s travelers enjoy a comfortable and efficient experience at Abu Dhabi International Airport, where they will have the chance to benefit from world-class smart travel solutions, attractive retail offerings, and relaxing lounge spaces,” he stated.
“The new daily flights to Abu Dhabi reflect the UAE capital’s status as a key destination and a transit hub for business and leisure, which forms a part of our strategy to attract new airlines to our network, and support the growth of tourism in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi,” added De Groof.
Currently under way is the multi-billion dollar re-development and expansion of Abu Dhabi International Airport designed to increase the overall capacity of the airport.
Jeh Wadia, the managing director of GoAir, said: “Our daily flights from Mumbai and Delhi to Abu Dhabi is a manifestation of the Indian carrier’s vision for the Middle East. In less than six months, we have introduced a new set of routes that supports business and leisure, and reinforces the strong relations between India and the UAE.”
“We are delighted to work with Abu Dhabi Airports, and we welcome aboard all passengers from Mumbai, Delhi and Abu Dhabi on our direct daily flights,” he added.
Lauding the UAE government for supporting the flight launch, Wadia said: “Our special gratitude goes to our partners Safar Emirates Travel in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain; Al Naboodha Travel in Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman and Arabian Travel Services in Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah, and also Abu Dhabi Airports and Etihad Airways Ground and Maintenance services for their continuous support.