Full-scale operational trials conducted at the Midfield Terminal Complex

Abu Dhabi Airports has conducted an Intermediate full operational trial of the Midfield Terminal Complex (MTC), as a part of the continuing development of the state-of-the-art Terminal Complex, and the ongoing Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer (ORAT) process.

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

Between 9:30 am and 3:00 pm, 800 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 on the aircraft, including the loading of catering, refueling the aircraft, and conducting checks on the aircraft ahead of take-off.

Through a variety of scenarios, the trial teams and volunteers simulated passengers arriving at the terminal, transiting through the terminal, boarding the aircraft, disembarking the aircraft, passing through customs and immigration, utilizing 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.

Bryan Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, 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.”

 “I extend my thanks to all the strategic stakeholders and partners who have taken part in these trials, including Etihad Aviation Group, various entities of the Abu Dhabi government, and the Abu Dhabi Police, who have contributed significantly to the development and testing of this monumental endeavor. I also wish to warmly extend my gratitude to the volunteers who participated in this trial, whose feedback and experience will be invaluable to the future operation of the MTC,” concluded Thompson.

With the Midfield Terminal Building designed to be able to handle more than 8,500 people per hour, conducting operational tests ahead of the terminal’s operation is of paramount importance. 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.