Abu Dhabi Airports Signs Agreement With Shanghai Airport Authority

Abu Dhabi Airports announced on Tuesday that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Shanghai Airport Authority (AVINEX) to acknowledge common interests between the two parties and capitalize on collaboration opportunities in the aviation sector.

Elena Sorlini, managing director and interim CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports, expressed joy about the signing of the agreement, noting that it happened after launching the new Terminal A at Abu Dhabi International Airport.

The new terminal, which can have 79 planes at once and 11,000 passengers per hour, was launched last week.

"We see great value and importance in maintaining and exchanging knowledge and experience on efficient, sustainable and economic development of our respective airports, especially as our synergies are compatible in that we have both experienced a growth in demand and we both manage high-quality airports in our respective regions," Sorlini said, WAM reported.

The agreement, alongside expert guidance, will help both entities deal with complex airport issues. Moreover, it will enhance operations, marketing and collaborations.

The MoU will also help in developing passenger and freight business, promoting effective transfer products and services and conducting joint marketing initiatives to promote tourism.

Feng Xin, CEO of AVINEX, said, "We are delighted to jointly promote the integration of our two airports' route networks, enhance accessibility, effectively improve hub operation quality and stimulate the growth of passenger and freight markets, as Shanghai Airports are resuming international flights at full speed."

Xin also praised the newly opened Terminal A at Abu Dhabi International Airport, which, according to him, "signifies the foundation for our cooperation." He said he's hopeful that more Chinese airlines could establish hub operation cooperation with Etihad Airways at this new terminal.

"We will work together with airlines to achieve our shared goals," he added. "We are looking forward to building an ecosystem of hub operation together, creating prosperity in our aviation market and sharing the achievements of development in our cooperation."

The newly opened Terminal A consists of over 160 retail, food and beverage outlets that feature a wide range of tastes. The terminal is said to allow both leisure and business travelers to experience a new standard in airport experience.

The terminal, which was featured in the movie "Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning," also boasts advanced biometric technology, self-service kiosks, streamlined security checkpoints and advanced baggage handling systems. Furthermore, it has incorporated energy and water-saving technology, as well as a sizeable solar plant installation.