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* Jebel Ali Airport To Become Reality Ahead Of Schedule

Dh1billion facility will first cater to low-cost, Cargo and chapter flights

Dh1billion facility will first cater to low-cost, Cargo and chapter flights. The Dubai Government has brought forward the construction schedule of the new airport in Jebel Ali which could cater to low-cost airlines, besides cargo, logistics and charter flights, say sources.

The Department of Civil Aviation sources declined to reveal details. It is expected to issue a statement today on the project, estimated to cost Dh1 billion. According to Dubai Municipality documents, the airport was scheduled for development between 2015 and 2020, once the present airport reaches saturation.

Growth in the aviation and tourism industry in the Middle East and the expansion of budget aviation in the region are putting pressure on regular airports, many of which are not in favour of accept no-frills carriers-a move to protect full-service carriers.

In a recent statement, the DCA ruled out possibility of allowing budget carriers to fly from Dubai International Airport. The new airport in Jebel Ali will help them to serve Dubai without disturbing existing traffic.

At least three start-up budget carriers are trying to enter Dubai International Airport. As the massive construction on both sides of Sheikh Zayed Road will bring in new residences and commercial facilities, the new airport to be built near the Dubai Investment Park will cater to the ‘New Dubai with Mara, Nakedly and Dubailand projects.