UAE's first domestic flight from October... RAK to Abu Dhabi

Ras Al Khaimah-based RAK Airways, one of the flagship carriers of the UAE, has worked on building passenger numbers, filling 250,000 seats in 2011, while gradually expanding its destination network to Africa, Middle East and Asia.

Airline Call Centre staff confirmed to Emirates24|7 that domestic service to Abu Dhabi will begin October, with four flights a week. No information was provided about fares. 

This is the first scheduled airport-to-airport domestic flight in the UAE's history, a landmark in the history of the UAE. Furthermore, the passenger will not be required to carry their passports but Emirates ID cards at the two airports to check in and check out.

RAK Airways Acting CEO John Brayford has announced the airline’s strategic plan to land in Abu Dhabi, bringing the capital closer to the residents of Ras Al Khaimah and Northern Emirates.

“With the launch of Abu Dhabi, we are offering residents of Ras Al Khaimah and Northern Emirates, an alternative and we are connecting Ras Al Khaimah to the capital. RAK Airways will embark into a major milestone with its touchdown in the capital, Abu Dhabi on October 3, 2012. With the first flight to Abu Dhabi, RAK Airways will be the first UAE flag carrier to operate domestic flights and the airline’s route network moves up to 10 destinations,” he said.

With passenger traffic on the rise and new routes earmarked, RAK Airways, the airline is strengthening its foothold in the regional aviation market.

The national carrier’s move to introduce more routes, boosted by the emirate’s efforts to market itself as a tourist and business destination, has also led to a significant rise in passenger numbers at RAK International Airport. Data issued by the airport’s operators showed that its passenger traffic increased by 58.5 per cent in the first three months of 2012, well exceeding previous expectations.

The airline has also put in place a system where customers can book flights through private travel agents. The airline, however, will soon allow bookings through its web site.

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