RAK makes debut domestic flight on Abu Dhabi codeshare launch

RAK Airways – the national carrier of the northern emirate Ras Al Khaimah – made its inaugural flight to Abu Dhabi today.

James Bennet and Sheikh Salem at today's first flight celebration

Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) welcomed the first domestic flight from the airline, the first of four direct flights a week between the CUAE capital’s airport and Ras Al Khaimah airport (RKT).

Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al Qassimi, Chairman DCA, H.E. Sheikh Mohammed bin Qaid Al Qassimi, Chairman of the Department of Economic Development of Ras Al Khaimah and the RAK Airways CEO, Mr. John Brayford arrived onboard the first domestic flight and were greeted at Abu Dhabi International by ADAC CEO, James E. Bennett, and Ahmad Al Haddabi, Chief operations officer of ADAC.

Bennett said: “ADAC is pleased to see more domestic routes use Abu Dhabi International Airport, helping domestic travelers to reach hundreds of global destinations with ease. In addition, domestic flights from the capital’s international airport will also provide international guests with an opportunity to explore other emirates in the UAE. ADAC has placed its award winning services to provide RAK Airways with the tools it needs to offer its frequent short-haul flights with maximum efficiency and convenience for the domestic passenger.”

RAK Airways has a codeshare agreement with Etihad to provide RAK Airways passengers easy access to Etihad’s worldwide network when traveling from Abu Dhabi.

Brayford said: “Our pioneering codeshare agreement with Etihad Airways, which begins today, has certainly created a buzz in the marketplace. We are delighted with the high level of interest shown and this augurs well for the future success of the Abu Dhabi route.”

Etihad president James Hogan described the first flight of the codeshare “an exciting milestone”. RAK Airways flights will be operated weekly on Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday to depart from Abu Dhabi at 10:00 am and from Ras Al Khaimah at 6:40 am, with plans to increase operations to daily flights between the two emirates by the end of 2012.