Major airport to change its name

This major international airport, which is the home of Etihad Airways, is changing its name to something very different.

Abu Dhabi International Airport, the home of Etihad Airways, is getting a new name.

The United Arab Emirates airport will be renamed Zayed International Airport from February 9 next year.

The date coincides with the official opening ceremony of a fancy new terminal.

The new airport name was decided by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and is named after the founder of the UAE, Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, UAE newspaper Khaleej Times reported.

Terminal A welcomed its first passengers this month with 28 international airlines transitioning over to the new facilities.

It has more than doubled the airport’s passenger capacity, with Terminal A being able to process up to 45 million travellers each year and handle 79 planes at once.

Abu Dhabi International Airport will be known as Zayed International Airport from February. Picture: Etihad / YouTube

In December, 12,220 flights and 2.29 million passengers are projected to use the terminal.

Abu Dhabi Airports said the terminal’s biometric technology streamlines the screening and boarding process, and there is 35,000 square metres of retail and food and beverage space with 163 outlets.

The average walking time from gate to curb is 19 minutes, while it is estimated to take 15 minutes to transfer to the gate of your next flight when catching a connecting flight onto Europe, Asia or Africa.

Abu Dhabi Airports interim CEO Elena Sorlini said November 15 marked “a new era for operations” with all airlines now operating from Terminal A.

“Bringing new state-of-the-art facilities and a major increase in aviation capacity, Terminal A will greatly enhance the passenger experience, while enabling international airlines to further increase their presence in Abu Dhabi,” she said.

Etihad Airways’ new lounges in Terminal A. Picture: Etihad

The Etihad lounges at the new terminal span three floors.

The business class lounge is complimentary for silver and gold members flying in economy, while platinum members travelling in economy have access to the first class lounge. Economy passengers can also pay for access.

“When designing the Etihad Lounges in our new home, Terminal A, our teams thought through every detail, ensuring an experience that will delight our guests from the moment they step through the door,” Etihad CEO Antonoaldo Neves said.

“The lounge is a hugely important aspect of our guests’ journey and we wanted to curate an impressive experience that will leave them wanting to fly again soon.

“In true Etihad style, we’ve been innovative with the design and will offer a selection of memorable experiences whether our guests choose to relax, indulge in various dining options or enjoy a refreshing drink at the signature Constellation Bar.”