UAE launches domestic carrier

Rotana Jet will become the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) first domestic carrier, commencing flights from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah in September of this year.

Former chairman of Etihad Airways, Dr Shaikh Ahmed bin Saif Al Nahyan, will launch the new venture.

The double flight operations to Fujairah will be followed by a service to Al Ain on September 26, according to the Khaleej Times.

“Flights to Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah will follow soon,” Dr Al Nahyan said.

The airline will begin with a fleet of two ERJ145s aircraft, with another to be added next month and a fourth later in the year.

Twelve brand-new aircraft will be acquired through leasing and used on routes from 2013.

Passengers will be able to avoid the regular customs and immigration procedures when flying with Rotana Jet.

“There will be no complexities involved in the check-ins,” Abu Dhabi Airport Company chief operating officer Ahmed Al Haddabi said.

Rotana Jet commercial and planning director Rajendran Vellapalath expects 60-70 percent of seats to be filled in the initial months of operations.

“There is a strong demand on these routes according to the market surveys,” Mr Vellapalath said.

A service between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is under “consideration”, according to Dr Al Nahyan.

Sourced: etravelblackboardasia