An extensive runway enhancement project at the Dubai International Airport, which will see the two runways close consecutively during an 80-day period, was scheduled to kick off today (May 1).

The number of flights at the Dubai International, which was the busiest airport in the world during the first quarter of this year, will be reduced by 26 per cent during the period to ensure that all  flights are accommodated on a single runway.

Meanwhile, some airlines have moved some flights to Dubai's second airport - the Al Maktoum International at Dubai World Central (DWC). Indian carriers Jet Airways and Air India Express have shifted operations to Sharjah International.

While all Emirates flights will continue to operate out of Dubai International, some 17 airlines, including flydubai, have reserved slots for flights at DWC during the 80-day period.

Once completed, the new runways together with new facilities such as Concourse D, which will become the new home of more than 100 airlines that fly to Dubai when it opens early next year, will provide airlines and passengers with world class facilities that will support the DIA's growth well into the next decade, said Griffiths.

Meanwhile, Emirates airline's revenues will be impacted by the drop in the number of flights, Paul Griffiths, chief executive, confirmed in an interview with the Gulf News.

Emirates had previously declared it will take a Dh1 billion ($272 million) cut in revenue as it grounds up to 22 aircraft until July 20. - TradeArabia News Service