Dubai International airport has indicated that Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways picking up a stake in Jet Airways (India) Ltd could have an impact on passenger flow to and from the airport.

India is the largest market served from Dubai with 7.34 million passengers passing through it in 2012, a figure which is expected to touch 8.3 million this year.

But with the Indian Government not enhancing bilateral air services agreement with Dubai, which would have allowed airlines from India and Dubai to increase the weekly flights from 42,800 now, , Dubai airport faces a problem.

While Dubai airport will not receive more flights from India than it does at present, neighbouring Abu Dhabi will see an increase in passengers from India not only because of the recent exchange of air services bilaterals between India and Abu Dhabi which saw seats touching 50,000 a week from about 13,600 now, but also because of passengers being brought in by Jet Airways and other Indian carriers to Abu Dhabi.

Pointing out that bilaterals were an issue between the two governments, Zaigham Ali, Manager, Media Relations, Dubai Airports, said the growth happening in Dubai International airport right now was coming from various markets, including Saudi Arabia, North and South America, Australia-Asia and Europe.

“India is an important market absolutely and it will continue to grow even with status quo,” he added.

Other markets Downplaying the impact of the Jet-Etihad deal and the exchange of enhanced bilaterals between India and Abu Dhabi, Ali maintained that Dubai airport’s growth was being driven by other markets that were booming and growing.

“While India does matter because it is the number one destination country it is not the only market which contributes to the growth happening at Dubai International,” he said.

> ashwini.phadnis@thehindu.co.in

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