Abu Dhabi Airports has released Abu Dhabi International Airport’s (AUH) traffic report for the month of August 2013. Over 1.5 million (1,538,632) passengers travelled through the airport, marking a significant growth of 18.5% compared to the same period in 2012.

Aircraft movement totalled to 11,608 representing a 15.5% increase, while cargo traffic also grew, reaching a 29.9% increase due to more than 60,235 tonnes of cargo moved last month.

The top five destinations in August 2013 were Bangkok, London, Doha, Manila, and Bahrain.

Commenting on the traffic report, Eng. Ahmad Al Haddabi, Chief Operations Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports, said: “The robust growth in August was primarily due to the busy Eid holiday and the beginning of the back to school season. As passenger traffic continues to grow, Abu Dhabi International Airport will ensure optimal use of resources in order to cater to expected travel peaks, while delivering exceptional service on par with leading airports worldwide.”

“The Capacity Enhancement Programme currently in progress will enable Abu Dhabi International Airport to accommodate more than 17 million annual passengers through the strategic enhancements to existing facilities, the most recent of these being the new Arrivals Hall which opened last month,” Al Haddabi concluded.

Travellers are now able to access parking, taxis and limousines just 20 meters away from the customs lounge, through the new tunnel connecting the customs area with new Arrivals Hall.