800 people, 2 Etihad jets take part in Abu Dhabi's Midfield terminal trial run

Abu Dhabi - The baggage handling system can process almost half a million bags a day.

Abu Dhabi Airports has conducted a full operational trial of its Midfield Terminal Complex (MTC), the state-of-the-art 'superstructure' in the making that is expected to be one of the region's largest.
To test the new building's capacity, two Etihad aircraft and 800 volunteers took part in simulating the terminal's operation recently.
Between 9.30am and 3.00pm, mock travellers used the building - from arriving and transiting through the terminal to boarding and disembarking the aircraft, passing through customs and immigration, claiming their baggage, utilising concierge services, and departing from the MTC.
Meanwhile, Etihad Aviation Group Airbus A330-200 and A330-300 simulated the process of performing a full 80-minute turnaround on the aircraft, including loading of catering, refueling, and conducting checks ahead of take-off.
Bryan Thompson, chief executive officer of Abu Dhabi Airports, said: "The MTC is a magnificent piece of engineering, and its distinctive architectural profile will soon be synonymous with the incredible city of Abu Dhabi, a key destination and transport hub for the region and the world.
"Trials are an important step in the delivery of the MTC project, as we safely and securely assess the terminal's operational capacities and processes. Through conducting trials of this scale and fully assessing the results therein, we will be able to make sure that passengers enjoy an efficient and smooth journey through the MTC from the very first day of operation."
The Midfield Terminal Building has been designed to be able to handle more than 8,500 people per hour and tens of millions of passengers a year, with a baggage handling system that can process almost half a million bags a day.
reporters@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi