Aviation Sector. A Guide to Successful Air Travel

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1 Aviation Sector A Guide to Successful Air Travel

2 For more information, please visit our website We would like to hear from you. your suggestions or comments to us at or call us at Published by the Department of Transport Abu Dhabi.

3 BOOKING YOUR FLIGHT Where to Book Owing to their convenience and speed, online services are a popular method by which prospective travellers can compare fares and flight availability. The majority of airlines and travel companies offer online services that allow travellers to choose the itineraries and rates that suit their needs. In order to enjoy the best rates and options, it is recommended to visit more than one website. Keep in mind that some airlines do not offer online booking services and as such, using other contact methods, such as travel agents, may offer you better alternatives. When booking online, be sure to always provide accurate information and personal details any mistake could be difficult and costly to rectify. Alternatively, you can ask a travel agency to assist and advise you when making the booking. When to Book Airlines encourage early bookings by offering competitive fares well in advance of departure. Later bookings might have different and higher fares. Some airlines may offer special promotions closer to departure dates. Waiting for these deals may be rewarding but may also be risky as you may end up paying increased fares as the flight fills up. It is recommended to book early when travelling during peak periods to avoid disappointment. 1 2

4 Making a Flight Booking Whichever method you choose for booking a flight, be sure to thoroughly check flight dates and times along with the accuracy of traveller names these should be identical to the respective passports. Mistakes can be costly and difficult to rectify. Ensure that you also regularly check s and text messages, as many airlines and travel agencies use them to inform customers of schedule changes and updates. Comparing Fares When comparing fares, be aware of all taxes, fees and surcharges that may be payable along with the base rate of your flight. All airlines are required to display this information so that travellers are completely aware of the total cost of every booking. Some airlines may charge for holding baggage, sports equipment, etc. They may also charge for priority boarding, seating and for using a credit or debit card be mindful of these potential costs. 3 4

5 BEFORE YOU TRAVEL Travel Documents The integrity of your travel documents is of paramount importance. So be sure to keep them safe, secure and in line with the requirements of your journey. It is also important to make sure that your passport and visa are up-to-date as some travel agencies and countries will not accept soon-to-be expired travel documents. Check visa requirements and apply for a valid visa well ahead of the time of your travel. Money When abroad, it is prudent to carry more than one method of payment. Beyond cash, try to have at least two payment cards or forms of payment that suit your needs. Prior to travelling, carefully check the expiration dates of all cards and be careful not to exceed the permitted level of carry-on cash for every country you visit. Keep your money and cards safe and secure and take note of your card details prior to your trip. The important travel documents are: Travel tickets, itineraries and booking confirmations; Printed boarding card or mobile boarding card (in case of online bookings); Passport with a valid visa; Insurance policy; and Accommodation, car hire details, confirmations, etc. 5 6

6 Insurance Being properly insured is of utmost importance when travelling abroad. Be sure to apply for an insurance policy that covers the activities you will be engaging in while travelling. It is important to carefully read your policy and ensure that it covers everything from health and medical care to lost valuables and flight delays. Baggage Your baggage allowance will be specified by the airline for your particular ticket and class of travel. Check this carefully and ensure that you are aware of the allowed maximum weight along with the number of the bags allowed. Failing to do so may result in extra charges. These guidelines may also apply to carry-on baggage. 7 8

7 AT THE AIRPORT A few days prior to your departure, confirm all travel dates and times. Be sure to choose a method of transportation to the airport that can accomodate all your baggage safely and securely. Arriving in time for your flight is your responsibility, the airline is not obligated to provide alternative arrangements should you fail to check-in or board on time unless your ticket allows for such a facility. Checking-in As a general rule, check-in counters close 45 minutes to an hour before departure. Some airlines allow you to complete your check-in procedures online. In Abu Dhabi, travellers can also make use of a number of off-airport check-in facilities wherein they can complete check-in procedures and drop off baggage up to 24 hours in advance of their flight. 9 10

8 Security For your safety, airport security is designed to be thorough and comprehensive. Although procedures vary from one airport to another, a number of general guidelines can aid you in completing security checks efficiently and easily. Be sure to: Keep liquids or gels easily accessible for inspection; Remove laptops from hand luggage; Keep metal objects such as keys and mobile phones in your hand luggage; and Be prepared to remove belts and shoes. Immigration For international flights, travellers will be required to pass through immigration control. Make sure you and accompanying travellers have passports, visas and boarding cards ready for processing. UAE airports are now E-Gate equipped a high-end electronic system designed to expedite the immigration process quickly and easily. E-Gate cards can be obtained in advance from a number of offices, including the Abu Dhabi Airport

9 Departure Information and Facilities Once the security and immigration procedures are complete, travellers can enjoy access to the airport s shopping, dining and leisure facilities. Prior to approaching these facilities, be sure to check your boarding card and note the time for boarding. Regularly check the Flight Information Display screens as departure times and boarding gates may change. Several airports, including the Abu Dhabi Airport, offer mobile applications and services that allow travellers to access flight details on their phones. It is important to remember that you may be denied boarding if you are late to arrive at the boarding gate. Duty Free allowances vary depending on the country you are travelling to, so ensure that you are not in violation of any limits. Please remember that most airports either prohibit smoking or restrict it to designated areas. If Something Goes Wrong In the event of a delay or a cancellation occurring before arriving at the airport, be sure to contact the airline or travel agent to find out when your flight is likely to depart. Once at the airport, should the airline be responsible for an extended delay, you have the right to request for amenities including refreshments, communications and in case of severe delays or cancellations accommodation. In severe delays, travellers may choose to go home, but only after confirming this with the airline s representatives. When trying to resolve complaints, declare expenses, or make an insurance claim, it is advised to have some form of supporting evidence. Keep a record of happenings, names and conversations along with receipts and flight details. Have a safe and enjoyable trip! 13 14

10 USEFUL NUMBERS Ambulance 998/999 Fire Emergency 997 Police 999 Weather forecast Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Government Contact Centre