The preclearance facility enables all Etihad Airways passengers heading to the US to complete customs, immigration, and security checks before leaving Abu Dhabi. This means travelers will arrive in the United States with domestic arrival status, allowing them to skip the customs lines and save considerable time.
Key Features Include:
Biometric Technology: Cutting-edge facial recognition devices ensure quick and secure processing for passengers.
Seamless Connections: Travelers can easily transition to connecting flights within the US without undergoing additional screening.
Exclusive Lounge Access: Etihad Airways plans to launch a premium lounge in December 2024 for its first-class and business-class passengers traveling to the US.
A Strategic Vision for Global Connectivity
Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports highlighted the strategic significance of the new facility:
“This preclearance facility reinforces Abu Dhabi’s status as a major global aviation hub. It improves the travel experience for US-bound passengers by providing unmatched convenience, security, and efficiency.”
Etihad Airways currently operates 35 flights weekly to major US cities, including Boston, Chicago, New York, and Washington DC. The new preclearance process alleviates the stress of customs upon arrival, giving travelers more time to explore their destinations.
Antonoaldo Neves, CEO of Etihad Airways, remarked:
“Our guests greatly appreciate the efficiency of clearing customs. This facility guarantees a smooth journey from Abu Dhabi to the United States, making Etihad the preferred airline for travelers.”
Biometric Technology at the Forefront
The use of biometric technology in the facility boosts both security and speed. With facial recognition capture devices, passenger processing is now quicker and more precise, minimizing wait times while maintaining high safety standards.
Strengthening UAE-US Relations
Martina Strong, the US Ambassador to the UAE, emphasized the importance of the new facility:
“This milestone highlights the strong partnership between the UAE and the US. It demonstrates our mutual dedication to enhancing people-to-people connections and improving the travel experience.”
Benefits for Travelers
Time Efficiency: Bypass the lengthy queues upon arrival in the US.
Enhanced Security: Biometric verification provides a smooth and secure preclearance process.
Convenience: Effortlessly connect to domestic US flights without the need for additional screening.
Premium Comfort: Unwind in Etihad’s new premium lounge before your flight.
What’s Next?
This state-of-the-art facility showcases Abu Dhabi’s goal to elevate aviation standards. As global travel picks up, this initiative not only draws international travelers but also sets a new standard for airports around the world.
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, the new US CBP preclearance facility at Zayed International Airport ensures your journey starts on the right foot.
Keep an eye on updates from Abu Dhabi Airports and Etihad Airways as they work to enhance travel experiences.
