Abu Dhabi International Airport has opened a second runway, following completion of construction last month.
Etihad Airways became the first carrier to depart from the 4,100m (13,450ft) strip, operating a brief promotional Airbus A320 flight on 12 October.
The new runway is located about 2km north of the airport's other runway.
Operator Abu Dhabi Airports Company says development started in May 2006.
"The new runway will form a key part of our plan to increase total capacity at the airport, that will culminate with the construction and completion of the midfield terminal facility," says chairman Khalifa Al-Mazrouei.
This midfield terminal, the first phase of which opens in 2011, will be able to handle 20 million passengers.
Abu Dhabi Airport is also developing a new air traffic control complex and cargo and maintenance facilities.
Source: Air Transport Intelligence news
