ATHENS AND MOSCOW SHEREMETYEVO AMONG AIRPORTS REPORTING HEALTHY 2019 TRAFFIC RISES

Airports across the globe are beginning to announce their traffic figures for 2019, with most reporting an upturn in passenger numbers and some record throughput levels. 

They include Moscow-Sheremetyevo, which accommodated a record 49.9 million passengers (+8.9%); Athens, which welcomed a best ever 25.5 million (+6%); and Milan Bergamo, which handled an all-time high of 13.8 million passengers (+7.1%).

Others among the early 2019 year-end traffic announcers include Brussels South Charleroi, 8.2 million (+2%); Doha’s Hamad International Airport, 38.7 million (+12%); and London City, which handled over five million passengers (+6.3%) for the first time.

Athens attributed its upturn to a strong 8.6% rise in international traffic, which exceeded 17.8 million passengers (8.6%).

London City Airport’s chief commercial officer, Richard Hill, said: “Last year was a very successful one for London City Airport, with increased demand from passengers and airlines, the launch of new routes and expansion of others, and continued high scores for passenger satisfaction.

“It demonstrates that the combination of speed, convenience, excellent customer service and connectivity to and from the heart of London continues to be a recipe for success.”

While Brussels South Charleroi CEO, Philippe Verdonck, noted: “Last year saw the beginning of our airport’s metamorphosis. In addition, our excellent results establish our position on the international stage.

“With 8.2 million travellers, we continue to grow and strive to diversify the services we offer. As of March 2020, our airport will also be connected to a new city, Nantes. It will be connected to Brussels-Charleroi thanks to four flights a week, starting on March 29.”

It wasn’t such a good year for Sweden’s airports though, with operator Swedavia revealing that passenger numbers dropped at Stockholm Arlanada by 4% to 25.6 million in 2019, in line with a 4% dip across  its network.