Summer period ‘14: 2 million additional seats for Athens International Airport passengers

In continuation to the strong recovery of the Athens aviation market since the start of the year (Jan – Aug, 10 million passengers, +18,9%), the summer period 2014 is recording increased volumes, a strong indication that traffic will remain on a positive track, combined with the optimistic messages for the upcoming winter period.

The key characteristics of the summer period 2014 are:

• The significant increase in the offered capacity by the airlines
• Significant growth by non-European markets, with US, Middle East, and Asia recording spectacular development
• The resurgence of Athens as a top international destination

2 million additional seats / growth in all geographical regions

During the summer period ’14, with more than 2 million additional seats (+21%), Athens got the top position in growth amongst European airports (passenger traffic, flights, and capacity increase). The Asia region stands out, with +70% in passenger rise, +61% in additional seats offer, +55% in additional flight numbers and load factors at 86%. N. America (USA / Canada with +23%, +26%, + 14% and 91% respectively) and Middle East (+25%, +30%, +20% and 81% respectively) also recorded an equally significant growth.

Destination Athens regains its attractiveness

Severely tarnished in the recent years, Athens reaffirmed its attractiveness as a destination during this summer period, as clearly shown in the foreign visitors’ strong upward trend (+28%). A significant development was also the impressive increase in Greek air travellers, reflecting the stabilization of the economy, mostly evident in the period April through August (+17% growth).

AIA’s support to airlines continues

Athens International Airport not only continues this summer period to provide substantial incentives, but further supports its airline-partners, with a great emphasis on assisting them with their developmental plans to/from Athens. In total, for 2014, 13 different incentives, both developmental and targeted, are in effect. More than 80% of the operating carriers benefited from one or more of these incentives that have significantly contributed to the impressive traffic rise and network development. AIA’s targeted incentives will continue during the forthcoming winter period, while, at the same time, the airport’s traditional developmental incentives scheme continues.