European airports surpass pre-pandemic passenger levels
Passenger traffic at European airports exceeded pre-Covid levels in 2024, with over 2.5 billion travelers recorded across the continent. This milestone, reported by ACI Europe—the organization representing European and other global airports—marks a full recovery from the disruptions caused by the pandemic.
The surge in air travel is primarily driven by the strong performance of international connections. According to ACI Europe, total passenger numbers across the region’s airports grew by 7.4% in 2024 compared to the previous year, surpassing 2019 levels by 1.8%. The organization also projects continued expansion in passenger traffic for 2025.
International traffic saw an 8.8% increase in 2024, acting as the key driver of recovery. In contrast, domestic air travel rose by a modest 2.5% and remains 6.3% below 2019 figures. ACI Europe attributes these trends to structural shifts, including a partial shift towards rail transport, cross-border mobility within the EU’s single market, and growing demand from emerging markets outside Europe.
However, not all airports have fully recovered. Approximately 47% of European airports have yet to reach pre-pandemic volumes, with smaller airports facing an average shortfall of 34.5%. Among the busiest airports in 2024 were London Heathrow (83.9 million passengers), Istanbul (80.1 million), Paris Charles de Gaulle (70.3 million), Amsterdam Schiphol (66.8 million), and Madrid (66.1 million).
On a national level, Turkey (+23.1%), Italy (+17%), and Spain (+13%) have experienced strong growth since 2019. Conversely, Germany (-16.6%) and France (-3%) continue to struggle with declines in domestic demand. While Turkey has recorded a 23.1% increase since 2019, Italy has grown by 17% and Spain by 13%, whereas Germany has suffered a 16.6% decline over five years, and France has seen a 3% drop during the same period.
Lire aussi
Latest News
- Ayer 16:50 Human rights violations in Tindouf camps raise alarm at UN Council
- Ayer 16:30 Trump celebrates U.S. control over Panama Canal ports
- Ayer 16:00 US Supreme Court Rules Against Trump's Efforts to Halt Payments to Foreign Aid Groups
- Ayer 15:50 Unforgettable African safari destinations for your next adventure
- Ayer 15:33 Checkpoint of fear: The Israeli blockade terrorizing a Palestinian village
- Ayer 15:20 Morocco champions Palestinian rights at Arab League summit in Cairo
- Ayer 15:06 Greenland's Defiant Stance Against Trump's Offer