For the period January – June, Athens International Airport traffic remained at the corresponding 2009 levels (+0.1%, 7.2 million passengers), despite a 3.5% drop in flights mainly attributed to the negative second quarter of the year. This satisfactory result amid the ongoing adverse conditions, maintained Athens International Airport slightly above the major European airports’ performance* both in terms of passengers (European average at -0.3%), as well as flights (European average at -3.8%).

Analytically, in the first six months of 2010, international passenger traffic posted a small increase (+0.4%, 4.5 million passengers) on a year-to-year basis, while the domestic sector dropped slightly by 0.4% (2.8 million passengers). This marginal variation was achieved despite both markets experiencing a drop during the second quarter – especially the domestic sector. As per geographical regions, Middle East posted a significant rise (+18%), followed by Asia (+4%).
 
New incentive package for airlines

Aiming to support its airline partners in their development efforts, the Airport Company has ‘frozen’ all airport charges for 2010; moreover, taking into consideration the traffic’s negative trend during the second quarter, Athens International Airport offers a new package of airline incentives:

Α.  Seasonal financial incentive for the airlines with passenger growth, valid until October 2010

Β.  Access in new, enhanced data base and provision of additional market research tools, offering the airlines a chance to promote their products in the Greek market more efficiently

Regarding traffic development in the first semester of 2010 and the airport’s cooperation with its airline partners, the CEO of Athens International Airport, Dr. Yiannis Paraschis, said: “Our traffic for the period January through June 2010 was contained at last year’s levels - mainly thanks to a strong first quarter – keeping Athens International Airport above the major European airports’ average. However, a weakening trend that started in the second quarter and is due mainly to the domestic market, is indicative of the challenges we are facing. In response, we consistently support the developmental efforts of our airline partners, offering new initiatives, in a spirit of cooperation and sound planning.”

Development of passenger traffic at AIA:  January - June 2010

* Source: Airports Council International / Rapid Data Exchange Programme