The airports of Ostend-Bruges and Antwerp have welcomed a record number of travellers in July 2018
Ostend-Bruges airport
Ostend-Bruges Airport welcomed no less than 59,827 passengers in the month of July, an increase of 15.7% compared to the same period in 2017. If we exclude the impact of the attacks on Brussels Airport on 22 March, we can speak of an all-time record. The number of movements also increased by 15.5% to 2893 compared to last year. Freight transport experienced a spectacular increase from 79.2% to 1835 tonnes compared to July 2017.
Antwerp airport
Antwerp Airport recorded an increase of 26.2% in July 2018 compared to the same period in 2017, accounting for around 33,912 passengers. This is the absolute record month for Antwerp Airport. The number of movements fell by 1.9% to 3,666 compared to July 2017. The cargo increased by 14.2% to 281 tonnes.
The popularity of regional airports is increasing
The growth in the number of passengers at both airports is mainly due to the popular destinations of tour operator TUI and the fact that it also uses its latest Boeing 737 MAX 8 in Ostend. In Antwerp, VLM plays a major role in the increase in the number of passengers due to its new destinations.
The thorough renovations at the beginning of last year have brought about a complete metamorphosis at the departure hall at both airports. The renovated halls provide improved passenger experience, safety and comfort. Since April 2018, Ostend also has a second departure hall, Hall B, a new and cosy space where families can relax and children can play to their heart’s content. The Junior Club is a separate play area for children and a unique concept in Belgium.
Moreover, during the summer months, all passengers are welcomed by Welcome! students of the Hospitality & Travel label of Securitas. With this, the airports want to offer unsurpassed hospitality and a unique travel experience to their travellers.
The increase for both airports shows that regional airports are gaining in importance and that travellers find their way there more easily. On-time departures, affordable car parks, fast check-in, easy accessibility, customer-friendliness and the proximity of the airports also play an important role in the decision-making process of travellers.
Thursday, August 2, 2018
