Malta International Airport’s 80.9% decrease in passenger numbers in July worse than decline in most of Europe

Last July’s full-month traffic comparable to traffic for first week of July 2019 • On average, traffic through European airports decreased by 78% in July • MIA appeals to travelling guests for their cooperation in keeping a safe airport environment

Malta International Airport registered 152,818 passenger movements last month, translating in a drop of 80.9% in traffic when compared to July 2019.

While July traditionally signals the start of the peak summer season for the airport, last month saw Malta International Airport restart commercial operations with a limited flight schedule and a renewed focus on health and safety, following a three-month closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last July’s full-month traffic was roughly equal to the number of passengers registered in the first week of July 2019. This contraction in passenger traffic was observed together with drops of 70.3% and 72.1% in aircraft movements and seat capacity, respectively. The seat load factor for the month, measuring the percentage of occupied seats on flights operated to and from Malta International Airport, stood at 59.7%.

A passenger performance analysis conducted by Airports Council International, showed that, on average, European airports registered a 78% decrease in passenger numbers last July. According to the same analysis, Italy, Germany, the United Kingdom and France, all of which were among Malta International Airport’s top five markets for July, reported drops in passenger numbers that ranged between 74% and 87%.

Malta International Airport would like to appeal to people who will be travelling soon to be cooperative and respect fellow guests and airport employees by wearing their face mask, practising social distancing and maintaining good hand hygiene. Travellers are also reminded to complete and submit any forms required for entry in a country before getting to the airport. For more information, visit https://www.maltairport.com/covid19/.

The company would like to thank employees and stakeholders for understanding the importance of a health-centric guest experience at this delicate time and for doing their utmost to protect guests’ wellbeing while travelling through Malta International Airport.