The upswing in travel is proving a challenge for aviation. "The sector is keen on having a more reliable and predictable summer season. We will have to regain the trust of passengers and prove that flying is comfortable," said Michael Eggenschwiler, CEO of Hamburger Airport. The repercussions of the pandemic, the war in Ukraine and the situation on the labour market are also impacting planning. Yet, the number of passengers at Hamburg Airport is rising noticeably. Figures increased from 682,000 passengers in March 2022 to 1.22 million in July. A record 1.23 passengers passed through the airport in October 2022 making it the strongest month since the pandemic broke out.
Passenger numbers double - higher demand expected in 2023
A record 11.1 million passengers travelled through Hamburg Airport in 2022 - an increase of 5.3 million and thus double the pre-pandemic figures in 2019. Although traffic levels are down 36 per cent over 17.3 million in 2019, the airport remains optimistic and is expecting slight growth in 2023 despite the energy crisis and inflation.
October 2022 - strongest month
Outlook for 2023
The recovery in air traffic is expected to continue in 2023 and footfall is forecast to rise to 13.8 million passengers or 80 per cent of pre pandemic levels in 2019. The figures would mean an increase of 24.4 per cent over 2022. "The 2022 traffic figures make us confident about this year. The booking situation for the next season is very good. People want to travel by air despite high inflation," said Eggenschwiler. The development is reflected by the route network and airlines have announced more direct flights to Scandinavia, Eastern Europe and Spain in the upcoming summer season.
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