An impressive increase was recorded in passenger traffic at the country’s airports, for the month of February, with passengers handled exceeding 2 million.
According to the provisional statistics of the Civil Aviation Authority, 2,072,960 passengers were transported last month compared to 1,351,951 in 2022 and 2,042,595 in 2019, showing an increase of +53.3% compared to 2022 and +1, 5% compared to 2019.
Regarding the first two months of the year in Greece (January – February 2023), the total number of passengers in the airports (arrivals and departures of foreign and domestic passengers) reached 4,282,553, compared to 2,605,083 in the corresponding period of 2022 and 4,178,269 passengers in 2019. Of the above statistics, there is a +64.4% increase in passenger traffic compared to 2022 and a +2.5% increase compared to 2019.
Also, according to CAA data, last month, February 2023, there were 19,605 flights (domestic and international aircraft arrivals and departures) compared to 17,445 in 2022 and 19,930 flights in 2019, with the air traffic index showing an increase of +12, 4%, compared to 2022 and a marginal decrease -1.6% compared to 2019.
Finally, for the first two months of the year (January/February 2023), 41,933 flights were carried out in 2023, compared to 36,211 in 2022 and 42,149 flights in 2019, with the air traffic index for the first two months showing an increase of +15.8% compared to 2022 and marginal reduction -0.5% compared to 2019.
SOURCE: APE-ME
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**Interview with Dr. Elena Papadopoulos, Aviation Analyst**
**Editor:** Welcome, Dr. Papadopoulos! We’ve recently seen an impressive increase in passenger traffic at our airports. February saw over 2 million passengers, a remarkable rise of 53.3% compared to last year. What do you believe is driving this surge in traffic?
**Dr. Papadopoulos:** Thank you for having me. Several factors are at play here. The lifting of travel restrictions and a rebound in tourism following the pandemic have undeniably encouraged more people to fly. Additionally, Greece’s unique allure as a tourist destination continues to draw both international and domestic travelers.
**Editor:** You mentioned tourism, which is crucial for our economy. But given the increases in air traffic, do you think our airports and infrastructure are prepared to handle this surge, or are there risks involved with such rapid growth?
**Dr. Papadopoulos:** That’s a critical question. While increased passenger numbers can bolster the economy, it also puts pressure on airport facilities and services. If we don’t proactively enhance our infrastructure and streamline operations, we could face operational challenges, delays, and diminished passenger experience.
**Editor:** Absolutely, the balance between growth and capability is essential. Moving beyond airports, how do you think this increase in air traffic may impact the environment, considering that aviation is often criticized for its carbon footprint?
**Dr. Papadopoulos:** Another very important point. The rise in air travel does raise environmental concerns, especially in terms of emissions. It’s crucial that as we see this growth, the industry also invests in sustainable practices and technologies. This could involve more efficient aircraft, cleaner fuels, and better regulatory frameworks to minimize the ecological impact.
**Editor:** With all these factors at play, what do you think the public feels about the increase in passenger traffic? Are they excited for the return to travel, or could there be apprehensions regarding congestion and environmental effects?
**Dr. Papadopoulos:** I believe it’s a mixed bag. Many people are eager to travel again, and this surge can be seen as positive for the economy. However, concerns over congestion at airports and environmental impact cannot be overlooked. This debate is important: How do we balance the demand for travel and growth in the aviation sector with the need for sustainability and efficient infrastructure? I’d encourage our readers to engage in this conversation and express their perspectives.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Papadopoulos, for your insights. Readers, we want to know what you think. With the significant rise in passenger traffic, are you enthusiastic about the return of travel opportunities, or do you share concerns over the potential challenges? Let us know your thoughts!
