Aena Closes 2024 with Record Numbers in Passengers, Operations, and Air Cargo
The Aena Group, a leading operator of airport infrastructure, ended 2024 by consolidating its leadership in the sector, setting historic records in passenger traffic, aircraft movements, and cargo transportation. The network, which includes 46 airports and two heliports in Spain, along with London Luton Airport and 17 airports in Brazil, handled a total of 369.4 million passengers, marking an 8.5% increase compared to 2023.
Spain: Historic Records Across Aena Airports
In Spain, airports managed by Aena recorded 309.3 million passengers, reflecting a 9.2% increase compared to 2023. Additionally, 2.59 million aircraft movements (+7.8%) were recorded, and 1.28 million tons of cargo (+18.6%) were transported. These results highlight the sector’s dynamism and sustained recovery after recent challenges.
Among Spanish airports, Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas led the way with 66.2 million passengers (+9.9%), followed by Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat with 55 million (+10.3%) and Palma de Mallorca with 33.3 million (+7%). Other notable airports include Málaga-Costa del Sol, Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernández, and Gran Canaria, all of which showed significant growth.
→ Doha’s Hamad Airport reaches record passenger numbers in 2024
Moreover, 21 Spanish airports set passenger records, including Tenerife South, Valencia, Seville, and several in the Canary and Balearic Islands. This performance underscores Spain’s appeal as a tourist destination and its strategic importance in global connectivity.
Air Cargo: A Growing Sector
Cargo transportation also experienced its best year in Aena’s history in Spain. Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas led this segment with 766,818 tons (+19.2%), followed by Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat with 181,688 tons (+16.1%). Airports like Zaragoza and Vitoria also played key roles in air logistics.
International: Growth in Brazil and London Luton
The 17 airports managed by Aena Brazil handled 43.4 million passengers (+5.6%) and saw a 12.9% increase in cargo transportation, solidifying their position in the Latin American market. Highlights include Recife and Congonhas airports, the latter handling over 23 million travelers.
Meanwhile, London Luton Airport reached 16.7 million passengers (+3.3%), maintaining its role as a key European hub. However, it experienced a 17.8% drop in air cargo, reflecting specific challenges in this segment.
Looking Ahead: Investments for Sustainable Growth
To meet future demand, Aena is working on the Airport Regulation Document (DORA) 2027-2031, which will include key investments to ensure the sustainability and efficiency of its infrastructure. This plan, developed with technical rigor and in consultation with airlines and regional authorities, will enhance operational capacity and create a positive impact on the communities served by these facilities.
Related Topics
FAA Extends Program Allowing Boeing to Perform Certain Tasks on Behalf of Agency
Delta Strengthens Its Presence in Spain with Nonstop Flights Between Boston and Barcelona
JetBlue and United Announce Collaboration Offering More Flights and Linking Their Loyalty Programs
Alaska Airlines Launches New Era of Inflight Dining with Chef’s (Tray) Table
Plataforma Informativa de Aviación Comercial con 13 años de trayectoria.