Ethiopian Airlines Group has signed a Letter of Intent with the African Development Bank (AfDB) to finance the construction of the new Abusera International Airport, a project valued at USD 7.8 billion designed to meet growing passenger and cargo demand.The agreement was signed by Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew Bekele and Nnenna Nwabufo, AfDB’s Vice President for Regional Development, Integration, and Business Delivery, at the bank's headquarters in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, on March 14. Ethiopia’s Finance Minister, Ahmed Shide, and other senior Ethiopian officials attended the ceremony.The new airport will be situated in Bishoftu, approximately 40 kilometers from the current Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, which, according to the AfDB, is nearing its maximum annual passenger capacity of 25 million.According to the AfDB, this infrastructure will significantly stimulate regional economic growth and reinforce Ethiopia’s position as a leading aviation hub in Africa. The new airport will enhance intra-African connectivity and strengthen connections between the continent and the rest of the world.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/03/firma_ethiopia.jpeg" alt="firma Ethiopia"></figure>AfDB President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina stated the bank's full commitment to supporting "this transformative flagship project," emphasizing Ethiopian Airlines as "a symbol of excellence and resilience in Africa."Ethiopia’s Finance Minister, Ahmed Shide, described the signing as further confirmation of AfDB’s commitment to "Ethiopia’s ambitious flagship air transport project," highlighting that it will enhance Ethiopian Airlines' competitive edge in passenger and cargo services.Ethiopian Airlines Group reported record revenues of USD 7.02 billion for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, representing a 14% year-on-year increase, having transported 17.1 million passengers.Currently, from its hub at Bole Airport, the airline serves a network of 141 destinations worldwide, operating approximately 2,500 weekly flights (arrivals and departures combined).<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/03/red_de_ethiopian_airlines_marzo_2025_cirium_schedule_mapper.jpg" alt="Red de Ethiopian Airlines - Marzo 2025 (Cirium Schedule Mapper)"><figcaption>Red de Ethiopian Airlines - Marzo 2025 (Cirium Schedule Mapper)</figcaption></figure>Last week, the company also announced its expansion into Vietnam, with flights to Hanoi starting in July.Its fleet consists of the following:<ul><li>51 Boeing 737 MAX 8 (plus 32 pending delivery)</li><li>20 Airbus A350-900 (plus 11 pending)</li><li>29 DHC-8-400</li><li>10 Boeing 787-9 (plus 11 pending)</li><li>19 Boeing 787-8</li><li>11 Boeing 777-200LRF (plus one pending)</li><li>6 Boeing 737-800</li><li>6 Boeing 777-200LR</li><li>5 Boeing 767-300ERF</li><li>5 Boeing 777-300ER</li><li>4 Boeing 737-800SF</li><li>3 Airbus A350-1000 (plus one pending)</li><li>2 Boeing 737-700</li></ul>The fleet's mean age is 8.3 years.

A new USD 7.8 billion global hub for Africa: Ethiopian Airlines signs key financing agreement

London Heathrow Airport is a critical hub for global air connectivity and trade, with over 1,300 flights landing and departing daily.This makes the airport’s operational shutdown until 11:59 PM this Friday—due to a fire at a nearby electrical substation on Thursday night—an unprecedented disruption for both passengers and airlines.Heathrow by the Numbers<ul><li>For Friday, March 21, 1,330 scheduled passenger flights (arrivals and departures) were planned according to <a href="https://www.cirium.com">Cirium</a>.</li><li>Heathrow’s global network includes 208 destinations:<ul><li>78 in Europe</li><li>38 in North America</li><li>37 in Asia</li><li>16 in Latin America and the Caribbean</li><li>14 in Africa</li><li>12 in the UK</li><li>11 in the Middle East</li><li>2 in Oceania</li></ul></li><li>77 airlines operate scheduled passenger flights.</li><li>83.9 million passengers passed through Heathrow in 2024 (+6% compared to 2023).<ul><li>Of this total, 74.9 million were international passengers.</li></ul></li><li>In 2024, Heathrow was the fifth busiest airport globally by passenger numbers and the second busiest considering international traffic.</li><li>British Airways accounts for 47% of seat capacity and 51% of flights. Virgin Atlantic followed, far behind, with 7% of seats and 5% of scheduled flights.</li></ul><figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/03/red_de_destinos_de_londres_heathrow_marzo_2025_cirium_schedule_mapper.jpg" alt="Red de destinos de Londres-Heathrow - Marzo 2025 (Cirium Schedule Mapper)"><figcaption>London-Heathrow network - March 2025 (Cirium Schedule Mapper)</figcaption></figure><ul><li>Average load factor was 80.7%, with 220.6 occupied seats per flight on average.</li><li>Heathrow handled 1,580,000 tonnes of cargo in 2024 (+10.4% compared to the previous year).</li><li>Heathrow Airport Holdings Limited, the airport’s operator, reported revenues of £3.559 billion (-4% vs. 2023):<ul><li>£2.229 billion from aeronautical sources.</li><li>£772 million from retail.</li><li>£558 million from other non-aeronautical sources.</li></ul></li><li>Operating costs reached £1.524 billion (+5%).</li><li>Net profits amounted to £644 million (£78 million higher than 2023).</li></ul>Heathrow Airport is operated by Heathrow Airport Holdings Limited, owned by the consortium FGP Topco Limited, whose shareholders include Ardian (22.61%), Qatar Investment Authority (20%), Public Investment Fund (15.01%), GIC (11.2%), Australian Retirement Trust (11.18%), China Investment Corporation (10%), Ferrovial (5.25%), Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ, 2.65%), and Universities Superannuation Scheme (2.1%).<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/03/vuelos_hacia_londres_heathrow_momentos_antes_del_cierre_a_las_240_am_utc_del_21mar2025_via_airnavradar.jpg" alt="Vuelos hacia Londres-Heathrow momentos antes del cierre, a las 2:40 AM UTC del 21MAR2025 (via AirNavRadar)"><figcaption>Flights to Londres-Heathrow at 2:40 AM UTC 21MAR2025 (via AirNavRadar)</figcaption></figure>

Heathrow by the Numbers: Anatomy of a Paused Global Hub

The access bridge to Jorge Chávez International Airport will not be completed by 2027 as previously announced by the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MTC). Instead, the project is now set for delivery in 2029, according to an official agreement between the MTC and Lima Airport Partners (LAP).According to the MTC-LAP agreement (January 2025), the bridge is expected to be completed in January 2029, contradicting previous public statements by Minister Pérez Reyes, who had promised completion between 2026 and 2027. The original contract had set 2021 as the delivery date, highlighting a total delay of eight years.<h3>Concerns Over Temporary Bridges</h3>Meanwhile, Ositran has warned that the current modular bridges could become overwhelmed by 2028—or even sooner—due to:<ul><li>Limited capacity (2 lanes) vs. expanded 3-lane roads, creating a "bottleneck" effect.</li><li>Unanticipated traffic demand, with maximum speeds of just 20 km/h on the bridges.</li></ul>Authorities have noted that mitigation measures (such as traffic signals and signage) will not be sufficient if demand exceeds projections. Additionally, a clause waiving compensation claims until 2029 suggests preemptive acknowledgment of potential legal disputes over delays.<h3>Critical Implications</h3><ul><li>Road safety: Severe congestion and increased accident risks.</li><li>Airport operations: Potential disruption to logistics and passenger experiences.</li><li>Economic costs: Accumulated delays could impact airport-related investments.</li></ul><figure class="image image-style-align-center"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2020/09/Jorge-Chavez.jpg" alt="Lima Airport"></figure><h3>Key Causes of the Delay</h3><ol><li>Design and engineering issues: Initial planning deficiencies, including errors in technical studies that hindered project execution.</li><li>Land acquisition difficulties: Prolonged delays due to disputes over acquiring necessary land and conflicts with existing infrastructure.</li><li>Project management changes: The project was reassigned to PMO Vías after previous management failures, signaling institutional instability and multiple planning restarts.</li><li>Contractual deadline extensions: Agreements between MTC and LAP formally pushed the delivery date to January 2029, acknowledging the inability to meet previous targets (2021 and later 2027).</li><li>Budget reprioritization: While the MTC allocated S/110.5 million for the project in 2024, past resource reallocation to high-impact social and economic projects may have slowed progress.</li></ol><h3>Economic Impact of the Santa Rosa Bridge Delay</h3><h4>Logistics Connectivity Challenges</h4><ul><li>Overloaded temporary bridges (2 lanes) will create severe bottlenecks, slowing airport access and reducing cargo transport speeds to 10-20 km/h.</li><li>Increased operational costs for businesses reliant on airport logistics and exporters.</li></ul><h4>Risk of Economic Penalties</h4><ul><li>The Peruvian government could face compensation claims from Lima Airport Partners (LAP) of up to USD 400 million if the delay surpasses agreed deadlines (initially 2021, later extended to 2025).</li><li>These funds could otherwise be directed toward local development projects.</li></ul><h4>Impact on Tourism and International Events</h4><ul><li>Severe congestion could disrupt operations at the new airport terminal (opening in 2025), which is critical for the 2027 Pan American Games.</li><li>This event is projected to contribute +0.5% to national GDP, but success depends on functional infrastructure.</li></ul><h4>Investment Deterrents</h4><ul><li>Inefficient airport access could reduce Lima-Callao’s appeal as a regional logistics hub, influencing multinational companies' decisions.</li></ul><h4>Rising Budget Costs</h4><ul><li>The MTC has allocated an additional S/367 million in 2025 to accelerate the Santa Rosa Expressway and bridge construction—funds that could have been used for social or economic projects.</li></ul><h4>Impact on Employment</h4><ul><li>While the project is expected to generate 3,000 direct jobs, prolonged delays create job uncertainty and weaken the expected economic ripple effects in local commerce and services.</li></ul><h3>Broader Economic Consequences</h3>The eight-year delay in the Santa Rosa Bridge project is projected to cost 1.2% of annual regional GDP, considering indirect impacts on productivity and international trade.

Jorge Chávez Airport Access Bridge Delayed Until 2029

At airports in Portugal, specifically in Porto and Faro, three large aircraft have been abandoned by their owners. Among them is a Boeing 727, which for many years was linked to the former Vice President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, along with two Airbus A319 jets that previously operated for White Airways.Faced with this situation, airport operator ANA has expressed concerns to the government about abandoned aircraft occupying valuable space and posing environmental risks. As a result, authorities are considering amending public airport regulations to allow ANA to remove these aircraft.According to ECO, under the proposed new guidelines, an aircraft that remains parked continuously for more than 90 days or has accumulated unpaid fees equivalent to 30 days of use may be considered improperly stationed, as reported by our partner outlet <a href="https://aeroin.net/avioes-abandonados-em-aeroportos-portugueses-incluindo-um-boeing-727-vip-podem-ser-apreendidos/">Aeroin</a>.The owner would then have 60 days to remove the aircraft. If they fail to do so, the aircraft may be declared abandoned and transferred to the State, specifically to the Federal Revenue Service.<h3>More Abandoned Aircraft</h3>The case of the Boeing 727, parked at Faro Airport since 2007, is well known. This aircraft, which originally entered service in 1965 with Lufthansa, was later owned by Jean-Pierre Bemba, whose plane was seized at the request of the Prosecutor General of the International Criminal Court due to war crime accusations.During the same operation, authorities also confiscated assets including a house in Quinta do Lago, two luxury cars, and a yacht. Jean-Pierre Bemba was arrested in 2008 and spent ten years in prison. After his release, he returned to the Democratic Republic of the Congo and was appointed Deputy Prime Minister by President Félix Tshisekedi in 2023. He currently serves as the Minister of Transport.The two Airbus A319 are located at Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport and are relatively newer. They were previously operated by White Airways under an ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) lease but were grounded when the airline suspended its operations.

Three Large Aircraft Abandoned at Airports in Portugal

The UK government has given its provisional support for the construction of a second runway at Gatwick Airport, the country's second-busiest airport, provided certain conditions—such as noise reduction—are met. The decision has sparked criticism from environmental groups.In a statement, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander expressed her inclination to approve the project, which involves shifting Gatwick’s northern reserve runway, currently used for taxiing and backup operations.The original plan, initially rejected and later reviewed by planning inspectors, could face a delay of up to nine months before receiving final approval.Under the new conditions, at least 50% of passengers traveling through Gatwick must use public transport. Additionally, the airport will need to implement measures to mitigate noise impact.Located about 65 kilometers south of London, Gatwick serves more than 40 million passengers annually and is the busiest single-runway airport in the UK, second only to Heathrow in total operations.<h3>Safety Standards and Runway Adjustments</h3>To meet international safety standards, the project involves shifting the emergency runway 12 meters north of the main runway. This would allow it to be used for takeoffs by narrow-body aircraft, such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737.<h3>Investment and Economic Benefits</h3>The expansion, which will be privately funded with an estimated budget of £2.2 billion ($2.8 billion), could be completed before the end of the decade if construction begins this year.The project is expected to increase the airport’s capacity by 100,000 additional flights per year, bringing the total to over 380,000 annual operations. Additionally, it is projected to create 14,000 jobs and generate an economic boost of £1 billion ($1.26 billion) annually.Gatwick, whose majority shareholder is French company VINCI Airports, has until April 24 to formally respond to the new conditions. The government's final decision is expected soon after, though the deadline has been extended to October 27.<h3>Reactions and Environmental Debate</h3>Gatwick CEO Stewart Wingate welcomed the government’s preliminary backing, stating that the airport would actively engage in the approval process."By strengthening our capacity and operational resilience, we can solidify the UK's position as a key global connectivity hub and contribute to regional and national economic growth," he said.However, environmental groups have voiced strong opposition. Greenpeace UK criticized the government's stance, arguing that airport expansion would not drive economic growth but instead increase air pollution, noise, and carbon emissions."This decision appears to be an act of desperation that ignores the evidence on aviation’s environmental impact," said Doug Parr, Policy Director at Greenpeace UK.The announcement comes just weeks after the government approved the construction of a third runway at Heathrow, as part of its strategy to boost economic growth in the country.<section class="noteSuggested" data-id="36128" data-title="You might be interested"></section>

UK Government Gives Provisional Backing to Second Runway at Gatwick Airport

Airports Council International (ACI) World has released its Airport Traffic Forecasts 2024–2053 report, projecting that global passenger traffic will reach 17.7 billion in 2043 and 22.3 billion in 2053—a 2.4-fold increase compared to 2024 levels.The report covers 161 countries, accounting for 99.8% of global air travel markets, and forecasts a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% from 2024 to 2043, and 3% from 2024 to 2053. According to ACI World, this steady growth will be driven by rising demand in emerging markets, stronger international traffic, and airport infrastructure investments.<h3>Short-Term Challenges</h3>The organization warns that industry growth could face short-term disruptions due to:<ul><li>Geopolitical tensions</li><li>Economic instability</li><li>Shifts in trade policies</li><li>Supply chain disruptions</li></ul><blockquote>"Despite current challenges, global air traffic is on track for sustained and steady growth," said Justin Erbacci, Director General of ACI World. "It is crucial for airports, airlines, and policymakers to take a bold, forward-thinking approach to anticipate and meet future demands."</blockquote><figure class="image image-style-align-center"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/05/los-angeles-estados-unidos-generica-pasajeros-aeropuerto.jpg" alt="los angeles estados unidos generica pasajeros aeropuerto"></figure><h3>Long-Term Growth Trends</h3><ul><li>Faster Growth in International Travel: International passenger traffic is expected to grow at a 3.3% annual rate, outpacing domestic traffic, which is projected to grow at 2.8% annually between 2024 and 2053.</li><li>Expansion in Emerging Markets: Growth in these regions will be fueled by a rising middle class and increasing air travel demand, with infrastructure investments playing a key role.</li><li>Air Cargo Traffic Growth: ACI forecasts a CAGR of 2.7% until 2043 and 2.4% until 2053, although trade policy changes and supply chain issues may create volatility.</li><li>Increase in Aircraft Movements: Aircraft movements are expected to reach 149 million in 2043 and 176 million in 2053, requiring greater investment in operational efficiency and airport expansion worldwide.</li></ul><h3>AI-Enhanced Forecasting</h3><a href="https://store.aci.aero/product/aci-world-airport-traffic-forecasts-2024-2053/?_cldee=URyG9irNh6gf9V9TxnT_9zg08YZRNnI_S5z_2i8NxgNeWnrNlAlwjAD8dvEL6gHZ&amp;recipientid=lead-9e26ce5366cbe911a812000d3af3afcd-50e02cbd87cc4deea510814d29a048ad&amp;esid=5f925ded-95f0-ef11-be20-002248aff2cc">ACI World stated that its report</a>—priced between $2,150 and $4,850, depending on the customer type—provides detailed forecasts on total passenger traffic (international and domestic), air cargo volume, and aircraft movements. It also introduces a new AI-based methodology to improve projection accuracy and support strategic decision-making in the industry.

Airports Council International Forecasts Global Passenger Traffic to Reach 22.3 Billion by 2053

The resurfacing works on a section of the Mount Pleasant Complex airfield in the Malvinas have been completed ahead of schedule, according to a report by the UK Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO). The £20 million (~USD 25 million) project covered the renovation of 20,000 square meters of operational surface, using high-quality asphalt produced on the island via a dedicated mixing plant set up specifically for this work.Mount Pleasant serves as the Royal Air Force (RAF) base in the Malvinas, operating regular flights to Argentina, Chile, and the United Kingdom. Managed by the UK Strategic Command, the base remains a key asset for the UK Ministry of Defence, particularly after the 1982 war with Argentina, during which the islands briefly returned to South American control.<h2>A Complex Logistical Effort</h2>The contract for the works was awarded in October to Mitie by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), with the participation of several UK-based subcontractors, some of whom had previously worked on the resurfacing of the Alpha Loop taxiway last year. The project included resurfacing the Foxtrot taxiway and the runway threshold, the area where aircraft make contact upon landing. Due to the airfield’s remote location, all equipment and materials were shipped from the United Kingdom, covering a distance of 8,000 nautical miles.Major Brad Southall, project manager at DIO, highlighted the logistical and operational challenges, stating:<blockquote>“Any construction project in the Malvinas can be complicated due to significant logistical challenges, and in this case, the need to complete the work before the Southern Hemisphere winter, when conditions make construction impossible. Maintaining airfield operations during the works was also a particular challenge.”</blockquote>Meanwhile, Brigadier Daniel Duff, commander of the British Forces South Atlantic Islands (BFSAI), added:<blockquote>“We are pleased that the runway works have progressed so well, despite the significant challenges of executing a project in these islands. Of course, this was no coincidence, and the entire execution team worked closely with multiple BFSAI departments. It has been a true joint effort.”</blockquote>From Mitie, the company responsible for the project, Charlie Antelme, General Manager of Defence, stated:<blockquote>“This project has been a truly collaborative effort, and everyone’s dedication is reflected in its early completion before winter. This is the latest of our modernization projects at Mount Pleasant Complex, and we look forward to continuing large-scale projects in support of the UK Armed Forces, both in the South Atlantic and at other Defence sites in the UK and abroad.”</blockquote><h2>Military Oversight and Air Connectivity</h2>The project was supported by the 8 Engineer Brigade Royal Engineers, whose personnel oversaw quality control and facilitated coordination between the construction team and airfield staff, ensuring that air operations continued without prolonged disruptions.AirTanker operates a twice-weekly air transport service between Brize Norton (UK) and Mount Pleasant International Airport (MPN) in the Malvinas, with a stopover at Ascension Island. Additionally, LATAM Airlines runs a weekly flight between Santiago de Chile (SCL) and Mount Pleasant (MPN), with a stop in Punta Arenas (PUQ). Once a month, the route includes an additional stop in Río Gallegos (RGL), Argentina.Before the COVID-19 pandemic, a weekly flight between São Paulo, Brazil, and the Malvinas (with a monthly stop in Córdoba, Argentina) was also in operation, but it has yet to resume.

Runway Resurfacing at Mount Pleasant Complex in the Malvinas Islands Completed Ahead of Schedule

Aena's managed airports closed January 2025 with 24,999,784 passengers, marking a 6.2% increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to the company. Additionally, there were 222,696 aircraft movements (+3.6%) and 108,164 tons of cargo transported (+5.6%).<h2>Passenger Growth Across Spain</h2>In Spain, Aena airports handled 19,801,425 passengers in January, reflecting a 6.1% year-over-year increase. The number of flights reached 174,488 (+5.2%), while cargo traffic totaled 95,824 tons (+4.4%).<h3>Top Airports by Passenger Traffic (January 2025):</h3><ol><li>Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas – 5,198,143 passengers (+8.4%)</li><li>Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat – 3,695,529 passengers (+5.4%)</li><li>Gran Canaria – 1,370,749 passengers (+6.2%)</li><li>Málaga-Costa del Sol – 1,369,837 passengers (+1.9%)</li><li>Tenerife Sur – 1,287,940 passengers (+6.8%)</li></ol>Aena highlighted that 20 of its airports set record-breaking January passenger figures, including Madrid-Barajas, Barcelona-El Prat, Gran Canaria, Málaga, Tenerife Sur, Alicante-Elche, Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Lanzarote, Sevilla, and Ibiza, among others.<h2>Aircraft Movements and Cargo Traffic</h2>Madrid-Barajas recorded the highest number of flights, followed by Barcelona-El Prat and Gran Canaria:<h3>Top Airports by Aircraft Movements (January 2025):</h3><ol><li>Madrid-Barajas: 33,811 flights (+6.9%)</li><li>Barcelona-El Prat: 24,585 flights (+4.1%)</li><li>Gran Canaria: 12,170 flights (+6.3%)</li></ol><h3>Top Airports by Cargo Traffic (January 2025):</h3><ol><li>Madrid-Barajas: 58,850 tons (+6.9%)</li><li>Barcelona-El Prat: 13,399 tons (-1.8%)</li><li>Zaragoza: 11,597 tons (+7.5%)</li><li>Vitoria: 5,732 tons (-3.9%)</li></ol>According to Aena, January 2025 recorded the highest cargo volume in its network’s history.<h2>Passenger Growth in Brazil and London-Luton</h2>Aena’s 17 airports in Brazil handled 4,070,518 passengers in January 2025, marking a 5% increase over the same period in 2024. However, aircraft movements declined by 3.4%, while cargo traffic surged by 18.2%.<h3>Grupo ANB (Northeast Brazil Airports Group):</h3><figure class="image image-style-align-center"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2024/10/Aena-Brasil-generica-aracaju.jpeg" alt="Aena Brasil generica aracaju"></figure><ul><li>Total passengers: 1,646,383 (+2.3%)<ul><li>Recife Airport: 948,273 passengers (+1.5%)</li></ul></li><li>Aircraft movements: 14,526 flights (-4.3%)<ul><li>Recife: 8,154 flights (-4.3%)</li></ul></li><li>Cargo transported: 5,511 tons (+23.4%)<ul><li>Recife: 4,520 tons (+23%)</li></ul></li></ul><h3>Grupo BOAB (Bloco dos Onze Airports Group):</h3><ul><li>Total passengers: 2,424,135 (+7%)<ul><li>Congonhas Airport (São Paulo): 2,049,846 passengers (+6.2%)</li></ul></li><li>Aircraft movements: 24,505 flights (-2.8%)<ul><li>Congonhas: 18,211 flights (-5.3%)</li></ul></li><li>Cargo transported: 4,541 tons (+12.5%)<ul><li>Congonhas: 3,991 tons (+18.8%)</li></ul></li></ul>Meanwhile, London-Luton Airport, also operated by Aena, recorded 1,127,841 passengers in January, an 11.9% increase compared to the same period last year.<h2>Summer 2025 Flight Schedule</h2>Looking ahead to the summer 2025 season (March 30 – October 25), Aena reported that airlines have scheduled 246.8 million seats, reflecting a 1.5% increase from 2024.Planned flight operations are expected to reach 1.4 million, representing a 1.2% increase. According to Aena, the fastest-growing markets include:<ul><li>Asia-Pacific: +38.9%</li><li>North America: +8.7%</li><li>Latin America: +6.1%</li></ul><h3>Top Airports by Scheduled Seats for Summer 2025:</h3><ol><li>Madrid-Barajas: 48 million seats</li><li>Barcelona-El Prat: 42.9 million seats</li><li>Palma de Mallorca: 33.3 million seats</li></ol>The top five countries by seat capacity are Spain, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and France.Aena emphasized that seat and flight schedules are subject to adjustments by airlines.

Aena Airports Handle Nearly 25 Million Passengers in January 2025, Up 6.2%

Oaxaca Governor Salomón Jara Cruz has announced the expansion of Oaxaca International Airport, a project backed by a 2.12 billion MXN ($103 million) investment from Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste (Asur). Speaking at a press conference, Jara Cruz highlighted that the modernization will quadruple the airport’s infrastructure, increasing its size from 7,000 to 28,000 square meters.<h2>Boosting Connectivity and Economic Growth</h2>According to the governor, this expansion will double the number of incoming visitors, strengthen the state’s connectivity, and enhance foreign trade by facilitating increased exports and imports. The project is also expected to lead to a rise in international flights, attract more foreign tourists, and generate greater foreign exchange revenue, boosting the local economy.Citing El Economista, Jara Cruz emphasized that this initiative aligns with Oaxaca’s rapid economic growth, positioning it as the fastest-growing state in southern Mexico and the second-fastest nationwide, just behind Durango.<h2>Passenger Traffic on the Rise</h2>By the end of December 2024, Oaxaca International Airport recorded a 5.52% increase in passenger traffic, adding 93,531 additional travelers. Domestic passenger numbers grew by 5.12%, while international arrivals surged 20.28%, reflecting Oaxaca’s rising appeal as a global destination.<h2>Expansion Timeline and Key Upgrades</h2>Jorge Carlos Campos Romero, general administrator of Oaxaca International Airport, confirmed that construction began in January 2024 and is scheduled for completion in December 2028.The renovation will include upgrades to:<ul><li>Check-in counters and security screening areas</li><li>Baggage claim and immigration checkpoints</li><li>Customs inspection lines and aircraft parking positions</li><li>Jet bridges, waiting areas, and commercial spaces</li><li>Elevators and escalators</li></ul>This ambitious project aims to modernize Oaxaca’s airport infrastructure and support the state’s growing tourism and trade sectors.

Oaxaca International Airport Expansion Underway with $103 Million Investment

Hamburg Airport has successfully completed the implementation of OneControl, an advanced air traffic management system developed by ADB SAFEGATE. According to the company, this integration marks a major technological milestone in air traffic control automation, enhancing the airport’s ability to manage ground movements with greater safety and efficiency.The OneControl system was fully deployed in November 2024 as part of a long-term collaboration between ADB SAFEGATE and Hamburg Airport. Their partnership dates back to 2009, when the Advanced Surface Movement Guidance and Control System (A-SMGCS) was introduced for Deutsche Flugsicherung (DFS), Germany’s air traffic control authority.<figure class="image image-style-align-center"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/adb_safegate_onecontrol_aeropuerto_de_hamburgo.jpg" alt="ADB Safegate - OneControl - Aeropuerto de Hamburgo"><figcaption>ADB Safegate - OneControl - Aeropuerto de Hamburgo</figcaption></figure><h2>Enhanced Safety and Traffic Control</h2>According to ADB SAFEGATE, OneControl provides seamless integration of aerial and ground situational awareness, improving aircraft and vehicle tracking accuracy on the apron. The system features advanced functionalities such as:<ul><li>Airport Safety Nets</li><li>Shadow Routing</li><li>Silent Coordination</li></ul>These capabilities are designed to enhance operational safety and streamline airfield movements.Dirk Behrens, Head of Aviation at Hamburg Airport, highlighted the impact of the system:<blockquote>“OneControl has significantly improved our apron control operations. Its advanced features and integration with multiple airport systems have enhanced our ability to manage ground traffic, reinforcing our commitment to the highest safety and efficiency standards.”</blockquote>The implementation process took several years of collaboration between engineers, software developers, and apron controllers. Before its rollout, OneControl underwent rigorous performance testing, reliability evaluations, and feedback sessions with controllers.<h2>A Major Milestone in Air Traffic Management</h2>Gonzalo Moreno-Muñoz, Vice President of ADB SAFEGATE’s Tower Division, emphasized the significance of the project:<blockquote>“This marks the first full-scale deployment of OneControl in Germany. Its implementation is not just a technological milestone but also a strong testament to our commitment to our clients.”</blockquote>Hamburg Airport has been a pioneer in air traffic management automation since 2009, when it introduced the A-SMGCS system, which continues to operate under DFS supervision.<h2>Hamburg Airport’s Growing Role in European Aviation</h2>As the largest airport in Northern Germany and the fifth busiest in the country, Hamburg Airport handled 13.6 million passengers in 2023, showing a strong recovery post-pandemic, though still below the 17 million recorded in 2019.Currently, 55 airlines operate direct flights from Hamburg to 120 domestic and international destinations.By adopting OneControl, Hamburg joins a growing number of European airports leveraging digital solutions to enhance air traffic management, with a focus on safety, efficiency, and modernization.

Hamburg Airport Implements OneControl to Enhance Air Traffic Management

A coalition of airlines and airport sector companies has launched a campaign demanding an urgent review of Heathrow’s regulatory framework. The initiative, titled "Heathrow Reimagined: A Better Hub for Britain," is backed by the Heathrow Airline Operators’ Committee (AOC), Arora Group, International Airlines Group (IAG) (British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, LEVEL, and Vueling), and Virgin Atlantic. The campaign aims to push for changes in airport fee oversight and overall management.IAG airlines account for about 50% of Heathrow’s monthly seat capacity, while Virgin Atlantic alone represents nearly 10%.<h2>Heathrow: The World’s Most Expensive Airport</h2>According to the campaign, Heathrow has become the most expensive airport in the world, with fees that, if aligned with similarly sized European airports, would be £1.1 billion lower annually. Additionally, Heathrow has fallen out of Skytrax’s ranking of the world’s top 20 airports and has been labeled Europe’s most stressful airport in various surveys.<figure class="image image-style-align-center"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/01/heathrow_third_runway_tercera_pista.png" alt="Heathrow third runway tercera pista"></figure><h2>Regulatory Review Before Future Investments</h2>The campaign's backers are urging the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to review Heathrow’s regulatory framework before any further expansion investments are made. However, they clarified that this review would not delay plans for a third runway, a controversial project in the UK.<blockquote>"Heathrow is falling behind other major international hubs in terms of infrastructure and customer service while maintaining the dubious honor of being the most expensive airport in terms of fees. This cannot continue," said Nigel Wicking, CEO of Heathrow AOC.</blockquote><blockquote>Surinder Arora, founder and chairman of Arora Group, added: "Heathrow maintains a monopoly that directly impacts passengers. It not only charges excessive aviation fees but also imposes disproportionate parking and service charges, making it by far the most expensive airport in the world."</blockquote><h2>Airline Leaders Criticize Heathrow’s Costs and Service</h2>The airline industry has strongly criticized Heathrow’s pricing model:<ul><li>Luis Gallego, CEO of IAG, stated: "As an international airline group, we compare the passenger experience at Heathrow with other airports, and the reality is that the service does not justify the price."</li><li>Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, emphasized: "The current regulatory structure is unfit for purpose and fails to effectively curb Heathrow’s dominant position. Despite having the world’s highest fees, Heathrow is failing consumers, airlines, and the UK economy, with aging facilities and a declining passenger experience. Urgent reform of the regulatory framework is needed."</li></ul><h2>Comparisons with Other Global Airports</h2>The campaign highlights that leading airports such as Barcelona, Frankfurt, Madrid, and Munich have successfully expanded at significantly lower costs than Heathrow.It also cites:<ul><li>Istanbul Airport, which was built to handle 200 million passengers with an investment of €12 billion.</li><li>Singapore Changi, which is currently developing a new terminal and a third runway for £8 billion.</li></ul><section class="noteSuggested" data-id="35708" data-title="You might be interested"></section><h2>Call for Structural Reform</h2>With the official launch of the campaign, airlines and industry stakeholders are now seeking to engage other aviation leaders and the UK government in discussions about Heathrow’s future.According to "Heathrow Reimagined" backers, the goal is to establish a regulatory model that ensures fair pricing, efficient management, and infrastructure that reflects Heathrow’s critical role in the UK economy.

Airlines Call for Urgent Reform of Heathrow’s Regulatory Model

Sesé has been awarded the contract to build and operate a new cargo terminal at Zaragoza Airport, which will become the largest in terms of operational capacity at the facility. According to the company, operations are set to begin in 2026 under a 20-year contract with Aena.<h2>€18 Million Investment for Enhanced Logistics</h2>For the project, Sesé plans to invest €18 million in a 18,500-square-meter facility equipped with 34 loading docks, designed to streamline cargo loading and unloading processes.<h2>Expansion in Zaragoza and Presence in Other Airports</h2>Sesé already operates at Zaragoza Airport, managing a frontline terminal and a nearby logistics center, offering import/export services, cargo consolidation and deconsolidation, customs management, and flight supervision.In addition, the company manages cargo terminals at the airports of Madrid, Barcelona, and Zaragoza and operates logistics support centers in Madrid, Zaragoza, and Amsterdam.<h2>Growth in Air Cargo Logistics</h2>Sesé has expanded its air cargo operations in recent years, strengthening its national and international presence. As part of this growth, the company has developed proprietary software for airport handling management, aiming to digitize operational and administrative processes related to cargo traffic.<h2>A Strategic Step for Sesé and Zaragoza Airport</h2>Sesé’s Global Director of Air and Maritime Transport, Manuel Gallegos, highlighted the importance of the project:<blockquote>“Taking on this project is proof of our firm commitment to providing the best air transport service to our clients. This new terminal will significantly increase our capacity and establish us as the leading cargo operator at Zaragoza Airport, the third-largest in Spain by cargo volume.”</blockquote>With this new state-of-the-art cargo terminal, Zaragoza is strengthening its position as a key air logistics hub in Spain, while Sesé expands its operational capacity in the sector.

Sesé to Build and Manage Zaragoza Airport’s Largest Cargo Terminal

<h3>Swissport Begins Operations as New Ground Handler at Frankfurt Airport</h3>Swissport International has officially commenced ground handling operations at Frankfurt Airport (FRA), one of the world's major aviation hubs. The company began servicing early morning flights for KLM, Air France, and LOT at Terminals 1 and 2, marking a significant step in its expansion within Germany.According to Swissport, Frankfurt Airport will soon become its largest base in Germany and one of its most significant operations in Europe."We are thrilled to extend our globally trusted airport ground handling services to Frankfurt Airport, one of the world’s major gateways and a key destination for leading international carriers," said Warwick Brady, President &amp; CEO of Swissport International.The company stated that its team in Frankfurt currently consists of over 350 ground service professionals and that it plans to gradually increase its workforce throughout the year to accommodate new customers and peak travel seasons, such as Easter and summer holidays. Additionally, Swissport will continue hiring beyond the summer months in preparation for the full transition of wide-body aircraft handling, which will remain under a third-party provider’s management until October 31, 2025, operating under Fraport’s ground handling license.<figure class="image"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/swissport_en_el_aeropuerto_de_frankfurt.jpg" alt="Swissport en el aeropuerto de Frankfurt"></figure><h3>Expansion in the German Market</h3>In August 2024, the Ministry of Transportation of the State of Hesse granted Swissport the ground handling license at Frankfurt Airport, following a competitive tender process involving six bidders. According to the company, this seven-year license allows it to provide services to all carriers operating at Frankfurt, including passenger services at check-in and gates, baggage handling, aircraft pushback, and cargo loading and unloading.Swissport has been present at Frankfurt Airport since 1995 through its cargo handling unit. In 2020, the company opened a state-of-the-art air cargo warehouse at Cargo City South, featuring a modern pharmaceutical center. Additionally, its subsidiary N*ICE has been providing de-icing services at the airport since 1999, while AFS, another Swissport subsidiary, has been responsible for fueling services in Frankfurt since 1988."Our success is a testament to our commitment to quality, reliability, and safety, values that have earned us the trust of both German authorities and our airline partners," Brady emphasized.With this expansion, Swissport aims to strengthen its position in Germany’s ground handling sector and solidify its presence at one of Europe’s most strategic airports.

Swissport Begins Operations as New Ground Handler at Frankfurt Airport

Aena has presented its investment projects for Tenerife’s two airports while also outlining progress in analyzing future investments across the Canary Islands. The company aims to enhance safety and service quality across the eight airports in the archipelago while maintaining competitive airport fees for airlines.During an event at Tenerife South Airport (TFS), Aena’s President and CEO, Maurici Lucena, announced that planned investments for the Canary Islands' airports will exceed €1 billion. These investments, set to be incorporated into Aena’s broader investment plans, aim to boost connectivity and regional development.<h3>Key Meetings and Investment Breakdown</h3>Before unveiling the projects, Lucena met with the President of the Canary Islands Government, Fernando Clavijo, as well as the President and Vice President of Tenerife’s Cabildo. The meeting focused specifically on the planned investments for the island’s airports.Aena provided a detailed presentation to business leaders and media representatives, highlighting past investments in the archipelago and ongoing renovation projects at Tenerife South and Tenerife North-Ciudad de La Laguna (TFN) airports.Aena’s Vice President, Javier Marín, outlined the budget allocation for Tenerife’s airports, which totals approximately €800 million. Of this, €550 million is earmarked for Tenerife South Airport, while €250 million will go to Tenerife North-Ciudad de La Laguna.“Aena has been working closely with local authorities and Tenerife’s Cabildo experts to analyze the best solutions and design the necessary improvements,” Marín stated.<h3>Enhancing the Passenger Experience</h3>The investment in Tenerife South Airport, which handled 13.7 million passengers in 2024, will focus on modernizing its infrastructure and optimizing operational processes. This includes integrating advanced technologies and unifying the terminal under a single roof to maximize natural light. These upgrades will enable the airport to accommodate 20 million passengers annually.At Tenerife North-Ciudad de La Laguna Airport, which served 6.76 million passengers in 2024, the focus will be on improving service quality and operational efficiency while preserving the terminal’s unique architectural identity.The project includes expanding the check-in area and increasing the number of counters, boarding gates, and baggage claim facilities. Overall, the terminal's surface area will grow by 49%.<figure class="image image-style-align-center"><img src="https://aviacionlinecdn.eleco.com.ar/media/2025/02/tenerife_norte_render_del_proyecto_de_ampliacion.jpg" alt="Tenerife Norte - Render del proyecto de ampliación"><figcaption>&nbsp;</figcaption></figure>“These projects will significantly enhance the quality and image of our airports, improving the passenger experience and reinforcing their role as key gateways to the island,” Marín concluded.

Aena Unveils Investment Plans for Tenerife’s Airports

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has reached an unprecedented milestone, welcoming 92.3 million passengers in 2024, surpassing its previous record of 89.1 million set in 2018, according to official airport data. This achievement cements DXB’s status as the world's busiest international airport for the tenth consecutive year, as recognized by the Airports Council International (ACI).<h2>Exceptional Growth Driven by a Strong Fourth Quarter</h2>DXB’s growth was fueled by an outstanding fourth quarter, with December marking its busiest month, serving 8.2 million travelers. Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, noted that the airport exceeded projections by nearly 200,000 passengers, emphasizing DXB’s global appeal:<blockquote>“This underscores DXB’s worldwide attraction.”</blockquote>Griffiths also predicted that DXB could reach 100 million annual passengers by 2027, backed by a $35 billion expansion plan at Dubai World Central.<h2>Operational Excellence: Cargo, Flights, and Efficiency</h2>DXB handled 2.2 million tons of cargo in 2024, a 20.5% increase from the previous year. Flight movements also rose by 5.7%, totaling 440,300 operations.In terms of efficiency, the airport processed 81.2 million pieces of luggage with an impressive 99.45% success rate, meaning only 5.5 mishandled bags per 1,000 passengers—well above the global standard of 6.9, according to technology provider SITA.Passenger experience remained a priority:<ul><li>98.2% of departing travelers cleared immigration in under 10 minutes.</li><li>99.2% passed through security in less than five minutes.</li></ul><h2>Dubai’s Vision for Global Leadership</h2>Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, attributed DXB’s success to the UAE’s relentless drive for innovation and excellence.<blockquote>“DXB is a global success story that reflects our ability to turn ambitions into reality.”</blockquote>He also highlighted strategic investments aimed at positioning Dubai among the top five global logistics hubs and doubling its foreign trade, in line with the D33 Economic Agenda.<h2>A Decade of Unmatched Connectivity</h2>DXB connects to 272 destinations in 107 countries, served by 106 airlines. Over the past 10 years, it has welcomed more than 700 million passengers and facilitated 3.3 million flights.Griffiths stressed that this milestone is not just about numbers but about the people who make it possible, recognizing the dedication of DXB’s team and partners.As a key pillar of the UAE’s global connectivity strategy, DXB now looks to sustain its growth by leveraging international events, peak tourism seasons, and new infrastructure projects, all while maintaining its focus on enhancing passenger experience.

Dubai International Airport (DXB) Sets Record with 92.3 Million Passengers in 2024

The Ministry of Transport and Communications (MTC) and Lima Airport Partners (LAP) have confirmed that the new Jorge Chávez International Airport will officially begin operations no later than March 30, 2025. The decision was formalized through the signing of an Agreement Act between both entities.<h3>Final Review Before Opening</h3>As part of the transition process, a comprehensive review will be conducted at the end of February to ensure all necessary measures are in place for a safe and orderly airport launch.This marks the second postponement of the terminal’s opening in recent months. The original plan to launch in December was scrapped to avoid disrupting the holiday travel peak, following requests from airlines. A new date was set for January 29, but the timeline has now been extended to late March.<h3>Coordination and Readiness for Operations</h3>Minister of Transport and Communications Raúl Pérez Reyes previously stated that the rescheduled opening was decided in coordination with LAP and the aviation community. The priority has been to ensure safety, regularity, and efficiency, in compliance with international civil aviation standards.This additional time will allow for operational testing to assess the terminal’s performance, identify any necessary adjustments, and train airport staff, airline personnel, and specialized service providers on the new operational procedures.<h3>Defining the Opening Strategy</h3>Technical teams from the MTC, LAP, and the airport community are currently evaluating whether the airport launch will take place gradually or in a single comprehensive process.The MTC emphasized that it remains in close coordination with all stakeholders to ensure a smooth and secure transition to the new Jorge Chávez International Airport.

Opening Date for New Lima Airport Confirmed

London City Airport (LCY) has submitted a request to the United Kingdom's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) for approval to operate Airbus A320neo aircraft. This initiative aims to expand destination options and improve the airport's operational efficiency.The request includes the implementation of a new flight procedure called RNP AR (Required Navigation Performance – Authorization Required), which would adjust the approach angle for the A320neo at both runway thresholds. Currently, limitations on the approach angle restrict the types of aircraft that can operate at LCY, requiring certification for steep approaches.In August 2024, the UK government approved LCY's plans to increase its annual passenger cap from 6.5 million to 9 million by 2031, without increasing the number of permitted flights or adding new infrastructure. The introduction of the A320neo would allow the airport to achieve this capacity with fewer flight movements, stimulate economic growth, and maintain operational efficiency, while incorporating cleaner and quieter aircraft.The A320neo, depending on its configuration, can carry over 180 passengers and has a range of more than 1,000 km, covering much of continental Europe. Its inclusion is seen as key to expanding leisure route offerings from LCY.Alison FitzGerald, CEO of London City Airport, stated: "The potential introduction of the A320neo at London City Airport is incredibly exciting. It would expand the range of leisure destinations for our passengers, enable growth without increasing the number of flight movements, drive much-needed economic growth, and accelerate the renewal of fleets toward cleaner and quieter next-generation aircraft."The CAA's decision will be crucial for the future development and expansion of operations at London City Airport. The introduction of the A320neo could represent a milestone in the city's air connectivity, offering more options to passengers and boosting the region's economic growth.

London City Airport requests CAA approval for A320neo flights

Aeropuertos Argentina announced that in December 2024 it reached the highest number of passengers in its history, with a total of 3,948,859 people at the 35 airports it operates in the country. This new record surpassed the previous one set in July 2019, when 3,901,087 passengers were recorded.The Jorge Newbery Aeroparque led the growth in passenger movement, with 1,467,317 users in December 2024. This represents an 11% increase compared to December 2023 and a 55% growth compared to the same month in 2019, prior to the pandemic. Aeroparque also recorded significant figures in international flights, with 389,000 passengers, a 28% increase over December 2023.Among the most popular destinations from Aeroparque are Bariloche, Iguazú, Córdoba, Mendoza, Ushuaia, Salta, Neuquén, and Tucumán. This airport, key to domestic and regional connectivity, was also a finalist in the Routes Americas awards in the category of airports handling 4 to 20 million passengers.The infrastructure improvements made at Aeroparque, such as the expansion of the domestic flight security control area and the New Coastal Border Project, allowed the increase in traffic to be managed smoothly. The first stage of the new inspection post, which required an investment of 11.5 million dollars, has already been inaugurated.<h3>Ezeiza and other standout airports</h3>The Ezeiza International Airport ranked second in increased user volume, with 1,107,976 passengers in December, reflecting a 7% growth compared to December 2023 and 6% compared to the same month in 2019. This performance was supported by the New Departures Terminal, which has been operational since April 2023 and features 50,000 m², 150 check-in counters, and 72 self-check-in stations, among other services.Other standout airports in December 2024 include:• Córdoba: 273,000 passengers (+3% compared to 2023). • Mendoza: 229,000 passengers (+9% compared to 2023, +29% compared to 2019). • Bariloche: 220,000 passengers (-slight drop compared to 2023, +43% compared to 2019). • Salta: 127,000 passengers (+12% compared to 2023, recovering from the 2019 decline).<h3>Investments and future plans</h3>The company indicated that it is carrying out an investment of over 1 billion dollars in the last five years, in projects that include new terminals, runways, and taxiways. Airports with ongoing projects include Santa Rosa, Iguazú, San Rafael, and Bariloche, in addition to the works at Aeroparque and Ezeiza.For 2025, more upgrades are planned, such as the renovation of Tucumán airport, the rehabilitation of runways in Río Cuarto, and new facilities in Formosa and Santiago del Estero.

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