In July 2024, Malaysia Airports Group recorded a significant milestone with 12.4 million passenger movements, marking a 7.3% increase from the previous month. This achievement not only represents a new monthly high in the post-pandemic era but also underscores the ongoing recovery and growth in air travel.
Strong Performance at Local Airports
The robust growth in passenger movements was primarily driven by local airports, which saw a total of 8.5 million passenger movements. This figure includes 4.5 million international passengers and 4 million domestic passengers, reflecting an 8% increase month-on-month (m-o-m) compared to June 2024.
International passenger movements showed a particularly strong performance, increasing by 11% m-o-m, while domestic movements grew by 5% m-o-m. This positive trend is a testament to the growing confidence in air travel and the effective management of airports within Malaysia.
Key Markets and Capacity Recovery
Key markets such as Indonesia, China, and Singapore continued to be dominant contributors to the passenger movement figures in July. The addition of new routes, such as those by Qingdao Airlines, along with increased flight frequencies to and from China and Indonesia, played a crucial role in this growth. These factors collectively contributed to a total seat capacity recovery of 85.8%, bringing the group closer to pre-pandemic levels.
Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport’s Growth
In addition to the strong performance of local airports, Malaysia Airports’ Turkish asset, Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, also recorded impressive growth. The airport saw 3.9 million passenger movements in July 2024, marking a 6% increase from the previous month.
The summer holiday season, coupled with the introduction of new routes and additional flight frequencies, contributed significantly to this growth. International passenger movements reached nearly 2 million, reflecting a 9% increase over June 2024. Domestic passenger movements also experienced growth, rising to 1.9 million, up 3% m-o-m.
Outlook for Continued Growth
The record-breaking performance in July 2024 highlights the resilience and recovery of the aviation industry under Malaysia Airports Group. With ongoing efforts to enhance route connectivity, increase flight frequencies, and improve passenger experience, the group is well-positioned to continue this upward trajectory.
As travel demand continues to recover and grow, Malaysia Airports Group is expected to play a pivotal role in facilitating this resurgence, contributing positively to the broader economic recovery in Malaysia and beyond.
Conclusion
Malaysia Airports Group’s achievement of 12.4 million passenger movements in July 2024 represents a significant milestone in the post-pandemic recovery of air travel. With strong growth in both international and domestic passenger movements, driven by key markets and strategic airline partnerships, the group is set to continue leading the aviation industry’s revival in the region.
