Sofia Airport
reported here Thursday that there were 27% more charter flights in May compared
to the same month of the pre-pandemic 2019.
The increase in passengers carried
with such flights is over 17%.
Despite the strong charter month, the
figures are not so positive in other aspects, the Bulgarian capital's airport
announced. Total passenger traffic is down nearly 14% compared to May 2019 with
549,773 passengers served.
A drop of almost 15% was also observed
on domestic and international scheduled routes. A total of 19,932 passengers
flew to the coastal cities of Varna and Burgas during the period, while 500,506
passengers traveled on international flights.
There were also 10% fewer aircraft
movements, which added up to 4,912 in the past month, compared to 5,450 in May
of 2019.
The volume of cargo and mail handled
during the period was almost at pre-pandemic levels at 1,879 tonnes, which is
only a 2% less compared to May of 2019.
The effects of Covid-19, although
decreasing in severity, are still having an impact on air traffic. Bulgaria's
proximity to Ukraine and fuel prices are also factors negatively impacting
passenger numbers, while the approaching summer season gives cause for moderate
optimism, the Airport said.
Credit: BTA