Glasgow Airport recorded its busiest March on record in 2016 after more than 660,000 passengers traveled through its doors during the month, representing an increase of 9% on the same period last year.
The airport also created history after it exceeded 8.9 million passengers during a rolling 12-month period for the first time ever. The numbers ensure the airport remains on course to exceed nine million passengers during what is its 50th anniversary year.
International traffic grew by 11% due to strong demand on European routes to Berlin, Dusseldorf and Bucharest. Aer Lingus also added capacity on its Dublin service and the airport welcomed on board Air France, which launched its new service to its hub at Paris-Charles de Gaulle.
Domestic traffic increased by 7.2% with Flybe, EasyJet and Loganair all adding extra capacity on services. British Airways and Ryanair also reported strong demand for their London services.
Amanda McMillan, managing director of Glasgow Airport, said, “Our performance during the first quarter of 2016 has ensured we’ve made what is our busiest ever start to a year. The fact we have achieved this in our 50th anniversary year makes it all the more pleasing.
“Our passenger numbers continue to benefit from Glasgow’s success in attracting large scale events, such as the World Irish Dancing Championships which saw over 5,000 competitors from 20 different countries descend on the city last month.
“We have also continued to strengthen our route network, particularly our links with major European cities, and the addition of one of the world’s major flag carriers, Air France, was a significant achievement. Providing a greater choice of direct routes not only opens up a host of new markets for Scottish passengers, it ensures Scotland is more accessible for the growing number of tourists who continue to visit our shores.”