BARCELONA 2016 analysis

• Over 10% growth in Barcelona-El Prat airport to all markets. The domestic market (+1.2M, +11.4%) is recovering its traffic; the European market (+2.8M, +10.5%) is driving the absolute growth of passenger numbers; whereas the most significant relative growth is recorded by the intercontinental market (+ 500k, + 15.7%). The instability and perception of risk in other Mediterranean markets has diverted holiday traffic to Spain and Italy, a fact that has benefited Barcelona airport among others.

• The main European markets are driving passenger growth, led by British traffic (+ 11%, 3.6M) while traffic to the US, Irish and Emirates markets are leading relative growth.

• Strong competition for the Market Share. Ryanair and EasyJet are rapidly developing above Vueling, little by little taking over part of the market share (+1%). Strong growth of Norwegian (+ 50%) due to its increased routes and frequencies in the Spanish market; this increase allows it to grow 3 positions and to consolidate itself as the fourth airline of the airport, preparing the opening of the new long haul routes in summer 2017 from Barcelona. Also noteworthy is the above average growth of Iberia and Air Europa, which increase their capacity at the airport in 2016.

• The recovery of the “air bridge” has a significant influence on the good role of Iberia. Emirates continue its upward trend due to the daily double  Airbus A380 in Barcelona.

Source: www.cambrabcn.org/ February 2017

Barcelona Air Route Development Committee

promotes Barcelona Airport intercontinental flights