The FINANCIAL — Melbourne Airport has started 2016 with a record-breaking month for passenger movements.
January 2016 was the busiest month on record for international passenger movements which increased by 11 per cent compared to the same period last year to reach 876,890 passengers, according to Melbourne Airport.
Saturday, January 16 was the busiest day on record for arriving international passengers with 17,597 passengers arriving on that day.
Domestic passengers also grew during January, up by 5 per cent, while total passengers increased by 6 per cent on the same time last year.
China led the way for growth in international passengers, with a 35 per cent increase on the same time last year supported by an increase in seat capacity from Chinese airlines flying to Melbourne.
New services from airlines such as Scoot Airlines, who commenced services in November, drove increases in passenger traffic from Singapore, which was up by 32 per cent compared to the same time last year.
There was a 17 per cent increase in passport holders from the United States, reflecting the benefit of daily direct services between Melbourne and the US from United Airlines.
Quotes attributable to Lyell Strambi, CEO Melbourne Airport
“New services, increased frequency and aircraft upgrades are all helping to drive growth in international passengers at Melbourne Airport.”
“We value the support of our airline customers in promoting Melbourne as a destination and will continue to work closely with them to improve our services and the experience for passengers travelling through Melbourne Airport.”
“Our international visitors make an important contribution to the Australian economy by travelling here for business, education, leisure or major events, and we’ll continue to work closely with industry leaders, including Government and airlines, in supporting the increase in demand for travel.”
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