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Corvera airport end-of-year passenger numbers: Best December of all time
Murcia International handled an incredible 41% more flights in December compared to 2023
The Region of Murcia International Airport, commonly known as Corvera Airport, soared to new heights in 2024, closing the year with some of its most impressive figures ever.
The airport welcomed 907,668 passengers, a 3.4% increase compared to 2023, according to data from Aena. The year also marked the best December in the airport’s history for passenger numbers and flight operations.
After a dip in passenger numbers during September and October, Corvera rebounded strongly in November, recording a 33% year-on-year increase. By December, the airport was making steady headway with 34,333 passengers passing through its gates, an 18.5% rise from the same month in 2023.
Operations in December also reached new heights, with 410 flights handled - a remarkable 40.9% increase over the previous year.
International travel is still Corvera’s cornerstone, with 787,595 passengers using the airport for overseas trips, a modest increase of 0.2%. However, the domestic market emerged as the standout performer in 2024. The introduction of new routes to Madrid and Barcelona fuelled a 35.9% surge in domestic passengers, totalling 114,770 for the year.
In terms of flight operations, Corvera managed 7,140 movements in 2024, marking a 6.6% uptick from the previous year.
Despite these promising figures, Corvera Airport is grappling with some significant challenges that could hinder its growth. A recent report identified the airport as one of the worst in Spain for delayed and cancelled flights, with 30% of all departures affected.
Another possible roadblock to growth is the shortage of hotels in the Region of Murcia, particularly in coastal areas. Major airlines like easyJet and Jet2.com have pointed to the lack of accommodation as a barrier to expanding routes to Corvera. Without sufficient hotel infrastructure, the airport may struggle to attract more airlines and boost both domestic and international tourism.
However, with strong passenger growth and record-breaking months now under its belt, Corvera Airport is starting to prove its importance to the Region. By tackling its challenges head-on, it could secure its place as a leading hub for tourism and travel in southern Spain.
Image: Archive
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