In a remarkable feat that underscores Aruba Airport Authority N.V. (Aruba Aiport)’s commitment to excellence in contributing to Aruba’s aviation and travel industry, the final traffic numbers for 2023 have surpassed all expectations, firmly establishing the airport as a regional contender showing unprecedented growth and success. In the year 2023, Aruba Airport experienced a staggering 13% increase in passenger traffic versus 2022 which stands at a recovery of 8% above 2019 numbers, reaching a new milestone of 1,368,129 departing, revenue generating passengers. These remarkable numbers solidify Aruba Airport as a leader in the region within the aviation industry.
Of this number of passengers 72% departed to the USA, 4% to Canada, 14% to Latin America and the Caribbean region, 6% to Europe and 4% to the Dutch Caribbean islands. When comparing these markets to the departing passenger numbers of 2022 it can be reported that the Canadian market grew with 82%, the Latin America & Caribbean market with 51%, the Dutch Caribbean islands with 14% and the USA with 9%. The European market was the only market that decreased in amount of departing passengers for 2023 with 18% versus the previous year. The average load factors (number seats occupied on board an aircraft) of aircraft operating out of Aruba were also extremely positive especially for the North America carriers (USA and Canada) and those from Latin American, respectively with an average of 92% and 83% for 2023. Our aircraft movements for 2023 have not yet reached 2019 levels and currently stand at a 92% recovery rate. Aircraft operations experienced a high load factor this past year and larger aircraft were also used by certain airlines.
This surge in traffic not only reflects the increasing popularity of Aruba as a travel destination but also signifies the positive economic impact on our local community. As more travelers choose Aruba for their journey, the tourism industry on the island is thriving and will continue to create further opportunities. The Gateway 2030 expansion project that Aruba Airport is currently developing will further support these opportunities and the first phase of this project is set to be completed in 2024. The next important expansion phase is also set to commence in the year 2024. Based on the passenger’s satisfaction and experience levels expressed by means of our monthly airport surveys, Aruba Airport has managed to handle their needs at a very good level in both satisfaction and experience during 2023. Notwithstanding these results, Aruba Airport’s focal point during the coming years will not only be to ensure that travel options are maintained and expanded on and that airport experiences are safeguarded, but also that the additional airport infrastructure is created with the next phases of the Gateway 2030 project.
Joost Meijs, CEO of Aruba Airport Authority N.V., expressed excitement over the remarkable achievement, stating, “These outstanding numbers are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, as well as the trust and preference of travelers who choose Aruba as their destination.'” In the past year, Aruba Airport introduced innovative services, expanded its route network, and implemented cutting-edge technology, all of which have played a pivotal role in attracting more passengers and airlines. As Aruba Airport continues to soar to new heights, passengers can expect even more exciting developments on the horizon, with plans for improved and expanded facilities, enhanced services, and a commitment to providing an overall pleasant and authentic airport experience.
About AUA Airport
AUA Airport is one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean region, with 22 different airlines operating into Aruba contributing to processing over 2.5 million passengers per year and providing air service to 22 cities and 34 non-stop destinations worldwide. AUA Airport’s markets served comprise of 76% from the United States & Canada, 14% from Latin America, 6% from Europe, and 4% from Dutch Caribbean, year to date, December 2023. AUA Airport attributes this to the island’s stable economic and political climate, hospitable and multilingual population, and safe environment. AUA Airport’s aspiration is to become one of the most Sustainable, Safe, and Future Proof airports of the Latin America & Caribbean region, providing a trusted workplace, modern airport facilities and excellent customer service which reflects Aruban hospitality, contributing to a prosperous future for Aruba.
Learn more about what’s happening at AUA Airport by visiting www.airportaruba.com and connect with AUA Airport on Twitter.com/Aruba_Airport, Facebook.com/ArubaAirport, Instagram.com/arubaairport/ and Linkedin.com/ArubaAirport.
