Jordan's Queen Alia International Airport (QAIA) witnessed a notable 11.6 per cent year-on-year rise in passenger traffic in May compared to the same period in 2015.

According to figures issued by Airport International Group (AIG) - the Jordanian company responsible for the rehabilitation, expansion and operation of QAIA, May also saw year-on-year increases in aircraft movements (ACM) and cargo traffic numbers, continuing the consistent streak of growth witnessed at the airport in 2016 thus far.

Throughout the month of May, QAIA welcomed a total of 631,384 passengers in comparison to 565,591 passengers received in the same period last year. In addition, QAIA registered 6,208 ACM as opposed to 5,980 ACM in May 2015, effecting a 3.8 per cent rise. QAIA also handled 8,988 tons of cargo set against 8,809 tons during May of last year for an increase of 2 per cent.

As of the end of May, the airport’s overall year-to-date (YTD) passenger numbers for 2016 has reached 2,872,711, registering a significant climb of 8.2 per cent in comparison to the same period last year. ACM and cargo figures have also recorded discernible increases in 2016, achieving YTD rises of 7.4 per cent and 8.5 per cent respectively.

“Since the start of 2016, QAIA’s monthly results have consistently surpassed those of last year, resulting in net increases in year-to-date passenger numbers, ACM and cargo handled alike,” said Airport International Group CEO Kjeld Binger. “The positive results achieved in May can be attributed in part to the number of national celebrations and official holidays marked during the month, which stimulated travel in the kingdom. As we approach the Eid al-Fitr holidays, we look forward to further growth and to welcoming visitors from around the globe, generating a positive effect on not only the tourism sector, but also on the kingdom’s economy as a whole.” - TradeArabia News Service