HIA witnesses surge of 164% in passenger traffic in 2022 second quarter
Hamad International Airport (HIA) has witnessed a tremendous increase in passenger movement for the second quarter of 2022. Over the course of the past couple of months. HIA has shown a marked increase in its traffic numbers, which signifies a strong air traffic recovery reminiscent of pre-COVID-19 levels.
In comparison to the first quarter numbers, the second quarter exhibits an 18% increase. The percentage of passenger transfers in Q2 was also 16% more than the previous quarter. Q2 also showed a significant increase of 47% higher number of outbound local passengers. The number of inbound passengers were 7% higher than Q1. A total of 8.42 million passenger were served in Q2 of 2022, with 2.8 million and 3.1 million passngers served in May and June alone, respectively.
Badr Al Meer, HIA’s Chief Operating Officer (COO) quoted that HIA witnesses more than 100,000 daily passengers in the second quarter. These numbers have improved significantly for the first time post-COVID-19 situation, thus proving the efficiency and smoothness of HIA’s efforts in rebuilding connectivity and mobility post-pandemic. The COO also remarked that the airport had expected the busy summer season and braced itself for heavy traffic by planning in advance. “Through real-time monitoring of passenger flow across the terminal and forecasting of passenger rushes, we are able to anticipate any traffic issues and mitigate them well in advance, working with our airport stakeholders such as airlines, government partners, contractors, etc.,” he remarked.
HIA has also launched daily direct services to more locations in Q2, such as the Malaysian Airlines and direct flight to New York’s JFK Airport. These steps will ensure more optimal connectivity, expansion of airline partners, and enhanced access to Middle East, United States, Europe, and Africa locations.
In the run up to FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, HIA is preparing to welcome more fans and visitors through its phase-by-phase expansion. Post phase A expansion, the airport’s capacity will be boosted to 58 million passengers. HIA has been voted the World’s Best Airport 2022 for the second year in a row by SKYTRAX, and is all set to welcome World Cup fans and visitors with much smooth travel experience.
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Source credit: Qatar Tribune
