Oslo, Norway – The air transport industry in Norway has displayed positive signs of recovery in April 2023, with the number of passengers on board at departure and arrival at Norwegian airports reaching 4.1 million. This data, released by the authorities, indicates a 1.1% increase compared to the same period in 2022. However, when compared to April 2020, the figures are still significantly lower, down by 828.5%, highlighting the impact of the ongoing pandemic on the industry.
The report provides a comprehensive overview of the main figures for Norwegian airports in April 2023, offering insights into domestic and international flights. Despite the challenges faced by the sector, the statistics reveal some positive trends.
In terms of domestic flights, there were 1,230,589 passengers on board at departure, reflecting a 6.5% decrease compared to April 2022. However, when compared to April 2020, the decline is even more significant, down by 15.0%. The number of seats available on domestic flights also experienced a decline, with 1,890,092 seats recorded, reflecting a 4.9% decrease compared to the previous year.
Aircraft movements, which encompass takeoffs and landings, reached 19,327 in April 2023, representing a 5.2% decrease compared to April 2022. When compared to April 2018, the decline stands at 14.9%.
On the international front, there were 1,664,780 passengers on board at departure and arrival in April 2023, reflecting a substantial increase of 14.9% compared to the same period in the previous year. However, when compared to April 2020, the decline is still evident, down by 10.5%. The number of seats available on international flights also experienced growth, with 2,479,617 seats recorded, reflecting an 8.7% increase compared to the previous year.
Aircraft movements for international flights reached 14,707 in April 2023, indicating a positive growth rate of 10.1% compared to April 2022. However, when compared to April 2018, the decline stands at 13.1%.
These figures indicate that the air transport industry in Norway is gradually recovering from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The increase in the number of passengers and aircraft movements, particularly on international flights, is an encouraging sign for the sector’s revival. However, it is important to note that the industry still has a long way to go to reach pre-pandemic levels, as evidenced by the significant declines compared to April 2020.
The authorities will continue monitoring the situation closely, with the next update on air transport statistics scheduled for 15 June 2023. The industry remains hopeful that the positive trends will continue and that air travel will steadily regain its strength in the coming months.