WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao International Airport (CUR), managed by Curaçao Airport Partners (CAP), is on track to reach a groundbreaking milestone this month: 2 million passengers in a single year. This achievement marks a historic moment for the airport and the island of Curaçao, showcasing the remarkable growth and success of its aviation sector.
The first 15 days of December 2024 alone have witnessed a staggering 27% increase in departing passengers compared to the same period last year. Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays remain the busiest days, with peak hours concentrated between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM.
As we approach the holidays and the full implementation of the winter schedule on December 19, we anticipate processing an average of 7,500 passengers daily, split between arrivals and departures,” said Jonny Andersen, CEO of CAP. “On peak days, such as December 20, 28, and January 5, passenger numbers are expected to climb even higher, reaching 8,500 per day. Achieving 2 million passengers in one year is an extraordinary milestone, reflecting the trust of our passengers and the dedication of our entire team and partners.”
This unprecedented growth is fueled by an additional KLM flight starting December 19 for the holiday season, increased frequencies from airlines such as Avianca, Delta, and Azul, and new destinations like Brussels (TUI), Fort Lauderdale (Azul), and Medellín (Wingo).
Passenger traffic traditionally spikes around December 19, coinciding with school vacations. This year is no exception, with record-breaking arrivals expected this weekend. Passengers staying for 7 to 10 days will likely contribute to elevated departure peaks throughout the holiday season and into the first two weeks of January 2025.
To manage this surge, Curaçao Airport Partners has implemented measures to enhance the passenger experience, including streamlined operations and collaborations with key stakeholders. “While high volumes may lead to some queues, our teams are working diligently to ensure a smooth travel experience,” Andersen added.
In preparation for the busy season, CAP hosted an Executive Aviation Breakfast this week, bringing together key stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and address operational priorities. The meeting focused on actionable plans, solidified agreements, and assigned responsibilities to ensure seamless operations for passengers and airlines alike.
“This holiday season, CUR Airport is committed to delivering excellence and efficiency,” Andersen concluded. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to travelers for their cooperation and wish everyone a joyful and memorable holiday season.”
As Curaçao Airport Partners prepares to celebrate this record-breaking achievement, the 2 millionth passenger milestone serves as a testament to the island's growing appeal as a premier travel destination and the airport's dedication to world-class service.
