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In a groundbreaking disclosure by renowned travel analytics firm ForwardKeys, the tapestry of global air traffic has undergone transformative changes. Their latest report illuminates the shifting landscape of the top 50 busiest airports based on outbound international passengers, with the spotlight firmly on the European Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regions.

The MENA region and Europe are witnessing travel recovery and an evolution in air travel dynamics. European airports, especially, have experienced a whirlwind of change. Istanbul’s Sabiha Gokcen (SAW) and Antalya (AYT) made impressive strides, attributed to the insatiable allure of Turkey’s sun-kissed beaches and value-driven tourism. Istanbul Airport further cements its position as an influential global nexus for travel.

Berlin’s Brandenburg (BER) Airport has entered this elite list, taking the reins from the now-closed Schonefeld and Tegel airports. Paris Orly (ORY) soared to new heights, ascending 13 places from its 2019 standing, a testament to the strategic expansion with the inauguration of Terminal 3 in 2019. Furthermore, Malaga-Costa del Sol (AGP) has successfully capitalized on enhanced connectivity, facilitated by EasyJet’s 2021 seasonal base establishment and fresh routes to the USA and the Middle East.

Busiest airports top 20.

The MENA sector, too, has made its indomitable presence felt. Cairo International (CAI) and Jeddah (JED) have achieved towering ranking increments of 26 and 16 places, respectively. This surge underscores the region’s escalating prominence in business travel and extended transits. Furthermore, it’s an ode to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states’ zealous efforts to invigorate tourism, intending to inject diversity into their economic frameworks.

Marina Giuliano, the illustrious VP of Brands, Retail, and Media at ForwardKeys, opines, “This isn’t just about recovery; it’s a paradigm shift in travel preferences. Emerging markets in Europe and the Middle East present a goldmine of opportunities for retailers and brands.” She further emphasized the pivotal role of data-driven strategies, especially given the slower reactivation pace in the Asia-Pacific.

As industry stakeholders eagerly anticipate the TFWA Conference in Cannes, ForwardKeys’ insightful revelations in “The Busiest Airports of the World” report promise to set the tone for many strategic deliberations.