Air Traffic In Edmonton Climbs Dramatically in First Quarter of 1996
Passenger air traffic in Edmonton — at both the International and Municipal Airports — was up markedly in the first quarter of 1996, Edmonton Airports announced today.
Edmonton International Airport recorded a 24% increase in traffic in the first quarter of 1996 over the same period in 1995. Edmonton Municipal Airport recorded a 12% increase over 1995.
Edmonton International Airport
Jan Feb Mar First Quarter
1995 144,954 133,844 151,503 430,301
1996 159,243 164,513 211,338 535,094
Increase 14,289 30,669 59,835 104,793
% Increase 10% 23% 40% 24%
Edmonton Municipal Airport
Jan Feb Mar First Quarter
1995 65,977 67,542 77,368 210,887
1996 70,972 75,095 89,800 235,867
Increase 4,995 7,553 12,432 24,980
% Increase 8% 11% 16% 12%
“The dramatic increase at the International in March can be partially attributed to the introduction of WestJet services on February 29,” said Edmonton Airports Marketing Vice President Garry King. “WestJet accounted for about half of the increase in March, but that doesn’t tell the whole story. Other airlines also experienced growth in this quarter. For example, we are seeing the results of the new Horizon daily non-stop service to Seattle, and overall improvements in both domestic and transborder traffic.”
“We are really starting to see stimulation of the air traffic market as a result of improved services,” said King. “Improved service and more competition leads to lower prices and more choices. That, in turn, draws people to air travel who might have been choosing other forms of transportation or simply choosing not to travel. Also, improved service in Edmonton encourages people to use our airports who may have otherwise chosen to drive to Calgary to start their trip.”
King pointed out that both Edmonton airports experienced growth. “This is not a case of one airport stealing passengers from another. Overall growth in this city climbed sharply,” said King.