Macedonian airports set for record year

Skopje and Ohrid airports are set for another record year after the two handled a combined total of just over two million passengers in 2017. Speaking to EX-YU Aviation News, the General Manager of TAV Macedonia, which operates the country's two international airports, Alper Ersoy, said, "Indeed 2017 was a successful year for TAV Macedonia. Wizz Air based its fourth aircraft at Skopje Airport and introduced four new destinations from/to Skopje. Qatar Airways, one of the five-star airlines, launched flights between Doha and Skopje, and, for the first time, we welcomed Polish tourists at Ohrid Airport, in addition to other leisure routes which were already in operation. As a result of the new destinations and increased frequencies, we expect to have slightly over two million passengers (13% increase compared to 2016) at both Skopje and Ohrid Airports in 2017. In addition, we have placed once again in the top ten best airports list compiled by Skytrax after 2015 and 2016".

The year is already shaping up to be a busy one for the Macedonian aviation sector. The government will commit 1.7 million euros to stimulate the introduction of new routes by low cost carriers, while three airlines have already confirmed the launch of new services to Ohrid. The expected change to Skopje Alexander the Great Airport's name will result in the introduction of flights between Athens and the Macedonian capital by Aegean Airlines. A number of other carriers have also expressed interest in serving the country including LOT Polish Airlines and Arkia Israeli Airlines. Representatives from both have held talks with the Macedonian government over potential services. "Entering a new market is always a though decision for airlines due to increased competition, reduced yields and start-up costs. Therefore, in order to make them feel comfortable, we introduce airline representatives with the respected governmental authorities. Thus, airlines have a better view and understanding, not only about airport capacity and capabilities, but also about the country, what Macedonia can offer as a destination, market size, catchment area potential and government support in aviation and tourism", Mr Ersoy noted.

In 2018, TAV Macedonia anticipates for passenger numbers to continue growing. "We predict a similar increase to the one we had in 2017, but, as you would appreciate, external factors have serious effects on passenger and flight numbers. We wish for a successful year for the entire aviation sector", the General Manager said. He added, "Our first aim in 2018, as always, will be to provide high quality services to our passengers and clients. We will continue to focus on passenger satisfaction and work hard towards being ranked as the Best Serving Airport in our category at Airports Council International's Airport Service Quality Awards, as we have done on three occasions, in 2012, 2013 and 2015. Our sister company BTA, which provides catering services, will introduce new food and beverage points both land and airsides at Skopje Airport. Thus, seat capacity at food and beverage areas will be extended".

The airport operator will also continue discussions with carriers in order to secure new services during 2018. "As a marketing strategy, we are constantly communicating with airlines and tour operators to attract them to enter the Macedonian market. TUI has already announced new flights from Eindhoven to Ohrid as of May 2018. In addition, Ohrid Airport will welcome Estonian tourists in the summer 2018. Similarly, flights from Katowice to Ohrid, as well as services from Warsaw to Ohrid, will be launched in 2018", Mr Ersoy concluded.