Italian airports handled 824,670 tons of cargo in the first eight months of 2024, marking a 17.9% increase compared to the previous year. According to a statement from Assaeroporti, Milan Malpensa confirmed its status as the country's main cargo hub, handling 482,525 tons—up 10.5% from 2023. However, the most striking figure comes from Rome Fiumicino, which moved 181,397 tons in the first eight months, registering an impressive 57.9% year-on-year growth.
This surge is mainly attributed to two factors: the increased air transportation of pharmaceutical products, with Fiumicino becoming a key hub for Southern Europe, and the expansion of international routes, particularly to North America and Asia. Analysts predict that Fiumicino's growth may continue into 2025, fueled by the upcoming Jubilee.
Other airports that saw significant cargo traffic increases in the first eight months of the year include Bergamo (+8.7%), Bologna (+11.7%), Brescia (+6%), Venice (+28.7%), and Lamezia Terme (+13.3%). Verona showed a strong recovery, handling 708.5 tons of cargo. On the downside, some airports in central and southern Italy saw declines, including Catania (-30.3%), Cagliari (-36.8%), and Florence (-51.3%). In the north, Genoa (-27.2%) and Turin (-39.5%) also recorded decreases.
