Sharjah Airport reports record-breaking passenger numbers, increased flight operations, and a 38.6% surge in cargo handling
Sharjah [UAE], January 14: Sharjah International Airport achieved remarkable milestones in 2024, welcoming 17,101,725 passengers, an impressive 11.4% increase from 2023’s 15.35 million passengers, as announced by the Sharjah Airport Authority (SAA).
Flight operations also surged, with the total number of flights rising to 107,760, reflecting a 9.5% growth from 98,433 flights in 2023. The airport also witnessed a dramatic 38.6% increase in cargo volumes, handling 195,909 tonnes, further cementing its role as a major logistics hub.
Key Milestones and Initiatives
Ali Salim Al Midfa, Chairman of SAA, attributed the airport’s success to its strategic vision and commitment to offering top-tier services.
“Our results underscore Sharjah Airport’s status as a global hub for air transport and logistics. As part of our strategic plan to accommodate 25 million passengers annually by 2027, we continue enhancing infrastructure, streamlining operations, and promoting sustainability,” Al Midfa stated.
Sheikh Faisal bin Saoud Al Qassimi, Director of SAA, highlighted that the airport’s growth reflects Sharjah’s advances in tourism, economic development, and investment, supported by cutting-edge infrastructure and progressive governance.
Expanded Flight Network and Cargo Operations
Sharjah Airport added seven new direct destinations in 2024, boosting connectivity:
- Air Arabia launched flights to Warsaw and Krakow (Poland), Athens (Greece), Vienna (Austria), and Male (Maldives).
- Fly Oya introduced routes to Tripoli, Libya.
Additionally, six new airlines, including Fly Jinnah (Pakistan), UR Airlines (Iraq), Flynas (Saudi Arabia), and AJet (Turkey), began operations, connecting passengers to over 100 global destinations.
Sharjah also enhanced its air cargo operations, attracting key players like:
- Kenya Airways, connecting Kenya, Somalia, and Tanzania.
- UPS, with weekly routes linking the Far East, Sharjah, and Europe.
- Qatar Airways Cargo, inaugurating Doha-Sharjah routes.
The airport also supported Sharjah’s food security initiatives, facilitating the import of 2,200 cattle for the Mleiha Dairy Farm project.
Looking Ahead
Sharjah Airport’s achievements in 2024 highlight its pivotal role in the UAE’s aviation sector. With continued investments, expanded partnerships, and enhanced services, the airport is poised to achieve its 2027 passenger target and further boost Sharjah’s global standing as a tourism and logistics hub.
