Stansted Passenger Numbers Drop Again.

16/01/2012

Over the last year Stansted has suffered a loss in passenger numbers of 2.8%, taking the number of passengers down to 18 million last year versus 2010.

It is the first time that Stansted has been fourth largest in terms of passenger numbers, as Manchester has taken their third place spot, behind London Heathrow and Gatwick; both of which have seen a rise in passenger numbers.

A Stansted spokesman said: “Ultimately the figures come down to the perilous state of the economy – consumer uncertainty, rising unemployment and reduced disposable household income… The aviation sector and Stansted in particular have had a very tough 2011 but the figures are completely in line with our own predictions… High oil prices, a squeeze on real incomes and instability in the Eurozone have all conspired to result in a significant drop in passenger numbers… It's not going to be an easy ride for any British company in 2012 but we have to think positively, act creatively and drive efficiencies in everything we do."

The news has fuelled rumours that Manchester Airport Group (MAG) are likely to try a buy out of either Edinburgh or Stansted when BAA is forced to sell them. MAG have already said that they are not interested in Edinburgh as it is too small, but Stansted is still a possibility. To book parking at Stansted, click here.