Decline in Passengers and Increase in Cargo

Maastricht Aachen Airport has published the first results for the year 2025. The airport operators report a significant increase in air freight volume, while passenger numbers have decreased compared to the previous year. A total of 41,636 tons of freight were handled at the airport in 2025, while the number of passengers stood at 159,270. The number of flight movements amounted to 7,549, of which 1,737 were cargo aircraft and 994 were passenger aircraft. The remaining movements were caused by helicopters, small aircraft, and maintenance flights.

Decline in Passengers and Rising Freight Numbers

In contrast to passenger numbers, the airport recorded a significant increase in air freight. After a decline in freight volumes following the runway renovation, the airport achieved an increase of over 40% in 2025. This development is seen as the first positive result of investments in freight handling, particularly in the second half of 2025.

At the end of 2024, Maastricht Aachen Airport announced its intention to focus on air freight. The long-term business strategy aims to reach 500,000 passengers and 200,000 tons of freight. While both areas are important for the airport, a quicker profitability is expected in the air freight sector. This strategy is already reflected in the increased freight volumes in 2025.

New Airport Resolution and Infrastructure Measures

Additionally, Maastricht Aachen Airport submitted an application for a new airport resolution at the beginning of January 2026. This step is part of efforts to transform the airport into a sustainable and future-proof facility. The application includes, among other things, an extension of the operational runway to 2,750 meters, allowing cargo aircraft to take off with heavier loads or reach more distant destinations. These measures are intended not only to strengthen the airport’s competitiveness but also to reduce the burden on the surrounding communities.

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