Italian Airports Break Records After the Pandemic: 219 Million in 2024, 106.6 Million in the First Half of 2025
Italy’s airport system is rapidly advancing as one of Europe’s leading air transport hubs, driven by record passenger traffic that proves the post-pandemic era is behind us.
In 2024, Italian civil aviation reached 219 million passengers, recording 11.1% growth compared to the previous year and surpassing pre-pandemic levels. In the first half of 2025, 106.6 million passengers were served, marking an additional 6.2% increase. International traffic made up two-thirds of the total, with strong momentum on non-EU routes to Asia.
Regional Dynamics and Airport Rankings
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Rome Fiumicino retained its leadership with 49.2 million passengers and set a record of 176,000 passengers in a single day.
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Milan Malpensa ranked second with 28.9 million passengers.
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Bergamo (17.4 million) and Naples Capodichino (12 million) completed the podium.
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Catania, Venice, Bologna, and Milan Linate all surpassed the 10 million mark, becoming key strategic hubs.
In Southern Italy, Apulia’s airports stood out with a 28.4% increase in the first months of the year, while Tuscany achieved 5.6% growth, fuelled by tourism.
Infrastructure and Growth Crisis
ENAC identified Bergamo, Venice, Naples, Catania, Palermo, and Bologna as critical hubs facing a “growth crisis.” Rising passenger volumes are straining capacity across runways, terminals, air traffic control, and ground services.
Cargo and Sustainability
Cargo traffic also hit a historic record in 2024, reaching 1.25 million tonnes. Malpensa handled 371,000 tonnes, accounting for 60% of national freight, while Rome Fiumicino strengthened its strategic role in Africa and Middle East connections.
Italian airports are also accelerating investments in sustainability and digitalisation. Venice Marco Polo Airport became the first to sign an agreement on hydrogen use, while many airports are investing in renewable energy and AI-powered passenger flow management.
Towards 250 Million Passengers
By the end of 2025, passenger numbers are projected to reach between 230 and 240 million. Rome Fiumicino is targeting 53 million, and Milan Malpensa 32 million passengers — a trajectory that will position Italy among Europe’s strongest air transport networks.
ENAC President Pierluigi Di Palma stated:
“While Italy is breaking records in air traffic, sustainable growth and infrastructure investments will be the most critical agenda items in the coming years.”
