Russia, Latin America boost Schiphol

The year as a whole saw improvements in exports to Europe, including Russia (up 29 percent), and to Latin America (up 8.9 percent). Imports from Europe increased 57 percent.

Overall, exports accounted for 49.3 percent of total throughput, up slightly on 2011’s 49 percent.

Schiphol’s top two markets of Asia and the U.S. were both down 8 percent year-over-year, although exports to Asia held up better than imports.

The airport’s senior VP cargo, Enno Osinga, commented, “The weak beginning to 2012 was the largest factor in the full year’s slight drop in tonnage. After that, the year displayed steadier traffic flows than 2011, with less pronounced peaks and troughs. Amid the ongoing economic problems in the eurozone and their adverse effect on consumer confidence and spending, we cannot be too unhappy with the final total.

“We continue to look at new markets, and we continue to drive the streamlining of processes at Schiphol. These are long-term investments that will eventually pay handsome dividends for our air cargo community, and further support our drive to be Europe’s preferred air cargo gateway.”

The year as a whole saw improvements in exports to Europe, including Russia (up 29 percent), and to Latin America (up 8.9 percent). Imports from Europe increased 57 percent.

Overall, exports accounted for 49.3 percent of total throughput, up slightly on 2011’s 49 percent.

Schiphol’s top two markets of Asia and the U.S. were both down 8 percent year-over-year, although exports to Asia held up better than imports.

The airport’s senior VP cargo, Enno Osinga, commented, “The weak beginning to 2012 was the largest factor in the full year’s slight drop in tonnage. After that, the year displayed steadier traffic flows than 2011, with less pronounced peaks and troughs. Amid the ongoing economic problems in the eurozone and their adverse effect on consumer confidence and spending, we cannot be too unhappy with the final total.

“We continue to look at new markets, and we continue to drive the streamlining of processes at Schiphol. These are long-term investments that will eventually pay handsome dividends for our air cargo community, and further support our drive to be Europe’s preferred air cargo gateway.”