Controversy over the policies adopted for the relaunch of Calabrian airports. Councillor Minenna: “The data speak of success”
18 December 2024
Faced with the recent criticism made by some regional councilors on the policies adopted for the relaunch of Calabrian airports, the Councilor for Economy, Finance and Unitary Strategic Planning, Marcello Minenna, responds with concrete data.
Minenna's analysis
From 1 August 2024, the removal of the municipal surcharge on boarding fees has brought tangible results to the Calabrian airport system, with an increase in air traffic, the arrival of new airlines, and more competitive fares. Minenna points out that the regional investment of 12-13 million euros, sustainable compared to the onerous incentives adopted in other regions, has made it possible to avoid significant price increases, favoring competition and accessibility.
The numbers confirm the success:
- Reggio Calabria: +163% traffic thanks to new strategic routes such as London, Brussels and Paris.
- Lamezia Terme: +22.5% growth, with a reduction in winter rates of -8%.
- Crotone: operating stability and average prices falling.
While in other regions fares increase by up to 50%, Calabria records a reduction of 37% on strategic routes such as Rome-Lamezia Terme. Minenna emphasizes that the incentives are not "aid" but tools to attract investments in a territory that was once marginalized, with results that place Calabria among the fastest growing airport systems in Europe, as attested by Cirium.
The councillor invites critics to evaluate the results obtained and to recognise the value of a model that has guaranteed the right to mobility, stimulated tourism and supported the local economy. "Less words, more study", concludes Minenna, claiming a strategic approach that has made Calabria a virtuous example of sustainable growth.
