The Routes Europe 2026 Awards highlight achievements by airports and airlines in strategic marketing, route development, and industry collaboration. Finalists from various passenger categories were announced, with winners scheduled for announcement during the event in Rimini, Italy, on May 19, 2026.
In the under 5 million passenger category, Bratislava Airport in Slovakia experienced its strongest year with notable growth driven by airline partnerships and network expansion. Cork Airport in Ireland and Dubrovnik Airport in Croatia also showcased significant performance, with increased passenger numbers and new route launches involving airlines such as Wizz Air and Ryanair, among others.
In the 5–20 million passenger segment, Glasgow Airport in Scotland and Larnaka International Airport in Cyprus reported substantial growth through data-driven route planning and network expansion, supported by new airline entries and additional routes. Prague Airport in the Czech Republic and Thessaloniki Airport in Greece posted strong results, with Prague adding numerous new destinations and Thessaloniki achieving a record passenger count, aided by incentive schemes and new services.
The over 20 million passengers category included Athens International Airport in Greece, which surpassed 34 million travelers thanks to network and capacity enhancements. Brussels Airport in Belgium expanded its route map with new destinations and airlines, while Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport in Turkey recorded 48.4 million passengers, increasing international connectivity substantially. Munich Airport in Germany and Rome Fiumicino Airport in Italy both experienced significant growth, with the latter surpassing 50 million passengers and broadening its global network.
These finalists exemplify the ongoing efforts in aviation to enhance connectivity, optimize route networks, and strengthen airline partnerships across Europe. The awards will celebrate those organizations that have made notable contributions to the industry’s resilience and growth.
