In a communication addressed to SATA Group employees, Luís Rodrigues, Chairman of the Board of Directors, offered an optimistic view of the results accomplished in July and August and seized the chance to thank the commitment of those who contributed to the success of the air operation during the summer. “The path we are taking is still full of obstacles and challenges and is far from being complete or close to the end. But the path it is also made up of interim victories, which, among other things, strengthen our spirit to move forward.” These were the words — to which he added the quote of a compliment sent by a very satisfied passenger — that initiated the message Luís Rodrigues addressed to SATA Group workers. However, this message could certainly be extended to partners and passengers, considering their contribution to the unexpected rise. The perspective at the beginning of the year 2021 was far from approaching 2019 demand records, and it was even less expected to see demands records rise above 2019 marks, with unprecedented and remarkable punctuality levels. “Today, we want to congratulate everyone for the excellent performance we were able to deliver in what is, historically, the most stressful moment for the organization and anxiety for our passengers: August, the peak of summer!” said Luís Rodrigues. After a very challenging first semester for the entire industry, the SATA Group reached an interesting recovery in traffic already in July by transporting around 82% of the passengers it had carried in the whole network of flights offered in July 2019, before the pandemic. The results of July were very pleasing, but the month of August was even more encouraging, with records showing the same traffic levels compared to August 2019. Azores Airlines, which serves domestic and international routes, was only 3% below the number of passengers transported two years ago, and SATA Air Açores, the airline that operates the nine islands of the Azores Archipelago, registered an increase of 3%, equivalent to 3,417 more passengers when compared to 2019. A critical aspect that the Chairman of the SATA Group highlighted was the punctuality records achieved by both companies in 2021, reaching 90% to the date, which is twice the punctuality presented in 2019. It is a very relevant factor insofar, considering that the traffic recovery was promoted by passengers who were more satisfied with the service provided. It also allows costs reduction, as well as inspires a greater internal motivation. Despite the challenging and uncertain times that continue to be lived, the positive operational balance of the last few months (and, in particular, at the time of the year when the air operation is put to the test given the greater demand), allows us to face the future challenges with strengthened spirit.
