In June, for the second consecutive month, Baltic Ground Services (BGS) achieved 100% on-time performance for Wizz Air flights at Vilnius Airport. The company was able to achieve this result despite the summer season’s increase in passengers and the typical challenges associated with the summer vacation period.

Flight delays are common during the summer months, mainly due to the increased number of flights and passengers. IATA data shows that passenger demand jumped by 9.1% in June, with load factors at 85%. Industry professionals predict that this summer may be the worst in history in terms of the number of delayed flights.

And the summer vacation season is not the only reason for flight delays. For example, on June 25, Belgium experienced a 24-hour national strike, halting all outgoing flights. According to Vitalis Dudys, BGS Group Head of Commerce, considering all these factors, the 100% on-time performance is even more impressive.

“In aviation, summer is both the busiest and most chaotic season. There are numerous reasons for this – crowds, strikes, weather conditions, and so on. Ground handling services are complex, and in such circumstances, the margin for errors becomes even smaller. It’s all the more reason to feel proud of this achievement,” he states.

Meanwhile, Grzegorz Michalec, Ground Operations Manager at Wizz Air, emphasizes that during the summer months, every minute counts, as airlines face a more challenging environment due to limited Air Traffic Management (ATC) slots, airport capacity, and high demand. Even a single minute can mean a missed ATC slot, resulting in additional delays, disrupted crew rosters, canceled flights, and frustrated customers.

“The BGS ground handling team perfectly understands what’s at stake here and collaborates seamlessly with Wizz Air crews, going the extra mile to ensure passengers reach their destinations safely and on time. This commitment enhances overall operations,” he adds.

Achieving 100% punctuality in aviation remains rare. Typically, airlines set their ground handling service-providing partners with targets of 97-98%. According to Mr. Dudys, BGS has an internal goal of 99.2%, which is quite ambitious by industry standards.

“Achieving 100% punctuality for two consecutive months is one of the most significant results an airport ground handling company can reach, as we are only as good as the services we provide. Over the years, BGS has built a team of professionals who create real value for our clients,” he remarks.