Nearly 50,000 travelers crossed through Andalusian ports during the first three days of Operation Strait Crossing (OPE), a significant increase of 90.7% compared to the same period in 2023. OPE, launched on June 13th on the Spanish side and coordinated with Morocco's Marhaba 2024 operation, facilitates travel across the Strait of Gibraltar during the peak summer season. Data from the Spanish Ministry of the Interior, obtained by Europa Press, reveals a total of 49,946 travelers between June 13th and 15th, 2024. The first day saw 14,286 people and 4,201 vehicles, followed by 15,438 and 4,588 on the second day. The third day, coinciding with the two days leading up to Eid al-Adha in Morocco, witnessed a peak of 20,222 passengers and 6,678 vehicles. Authorities anticipate additional peaks throughout the operation. Look out for increased traffic during the last weekend of July (July 27th-29th) and the first week of August (August 1st-5th). The return phase is expected to be busiest on August 30th, 31st, and September 1st. Spain's OPE will continue until September 15th, assisting travelers entering or leaving participating ports during this annual summer operation.
