The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released its 2024 full-year air passenger market report, revealing record-high demand for global air travel. The report highlights a 10.4 per cent increase in total traffic compared to 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 3.8 per cent. The overall load factor reached a record 83.5 per cent, demonstrating strong travel demand and efficient airline operations.
Key Growth Trends in 2024
– International passenger traffic surged 13.6 per cent year-over-year, with capacity expanding by 12.8 per cent.
– Domestic travel demand increased 5.7 per cent, supported by rising air travel in markets like China and India.
– December 2024 saw an 8.6 per cent increase in total traffic, capping off a historic year for the aviation industry.
Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, stated: “2024 confirmed that the desire to travel remains stronger than ever. With record demand and an all-time high load factor, aviation continues to drive global connectivity, economic growth, and tourism.”
Regional Market Performance
– Asia-Pacific airlines led global growth, recording a 26 per cent rise in international traffic. However, international RPKs remained 8.7 per cent below 2019 levels, indicating further growth potential.
– European carriers saw 9.7 per cent growth, maintaining a strong recovery trajectory.
– North American airlines recorded a 6.8 per cent increase, with a load factor of 84.2 per cent.
– Middle Eastern carriers reported 9.4 per cent growth, fueled by increased intercontinental travel.
– Latin America and Africa showed strong growth, with 14.4 per cent and 13.2 per cent increases, respectively.
Looking ahead, IATA forecasts 8 per cent demand growth in 2025, aligning with historical trends. However, Walsh emphasised the need for improved aviation safety and increased adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). In 2024, airlines made record investments in SAF, but it accounted for less than 0.5 per cent of total fuel consumption. He urged governments to prioritize renewable fuel production and reallocate subsidies to support sustainability efforts.
With global air travel demand at an all-time high, airlines and policymakers must work together to enhance infrastructure, sustainability, and safety as the industry continues its robust expansion into 2025 and beyond.
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