IATA: global passenger demand surpasses pre-pandemic levels by 3.8 percent in 2024
(MENAFN) According to data released by the International Air transport Association (IATA) on Thursday, global passenger demand in 2024 surpassed pre-pandemic levels by 3.8 percent, driven by a 10.4 percent year-on-year surge. This growth highlights the Aviation industry's impressive recovery following the pandemic, with demand reaching new heights. The sector also achieved its highest-ever annual load factor, hitting 83.5 percent, which indicates a significant increase in the efficiency of filling available seats.
In response to this demand, airline capacity expanded by 8.7 percent on an annualized basis, demonstrating the industry’s ability to meet growing travel needs while improving operational efficiency. The increase in capacity suggests that airlines are continuing to adapt to market changes and invest in their ability to serve more passengers effectively.
IATA's Director General, Willie Walsh, emphasized the strong appetite for travel and highlighted the resilience of the aviation sector. He noted that the growth of the industry has far-reaching impacts, benefiting economies and societies through job creation, trade, innovation, and more. International travel experienced remarkable growth, with demand rising by 13.6 percent from the previous year, while domestic travel also showed solid gains, increasing by 5.7 percent.
Despite these positive developments, Walsh pointed out that the sector faces critical challenges, including safety concerns, particularly following the recent mid-air collision between a passenger plane and an army helicopter near Washington. He also emphasized the need for a renewed focus on sustainability, noting that while there were record investments in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) last year, its availability remains limited, meeting less than 0.5 percent of the industry’s total fuel needs.
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