Mideast airlines drive global air traffic to record high

Global air passenger traffic reached record high levels in 2024, with the Middle East experiencing significant growth that underscores its vital role in international air travel, the International Air Transport Association (Iata) said on Thursday.

- Issac John [e-mail]

Total traffic for the year surged by 10.4 per cent compared to 2023, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 3.8 per cent. This robust performance was driven by strong international demand, particularly from the UAE's prominent airlines.

Middle Eastern airlines reported a 9.4 per cent increase in traffic for 2024, with capacity growing by 8.4 per cent. The load factor, a key indicator of efficiency, rose to 80.8 per cent, reflecting the region's ability to meet rising passenger demand while maintaining operational effectiveness. In December alone, demand climbed 7.7 per cent year-on-year, highlighting a strong finish for the sector as travellers flocked to the region during the holiday season.

Willie Walsh, Iata's director general, emphasised the pent-up desire for travel, stating, "2024 made it absolutely clear that people want to travel. With demand growth of 10.4 per cent, travel reached record numbers domestically and internationally."