The Middle East air passenger traffic is projected to reach 449 million in 2024, representing a significant increase from 2019 levels, according to data released by the Airports Council International (ACI). Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region, passenger numbers have continued to grow, with steady growth expected in the coming years. The UAE, along with the Middle East and globally, has seen a strong rebound in passenger traffic after the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Asia-Pacific region is expected to lead in year-on-year growth in 2024, with a 13 per cent increase, reaching 3.4 billion passengers by year-end. Passenger traffic in Africa is also projected to surpass 2019 levels, reaching 244 million passengers in 2024. North America is estimated to reach 2.2 billion passengers in 2024, while Europe is expected to reach approximately 2.5 billion passengers, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 7 per cent.
ACI World projects that total passengers will reach approximately 9.5 billion in 2024, representing 104 per cent of the 2019 level with a 10 per cent year-on-year growth. International passenger traffic is expected to reach 4.1 billion by the end of 2024, accounting for 43 per cent of total passengers, while domestic passenger traffic is projected to reach 5.4 billion, making up 57 per cent of the total. During the first half of 2024, total passenger traffic increased by 11 per cent, reaching 102 per cent of the June 2019 level.
Global passenger traffic reached 8.7 billion in 2023, marking a significant increase from the previous year and a recovery of 95 per cent from pre-pandemic levels. ACI warns of downside risks such as geopolitical conflicts, labour market bottlenecks, and aircraft delivery constraints that could impact the industry’s medium-to-long-term outlook. However, the gradual recovery of international passengers and the return to profitability for airlines signal positive momentum in the industry.
The study covered over 2,700 airports across more than 180 countries and territories, providing a comprehensive overview of the global air passenger traffic trends. With the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, Africa, North America, and Europe all showing strong growth projections, the aviation industry is poised for continued expansion and recovery in the years ahead. As geopolitical tensions and other risks persist, industry stakeholders will need to navigate challenges while capitalizing on opportunities for growth and innovation.
