December 27, 2023

The Number of Global Airline Passengers in 2024 is Predicted to Reach an All-time High of 4.7 billion

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released its 2024 revenue forecasts for the world's airlines. Net income in 2023 is expected to be $23.3 billion. In 2024, it is expected to rise slightly to $25.7 billion.

The total number of passengers worldwide in 2024 will be approximately 4.7 billion, the highest ever, exceeding the 4.5 billion in 2019. The number of flights operated is also expected to reach 40.1 million, exceeding the 38.9 million flights in 2019. Total revenue is expected to reach a record high of $964 billion, an increase of 7.6% from the previous year.

Similarly, a passenger survey conducted by IATA in November found that one-third of those surveyed said they were traveling more than before the pandemic. About 49% said their travel habits are similar to before the pandemic. Looking ahead, 44% said they plan to travel more in the next 12 months than in the past 12 months. Only 7% said they would travel less.

Once the coronavirus pandemic is over, it seems natural that the flow of people will increase, partly as a reaction. On the other hand, the harmful effects and negative factors caused by over-tourism are often discussed, so now is the time for everyone to think about sustainable travel. It is essential to avoid becoming too commercialistic.