October 2024: IATA passenger demand continues to show robust growth

In October 2024, the passenger demand continued to grow strongly, according to IATA. Compared with October 2023, all regions recorded an increase in international passenger markets. With nearly 5 billion passengers expected for 2024, overall growth should reach 6.6% over the year, a trend marked by an 11.1% increase in demand and an 11.5% increase in available capacity. Passengers are expressing a growing desire for speed, with 70% wishing to reach their boarding gate in less than 30 minutes when traveling with hand luggage.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recently published its data for October 2024, revealing an impressive increase in worldwide passenger numbers. This upward trend reflects travellers' unwavering desire to reconnect with the pleasures of long-haul travel and cultural escapades. The sector's solid momentum is clearly illustrated by a significant increase on the previous year.

Marked inter-regional growth

Every region of the globe recorded an increase in international travel, underlining the sustained recovery of aviation from past turbulence. Asia, Europe and North America in particular stood out for their increased activity, benefiting from the easing of travel restrictions and the opening of borders. This solid growth bears witness to a return to normality in the air transport industry.

Impressive figures and forecasts

By 2024, passenger numbers are expected to reach almost 5 billiona historic milestone for the industry. Global air traffic is expected to grow by 6.6 % year-on-year, according to IATA forecasts. This surge is underpinned by an 11.1 % increase in demand and an 11.5 % rise in capacity offered by airlines. Air fares are also experiencing interesting variations, which will influence airlines' decisions to maximize their profits.

Improving the customer experience

Alongside this growth, passengers want more convenience. A survey reveals that 70 % of passengers want to reach their boarding gate in under 30 minutes with just a carry-on bag. Airlines are therefore striving to reduce waiting times and improve the airport experience to meet this growing demand.

Challenges and solutions

Rapid growth poses major logistical challenges. Airports must modernize their infrastructures to cope with the growing influx of passenger traffic. IATA stresses the need to adapt both safety systems and passenger facilities to maintain a high level of service. Updated slot regulations are also essential to manage this growth effectively.

Impact of major airlines

Major players such asEmirates and flydubai are deploying strategies to better manage this demand. Others, like Wizz AirIn fact, some of the world's leading airlines are boasting record passenger numbers, illustrating the market's potential. Despite the challenges, aeronautics continues to be an economic pillar for many countries, and a driver of global connectivity.

Comparison of Passenger Demand in October 2024

Comparative periods	Observed growth
October 2024 vs. October 2023	5 billion passengers planned for 2024
International request	Increase in all regions
Increase Average	Growth of 6,6% compared with early 2024
IATA target for 2024	Forecast 4.96 billion of travelers
Rate changes	Change surprising according to IATA
Offered Capacities	Increase by 11,5%
Waiting capacity	70% of passengers want shorter journey times
Ten-year projections	Traffic will double with 9 billion by 2034
Geo-regional location	Robust growth for all markets
Passenger traffic in August	Jumped from 8,6%

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