MUSCAT: The airline industry in the Middle East has witnessed remarkable growth, with passenger traffic rising by 9.4 per cent in 2024 compared to the previous year. Capacity increased by 8.4 per cent, while the load factor climbed 0.7 percentage points to 80.8 per cent. December alone saw a 7.7 per cent increase in demand compared to the same month in 2023.
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) report on 2024 full-year and December passenger market performance, total global traffic (measured in revenue passenger kilometres or RPKs) grew by 10.4 per cent compared to 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic (2019) levels by 3.8 per cent. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), increased by 8.7 per cent, with the overall load factor reaching a record 83.5 per cent.
Speaking to Observer, R Venkat Perumal, Business Manager — Products & GSA Affairs at Mazoon Travel, attributed the region’s aviation boom to multiple factors.
"Government emphasis on infrastructure development, substantial capital investments in tourism, strong regional economic growth and fleet expansion plans have all contributed to this surge. The rise of low-cost carriers (LCCs) has also made air travel more affordable and accessible to a wider segment of travelers," he said.
The IATA report also highlighted a 13.6 per cent increase in international passenger traffic for 2024, with capacity rising by 12.8 per cent. Meanwhile, domestic air travel saw a 5.7 per cent growth, with capacity expanding by 2.5 per cent.
Industry experts believe that aviation in the region will continue to expand due to easier visa policies, new airline routes and stronger tourism promotion by GCC carriers. Factors such as enhanced safety measures, growing business opportunities, increased trade and investment and port development have also contributed to this surge.
Looking ahead, 2025 is expected to see an 8 per cent growth in global air travel, aligning with historical averages. However, as demand rises, challenges such as sustainability, airport capacity and operational efficiency will remain focal points for the industry.
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