ACI World | 22.3 billion air passengers by 2053

Global passenger traffic is expected to reach 22.3 billion passengers by 20253, according to estimates by ACI World (Airports Council International). This number will be two and a half times higher than in 2024, when 9.5 billion passengers were transported (+9% compared to 2023).

However, the estimates for 2024 were not confirmed, as 11.4 billion passengers were predicted.

According to the scale of estimates:

• From 2024 to 2043, the global number of travelers is expected to grow at an annual rate of 3.4%, reaching 17.7 billion passengers.
• By 2045, this number will reach 18.7 billion, double the 2024 figures.
• And by 2053, it will exceed 22 billion passengers.
• For 2025, global passenger traffic is expected to reach 9.9 billion, an increase of 4.8% compared to 2024.

Passenger traffic in 2024

• Africa is estimated to have had 236 million air passengers in 2024, a figure corresponding to 107% of the 2019 level.
• The Asia-Pacific region is estimated to have had 5 billion passengers last year (103% of 2019).
• Europe 5 billion passengers (102% of 2019).
• Latin America and the Caribbean had 746 million passengers (111% of 2019).
• The Middle East is estimated to have had 443 million air passengers in 2024 (109% of 2019),
• North America 1 billion passengers (104% of 2019).

Emerging and developing economies are likely to have higher growth rates than advanced economies, with the Middle East and Asia-Pacific leading the way with growth rates of 5.2% and 5% between 2024 and 2030. This growth exceeds the global average of 4%.

The impact of Trump’s tariffs

However, it is important to note that global air passenger growth will face challenges due to ongoing geopolitical tensions. The potential reimposition of tariffs by the United States by the new Trump administration could indirectly impact demand for international travel. In addition, delays in aircraft deliveries by manufacturers pose risks to growth opportunities, leading to increased operating costs and affecting passenger sentiment.

Justin Erbacci, Director General of ACI World, said airports, airlines, and policymakers must take bold, forward-looking actions to anticipate and address future needs.

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