Perth Airport Domestic T1
ACI World has unveiled its Airport Traffic Forecasts 2024-2053, projecting significant long-term growth in global passenger traffic. It forecasts that passenger numbers will reach 17.7 billion by 2043 and 22.3 billion by 2053.
The airport trade body’s forecasts cover 99.8 per cent of global markets across 61 countries and highlight a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3. 4 per cent from 2024 to 2043. The period from 2024 to 2053 will see a slightly slower CAGR of 3 per cent. The projections also signal a steady upward trajectory in global aviation, driven by factors including rising middle-class travel demand in emerging markets, strengthened international travel and continued investments in airport infrastructure.
Short-term challenges remain, including geopolitical tensions, economic instability, trade shifts such as reintroduced tariffs and supply chain bottlenecks. “Despite these challenges in the near term, global air travel is poised for steady, sustained growth,” commented ACI World Director General, Justin Erbacci.
“It is crucial for airports, airlines and policymakers to take bold, forward-thinking action to anticipate and meet the demands of the future. ACI World remains unwavering in its commitment to support its airport members, helping them navigate evolving dynamics and seize opportunities ahead.”
Looking into the breakdown of traffic over the next three decades, ACI World’s forecasts that international passenger traffic is expected to grow at a faster rate than domestic traffic. From 2024 to 2053, international traffic is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 3.3 per cent, while domestic traffic will expand at a slightly slower pace of 2. 8 per cent.
The report also highlights continued strong growth in emerging markets, driven by a rising middle class and increasing demand for air travel. Investments in airport infrastructure in these regions will play a key role in supporting this expansion.
Meanwhile, air cargo growth is projected to grow steadily, with a CAGR of 2. 7 per cent from 2024 to 2043 and 2. 4 per cent from 2024 to 2053. Evolving trade policies and supply chain disruptions could however introduce volatility in this sector, cautioned ACI World.
The report also warned that with aircraft movements are expected to increase significantly, reaching 149 million by 2043 and 176 million by 2053, airports will need to prepare for this surge in growth by enhancing operational efficiency and investing in infrastructure.
Image source: Perth Airport
