Airports Council International (ACI) World has released its latest Airport Traffic Forecasts 2024–2053, projecting significant long-term growth in global passenger traffic. Over the next 30 years, worldwide air travel is expected to reach 17.7 billion passengers by 2043 and surge to 22.3 billion by 2053—nearly 2.4 times the estimated volume for 2024.
The forecasts, covering 99.8% of global markets across 161 countries, reveal a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% from 2024 to 2043, followed by a slightly lower 3% CAGR from 2024 to 2053. This upward trajectory is driven by rising middle-class travel demand in emerging markets, increased international tourism, and continuous investments in airport infrastructure. However, short-term hurdles such as geopolitical tensions, economic instability, trade shifts, and supply chain disruptions could slow the recovery in certain regions.
ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci emphasized the importance of strategic planning, stating, “Despite near-term challenges, global air travel is set for steady, sustained growth. Airports, airlines, and policymakers must take bold, forward-thinking action to anticipate and meet future demand. ACI World remains committed to supporting its members as they navigate evolving industry dynamics and seize emerging opportunities.”
The report underscores several key long-term trends. International passenger traffic is projected to grow at a faster pace than domestic travel over the next three decades, with a CAGR of 3.3% from 2024 to 2053, compared to 2.8% for domestic travel. Emerging markets are expected to lead global air traffic growth, driven by an expanding middle class and increasing air travel demand. Investments in airport infrastructure will play a vital role in sustaining this expansion.
Air cargo is also forecasted to grow steadily, with a CAGR of 2.7% from 2024 to 2043 and 2.4% from 2024 to 2053. However, ACI World warns that trade policy shifts and supply chain uncertainties could introduce fluctuations in cargo volumes. Meanwhile, aircraft movements are expected to rise sharply, reaching 149 million by 2043 and 176 million by 2053, requiring airports worldwide to enhance operational efficiency and expand infrastructure to accommodate this growth.
To assist airport planners and investors in adapting to the evolving aviation landscape, the ACI World Airport Traffic Forecasts 2024–2053 provides detailed projections on total passengers (both international and domestic), air cargo volumes, and aircraft movements. The latest report incorporates a new forecasting methodology based on advanced machine learning techniques, ensuring greater accuracy and relevance in long-term strategic planning.
