SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Mar. 4, 2025 – According to Airports Council International (ACI) World’s Airport Traffic Forecasts for 2024–2053, global passenger numbers are projected to reach 17.7 billion by 2043 and an impressive 22.3 billion by 2053. This remarkable growth signifies a nearly 2.4-fold increase compared to the projected volume for 2024, signaling a robust expansion of the global aviation sector.
ML-Powered Insights Drive Accurate Predictions
The comprehensive ACI World Airport Traffic Forecasts 2024–2053 report delivers detailed forecasts for total passengers (both international and domestic), air cargo volumes, and total aircraft movements. A significant advancement in this report is the introduction of a novel forecasting methodology leveraging advanced machine learning (ML) techniques. This innovation ensures enhanced accuracy and relevance, crucial for long-term, data-driven decision-making within the aviation industry.
The new forecasts, encompassing 99.8% of global markets across 161 countries, reveal a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% from 2024 to 2043. The growth rate slightly moderates to a CAGR of 3% from 2024 to 2053. These projections underscore a consistent upward trend in global aviation, fueled by factors such as the burgeoning middle-class travel demand in emerging markets, strengthened international travel, and sustained investments in airport infrastructure.
However, ACI World acknowledges that short-term challenges, including geopolitical tensions, economic instability, trade shifts like reintroduced tariffs, and supply chain bottlenecks, may temporarily impede recovery in certain regions.
Leadership Perspective on Future Growth
Justin Erbacci, director general of ACI World, emphasized, “Despite the challenges in the near term, global air travel is poised for steady, sustained growth. 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.”
Global Passenger Traffic Growth Projections
Between 2024 and 2043, global passenger traffic is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 3.4%, culminating in 17.7 billion passengers. By 2053, this figure is expected to nearly double, reaching 22.3 billion, reflecting a CAGR of 3% from 2024 to 2053.
Domestic vs. International Global Traffic Growth
Significantly, international passenger traffic is projected to outpace domestic traffic growth over the next three decades. From 2024 to 2053, international traffic is forecast to expand at a CAGR of 3.3%, while domestic traffic will grow at a slightly slower pace of 2.8%.
Growth in Emerging Markets Driving Expansion
The forecast underscores the continued robust growth in emerging markets, driven by a rising middle class and escalating demand for air travel. Investments in airport infrastructure within these regions will be pivotal in supporting this expansion.
Air Cargo Growth Forecasts
Global air cargo is projected to experience steady growth, with a CAGR of 2.7% from 2024 to 2043 and 2.4% from 2024 to 2053. However, ACI World cautions that evolving trade policies and supply chain disruptions could introduce volatility within the sector.
Projected Aircraft Movements
The number of aircraft movements is expected to increase substantially, reaching 149 million by 2043 and 176 million by 2053. Airports worldwide must prepare for this surge by enhancing operational efficiency and investing in infrastructure.
For more information visit.