Providing Greater Customer Experience For All Passengers; IATA Sets The Agenda

Passenger service standards are pivotal in shaping customer satisfaction within the commercial aviation sector

Global passenger traffic is expected to continue to grow strongly. Accommodating this growth is a major challenge for the air transport industry and governments. It will require new standards, harmonized regulations and adequate infrastructure. In collaboration with its members, international organizations and states, IATA develops standards aimed at simplifying the passenger process towards a more seamless, inclusive and secure passenger experience while improving efficiency and lowering industry costs.

“The clear message from travelers is that they expect to board their planes faster with technology and smarter processes beginning well before they reach the airport. And the good news is that we are making this happen. Already travelers can arrive at the airport ready to fly with admissibility checks completed. And biometrics and digital identity can deliver a paperless experience once at the airport. That’s great for passengers,” says an IATA official. Moe importantly, the greater efficiency will help airport infrastructure to better cope with the growth in passenger numbers, helping to make the business case for adopting these new technologies and processes even more compelling

Passenger service standards (PSS) are pivotal in shaping customer satisfaction within the commercial aviation sector. High service standards lead to positive passenger experiences, fostering loyalty and enhanced brand reputation. When airlines meet or exceed these standards, customers are more likely to choose them for future travel.

Key elements contributing to customer satisfaction include safety, comfort, and ease of access to services. Timeliness in service delivery, courteous staff interactions, and attention to passenger needs all play significant roles. Therefore, adherence to these standards must be prioritized. Satisfaction is not solely derived from meeting basic expectations but also from providing exceptional experiences. Airlines that consistently uphold high PSSs can differentiate themselves in a competitive market. This differentiation can translate into repeat business and favorable reviews. Ultimately, the alignment of PSS with customer expectations results in a stronger competitive advantage. Satisfied customers are more inclined to recommend airlines to others, further enhancing the reputation and success of the airline industry.

Maintaining high passenger service standards in commercial aircraft presents various significant challenges. Economic downturns often compel airlines to implement cost-cutting measures that directly affect service quality. Reduced staffing levels can result in increased workloads for remaining employees, leading to potential lapses in passenger service. In addition, the rising volume of passengers exacerbates these challenges. As airlines accommodate more travelers, the strain on resources escalates, making it increasingly difficult to provide personalized attention and adequate support during flights. Long wait times and insufficient communication can compromise the overall travel experience.

Consequently, the balance between maintaining high PSS and managing operational constraints requires constant attention. Airlines must continuously adapt and find innovative solutions to meet passenger expectations while remaining financially viable. A significant increase in passenger numbers can lead to congestion at airports and within aircraft. This often results in longer wait times for check-in, security, and boarding processes. Consequently, airlines face pressure to streamline these operations to enhance efficiency while still providing exceptional service to each passenger. Furthermore, increased passenger volume may strain onboard services such as catering, entertainment options, and cabin crew availability. Airlines must invest in resources and training to ensure that staff is well-equipped to handle a larger number of passengers. Adapting to this shift is essential for airlines aiming to uphold their passenger service standards amid growing demand.

Additionally, the rise in passenger volume can intensify competition among airlines, prompting them to differentiate their services. Innovations and improved service offerings become vital for attracting and retaining customers, making it imperative for airlines to continuously evaluate and elevate their passenger service standards. Innovations enhancing passenger service standards are transforming the commercial aviation landscape. One notable area of advancement is technology integration, which facilitates smoother check-in processes, reducing wait times and enhancing overall passenger convenience. Mobile boarding passes and self-service kiosks empower travelers to manage their journeys more independently. Passenger service standards encompass a set of criteria that airlines implement to enhance the passenger experience from booking to arrival.

Moving forward, airlines must prioritize these standards to adapt to evolving customer expectations and maintain competitiveness in the aviation industry. The future of PSS will likely be shaped by innovations and regulatory advancements, ensuring that airlines adapt to changing passenger expectations while prioritizing safety and comfort. Continuous improvement in service delivery will be essential for success in this dynamic environment. Transformation, industry success and sustainability can only be achieved through collaborative efforts. IATA is working to develop and nurture partnerships to strengthen the end-to-end passenger experience by engaging airlines, governments, industry associations and strategic partners at global, regional and local levels, to identify common objectives, and areas to start or bolster existing collaborations.

Source: Bizz Buzz

The Airline Industry in 2024: Trials, Jubilations, and Prospects for 2025

The year 2024 has been a landmark year for the airline industry, marked by a mix of challenges and triumphs that have shaped the trajectory of global air travel. As the sector rebounds from the turbulence of the pandemic years, new innovations and persistent obstacles continue to define its path forward. Here, we explore the highs and lows of the airline industry in 2024 and offer a glimpse into what 2025 may hold for travelers and stakeholders alike.

The Trials of 2024:

Operational Challenges

Pilot Shortages: Despite aggressive hiring campaigns, the industry has struggled to address the lingering pilot shortage exacerbated by mass retirements during the pandemic. Training pipelines, although robust, have been unable to keep pace with demand, leading to operational disruptions.

Rising Fuel Costs: Geopolitical tensions and supply chain issues pushed jet fuel prices to new heights, squeezing airline profit margins and prompting fare hikes that tested consumer patience.

Regulatory Pressures

Governments around the world intensified their focus on environmental regulations. The European Union’s Fit for 55 initiative, which targets a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, placed additional costs on carriers operating within its jurisdiction.

Noise pollution regulations in urban hubs like New York and London further complicated flight scheduling and airport operations.

Consumer Confidence and Economic Headwinds

Inflation and economic uncertainty impacted discretionary spending, causing fluctuations in demand for leisure travel. While business travel saw a modest recovery, hybrid work models continued to limit its full resurgence.

The Jubilations of 2024:

Technological Innovations

Sustainable Aviation: The successful rollout of electric regional jets on select routes marked a significant milestone. Airlines like United and EasyJet began operating hybrid-electric aircraft, reducing carbon emissions and proving the viability of sustainable aviation technology.

Supersonic Travel Revival: Boom Supersonic’s Overture aircraft achieved its first successful commercial test flight in early 2024, reigniting dreams of supersonic passenger travel and promising unprecedented connectivity for the global elite.

Passenger Experience Improvements

Airlines invested heavily in improving passenger experiences, with ultra-modern cabins featuring customizable spaces and improved in-flight connectivity becoming the norm.

Innovations like biometric boarding streamlined airport experiences, significantly reducing wait times and enhancing convenience.

Market Growth

Asia-Pacific emerged as the fastest-growing region for air travel, driven by rising middle-class incomes and a boom in intra-regional tourism. Budget carriers like AirAsia capitalized on this growth, expanding routes and increasing frequency.

Looking Ahead: Prospects for 2025:

As 2025 approaches, the airline industry stands at the cusp of transformative change:

Green Horizons

The industry is expected to make strides in meeting sustainability goals. The adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is likely to expand, supported by government subsidies and increased production capacity.

Hydrogen-powered aircraft are slated for advanced testing phases, signaling a potential revolution in long-haul travel by the 2030s.

AI Integration

Artificial intelligence will play a larger role in predictive maintenance, route optimization, and customer service, enabling airlines to operate more efficiently and deliver tailored experiences.

Economic Recovery and Travel Boom

Analysts predict a strong rebound in leisure travel as global economies stabilize. Mega-events like the Paris 2025 World Expo and the Cricket World Cup in India are expected to drive significant international traffic.

Challenges to Watch

While innovation promises to reshape the industry, challenges such as cyber-security threats, geopolitical uncertainties, and continued workforce shortages remain pertinent.

2024 has been a year of resilience and adaptation for the airline industry. Its ability to navigate complex challenges while embracing technological advancements underscores its enduring relevance in a rapidly changing world. As we look to 2025, the promise of sustainable aviation, enhanced passenger experiences, and robust market growth inspires optimism. For travelers and industry players alike, the skies ahead are filled with opportunity.

Source: Breaking Travel News

Ghana set to be Visa free for Africans from January 2025

What you need to know:

  • The policy, set to take effect in early 2025, will make Ghana the fifth African country to open its borders to all holders of African passports thus ensuring regional integration.

Ghana is set to become the fifth African country to allow visa-free travel for all Africans, joining Rwanda, Seychelles, The Gambia, and Benin. This new policy, approved by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, is expected to take effect by early 2025.

This decision is part of Ghana’s broader plan to simplify travel across Africa and strengthen connections between African countries. By introducing visa-free entry for all African nationals, Ghana aims to enhance regional integration and encourage greater collaboration across the continent.

President Akufo-Addo first committed to this policy during his keynote address at the Africa Prosperity Dialogues (APD) in January 2024. Speaking under the theme, “Developing Prosperity in Africa: Produce, Add Value, and Trade,” he emphasised the need for policies that simplify movement and strengthen ties among African nations. He said:

Many of you had to acquire a visa to come to this event. We made a special arrangement for this conference, reducing the visa acquisition fee by 50%, and we were thus able to receive your visa on arrival. The government of Ghana is committed to ensuring visa-free for all Africans, for all Africans travelling into our country, and the process has begun to get the policy implemented this year.

This new visa-free policy aligns with the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which has its headquarters in Ghana’s capital, Accra. AfCFTA’s vision is to create a unified African market by promoting the free movement of people, goods, and services across the continent. Albert Muchanga, Ghana’s Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry, and Minerals at AfCFTA, commended this decision, calling it a significant step toward achieving this vision of a single African market.

On December 18, 2024, President Akufo-Addo granted executive approval for the policy, and communicated to key ministries the following day, as reported by Asaase News.

Source: The Citizen.

Brussels Airlines Expands Flights to Africa: 10% More Frequencies for Summer 2025

Brussels Airlines will increase its flights to Sub-Saharan Africa during the summer 2025 season, reaching 56 weekly frequencies, representing a 10% increase compared to the same period in 2024. According to the airline, this expansion will be made possible by the addition of an eleventh long-haul aircraft in June 2025, allowing for the strengthening of several key routes in the region.

Among the main changes, connections to Nairobi (Kenya) and Accra (Ghana) will operate with daily flights. Additionally, Banjul (Gambia), Freetown (Sierra Leone), and Conakry (Guinea) will have additional frequencies. Meanwhile, Dakar (Senegal) and Abidjan (Ivory Coast) will feature more direct flights, eliminating intermediate stops.

The current fleet of Brussels Airlines consists of 10 Airbus A330-300s, 15 A319s, 16 A320s, and 6 A320neos.

Increase in frequencies to Kinshasa

Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, will be one of the main beneficiaries of this expansion. Starting in March 2025, the route will feature daily direct flights. Currently, Kinshasa is connected five times per week with direct flights and twice per week with a stopover in Luanda (Angola). The airline highlights that this change not only enhances passenger comfort but also improves sustainability and reduces potential operational delays.

“Kinshasa is, without a doubt, our flagship route. The history of aviation in Belgium began almost 100 years ago with the ambition to connect Kinshasa and Brussels by air. Enhancing this route to a daily nonstop connection demonstrates our unwavering commitment to the Democratic Republic of Congo,” said Dorothea von Boxberg, CEO of Brussels Airlines.

Route reconfiguration for Luanda

The airline will cease flights to Luanda starting March 25, 2025, consolidating these connections within the Lufthansa Group.

The German airline will handle the route with three direct weekly flights between Frankfurt and the Angolan capital. Passengers affected by this transition will be rebooked on Lufthansa flights.

Expansion towards the future

In addition to its network in Sub-Saharan Africa, Brussels Airlines maintains two long-haul destinations in the United States: New York (JFK) and Washington DC (IAD). The company plans to expand its long-haul fleet to 13 aircraft by 2027 and introduce a new cabin with improvements in Business, Premium Economy, and Economy classes.

With these changes, Brussels Airlines aims to strengthen its position in the long-haul market, especially in Africa, a region that has been key in the history of Belgian aviation.

According to data obtained by Aviacionline through Cirium, Brussels Airlines ranks 17th among airlines serving the Europe – Africa market, with an offering of 138,000 seats and 487 flights in December.

Source: Aviacionline.

Top 10 busiest international flight routes from Africa in 2024

Even though Africa represents a small portion of the global air market, it’s a vital link connecting regions like Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The Cairo–Jeddah route claims the top spot with over 5.4 million scheduled seats.

Top 10 busiest international flight routes from Africa in 2024

Top 10 busiest international flight routes from Africa in 2024

Africa’s aviation industry is growing fast, thanks to the rising need for better connections both within the continent and to the rest of the world. Even though Africa represents a small portion of the global air market, it’s a vital link connecting regions like Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

A big part of this growth comes from booming trade, business, and tourism. Some routes have now become extremely busy, reflecting just how connected Africa has become.

According to OAG Aviation’s 2024 Busiest Flight Routes Report, the Cairo–Jeddah route claims the top spot with over 5.4 million scheduled seats. Close behind is the Cairo–Riyadh route, which serves more than 3.1 million seats.

Similarly, the Cairo–Riyadh route follows closely, serving 3,151,116 seats. These routes exemplify Africa’s ability to connect major travel hubs across the Middle East and beyond.

Top 10 busiest international flight routes from Africa in 2024

Top 10 busiest international flight routes from Africa in 2024

These routes highlight Africa’s role as a bridge between major hubs in the Middle East and beyond. The report defines “busiest routes” as those with the most airline seats available in both directions, with data compiled from OAG’s monthly reports throughout the year. This provides a comprehensive view of route performance and emerging trends in international aviation.

Airlines like Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates, EgyptAir, and South African Airways dominate these busy routes. Ethiopian Airlines, for example, has turned Addis Ababa into a top hub, connecting Africa to the rest of the world.

RankRouteRoute NameSeats
1CAI-JEDCairo – Jeddah5,469,274
2CAI-RUHCairo – Riyadh3,151,116
3CAI-DXBCairo – Dubai1,919,742
4CAI-MEDCairo – Madinah1,844,795
5CAI-KWICairo – Kuwait1,709,668
6ALG-CDGAlgiers – Paris CDG1,393,359
7ADD-DXBAddis Ababa – Dubai1,177,914
8ORY-RUNParis Orly – St Denis1,085,706
9CAI-DOHCairo – Doha1,044,048
10ALG-ORYAlgiers – Paris Orly1,021,577

Africa’s growing middle class and improved tourism infrastructure are driving even more demand for air travel. But it’s not all smooth sailing. The sector still faces challenges like high fuel prices, limited intercontinental flights, and tricky regulatory hurdles.

High fuel costs, limited intercontinental routes, and regulatory barriers pose hurdles to seamless growth.

The potential is huge, Africa’s skies are getting busier, and the continent is on its way to becoming a major player in international air travel.

Source: Business Insider

Etihad Airways Launches Nairobi Flights On Airbus A320

UAE national carrier Etihad Airways has resumed flights from Abu Dhabi to Nairobi, increasing connectivity between the UAE and Kenya. The route marks another milestone in the airline’s route expansion in 2024.

Connecting two capitals

While the route was initially scheduled to start in May 2024, Etihad has officially returned to Nairobi this month. The inaugural flight (EY767) was operated on December 15, 2024, with the Airbus A320-200 . The aircraft landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) at 13:40 local time, where it was welcomed with a water cannon salute.

Etihad Airways Airbus A320 Nairobi

Photo: Etihad Airways

Operating from Etihad’s base at Zayed International Airport (AUH), the service creates a vital connection between the UAE’s capital and one of the key African hubs. Etihad is currently the only airline flying between the two cities. Flights to Nairobi will operate four times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays with the following schedule:

FlightRouteDep TimeArr Time
EY767AUH-NBO09:0513:30
EY768NBO-AUH18:2000:20 (+1)

The new route will strengthen ties between the Middle East and East Africa, further supporting tourism between the UAE and Kenya. Speaking about the service, Etihad Airways Chief Revenue Officer Arik De said,

“The introduction of our Nairobi service enhances our growing network while responding to strong travel demand between the UAE and Kenya, as demonstrated by today’s completely full inaugural flight.”

“As both Abu Dhabi and Kenya experience remarkable tourism growth and set ambitious targets for the future, this route creates valuable opportunities for both destinations. The service strengthens the important ties between our regions, supporting Abu Dhabi’s position as a global aviation hub while providing enhanced access to Kenya’s thriving tourism market.”

Supporting international tourism

Flying between Abu Dhabi and Nairobi provides a convenient connection between two cities known for their unique attractions. Abu Dhabi features a blend of modern attractions and cultural heritage, including the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre. Meanwhile, Nairobi combines its commercial strength with natural wonders, including Nairobi National Park, a wildlife reserve located within the city.

Etihad Airways Airbus A320 Nairobi

Photo: Etihad Airways

Etihad initially announced its return to Nairobi in October 2023 , with the route expected to kick off on May 1, 2024. However, due to undisclosed reasons, the inaugural flight was canceled, and the route was ultimately postponed. The airline planned to operate daily flights with the A320.

Etihad last served Nairobi in 2021, operating two weekly flights with the Boeing 787-9 . The resumption of Nairobi flights follows Etihad’s successful expansion to Antalya, Bali, Boston, Jaipur, Kozhikode, Mykonos, Nice, Qassim, and Thiruvananthapuram in 2024. Heading into the new year, the airline plans to 13 new destinations in 2025.

According to data from Cirium, an aviation analytics company, over 40 weekly flights are scheduled between Kenya and the UAE, operating from three different Emirates. Kenya Airways and Emirates fly between Dubai and Nairobi, while flydubai operates flights from Dubai to Mombasa and then Air Arabia from Sharjah to Nairobi.

Etihad’s Africa expansion

Africa has seen an uptick in international traffic over the last few years , with many new intercontinental routes and new airlines entering the market. Etihad is among the airlines that are increasing their footprint in Africa. Nairobi is the airline’s fifth destination on the continent after Johannesburg, Casablanca, Cairo, and Mahé.

Etihad Airways Airbus A320 Nairobi

Photo: Etihad Airways

The carrier will fly to three more African cities in 2025, doubling the number of destinations served throughout most of 2024. It will launch flights to El Alamein (Egypt) from July 17, Tunis (Tunisia) from November 1, and Algiers (Algeria), from November 7.

Flights to El Alamein were announced in October 2024 , while Tunis and Algiers were announced last month as part of the airline’s historic network expansion, which saw ten new routes unveiled in a single day . Etihad currently offers over 40 weekly flights to Africa, increasing to 50 weekly by next summer and 57 weekly by November 2025.

Source: Simple Flying

Rwanda President Kagame announces F1 race bid

Rwandan president Paul Kagame announced his country’s bid for a Formula One race on Friday, ahead of an awards ceremony in the capital Kigali that will hand the champion’s trophy to Max Verstappen for a fourth year in a row.

Formula One has not raced in Africa since the last South African Grand Prix was held at Kyalami, north of Johannesburg, in 1993.

“I am happy to formally announce that Rwanda is bidding to bring the thrill of racing back to Africa by hosting a Formula One Grand Prix,” Kagame said in an opening address to the governing FIA’s General Assembly.

“A big thank you to (Formula One chief executive) Stefano (Domenicali) and the entire team at F1, for the good progress in our discussions so far.

“I assure you that we are approaching this opportunity with the seriousness and commitment which it deserves. Together we will build something we can all be proud of.”

Domenicali said in August that Rwanda wanted to host a race at a permanent circuit.

Media reports say the track, to be designed by a company run by Austrian former F1 racer Alexander Wurz, would be near a new international airport under construction at Bugesera some 40km from Kigali.

Seven-times world champion Lewis Hamilton also said in August that the time was right for a race in Africa.

“The time’s 100% right. We can’t be adding races in other locations and continue to ignore Africa, which the rest of the world just takes from. No one gives anything to Africa,” said the Briton.

“I think having a Grand Prix there will really be able to highlight just how great the place is and bring in tourism and all sorts of things. Why are we not on that continent?”

The FIA is holding its general assemblies in Africa for the first time and the FIA’s Emirati President Mohammed Ben Sulayem and Rwanda’s Sports Minister Richard Nyirihishema met earlier in Kigali.

“To be here in Rwanda for such an important moment in the FIA’s calendar is a testament to the strength of this nation, in particular its growing influence in motorsport,” said Ben Sulayem.

“We are aligned on our values and shared goals across key sectors such as innovation, sustainability, and road safety, and I look forward to our continued partnership. The future of motorsport in Africa is bright.”

Verstappen is also carrying out ‘work of public interest’ in Rwanda as punishment for swearing in a Singapore Grand Prix press conference in October.

The activity involves an Affordable Cross Car built locally in Rwanda from blueprints provided by the FIA.

Kagame has won praise from Western and regional leaders for helping to end the 1994 genocide in Rwanda and rebuilding the country into an attractive destination for investment and aid.

But he also stands accused of a brutal crackdown on critics at home, and supporting the M23 rebel group in neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo, who rights groups say are guilty of killings, rapes and other apparent war crimes.

Source: NTV Kenya

Solid Growth in Passenger Demand Continued in October

Geneva – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for October 2024 global passenger demand with the following highlights:

  • Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), was up 7.1% compared to October 2023. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), was up 6.1% year-on-year. The October load factor was 83.9% (+0.8ppt compared to October 2023).
  • International demand rose 9.5% compared to October 2023. Capacity was up 8.6% year-on-year and the load factor rose to 83.5% (+0.6ppt compared to October 2023).
  • Domestic demand rose 3.5% compared to October 2023. Capacity was up 2.0% year-on-year and the load factor was 84.5% (+1.2ppt compared to October 2023).

“Continued strong and stable demand is good news, but just as important is the steady improvement in load factors. It shows what a great job the industry is doing in flying people more efficiently.

Average seat factors have risen from around 67% in the 1990’s to over 83% today. Politicians thinking of trying to tax passengers off planes to reduce emissions would do well to note this. Even if fewer people fly because taxes make it too expensive, it doesn’t automatically mean reduced emissions because the planes will still fly, just with fewer passengers. That would reverse decades hard won progress. We need to see the planes full to generate the economic and social benefits of travel with the most minimal emissions possible,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Air Passenger Market in Detail

October 2024 (% year-on-year)World Share​1RPKASKPLF(%-PT)​2PLF(Level)​3
Total Market100%7.1%6.1%+0.8%83.9%
Africa2.1%9.3%5.2%+2.8%73.8%
Asia Pacific31.7%12.7%9.7%+2.2%84.1%
Europe27.1%7.9%6.5%+1.1%86.2%
Latin America5.5%7.0%7.5%-0.4%84.5%
Middle East9.4%2.5%2.7%-0.1%80.3%
North America24.2%0.3%1.6%-1.1%83.2%

1) % of industry RPKs in 2023    2) Year-on-year change in load factor    3) Load Factor Level

Regional Breakdown – International Passenger Markets

All regions showed growth for international passenger markets in October 2024 compared to October 2023. Europe had the highest load factors, and Africa showed a sharp increase, but the Americas and the Middle East suffered falls.

Asia-Pacific airlines achieved a 17.5% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 17.2% year-on-year and the load factor was 82.9% (+0.3ppt compared to October 2023).

European carriers had an 8.7% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 7.3% year-on-year, and the load factor was 85.7% (+1.1ppt compared to October 2023).

Middle Eastern carriers saw a 2.2% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 2.5% year-on-year and the load factor was 80.2% (-0.2ppt compared to October 2023).

North American carriers saw a 3.2% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 2.9% year-on-year, and the load factor was 84.2% (+0.3ppt compared to October 2023).

Latin American airlines saw a 10.9% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity climbed 11.6% year-on-year. The load factor was 85.3% (-0.6ppt compared to October 2023).

African airlines saw a 10.4% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity was up 5.3% year-on-year. The load factor rose to 73.2% (+3.4ppt compared to October 2023).

Domestic Passenger Markets

The US showed a surprise slight decline, while all other key domestic markets showed stable growth. Fast-growing Chinese domestic demand is being met with increased use of wide-body aircraft.

October 2024 (% year-on-year)World Share​1RPKASKPLF(%-PT)​2PLF(LEVEL)​3
Domestic39.9%3.5%2.0%+1.2%84.5%
Domestic Australia0.8%2.9%-0.5%+2.8%86.2%
Domestic Brazil1.2%9.5%7.8%+1.3%83.7%
Domestic China P.R.11.2%9.7%2.2%+5.9%86.2%
Domestic India1.8%6.1%9.6%-2.7%81.7%
Domestic Japan1.1%3.3%-0.2%+2.9%84.0%
Domestic US15.4%-1.2%0.8%-1.7%82.5%

1) % of industry RPKs in 2023    2) year-on-year change in load factor    3) Load Factor Level 

Note: the six domestic passenger markets for which broken-down data are available account for approximately 31.4% of global total RPKs and 78.8% of total domestic RPKs.

> View the October Air Passenger Market Analysis (pdf)

For more information, please contact:

Corporate Communications
Tel: +41 22 770 2967
Email: corpcomms@iata.org

Notes for Editors:

  • Statistics compiled by IATA Economics using direct airline reporting complemented by estimates, including the use of FlightRadar24 data provided under license.
  • All figures are provisional and represent total reporting at time of publication plus estimates for missing data. Historic figures are subject to revision.
  • Domestic RPKs accounted for about 41.9% of the total market in 2022. The six domestic markets in this report account for 31.3% of global RPKs.
  • Explanation of measurement terms:

– RPK: Revenue Passenger Kilometers measures actual passenger traffic

– ASK: Available Seat Kilometers measures available passenger capacity

– PLF: Passenger Load Factor is % of ASKs used.

  • IATA statistics cover international and domestic scheduled air traffic for IATA member and non-member airlines.
  • Total passenger traffic market shares by region of carriers for 2023 in terms of RPK are: Asia-Pacific 31.7%, Europe 27.1%, North America 24.2%, Middle East 9.4%, Latin America 5.5%, and Africa 2.1%.

Source: IATA

Over 100 Ugandans in Kenya to sample Coast tourism products

In Summary

  • The Ugandans will be touring the Coast with key attraction sites in Kilifi, Kwale and  Mombasa counties.
  • They will also be sampling the culture and cuisine of the communities.

Ugandan tourism stakeholders at the Moi International Airport in Mombasa on Wednesday

A group of more than 100 Ugandan tourism stakeholders are at the Kenyan Coast to sample the region’s tourism products in bid to strengthen the tourism relationship.

The Ugandans arrived at the Moi International Airport in Mombasa on Wednesday and will be at the Coast for a week.

“We are here to showcase to our brothers and sisters what the Kenyan Coast has to offer,” Mombasa Tourism Council chairman Sam Ikwaye said at the airport.

The Ugandans will be touring the Coast with key attraction sites in Kilifi, Kwale and Mombasa counties.

They will also be sampling the culture and cuisine of the communities.

“We will then be able to sell this destination as one,” Ikwaye said.

This is part of the collaboration between Kenya and Uganda that has been forged to boost both countries’ tourism industry.

They are collaborating to sell the destinations as one big entity where visitors to the East African region can be treated to the sites and sounds of both countries as a package.

This comes after a delegation of over 70 Kenyan tourism stakeholders visited Uganda last week for Kenya-Uganda conference and to sample the product in Uganda.

“This is a continuation of the Kenya-Uganda conference that was hosted in Uganda last week. We are here to continue the cooperation and complementarity,” Ikwaye said.

Uganda Hotel Owners Association CEO Jean Byamugisha said the collaboration will boost both countries’ tourism industries and in the process create jobs for youth and enhance foreign exchange earnings.

Last week, the association hosted the Kenya Travel Trade in Uganda for 10 days where Kenyan tour operators, hotel owners, hotel keepers and other tourism industry players attended.

“Kenya is our biggest source market, so we are trying to see how we can be able to firm up the partnership, coordination and cooperation between the two countries especially in the tourism industry,” Byamugisha said.

 “We coined a phrase ‘From the Bush to the Beach’, so we want a guest who comes to East Africa to come to the Bush in Uganda to see the gorillas and then to Mombasa and go to the beach,” Byagumisha said.

“I am proud that I am Ugandan and I am in Mombasa and have not used my passport but my national ID to come here,” she said.

Ikwaye said apart from tourism stakeholders, businessmen will also be engaged during the Ugandans’ stay at the Coast to help create networks and boost their own businesses.

“We have engaged the businesspeople, the county governments and particularly key marketing agencies, including  Kenya Tourism Board, to see how we can put together packages and how we can enhance cooperation between the two countries.

Ikwaye said the visit of the Ugandans is a great boost to Mombasa because the Mombasa Tourism Council has been looking at how to diversify and sustain their business offering.

“We are looking at how to grow regional and domestic business and this partnership and cooperation between Kenya Coast and Uganda serves that particular purpose. We are hoping that the council can ride on this partnership so we can offer new experiences for visitors.”

Source: The-Star

Kenya Airways Renews Codeshare Agreement with China Eastern Airlines

Kenya Airways (KQ) and China Eastern Airlines (MU) have reinforced their longstanding collaboration with the renewal of their codeshare agreement, a strategic move aimed at enhancing travel between Africa and China. This revitalized partnership promises to offer passengers greater flexibility and access to an expanded network of destinations, making international travel smoother and more efficient.

A Wider World of Travel Options for Passengers

The renewed agreement significantly expands the range of destinations available to travelers. Kenya Airways passengers now have seamless access to key cities in China, including Shanghai, Kunming, Hangzhou, and Nanjing, all serviced by China Eastern Airlines. Meanwhile, China Eastern Airlines customers will be able to effortlessly connect through Nairobi to major African hubs, such as Dar es Salaam, Lagos, Accra, Johannesburg, Maputo, and Mauritius. This partnership not only opens up a broader spectrum of travel options but also strengthens the links between Africa and China, making it easier for both business and leisure travelers to explore new regions.

Booking a codeshare flight is simple—travelers can choose their flight time and destination on either airline’s website or through a travel agency, and they will receive a unified ticket with a streamlined baggage policy. This integrated service ensures a hassle-free and seamless journey, with no need for additional check-ins or ticketing hassles.

Strengthening the Ties Between Africa and China

This renewed codeshare agreement comes at a time of increasing collaboration between Africa and China, driven by strong trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges. As part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and other initiatives to boost infrastructure and economic ties, this partnership plays a crucial role in fostering deeper connections between the two regions.

The expanded air network supports the growing demand for travel between Africa and China, offering convenient flight connections that facilitate business exchanges, investments, and tourism. This partnership allows both regions to bridge the gap, making it easier for business leaders, entrepreneurs, tourists, and students to travel across continents.

Exclusive Rewards for Frequent Flyers

As part of the renewed agreement, frequent flyers stand to gain even more benefits. Kenya Airways’ Asante Rewards members can now accrue loyalty points when traveling on China Eastern Airlines-operated flights, further enhancing the value of their miles and rewarding them with exclusive offers. Members of both airlines’ loyalty programs also benefit from the perks of being part of the SkyTeam Alliance, such as priority check-in, access to lounges, and additional travel privileges, ensuring a premium experience for frequent travelers.

A Future-Focused Partnership for a Connected World

By renewing this codeshare agreement, Kenya Airways and China Eastern Airlines are not only enhancing the convenience and choice for travelers but are also supporting the broader economic goals of Africa and China. The partnership aligns with the growing demand for greater connectivity between these two dynamic regions, particularly as trade, tourism, and cultural ties continue to flourish.

Looking ahead, this collaboration will continue to evolve, bringing even more travel options, rewards, and opportunities for passengers. Whether traveling for business, leisure, or cultural exchange, the renewed partnership between Kenya Airways and China Eastern Airlines is set to offer an exceptional and seamless travel experience that meets the needs of modern travelers.

Source: Travel and Tour World