A new report from Airports Council International projects that global air passenger numbers will grow to 22.3bn by 2053, up from an expected 9.5bn in 2024.
The growth is driven by increased travel demand from emerging middle classes, improved international connectivity, and ongoing investments in airport infrastructure, with forecasts predicting 149m aircraft movements by 2043 and 176m by 2053.
The UK government has supported the development of a third runway at Heathrow, while a proposal for a second runway at Gatwick is likely to receive approval later this year.
Despite potential short-term challenges such as geopolitical tensions and economic instability, ACI World emphasises the importance of proactive measures by airports and airlines to accommodate future air travel growth.
