In 2023, the estimated number of scheduled passengers boarded by the global airline industry amounted to approximately *** billion people. This represents a significant increase compared to the previous year since the pandemic started and the positive trend was forecast to continue in 2024, with the scheduled passenger volume reaching just below **** billion travelers. Airline passenger traffic The number of scheduled passengers handled by the global airline industry has increased in all but one of the last decade. Scheduled passengers refer to the number of passengers who have booked a flight with a commercial airline. Excluded are passengers on charter flights, whereby an entire plane is booked by a private group. In 2023, the Asia Pacific region had the highest share of airline passenger traffic, accounting for ********* of the global total.

In 2024, the global air traffic passenger demand grew by **** percent compared to the previous year, when the passenger demand increased by **** percent. This figure was forecast to grow by eight percent in 2025.

The number of flights performed globally by the airline industry has increased steadily since the early 2000s and reached **** million in 2019. However, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the number of flights dropped to **** million in 2020. The flight volume increased again in the following years and was forecasted to reach ** million in 2025.

Content

This dataset contains information on global air transport data for most countries around the world between 2005 and 2019. The available series include: - Air transport, registered carrier departures - Air transport, freight (million ton-km) - Air transport, passengers carried - Logistics performance index

Acknowledgements

Data source: The World Bank Image source: John McArthur on Unsplash

Inspiration

Some questions to get started: - Which countries have seen the highest growth in each series? - Can you plot the values on a map using a library like Folium? - Are any countries highly correlated?

Air transport, passengers carried in World was reported at 2279974770 in 2021, according to the World Bank collection of development indicators, compiled from officially recognized sources. World - Air transport, passengers carried - actual values, historical data, forecasts and projections were sourced from the World Bank on July of 2025.

In 2024, around **** percent of airline passenger traffic was operated by airline companies in the Asia-Pacific region. Meanwhile, Europe accounted for the second largest passenger traffic share, with **** percent.

The United States had the largest commercial air travel market in 2021, with just over *** million passengers boarding planes registered to American and international air carriers. The next largest market was China, with more than *** million passengers, while the Eurozone ranked in third place, with almost *** million passengers. Passenger measurement Measuring the number of passengers boarded by carriers registered in a country provides an indication of the size of that country’s airline industry, but it does not measure the amount of air travel in that country. For example, as Ryanair is registered in Ireland, all Ryanair flights count as Irish, even if the flight was between, say, Berlin and London. One way to measure the number of air passengers within a country is to look at the number of passengers passing through airports in that country. Alternatively, the level of travel within an airline market can be considered at the regional level, in which case North America slips back to third behind the Asia Pacific region and Europe. Erasing two decades of growth in global air travel Regardless of how passenger numbers are measured, global air travel increased rapidly over the last decade. However, this was not the case in 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic erased two decades of global passenger traffic growth, cutting the number of air passengers to only *** billion and the number of flights globally to **** million. Looking at this period, the Middle East region was affected the most, with seat capacity down ** percent compared to 2019.

United States US: Air Transport: Passengers Carried data was reported at 849,403,000.000 Person in 2017. This records an increase from the previous number of 824,039,000.000 Person for 2016. United States US: Air Transport: Passengers Carried data is updated yearly, averaging 492,425,056.000 Person from Dec 1970 (Median) to 2017, with 48 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 849,403,000.000 Person in 2017 and a record low of 163,448,992.000 Person in 1970. United States US: Air Transport: Passengers Carried data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under World Trend Plus’s Association: Aviation Sector – Table US.World Bank.WDI: Transportation. Air passengers carried include both domestic and international aircraft passengers of air carriers registered in the country.; ; International Civil Aviation Organization, Civil Aviation Statistics of the World and ICAO staff estimates.; Sum;

Airline Reservation Service Market Outlook

The global airline reservation service market size was valued at USD 5.4 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 9.8 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.8% from 2024 to 2032. This remarkable growth can be attributed to the increasing demand for air travel, advancements in technology, and the rising preference for online booking systems among passengers. The continual expansion of the global aviation industry is a critical driver for the growth of the airline reservation service market.

One of the primary growth factors of the airline reservation service market is the significant increase in global air passenger traffic. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts that air passenger numbers could double by 2037, reaching 8.2 billion. This surge in air travel necessitates efficient and robust reservation systems to manage the growing number of bookings and passenger inquiries. Additionally, the evolution of low-cost carriers (LCCs) has made air travel more accessible, contributing to the increased need for sophisticated reservation systems to manage large volumes of transactions efficiently.

The integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and big data analytics into reservation systems is another key growth driver. These technologies enable airlines to provide personalized services, improve operational efficiency, and enhance the overall customer experience. AI-powered chatbots, for instance, can handle customer inquiries in real-time, reducing the workload on human staff and providing instant support to passengers. Moreover, big data analytics helps airlines in revenue management by predicting customer behavior and optimizing pricing strategies.

The implementation of a Revenue Management System for Travel is becoming increasingly vital in the airline industry. These systems are designed to optimize pricing strategies and maximize revenue by analyzing market trends, passenger behavior, and competitive pricing. By leveraging advanced analytics and AI algorithms, airlines can dynamically adjust ticket prices based on demand fluctuations and market conditions. This not only helps in achieving better financial performance but also ensures that airlines remain competitive in the market. As the airline industry continues to grow, the importance of sophisticated revenue management systems in driving profitability cannot be overstated.

Furthermore, the shift towards digitization and the growing preference for online and mobile booking platforms are significantly contributing to the market's expansion. With the proliferation of smartphones and internet penetration, passengers are increasingly inclined to book flights through online platforms rather than traditional travel agencies. This trend has compelled airlines to invest in modernizing their reservation systems to provide seamless and user-friendly interfaces for customers. The pandemic has further accelerated the adoption of digital solutions, as passengers prefer contactless transactions to minimize physical interactions.

The regional outlook for the airline reservation service market indicates robust growth across various geographies. North America is expected to dominate the market, driven by the presence of major airlines and advanced technological infrastructure. Europe also represents a significant market share due to the high adoption rate of digital booking systems and the presence of prominent airlines. The Asia Pacific region is anticipated to witness the highest growth rate, fueled by the rising disposable incomes, booming tourism industry, and increasing air passenger traffic in countries like China and India. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also projected to exhibit substantial growth, supported by the expansion of the aviation industry and increasing investments in airport infrastructure.

Airline Retailing is transforming the way airlines interact with their customers, offering a more personalized and engaging experience. This approach involves the use of digital platforms to sell not only tickets but also ancillary services such as baggage fees, seat upgrades, and in-flight services. By adopting airline retailing strategies, airlines can enhance their revenue streams and provide passengers with a more

China Air: Passenger Traffic: Domestic data was reported at 664.657 Person mn in 2024. This records an increase from the previous number of 590.516 Person mn for 2023. China Air: Passenger Traffic: Domestic data is updated yearly, averaging 95.618 Person mn from Dec 1970 (Median) to 2024, with 42 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 664.657 Person mn in 2024 and a record low of 0.210 Person mn in 1970. China Air: Passenger Traffic: Domestic data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Civil Aviation Administration of China. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Transportation and Storage Sector – Table CN.TI: Air: Passenger Traffic.

Graph and download economic data for Revenue Passenger Miles for U.S. Air Carrier Domestic and International, Scheduled Passenger Flights (RPM) from Jan 2000 to Feb 2025 about flight, miles, passenger, air travel, travel, revenue, domestic, and USA.

Graph and download economic data for Air Revenue Passenger Miles (AIRRPMTSID11) from Jan 2000 to Apr 2025 about miles, passenger, air travel, travel, revenue, and USA.

United States Air Passenger Departures: US Airlines data was reported at 49,395.120 Person th in 2017. This records an increase from the previous number of 47,682.000 Person th for 2016. United States Air Passenger Departures: US Airlines data is updated yearly, averaging 36,165.500 Person th from Dec 1990 (Median) to 2017, with 28 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 51,567.000 Person th in 2015 and a record low of 21,285.753 Person th in 1991. United States Air Passenger Departures: US Airlines data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Bureau of Transportation Statistics. The data is categorized under Global Database’s USA – Table US.Q004: Air Passenger Travel: Departures .

Passenger Service System Market Outlook

The global market size of the Passenger Service System (PSS) was valued at approximately USD 8.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 17.6 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.7% over the forecast period. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for efficient and seamless passenger processing and experience across airlines, airports, and travel agencies. The expanding global travel industry, coupled with technological advancements in airline operations and customer service mechanisms, is significantly contributing to the growth of this market. The need for real-time data access and integration across digital platforms is also propelling the adoption of PSS solutions. This sector is poised for significant growth as airlines and related industries continue to enhance their service offerings through advanced software and services.

One of the primary growth factors for the PSS market is the ever-growing volume of air travel, which is expected to continue its upward trend due to the increase in disposable income and globalization. As more people travel for business and leisure, airlines and airports are under pressure to enhance their customer service standards. The need for streamlined operations, from ticketing to boarding, has never been more critical. Passenger service systems play a pivotal role in managing these operations efficiently. The implementation of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Big Data analytics allows airlines to offer personalized experiences, optimize scheduling, and improve resource management, thereby driving the growth of the market.

Another significant growth driver is the digitization wave sweeping across the travel and aviation industry. Airlines and airports are increasingly adopting digital platforms to provide enhanced customer experiences. The introduction and integration of mobile applications, self-service kiosks, and real-time updates have made traveling more convenient and efficient. Consequently, this has led to a surge in demand for integrated PSS solutions capable of handling large volumes of data while ensuring security and compliance with international standards. Additionally, the shift towards cloud-based solutions is offering more flexibility and scalability to airlines, allowing them to manage costs better and improve operational efficiency, further fueling market growth.

Furthermore, regulatory mandates and industry standards are pushing airlines and airports to adopt comprehensive PSS solutions for improved safety and efficiency. Governments and international aviation bodies are continuously updating regulations to ensure passenger safety and data protection, leading to an increased focus on deploying robust PSS that comply with these standards. The ability of PSS solutions to integrate seamlessly with existing airline and airport systems ensures compliance and enhances operational capabilities. This regulatory environment, combined with the competitive nature of the airline industry, is compelling stakeholders to invest in advanced PSS to maintain a competitive edge and ensure customer satisfaction, which is instrumental in driving the market forward.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth in the PSS market, driven by the rapid expansion of the aviation sector in countries like China and India. The increasing middle-class population, coupled with rising disposable incomes and a growing penchant for travel, is significantly boosting the demand for air travel in this region. Additionally, governmental initiatives supporting infrastructure development in the aviation sector are further augmenting the market demand. North America and Europe are also key markets due to the presence of established airline companies and a high concentration of technologically advanced infrastructure. In contrast, the Middle East and Africa, with their strategic location as a travel hub, are poised for moderate growth, driven by investments in airport infrastructure and airline expansion.

Component Analysis

The Passenger Service System market is segmented by components into software and services, with each playing a crucial role in the efficient functioning of airline operations. The software component includes airline reservation systems, departure control systems, and inventory management systems, among others. These software solutions are vital for the day-to-day operations of airlines and airports, providing them with the tools needed for efficient management of bookings, inventory, and customer relations. With the i

Snapshot img

Commercial Airlines Market Size 2025-2029

The commercial airlines market size is forecast to increase by USD 430.2 billion, at a CAGR of 8.7% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven primarily by the increasing air passenger traffic. This trend is expected to continue as the global population grows and disposable income increases, leading to an expansion in the number of people traveling for business and leisure purposes. Another key driver is the rising preference for smart airports, which offer enhanced passenger experiences through advanced technology and improved infrastructure. However, this market is not without challenges. Operating expenses are on the rise due to factors such as fuel costs, labor expenses, and maintenance fees. These costs can put pressure on airlines' profitability and require strategic planning to mitigate their impact.
Additionally, the industry faces regulatory challenges, including safety regulations and environmental concerns, which can impact operational efficiency and require significant investments in compliance. To capitalize on market opportunities and navigate challenges effectively, airlines must focus on optimizing their operations, investing in technology, and building strong partnerships with industry stakeholders.

What will be the Size of the Commercial Airlines Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
Request Free Sample

The commercial aviation market continues to evolve, with dynamic market activities shaping various sectors. Aviation security remains a top priority, with continuous advancements in technology and regulations. Freight forwarding is experiencing growth, driven by the increasing demand for efficient supply chain management. Customer service is a key differentiator, with full-service carriers investing in personalized travel experiences and loyalty programs. Fuel efficiency is a major focus, with the adoption of smart airports, cloud computing, and in-flight entertainment systems. Hybrid aircraft and electric aircraft are emerging technologies, offering potential for reduced carbon emissions and cost savings. Route planning and hub airports are essential components of fleet management, with real-time data analysis and optimization techniques improving operational efficiency.

Autonomous aircraft and artificial intelligence are transforming aircraft leasing and maintenance, enabling predictive maintenance and fleet optimization. Cargo flights and air cargo are integral to business travel and e-commerce, with the integration of biometric authentication streamlining the passenger experience. Flight cancellations and delays are ongoing challenges, with digital transformation and real-time communication tools improving response times and reducing disruptions. Safety regulations and air traffic control remain critical, with ongoing collaboration between stakeholders ensuring a safe and efficient aviation industry. Airline alliances and low-cost carriers are shaping the competitive landscape, with online ticketing and baggage handling services enhancing the passenger experience.

The aviation industry is a complex and ever-changing ecosystem, with ongoing innovation and adaptation essential for success.

How is this Commercial Airlines Industry segmented?

The commercial airlines industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Revenue Stream

  Passenger
  Cargo


Type

  International
  Domestic


Range Outlook

  Short-haul
  Medium-haul
  Long-haul
  Ultra-long haul


Fuel Efficiency

  Conventional Jet Fuel
  Biofuels
  Electric Propulsion
  Hydrogen-powered


Operation Model

  Scheduled Flights
  Charter Flights
  Wet Leasing


Business Model

  Network Carriers
  Point-to-Point Carriers
  Ultra-Low-Cost Carriers (ULCCs)


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    Egypt
    KSA
    Oman
    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Argentina
    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

.

By Revenue Stream Insights

The passenger segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market experienced significant activity in 2024, with the passenger segment leading the growth. The surge in air travel, particularly in the APAC region, drove this trend, resulting in approximately 4.6 billion passenger footfalls in airports, marking a 28.3% increase. In response, major aircraft Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are upgrading their production facilities to meet

Brazil Air Passenger Traffic: International Flight: Regular data was reported at 715,238.000 Person in Jul 2022. This records an increase from the previous number of 594,201.000 Person for Jun 2022. Brazil Air Passenger Traffic: International Flight: Regular data is updated monthly, averaging 747,581.000 Person from Jan 2008 (Median) to Jul 2022, with 175 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1,175,884.000 Person in Jan 2019 and a record low of 21,090.000 Person in Apr 2020. Brazil Air Passenger Traffic: International Flight: Regular data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Ministry of Tourism. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Brazil – Table BR.TAB025: Passenger Traffic: Summary. [COVID-19-IMPACT]

United States US: Air Transport: Freight data was reported at 41,591.552 Ton-km mn in 2017. This records an increase from the previous number of 38,657.919 Ton-km mn for 2016. United States US: Air Transport: Freight data is updated yearly, averaging 17,713.400 Ton-km mn from Dec 1970 (Median) to 2017, with 48 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 41,591.552 Ton-km mn in 2017 and a record low of 5,151.200 Ton-km mn in 1970. United States US: Air Transport: Freight data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under World Trend Plus’s Association: Aviation Sector – Table US.World Bank.WDI: Transportation. Air freight is the volume of freight, express, and diplomatic bags carried on each flight stage (operation of an aircraft from takeoff to its next landing), measured in metric tons times kilometers traveled.; ; International Civil Aviation Organization, Civil Aviation Statistics of the World and ICAO staff estimates.; Sum;

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Airline Industry market size will be USD 548415.2 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.00% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 219366.08 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 164524.56 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.5% from 2024 to 2031.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 126135.50 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 27420.76 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 10968.30 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.7% from 2024 to 2031.
The Passenger Aircraft held the highest Airline Industry market revenue share in 2024.

Market Dynamics of Airline Industry Market

Key Drivers for Airline Industry Market

Increased demand for air cargo to propel market growth

Increased demand for air cargo is a key driver of growth in the airline sector market. The advent of e-commerce, combined with global supply chain integration, has increased the demand for rapid and dependable delivery services. Airlines are profiting from this trend by increasing cargo capacity, investing in specialist freighter aircraft, and improving logistics. Furthermore, the increased importance of carrying high-value, time-sensitive items like medications and electronics drives up demand. By focusing on air cargo, airlines may diversify income streams, increase profitability, and reduce the volatility of passenger travel demand, ensuring long-term market growth.

Growing technological advancements to propel market growth

Technological advances are expected to drive significant expansion in the airline sector market. Aircraft design innovations, such as more fuel-efficient engines and lightweight materials, help to minimize operational costs and environmental effects. Advanced avionics and navigation systems increase safety and efficiency, while digital technologies such as artificial intelligence and big data analytics improve route planning, maintenance, and customer service. The use of automation in ticketing, check-in, and baggage processing enhances both the passenger experience and operational efficiency. Furthermore, the use of in-flight connections and individualized entertainment selections improves client happiness. Airlines that embrace these technological innovations can raise competitiveness, save costs, and satisfy changing consumer expectations, resulting in long-term market growth and profitability.

Restraint Factor for the Airline Industry Market

Volatility in Fuel Prices

Jet fuel costs account for a significant portion of an airline's operating expenses. Since global oil prices are highly unpredictable and influenced by geopolitical events, inflation, and supply chain disruptions, even small fluctuations can heavily impact profitability. Airlines operating on thin margins often struggle to absorb sudden price increases, especially low-cost carriers.

Regulatory and Environmental Compliance Pressure

Airlines face increasingly stringent regulations related to emissions, noise pollution, and operational safety—especially in regions like the EU and North America. Compliance with these regulations often requires substantial investment in new technology, fleet upgrades, and reporting infrastructure, which increases operational costs and delays profitability.

Key Trends of the Airline Industry Market

Focus on Sustainable Aviation and Green Technologies

Sustainability is becoming a critical priority for both airlines and consumers. Airlines are increasingly investing in sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), carbon offset programs, and next-generation aircraft with improved fuel efficiency. This trend is driven by consumer demand, investor pre...

The coronavirus pandemic had a huge impact on the global air passenger traffic. Due to travel restrictions around the world, just under ***** trillion revenue-passenger kilometers (RPKs) were reported in 2020.

China Air: Passenger Traffic: Year to Date: International data was reported at 18.925 Person mn in Mar 2025. This records an increase from the previous number of 12.840 Person mn for Feb 2025. China Air: Passenger Traffic: Year to Date: International data is updated monthly, averaging 11.096 Person mn from Feb 2006 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 230 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 74.254 Person mn in Dec 2019 and a record low of 0.092 Person mn in Jan 2022. China Air: Passenger Traffic: Year to Date: International data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Civil Aviation Administration of China. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Transportation and Storage Sector – Table CN.TI: Air: Passenger Traffic.