Aviation has shown a remarkable post-pandemic recovery with global passenger demand in March 2023 reaching 88% of the 2019 level. Based on the latest forward booking trends, we can expect an even stronger Northern Hemisphere summer season than in 2022. All testament to the fact that with travel restrictions nearly fully lifted, people are eager to reconnect with friends and family, see parts of the world they have not seen, reengage with business partners or forge new business relationships.
The air cargo sector meanwhile has been fighting against the economic headwinds for well over a year and with the passenger business having bounced back, so has belly capacity. A somewhat cooling inflationary trend is a signal that cargo demand could be on the incline later in the year.
As we chart our course towards a full recovery to pre-pandemic levels, maintaining our commitment to achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050 is essential. The roadmaps for this journey, both for the industry and our partners, will be presented at the forthcoming IATA Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport Summit (WATS), along with a general call to all those in the value chain for increased cooperation.
With the IATA Strategic Partnerships Program encompassing 400 partners covering over 35 areas relevant to aviation, I am convinced that the 79th IATA AGM and WATS (Istanbul, 4-6 June 2023) will once again be an ideal forum to discuss the challenges, opportunities and solutions to bring our industry to new heights.
I look forward to seeing you there.
Willie Walsh
