We are quickly heading towards what is looking to be a northern summer of very high demand in many markets. Barriers to travel are coming down and the long-expected surge in pent-up demand is being realized.
Passenger demand in March 2022 was up 76% compared to March 2021 and overall traffic measured in RPKs reached about 60% of pre-pandemic levels. Travel in many parts of the world looks much that same as it did in 2019. The exception is Asia as China maintains its zero-COVID strategy.
On the cargo-side, supply chain issues are having an impact, as is the war in Ukraine. Finding enough capacity to meet demand on key trade routes is still a challenge.
After two years of crisis, and despite economic uncertainties, some cautious optimism is well justified.
As we look ahead, the strong partnerships that saw us through the crisis, need to now focus on sustainability. It is an existential challenge to earn the freedom to fly. Airlines must keep their commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. And that will only be accomplished with partners who are equally determined.
Sustainability will feature prominently among the topics to be addressed at the IATA Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit (Doha, 19-21 June 2022). I look forward to seeing many of our Strategic Partners there.
Willie Walsh
