5 countries planning more air travel in 2024 than this year

The civil aviation industry has made a remarkable recovery from the impact of the global pandemic. Most global airlines not only resumed domestic and international flights, but also further expanded their networks. Increased passenger numbers are driving demand for more capacity, especially on popular business and tourist routes. As a result, available seat miles (ASK) have increased significantly compared to past years.

Low-cost carriers (LCCs) also drive passenger demand in most domestic destinations in Europe and North America. New routes, flexible schedules, and cheaper fares are making it possible for more people to plan their air travel. Skyscanner Horizons report for 2023 suggests people traveled more than twice this year on average. The survey was conducted among 18,000 travelers around the world who plan to travel by air next year.

In this article, we dig deeper into the findings of the Skyscanner Horizons Report to identify the top countries where people are planning to travel more in 2024 than this year. The findings are based on the survey question: “How many international trips did you take in 2023? How many trips do you plan to take in 2024?”

Five India

Planned air travel in 2024: 3.0

At the bottom of the list is India, with people planning an average of 3.0 trips next year. In 2023, people took an average of 2.5 trips. This number represents a significant 20% increase from this year. Her second most populous region in the world is served by some of the world’s largest low-cost airlines.

While domestic aviation is on the rise, airlines are also looking to expand to Western destinations, including Europe and North American countries. More Indians are keen to travel abroad next year, whether it’s for business, visiting loved ones or for leisure.

Four Singapore

Planned air travel in 2024: 3.1

Fourth on our list is Singapore, with people planning an average of 3.1 trips next year. In 2023, people took an average of 2.5 trips. This number represents a significant 24% increase from this year. The region’s aviation industry is experiencing significant growth, particularly with increased flights to Australia and other maritime destinations.

Photo: Markus Mainka | Shutterstock

Singapore Airlines leads the industry with a strong network, excellent service and increased frequency to almost every region of the world. The airline continues its tradition of offering specialty meals onboard during the holiday season.

3 Saudi Arabia

Planned air travel in 2024: 3.2

Third place on our list is Saudi Arabia, with people planning an average of 3.2 trips next year. In 2023, people took an average of 2.6 trips. This number represents a significant 23% increase from this year. It is quite surprising that people in Saudi Arabia are planning significantly more trips abroad next year.

Apart from the flag carrier Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines), Riyadh Airways will also become a major airline starting operations in 2025. The new airline will have a hub at Riyadh International Airport (RUH), complementing Saudia’s hub at Jeddah Airport (JED).

2 United Arab Emirates

Planned air travel in 2024: 3.3

The runner-up on our list is the United Arab Emirates, home to the world’s largest and most luxurious airlines. In the UAE, people plan an average of 3.3 trips next year. In 2023, people took an average of 2.6 trips. This figure represents a whopping 27% increase from this year.

Emirates and Etihad Airways operate most of their international flights from the UAE. While low-cost carriers such as flydubai and Air Arabia are making a name for themselves in the Middle East and Asian markets, two of the big three have the most commercial aviation coverage in the region.

1 America

Planned air travel in 2024: 3.4

Topping our list is the United States, home to approximately 340 million people. In the United States, people plan an average of 3.4 trips next year. In 2023, people took an average of 3.0 trips. This figure represents a 13% increase from this year. The U.S. aviation industry is so large and extensive that it has the potential to outgrow the aviation sectors of nearly every country.

The country will be home to the world’s three largest airlines by revenue and fleet size in 2023. Together, American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines account for the majority of commercial aviation, especially in international markets. The company’s route network, capacity, fleet and personnel will only grow in the coming years and decades.

What do you think about the top countries where people plan to travel more next year than this year? How many trips abroad will you take next year? Please share your opinion in the comment section.