GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Aviation Industry Statistics

The aviation industry statistics provide insights into flight operations, passenger traffic, aircraft fleet size, and financial performance of companies within the sector.

Highlights: Aviation Industry Statistics

  • Worldwide, flights produced 915 million tonnes of CO2 in 2019.
  • Globally, the aviation industry represents around 2% of total global emissions.
  • The direct impact of the aviation industry on GDP amounted to $704 billion in 2018.
  • Before the pandemic, the global aviation industry was expected to grow at a CAGR of around 3.5% from 2021 to 2026.
  • The aviation industry is expected to reach $2,147.29 billion by 2022.
  • There are more than 17,000 commercial airports in the world.
  • By 2037, it's projected that air passenger traffic worldwide will reach 8.2 billion.
  • In 2021, the aviation industry carried around 57% less passengers compared to the pre-pandemic 2019.
  • As of 2021, the largest airline by market capitalization is Delta Air Lines at $33 billion.
  • The United States has the most airports of any country at over 13,500.
  • The Asia-Pacific aviation market is expected to grow by approximately $13.5 billion between 2020 and 2024.
  • In 2019, the global fleet of registered aircraft exceeded 24,000.
  • Emirates is the largest operator of the Airbus A380, with over 100 aircraft.
  • The global unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) market size was valued at $18.14 billion in 2018 and is expected to register a CAGR of 13.8% from 2019 to 2025.
  • On average, around 5% of the world's population flies annually.
  • The busiest air route in the world is between Seoul and Jeju Island in South Korea, with over 13.4 million passengers in 2019.
  • In 2020, the aviation industry's total carbon emissions fell by 48% versus 2019's total of 915 million tonnes, due to Covid-19 restrictions.
  • North America accounts for 22% of global airline passengers.
  • The cargo-only segment makes up less than 10% of the aviation industry’s total revenue but is projected to have significant growth in the coming years.

Discover our favorite AI Writing Tool

Write scientific papers in minutes thanks to AI

Jenni's AI-powered text editor helps you write, edit, and cite with confidence. Save hours on your next paper

Table of Contents

The Latest Aviation Industry Statistics Explained

Worldwide, flights produced 915 million tonnes of CO2 in 2019.

The statistic indicates that in 2019, all flights worldwide collectively emitted 915 million tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere. This figure represents the total amount of CO2 emissions specifically attributed to air travel during that year. CO2 is a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, and the significant emissions from flights highlight the environmental impact of aviation on global carbon emissions. This statistic underscores the need for strategies and initiatives aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of air travel to mitigate climate change and promote sustainability in the aviation industry.

Globally, the aviation industry represents around 2% of total global emissions.

This statistic indicates that the aviation industry accounts for approximately 2% of the total global emissions, referring to the greenhouse gas emissions produced by airplanes during their operations. Despite being a relatively small percentage compared to other industries, such as energy production and transportation, the environmental impact of aviation cannot be overlooked due to the sector’s rapid growth and the high altitude at which airplanes emit pollutants, which can have a greater impact on climate change. As concerns about sustainability and carbon footprints continue to rise, there is increasing pressure on the aviation industry to reduce its emissions through technological advancements, operational efficiency improvements, and the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels to mitigate its contribution to climate change.

The direct impact of the aviation industry on GDP amounted to $704 billion in 2018.

The statistic indicates that the aviation industry’s direct contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2018 was $704 billion. This figure represents the total value of goods and services produced by the aviation sector within a specific time period. The direct impact includes the value added by activities such as air transportation, aircraft manufacturing, airport operations, and related services. A significant contribution of this magnitude underscores the substantial economic significance of the aviation industry, not only in terms of revenue generation but also in job creation, technological advancements, and overall economic growth.

Before the pandemic, the global aviation industry was expected to grow at a CAGR of around 3.5% from 2021 to 2026.

This statistic indicates that prior to the pandemic, the global aviation industry was forecasted to experience continuous growth with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 3.5% between the years 2021 and 2026. This means that the industry was anticipated to expand steadily over this period, likely driven by factors such as increasing demand for air travel, expansion into emerging markets, and advancements in technology. However, the actual growth trajectory of the aviation industry in the aftermath of the pandemic may have been significantly impacted by the widespread disruptions and restrictions imposed on travel, leading to revised forecasts and potential adaptations in the industry’s long-term growth projections.

The aviation industry is expected to reach $2,147.29 billion by 2022.

The statistic indicates that the aviation industry is projected to grow and achieve a total market value of $2,147.29 billion by the year 2022. This forecast suggests a significant expansion in the industry’s economic contribution within a relatively short timeframe. Factors contributing to this growth may include increasing air travel demand, advancements in aviation technology, infrastructure development, and globalization trends. Such growth projections could have broader implications for various stakeholders within the aviation sector, from airlines and aircraft manufacturers to airports and related service providers, as well as for the overall economy due to the industry’s interconnected nature with other sectors.

There are more than 17,000 commercial airports in the world.

The statistic “There are more than 17,000 commercial airports in the world” reflects the widespread presence of civil aviation infrastructure across the globe. Commercial airports serve as crucial hubs for air transportation, connecting people and goods across vast distances. This statistic underscores the extensive reach and integration of aviation networks within the global transportation system, facilitating international travel, trade, and economic connectivity. The high number of commercial airports highlights the significance of air travel as a vital component of modern society, supporting economic growth, tourism, and social interactions on a global scale.

By 2037, it’s projected that air passenger traffic worldwide will reach 8.2 billion.

The statistic states that by the year 2037, global air passenger traffic is projected to reach a total of 8.2 billion passengers. This projection implies a significant increase in the number of individuals traveling by air in the coming years, representing a growth in demand for air travel services. Factors contributing to this anticipated growth may include increasing global population, rising disposable income levels in emerging economies, and advancements in aviation technology. Airlines and aviation-related industries are expected to expand to accommodate this projected surge in air passenger traffic, highlighting the importance of continued investment in infrastructure and capacity planning to support the future demand for air travel worldwide.

In 2021, the aviation industry carried around 57% less passengers compared to the pre-pandemic 2019.

The statistic indicates that in 2021, the aviation industry experienced a significant decrease in passenger traffic, with approximately 57% fewer passengers compared to the levels seen in 2019 before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. This decline in air travel can be attributed to various factors such as travel restrictions, lockdown measures, decreased demand due to health concerns, and changes in consumer behavior. The substantial reduction in passenger volume reflects the severe impact that the global pandemic had on the aviation sector, leading to significant financial losses for airlines and related businesses. The statistic highlights the challenges faced by the aviation industry as it continues to navigate the uncertain landscape of the post-pandemic world.

As of 2021, the largest airline by market capitalization is Delta Air Lines at $33 billion.

The statistic indicates that, as of 2021, Delta Air Lines holds the top position as the airline with the highest market capitalization, valued at $33 billion. Market capitalization reflects the total value of a company’s outstanding shares and serves as a key indicator of investor sentiment and the market’s perception of a company’s worth. In this context, Delta Air Lines’ market capitalization of $33 billion signifies the aggregate value placed on the company by investors, which can be influenced by factors such as operational performance, financial stability, market dynamics, and growth prospects. This statistic highlights Delta Air Lines’ significant presence and value within the airline industry as of 2021.

The United States has the most airports of any country at over 13,500.

The statistic that the United States has the most airports of any country with over 13,500 highlights the extensive and diverse air transportation infrastructure in the country. This vast number of airports reflects the geographic expanse of the United States, accommodating a wide range of domestic and international travel needs. The abundance of airports also contributes to the country’s connectivity, accessibility, and economic growth by facilitating efficient movement of people and goods. This statistic solidifies the United States’ position as a key player in global aviation, with a network of airports that serve various purposes and play a crucial role in supporting the country’s transportation system and overall economy.

The Asia-Pacific aviation market is expected to grow by approximately $13.5 billion between 2020 and 2024.

The statistic states that the Asia-Pacific aviation market is forecasted to see a significant growth of around $13.5 billion in revenue between the years 2020 and 2024. This growth implies an expansion in both air travel demand and industry activities within the region, driven by factors such as the increasing middle-class population, economic development, and rising tourism. The projected growth indicates opportunities for airlines, airports, aircraft manufacturers, and related industries to capitalize on the expanding market and cater to the growing travel needs of the Asia-Pacific region. Industries within the aviation sector may focus on strategic investments, capacity expansions, and service enhancements to leverage this anticipated growth and enhance their market positions in the region.

In 2019, the global fleet of registered aircraft exceeded 24,000.

The statistic states that in 2019, the total number of registered aircraft worldwide surpassed 24,000. This information indicates significant growth in the aviation industry as more aircraft are being utilized for various purposes such as commercial travel, cargo transport, and private operations. The increasing number of registered aircraft suggests a rise in air travel demand, economic activity, and technological advancements in aircraft manufacturing. Additionally, it signals the need for enhanced safety measures and regulatory oversight to manage the growing global fleet effectively.

Emirates is the largest operator of the Airbus A380, with over 100 aircraft.

The statistic “Emirates is the largest operator of the Airbus A380, with over 100 aircraft” indicates that Emirates, a popular airline based in Dubai, owns and operates the largest number of Airbus A380 airplanes among all airlines. This signifies a significant investment by Emirates in the A380 model, highlighting the airline’s commitment to utilizing this particular aircraft for its operations. The sheer scale of over 100 A380s in their fleet positions Emirates as a key player in the aviation industry, with the ability to cater to a high volume of passengers globally using this iconic double-decker airplane.

The global unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) market size was valued at $18.14 billion in 2018 and is expected to register a CAGR of 13.8% from 2019 to 2025.

The statistic provided indicates that the global unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) market was worth $18.14 billion in 2018. Furthermore, it is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13.8% from 2019 to 2025. This expected growth rate suggests that the market is experiencing a rapid expansion and increasing demand for drones across various industries. Factors such as technological advancements, increasing applications of drones in sectors like agriculture, logistics, and surveillance, as well as the potential for cost savings and efficiency improvements are likely driving this growth trajectory. As a result, the drone market presents significant opportunities for companies involved in manufacturing, service provision, and related technologies to capitalize on this expanding market landscape.

On average, around 5% of the world’s population flies annually.

The statistic “On average, around 5% of the world’s population flies annually” indicates that a small proportion of the global population travels by air each year. This figure suggests that air travel is a relatively exclusive mode of transportation, with the majority of the world’s population likely opting for alternative means of travel. Factors like economic status, geographic location, and access to transportation infrastructure may influence this statistic, with individuals in wealthier regions and countries being more likely to fly compared to those in less affluent areas. Additionally, the 5% figure highlights the widespread nature of air travel on a global scale, with millions of people taking to the skies every year despite its relatively low percentage in the overall population.

The busiest air route in the world is between Seoul and Jeju Island in South Korea, with over 13.4 million passengers in 2019.

The statistic highlighting the air route between Seoul and Jeju Island in South Korea as the busiest in the world with over 13.4 million passengers in 2019 indicates a significant volume of air travel and passenger traffic on this particular route. Seoul and Jeju Island are both popular destinations in South Korea for leisure and business travelers, contributing to the high number of passengers. The statistic underscores the importance of this route in the region’s transportation network and highlights the demand for air travel between these two destinations. Additionally, it suggests the robustness of the aviation industry in South Korea and the significance of these cities as key travel hubs.

In 2020, the aviation industry’s total carbon emissions fell by 48% versus 2019’s total of 915 million tonnes, due to Covid-19 restrictions.

The statistic indicates that in 2020, the aviation industry experienced a significant reduction in total carbon emissions, with a 48% decrease compared to the previous year’s total of 915 million tonnes. This sharp decline is attributed to the Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting restrictions imposed on travel and aviation operations worldwide. With a decrease in air travel demand and flight frequencies, fewer aircraft were in operation, leading to lower overall carbon emissions. This marked reduction highlights the substantial impact of the pandemic on the aviation industry’s environmental footprint and underscores the potential for mitigating carbon emissions through changes in travel behavior and operational practices.

North America accounts for 22% of global airline passengers.

The statistic “North America accounts for 22% of global airline passengers” indicates that nearly a quarter of all airline passengers worldwide originate from or travel to destinations in North America. This figure highlights the significant contribution of North American air travel to the overall global aviation industry. Factors such as the region’s robust economy, large population, diverse travel destinations, and well-developed airline infrastructure likely contribute to its relatively high share of airline passengers. Understanding this statistic is crucial for airlines, industry stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers to make informed decisions regarding investment, marketing strategies, infrastructure development, and policy formulation related to air travel in North America and globally.

The cargo-only segment makes up less than 10% of the aviation industry’s total revenue but is projected to have significant growth in the coming years.

The statistic indicates that the cargo-only segment of the aviation industry currently contributes less than 10% to the total revenue generated by the industry. Despite its relatively small current share, the cargo-only segment is expected to experience substantial growth in the near future. This projection suggests that there is increasing demand for cargo transport services, likely driven by factors such as e-commerce growth, global trade expansion, and the need for timely delivery of goods. As a result, companies operating in the cargo-only segment may see opportunities for expansion and increased market share, positioning them for significant growth and potentially a larger contribution to the aviation industry’s overall revenue in the coming years.

References

0. – https://www.www.grandviewresearch.com

1. – https://www.www.statista.com

2. – https://www.www.cbsnews.com

3. – https://www.www.cnn.com

4. – https://www.www.technavio.com

5. – https://www.www.nationalgeographic.com

6. – https://www.www.mckinsey.com

7. – https://www.www.mordorintelligence.com

8. – https://www.www.atag.org

9. – https://www.www.worlddata.info

10. – https://www.facts.randomhistory.com

11. – https://www.www.iata.org

12. – https://www.www.prnewswire.com

13. – https://www.www.airbus.com

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

Table of Contents

... Before You Leave, Catch This! 🔥

Your next business insight is just a subscription away. Our newsletter The Week in Data delivers the freshest statistics and trends directly to you. Stay informed, stay ahead—subscribe now.

Sign up for our newsletter and become the navigator of tomorrow's trends. Equip your strategy with unparalleled insights!