GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Global AIrline Industry Statistics

The global airline industry statistics show a steady increase in passenger numbers and revenues over the past few years, with growth expected to continue in the future.

Highlights: Global Airline Industry Statistics

  • In 2018, the global airline industry carried 4.3 billion passengers.
  • In 2019, the industry generated around 838 billion dollars in revenue.
  • There were 56.9 million flights scheduled by the global airline industry in 2019.
  • Global commercial airlines are forecast to have a debt of $340 billion in 2021.
  • Global airlines were expected to lose $119.7 billion in 2020 due to the pandemic.
  • The Middle East's share of global passengers was estimated at 5.1% in 2019.
  • 365,000 passengers were carried in 2018 for every fatal accident in global aviation.
  • The leading airline company by sales in 2020 was American Airlines Group, generating around 17.34 billion U.S. dollars.
  • In 2016, approximately 1.5 million people were directly employed by airlines globally.
  • Air freight represented approximately 35% of global trade by value in 2018.
  • In 2019, the global airline industry recorded around 22,500 aircraft departures daily.
  • By 2038, passenger numbers are expected to double to 8.2 billion.
  • Asia-Pacific accounted for over 34% of the global airline passenger market in 2019.
  • In 2021, the global jet fuel consumption is expected to reach a daily average of 5.87 million barrels.
  • In 2019, the airline industry's share of GDP was reported to be around 1%
  • At the end of 2019, the global airlines' fleet was approximately 23,100 aircraft.
  • Global airlines carried over 61 million metric tons of freight in 2019.
  • Europe's share of global passengers was estimated at 26.2% in 2019.
  • 4 out of the 5 top global airlines by number of flights in 2020 were American airlines.
  • In 2019, global airlines recorded a net profit of 26.4 billion U.S. dollars.

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The Latest Global Airline Industry Statistics Explained

In 2018, the global airline industry carried 4.3 billion passengers.

The statistic that the global airline industry carried 4.3 billion passengers in 2018 indicates the vast scale and significance of air travel worldwide during that year. This figure highlights the substantial demand for air transportation and the widespread use of airlines by people for various purposes, such as leisure, business, and connecting with loved ones. The large number of passengers served by the industry also reflects its crucial role in facilitating global connectivity and economic activity. Furthermore, this statistic underscores the airline industry’s immense operational capacity and the complex logistical systems required to manage such a high volume of passengers efficiently and safely.

In 2019, the industry generated around 838 billion dollars in revenue.

The statistic “In 2019, the industry generated around 838 billion dollars in revenue” indicates that the total amount of money generated by the industry in the specified year was approximately $838 billion. This figure represents the total income earned by businesses within the industry from selling their products or services. The revenue generated serves as a key indicator of the size and economic importance of the industry, reflecting its contributions to the overall economy. Analyzing revenue figures over time can provide insights into trends, growth patterns, and economic performance within the industry, helping stakeholders make informed decisions about investments, policy, and resource allocation.

There were 56.9 million flights scheduled by the global airline industry in 2019.

The statistic indicates that in 2019, the global airline industry had a total of 56.9 million flights scheduled worldwide. This figure represents the sheer volume of air travel operations conducted by airlines throughout the year, encompassing both domestic and international flights. The high number of scheduled flights reflects the significant demand for air travel, highlighting the importance of the airline industry in facilitating global connectivity and transportation. This statistic serves as a key indicator of the scale and magnitude of the airline industry’s operations and its role in the global economy and society.

Global commercial airlines are forecast to have a debt of $340 billion in 2021.

The statistic indicates that the global commercial airline industry is projected to have a total debt of $340 billion in the year 2021. This substantial amount of debt suggests that airlines are facing financial challenges, likely exacerbated by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on air travel demand and revenues. The debt burden could significantly impact airlines’ financial health, affecting their ability to invest in new aircraft, maintain operations, and recover from the economic downturn. Airlines may face increased pressure to explore debt restructuring, cost-cutting measures, and government assistance to alleviate the strain of their outstanding debts and ensure long-term sustainability.

Global airlines were expected to lose $119.7 billion in 2020 due to the pandemic.

The statistic that global airlines were expected to lose $119.7 billion in 2020 due to the pandemic signifies the significant financial impact that COVID-19 had on the aviation industry. The widespread travel restrictions, border closures, and reduced passenger demand as a result of the global health crisis led to a drastic decrease in airline revenues. This massive financial loss reflects the challenges faced by airlines in terms of maintaining operations, paying employees, and meeting their financial obligations during a period of unprecedented uncertainty and disruption. The statistic highlights the urgent need for financial support and recovery plans to help the aviation industry navigate through these difficult times and eventually rebuild their businesses.

The Middle East’s share of global passengers was estimated at 5.1% in 2019.

This statistic refers to the proportion of global air passengers originating from or traveling to countries in the Middle East in 2019. The Middle East’s share of global passengers was calculated to be 5.1% based on passenger traffic data. This figure provides insight into the region’s contribution to the global aviation industry and its importance as both an origin and destination for air travel. The percentage indicates the relative size and significance of the Middle East in the global air transportation market, highlighting its role in connecting different parts of the world through air travel.

365,000 passengers were carried in 2018 for every fatal accident in global aviation.

The statistic indicates the efficiency and safety standards of the global aviation industry in 2018. It suggests that for every fatal accident that occurred, 365,000 passengers were safely transported without incident. This metric highlights the incredibly high level of safety and reliability that exists within the aviation industry, as it demonstrates the rarity of fatal accidents in comparison to the vast number of passengers traveling by air. The statistic points towards the rigorous safety protocols, regulations, and advancements in technology that have been put in place to ensure the safety of passengers, making aviation one of the safest modes of travel.

The leading airline company by sales in 2020 was American Airlines Group, generating around 17.34 billion U.S. dollars.

The statistic indicates that in 2020, American Airlines Group emerged as the top airline company in terms of sales, generating approximately 17.34 billion U.S. dollars. This suggests that American Airlines Group had the highest revenue among all airline companies operating in that year. Such a significant sales figure highlights the strong market position and financial performance of American Airlines Group compared to its competitors within the airline industry. This statistic underscores the company’s ability to attract passengers, generate revenue through ticket sales, ancillary services, and other revenue streams, positioning it as a key player in the global aviation sector for that year.

In 2016, approximately 1.5 million people were directly employed by airlines globally.

The statistic “In 2016, approximately 1.5 million people were directly employed by airlines globally” indicates the total number of individuals who were employed by airlines around the world in that particular year. This figure includes all individuals directly employed by airlines in various roles, such as pilots, flight attendants, ground staff, maintenance engineers, and administrative staff. The statistic highlights the significant contribution of the aviation industry to the global economy by providing employment opportunities to a large number of people. Additionally, it emphasizes the scale and scope of the airline industry’s operations and its importance in facilitating air travel and transportation services worldwide.

Air freight represented approximately 35% of global trade by value in 2018.

The statistic that air freight represented approximately 35% of global trade by value in 2018 indicates the significant role that air transportation plays in the international movement of goods. This figure suggests that a substantial portion of the total value of traded goods across borders is transported via air cargo services. The high value associated with air freight shipments highlights the importance of speed, reliability, and efficiency in the supply chain, as businesses rely on air transport to meet tight deadlines and deliver high-value goods in a timely manner. The statistic underscores the crucial role of the air freight industry in facilitating global trade and economic activities, particularly for time-sensitive and high-value goods.

In 2019, the global airline industry recorded around 22,500 aircraft departures daily.

The statistic indicates that in 2019, the global airline industry had an average of approximately 22,500 aircraft departures each day. This figure reflects the frequency and scale of commercial flights taking off worldwide, illustrating the significant volume of air travel operations occurring on a daily basis. Aircraft departures are a crucial metric for understanding the activity and demand within the aviation industry, as they represent the number of flights departing from airports around the world. The high number of daily departures highlights the extensive global network of airlines and the substantial role that air transportation plays in connecting people and goods across different regions and continents.

By 2038, passenger numbers are expected to double to 8.2 billion.

The statistic states that by the year 2038, the number of passengers traveling is projected to double from the current level to reach 8.2 billion passengers. This forecast implies a significant increase in global travel demand, suggesting potential growth in various sectors such as aviation, public transportation, and tourism over the next two decades. Factors contributing to this growth may include expanding middle-class populations in emerging economies, advancements in transportation technology, and increasing ease of access to travel services. This statistic highlights the importance of infrastructure development, efficient transportation systems, and sustainable practices to accommodate the rising demand for passenger travel worldwide.

Asia-Pacific accounted for over 34% of the global airline passenger market in 2019.

The statistic “Asia-Pacific accounted for over 34% of the global airline passenger market in 2019” indicates that the region comprising countries in Asia and the Pacific was a significant player in the global airline industry in that year. With over one-third of the global market share, it highlights the substantial growth and demand for air travel in the region. This statistic suggests that Asia-Pacific was a crucial driver of the overall global aviation industry, with a large portion of passengers originating from or traveling to destinations within the region. The data signifies the region’s economic importance and influence on the international airline market, emphasizing the significance of Asia-Pacific in shaping the trends and dynamics of the global aviation sector in 2019.

In 2021, the global jet fuel consumption is expected to reach a daily average of 5.87 million barrels.

The statistic indicates the projected daily average global consumption of jet fuel for the year 2021, which is estimated to be 5.87 million barrels. This data highlights the significant demand for jet fuel worldwide, likely driven by factors such as the recovery of air travel following the COVID-19 pandemic, economic growth in various regions, and increasing globalization. Understanding such statistics is crucial for stakeholders in the aviation industry, policymakers, energy sectors, and environmentalists to monitor trends, assess impacts on energy markets, and develop sustainable strategies to manage fuel consumption and its associated environmental effects.

In 2019, the airline industry’s share of GDP was reported to be around 1%

The statistic “In 2019, the airline industry’s share of GDP was reported to be around 1%” signifies the proportion of the total economic output of a country attributed to the airline industry during that particular year. This metric suggests that the airline sector’s activities and contributions to the economy, including passenger transportation, cargo services, and related activities like tourism and trade facilitation, accounted for approximately 1% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2019. This statistic is crucial for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and analysts to understand the relative importance and impact of the airline industry on the overall economic landscape of the country, thereby guiding decisions related to industry regulations, investments, and policy development.

At the end of 2019, the global airlines’ fleet was approximately 23,100 aircraft.

The statistic indicating that the global airlines’ fleet was approximately 23,100 aircraft at the end of 2019 refers to the total number of aircraft owned and operated by airlines worldwide. This figure is a crucial metric in the aviation industry as it provides insight into the scale and capacity of the global airline transportation network. The size of the aircraft fleet directly impacts the airlines’ ability to meet passenger demand, expand routes, and drive revenue. Understanding the composition and growth of the fleet helps stakeholders in the aviation industry make informed decisions about investments, market strategies, and resource allocation to ensure operational efficiency and competitiveness in the dynamic global air travel market.

Global airlines carried over 61 million metric tons of freight in 2019.

The statistic “Global airlines carried over 61 million metric tons of freight in 2019” indicates the total amount of cargo transported by airlines worldwide during the year 2019. This statistic reflects the significant role that air transportation plays in global trade and logistics, as airlines are crucial for shipping goods across long distances efficiently and quickly. The high volume of freight carried by airlines suggests a strong demand for air cargo services, driven by factors such as e-commerce growth, global supply chains, and time-sensitive shipments. Tracking this metric over time can provide insights into the health of the global economy, trade patterns, and the performance of the air cargo industry.

Europe’s share of global passengers was estimated at 26.2% in 2019.

The statistic “Europe’s share of global passengers was estimated at 26.2% in 2019” indicates that approximately one-fourth of all passengers worldwide in the year 2019 were traveling to, from, or within Europe. This statistic reflects the significant role that Europe plays in the global transportation and tourism industries. Factors such as Europe’s well-developed transportation infrastructure, numerous popular tourist destinations, and strong economy contribute to the region’s high share of global passengers. This statistic is important for policymakers, stakeholders in the travel industry, and researchers as it provides insight into the distribution of passengers across different regions and can be used to analyze trends and make informed decisions related to transportation planning, tourism strategies, and economic development.

4 out of the 5 top global airlines by number of flights in 2020 were American airlines.

The statistic indicates that in 2020, the majority of the top global airlines based on the number of flights were American airlines, specifically 4 out of the top 5. This suggests that American airlines had a significant presence in the global aviation industry during that year, with a high volume of flight operations compared to their international counterparts. The dominance of American airlines in this ranking highlights their strong market position and potentially reflects factors such as the size of their fleet, route networks, and overall market share.

In 2019, global airlines recorded a net profit of 26.4 billion U.S. dollars.

The statistic that global airlines recorded a net profit of 26.4 billion U.S. dollars in 2019 indicates the collective financial performance of the airline industry during that year. This figure reflects the total amount of profits earned after deducting all expenses from the revenue generated by airlines worldwide. A net profit of this magnitude suggests that the industry as a whole was financially successful in 2019, showcasing efficient operations, customer demand, and economic conditions conducive to profitability. This statistic is critical for stakeholders such as investors, policymakers, and industry analysts as it provides insight into the overall health and performance of the global airline sector in a specific time period.

Conclusion

Overall, analyzing the global airline industry statistics provides valuable insights into trends, challenges, and opportunities within the sector. By understanding key metrics such as passenger traffic, revenue, and market share, stakeholders can make informed decisions to optimize operations and enhance customer experiences. The data presented underscores the dynamic nature of the airline industry and the importance of continuously monitoring performance metrics to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving global market.

References

0. – https://www.www.statista.com

1. – https://www.www.airlineratings.com

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

3. – https://www.www.business-standard.com

4. – https://www.www.iata.org

5. – https://www.www.worldbank.org

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.

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