IATA - passenger demand reaches September all-time high
Aviation's green transition is industry's "greatest opportunity", ICAO Secretary General tells airline leaders.
IATA - passengers want convenience and technology to improve processes, regional preferences diverging.
IATA and ASA strengthen cooperation.
Riyadh Air places firm order for 60 Airbus A321neo Family aircraft.
Airbus delivers first A321XLR to Iberia.
Bombardier celebrates 100th Challenger 3500 aircraft delivery, underscoring continued success as best-selling platform.
New Lufthansa Allegris first class takes off on 9 November.
Worldwide incidents and accidents.
Bonus video - Ford Tri Motor Flight 2016
AIRLINES, AIRPORTS & AIRLINERS NEWS
IATA - PASSENGER DEMAND REACHES SEPTEMBER ALL-TIME HIGH The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for September 2024 global passenger demand with the following highlights:
Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), was up 7.1% compared to September 2023, an all-time high for September. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometres (ASK), was up 5.8% year-on-year. The September load factor was 83.6% (+1.0ppt compared to September 2023).
International demand rose 9.2% compared to September 2023. Capacity was up 9.1% year-on-year and the load factor rose to 83.8% (+0.1ppt compared to September 2023).
Domestic demand rose 3.7% compared to September 2023. Capacity was up 0.7% year-on-year and the load factor was 83.3% (+2.4ppt compared to September 2023).
“The year's peak travel season ended with demand at an all-time high. This is good news not just for passengers but also for the global economy. Every flight creates more jobs and trade. But the air travel success story is bringing challenges. We will soon face a capacity crunch in some regions which threatens to curtail these economic and social benefits. Government's will face a choice: lose out to more dynamic nations who value global connectivity, or forge a consensus for sustainable growth. Airlines are making significant investments to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. That needs to be accompanied by an equally active political vision, backed-up by actions, to ensure we have efficient and sufficient airport and air traffic management capacity to meet the needs of citizens and businesses to travel,” said Willie Walsh, IATA's Director General.
Regional Breakdown - International Passenger Markets
All regions showed growth for international passenger markets in September 2024 compared to September 2023. Load factor was a mixed bag: Europe had the highest load factors, and Asia and African carriers also improved, but the Americas and the Middle East suffered falls.
Asia-Pacific airlines achieved an 18.5% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 17.7% year-on-year and the load factor was 82.6% (+0.5ppt compared to September 2023).
European carriers saw a 7.6% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 7.4% year-on-year, and the load factor was 85.9% (+0.2ppt compared to September 2023).
Middle Eastern carriers saw a 4.4% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 4.6% year-on-year and the load factor was 81.4% (-0.1ppt compared to September 2023).
North American carriers saw a 0.5% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 1.9% year-on-year, and the load factor was 84.4% (-1.1 ppt compared to September 2023).
Latin American airlines saw a 12.4% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity climbed 13.9% year-on-year. The load factor was 84.3% (-1.1ppt compared to September 2023).
African airlines saw an 11.9% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity was up 6.6% year-on-year. The load factor rose to 76.0% (+3.6ppt compared to September 2023).
Domestic Passenger Markets
All key markets, showed stable growth in domestic demand and all except Japan saw all-time highs for September domestic traffic.
AVIATION'S GREEN TRANSITION IS INDUSTRY'S "GREATEST OPPORTUNITY", ICAO SECRETARY GENERAL TELLS AIRLINE LEADERS
The path to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 presents the aviation industry with its greatest opportunity for innovation and growth, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar told global airline leaders at the IATA World Sustainability Symposium recently held in Miami.
Mr. Salazar called for unprecedented collaboration to accelerate the sector's green transition.
"By successfully navigating this transition, we can strengthen aviation's position as a driver of sustainable development worldwide, connecting people and markets while respecting environmental boundaries," he said.
The Secretary General's keynote outlined ICAO's new long-term Strategic Plan 2026-2050, which includes the ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 for international civil aviation operations. This plan builds on the Long-term Global Aspirational Goal (LTAG) agreed upon by ICAO Member States in 2022 and the Global Framework on Sustainable Aviation Fuels established at the 3rd ICAO Conference on Aviation and Alternative Fuels (CAAF/3) in 2023.
A key focus of the address was the need for increased scaling up in the production and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF). ICAO's Assistance, Capacity-building and Training for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (ACT-SAF) programme was highlighted as a crucial initiative in this area. The Secretary General also introduced the ICAO Finvest Hub, a new platform aimed at linking clean energy project proposals with financing opportunities.
The importance of the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) was reaffirmed, with a call for continued industry support for its implementation. Mr. Salazar also touched upon ICAO's recent symposium on non-CO2 aviation emissions, inviting industry expertise to contribute to this emerging area of study.
In his concluding remarks, the Secretary General emphasized the need for united advocacy efforts to showcase aviation's progress in reducing its environmental footprint and its role in driving economic development. He called on all stakeholders to work together in telling aviation's "great story" to the world and accelerating towards the shared goal of eliminating air transport emissions.
The IATA World Sustainability Symposium brought together leaders from across the global aviation industry to discuss and strategize on key sustainability challenges and opportunities facing the sector.
IATA - PASSENGERS WANT CONVENIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY TO IMPROVE PROCESSES, REGIONAL PREFERENCES DIVERGING
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released the results of its 2024 Global Passenger Survey, revealing that travellers continue to prioritize convenience and speed. For a smoother travel experience, they are eager to use biometric identification and complete some travel processes before reaching the airport.
"Passengers want flexibility and transparency when planning and booking travel, plus speed and convenience at the airport. More are embracing biometrics, digital wallets, and off-airport processes to make it happen," said Nick Careen, IATA's Senior Vice President of Operations, Safety, and Security.
Planning, Booking and Payment
68% said proximity to the airport was their top priority when selecting their departure airport, followed by minimizing total travel time (33%) and getting the best ticket price (25%).
71% said they book travel online or via a mobile app, with 53% preferring to use the airline's website / app and only 16% preferring human interaction.
32% said they wanted to have all travel information consolidated in one place during the pre-travel process.
79% prefer to pay for travel with a credit or debit card (+8ppt on 2023), followed by digital wallets at 20% (+2ppt on 2023) and instant payment solutions, such as IATA Pay, at 7% (+3ppt on 2023).
Convenience was the main reason passengers chose a particular payment method (70%), followed by benefits (39%) and security (33%).
Passengers prioritize convenience in the planning, booking and payment phase of travel. For this convenience, they may accept some higher costs and they are increasingly willing to use technologies such as digital wallets. IATA's Modern Airline Retailing initiative is helping airlines to deliver greater customer centricity based on the foundational work of New Distribution Capability and the conversion to Offers and Orders. The Airline Retailing Maturity Index supports airlines in their distribution and payment transformation.
"Technology continues to change the way people plan, book and pay for travel. Travelers expect the same conveniences when shopping for travel that they get in any other online shopping experience. That means simplicity, clarity, and with options to meet their preferences while keeping their data secure. The industry is stepping up to meet the demand for greater customer centricity through IATA's Modern Airline Retailing initiative. Passengers will experience its positive impact progressively in the very near future,” said Muhammad Albakri, IATA's Senior Vice President for Financial Settlement and Distribution Services.
Airport
70% said they want to reach their boarding gate in 30 minutes or less when traveling with just a carry-on; 74% expect it to take no longer than 45 minutes with a checked bag.
85% said they are willing to share immigration data i.e. passport, visa with authorities before departure to speed up airport process. And 89% are interested in a trusted traveller program to expedite security screening.
45% said immigration procedures should be completed before reaching the airport, and 36% feel the same about check-in. Additionally, 70% of passengers said they'd be more likely to check-in a bag if they could do so in advance.
46% of travellers experienced airport processes using biometric identification. The highest usage is seen at entry and exit immigration checkpoints (43%). 84% of users were satisfied. And 75% prefer using biometrics over traditional passports and boarding passes.
50% said they are concerned about data protection and 39% would be more open to biometric solutions if assured of their data's security.
IATA's One ID initiative is helping the industry to respond to traveller desires for faster processes and less hassle on the way to their aircraft, securely powered by biometrics and digital identity.
"The clear message from travellers is that they expect to board their planes faster with technology and smarter processes beginning well before they reach the airport. And the good news is that we are making this happen. Already travellers can arrive at the airport ready to fly with admissibility checks completed. And biometrics and digital identity can deliver a paperless experience once at the airport. That's great for passengers. Importantly, the greater efficiency will help airport infrastructure to better cope with the growth in passenger numbers, helping to make the business case for adopting these new technologies and processes even more compelling,” said Careen.
Digital solutions are preferred by younger generations
Under-25s are considerably more proactive in using technology to improve their travel but want assurances on security.
51% would choose digital wallets for payment, far above the global average of 20%.
90% expressed interest in using a smartphone with a digital wallet, passport, and loyalty cards for booking, payment, and airport navigation, surpassing the global average of 77%.
48% prefer biometrics over traditional passports and boarding passes, compared to 43% of those aged 56-75.
50% of under-25s would be more open to biometric solutions if assured of data security, versus the global average of 39%.
Regional Trends
Africa Passengers
African passengers prioritize convenience when choosing an airport but often face limited options due to a lack of alternatives. More passengers in this region book their tickets through travel agents than in any other area. They also show a stronger interest in adopting digital solutions and technology to streamline travel processes. Additionally, complex visa requirements are a deterrent for African travellers compared to other regions.
Asia-Pacific Passengers
Asia-Pacific travellers are the most price-conscious when choosing their departure airport. They lead in using mobile apps and digital wallets to book and pay for travel, more than any other region. They are also more likely to use biometric technology at airports, although their satisfaction with the experience is the lowest among all regions. Complex visa requirements deter more travellers from Asia-Pacific than most other regions.
Europe Passengers
European travellers are more likely to book through an airline's website and pay with a credit or debit card. They tend to be slightly more cautious about using digital solutions and sharing personal information to enhance their travel experience compared to other regions. Europeans are also the least likely to share biometric data to speed up processes, and when they do, their satisfaction is lower than that of travellers from other regions.
Middle East Passengers
Middle East passengers are the most likely to choose an airport for its facilities and services. A higher percentage book their flights through a channel where human interaction is involved than most other regions. They are enthusiastic about using smartphones to store digital wallets, digital passports, and loyalty cards for booking, payment, and airport navigation. Over half have used biometrics instead of a passport for airport processes in the past 12 months, with nearly all reporting satisfaction with the experience.
North America Passengers
North America passengers overwhelmingly and more than any other region prefer to pay for their flights with debit or credit cards and are the most frequent users of loyalty points for payment. They actively use biometric identification for airport processes and report high satisfaction with it. Nearly all are interested in providing data in advance for more 'lighter' security checks at the airport.
Latin America and Caribbean Passengers
Latin America and Caribbean passengers prefer booking travel with a credit or debit card. They place the highest value on payment flexibility, preferring to pay in instalments more than any other region. They are more inclined than any other region to obtain visas from a consulate or embassy. They use biometrics less frequently than other regions; however, they show a strong willingness to adopt the technology and report high satisfaction when they do.
AVIATION'S GREEN TRANSITION IS INDUSTRY'S "GREATEST OPPORTUNITY", ICAO SECRETARY GENERAL TELLS AIRLINE LEADERS
The path to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 presents the aviation industry with its greatest opportunity for innovation and growth, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar told global airline leaders at the IATA World Sustainability Symposium recently held in Miami.
Mr. Salazar called for unprecedented collaboration to accelerate the sector's green transition.
"By successfully navigating this transition, we can strengthen aviation's position as a driver of sustainable development worldwide, connecting people and markets while respecting environmental boundaries," he said.
The Secretary General's keynote outlined ICAO's new long-term Strategic Plan 2026-2050, which includes the ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 for international civil aviation operations. This plan builds on the Long-term Global Aspirational Goal (LTAG) agreed upon by ICAO Member States in 2022 and the Global Framework on Sustainable Aviation Fuels established at the 3rd ICAO Conference on Aviation and Alternative Fuels (CAAF/3) in 2023.
A key focus of the address was the need for increased scaling up in the production and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF). ICAO's Assistance, Capacity-building and Training for Sustainable Aviation Fuels (ACT-SAF) programme was highlighted as a crucial initiative in this area. The Secretary General also introduced the ICAO Finvest Hub, a new platform aimed at linking clean energy project proposals with financing opportunities.
The importance of the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) was reaffirmed, with a call for continued industry support for its implementation. Mr. Salazar also touched upon ICAO's recent symposium on non-CO2 aviation emissions, inviting industry expertise to contribute to this emerging area of study.
In his concluding remarks, the Secretary General emphasized the need for united advocacy efforts to showcase aviation's progress in reducing its environmental footprint and its role in driving economic development. He called on all stakeholders to work together in telling aviation's "great story" to the world and accelerating towards the shared goal of eliminating air transport emissions.
The IATA World Sustainability Symposium brought together leaders from across the global aviation industry to discuss and strategize on key sustainability challenges and opportunities facing the sector.
IATA AND ASA STRENGTHEN COOPERATION
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Airport Services Association (ASA) are strengthening their collaboration to improve ground handling safety and efficiency. Together, the organizations will work to reinforce standardization, promote safety data sharing, and explore new approaches to enhance sector resilience.
“Global standards make aviation safer, and ASA and its members have been pivotal in helping develop the IATA ground handling standards we rely on today. By sharing data, we will be able to support this vital activity with data-driven insights and decisions. Maximizing the impact of data relies on broad contributions. We encourage ground handler participation to strengthen our collective insights,” said Nick Careen, Senior Vice-President Operations, Safety and Security at IATA.
“This partnership is a significant milestone that leverages the expertise of both IATA and ASA. By coordinating our approach, we will ensure more robust support for ground and cargo handling professionals worldwide. Our goal is to ensure that standards and best practices are in place that the entire industry can rely on,” said Fabio Gamba, ASA's Director General.
IATA and ASA collaboration will include:
• Safety Data: Through ASA's Safety Incident Database and IATA's Incident Data Exchange (a part of IATA's Global Aviation Data Management-GADM-initiative), both organizations will share and analyze safety information to proactively address safety issues related to ground and cargo handling.
• Industry Standards: ASA will continue to work with IATA in the development of industry best practices and standards related to ground and cargo handling, taking advantage of relevant data. In particular, this work will focus on key documents such as the IATA Ground Operations Manual (IGOM) and the IATA Airport Handling Manual (AHM), their adoption by the industry and reduction of variations.
RIYADH AIR PLACES FIRM ORDER FOR 60 AIRBUS A321NEO FAMILY AIRCRAFT
Riyadh Air, the new premium international airline based in Saudi Arabia, has placed a firm order for 60 A321neo Family aircraft. The agreement was signed at the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh, marking a significant milestone for Riyadh Air. The signing ceremony was attended by His Excellency Yasir Al-Rumayyan Governor of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and Chairman of Riyadh Air, Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, Christian Scherer, Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft at Airbus and Benoit de Saint-Exupery, Executive Vice President Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business.
“This investment will not only enable us to support economic growth in the aviation industry, it will ensure Riyadh Air operates one of the most fuel-efficient fleets. It'll be instrumental in helping Saudi Arabia achieve its decarbonisation goals,” said Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas. “This deal strongly reinforces the positive economic impact of Saudi Arabia's newest airline on both a global and local scale to facilitate the fast-growing Saudi aviation ecosystem.”
Christian Scherer, CEO of Commercial Aircraft at Airbus said: “We are proud to welcome Riyadh Air as a new Airbus customer and partner. The latest generation A321neo aircraft will bring exceptional efficiency to the airline's operations, concrete contributions to its decarbonisation goals and comfort to its passengers. We look forward to working together to support the strong ambitions of Saudi aviation."
The A321neo is the largest member of Airbus' best-selling A320neo Family, offering unparalleled range and performance. By incorporating new generation engines and Sharklets, the A321neo brings a 50% noise reduction and more than 20% fuel savings and CO2 reduction compared to previous generation single-aisle aircraft, while maximising passenger comfort in the widest single-aisle cabin in the sky.
To date more than 6,700 A321neo have been ordered by more than 90 customers across the globe.
AIRBUS DELIVERS FIRST A321XLR TO IBERIA
Spanish flag carrier Iberia has taken delivery of its first A321XLR, becoming the launch operator of the world's newest single-aisle aircraft.
The aircraft, powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines, will be operated by Iberia on a number of regional flights across the airline's European network before its first transatlantic mission from Madrid to Boston later in November.
Marco Sansavini, CEO & Chairman at Iberia, said: “We are very proud to be the launch airline for this new Airbus aircraft. The A321XLR will allow us to reach new destinations, operating transoceanic routes and doing so in a more efficient way.”
Christian Scherer, CEO Commercial Aircraft at Airbus, said: “Five years in the making, the newest member of the Airbus family is all set to join its first operator, Iberia. The A321XLR will enable countless new non-stop destinations; it truly opens a new chapter in air connectivity. It is another proud “first” for all of us at Airbus in our constant quest to innovate and bring value to our customers. We are pleased to share this special moment with a special customer: gracias y felicidades Iberia.”
The newly delivered A321XLR to Iberia seats 182 passengers in a two-class layout with lie-flat business class seats with direct aisle access. Boasting the new Airspace cabin, the aircraft will provide passengers with long haul comfort in all classes. The XL bins provide 60% more luggage capacity for a more relaxed boarding experience for passengers and cabin crew. In addition, in-seat connectivity is available for passengers at every seat, and the latest lighting system enhances the overall passenger experience.
The A321XLR is the next evolutionary step from the A320neo which responds to market needs for even more range and payload, creating more value for the airlines. It will deliver an unprecedented Xtra Long Range of up to 4,700nm - 15% more range than the A321LR and with 30% lower fuel burn per seat compared with previous generation competitor aircraft, as well as reduced NOx emissions and noise. So far, Airbus has secured more than 500 orders for the aircraft.
The first A321XLR completed its maiden flight in June 2022. This was followed by an extensive test programme involving three test aircraft. As with all Airbus aircraft, the A321XLR aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% SAF. Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.
BOMBARDIER CELEBRATES 100TH CHALLENGER 3500 AIRCRAFT DELIVERY, UNDERSCORING CONTINUED SUCCESS AS BEST-SELLING PLATFORM
Bombardier is proud to celebrate the delivery of the 100th Challenger 3500 aircraft, the latest addition to its industry-leading portfolio of aircraft. Since entering service in 2022, the Challenger 3500 aircraft has delivered unmatched versatility, the lowest direct operating costs in its class and rock-solid reliability, and quickly became a top choice for charter operators and corporations around the world. With this new milestone, the Challenger 3500 aircraft sets a new standard and becomes the fastest super-midsize business jet to reach 100 deliveries in history.
“The entire Bombardier team is proud that our super midsized jets have been the category's best-sellers for more than a decade. Our customers continue to benefit from the comfort of the widest-in-class cabin and from the peace of mind provided by exceptional dispatch reliability of 99.8%. Passengers know that they can fly confidently on the Challenger 3500 aircraft, enjoying a spacious and refined cabin, while the aircraft consistently performs at the highest standards,” said, Jean-Christophe Gallagher, Executive Vice President, Aircraft Sales and Bombardier defence.
“The Challenger 3500 aircraft offers a remarkable travel experience, with a clear emphasis on comfort and passenger well-being. On top of its class-leading comfort, the Challenger 3500 also ensures that travel plans are consistently met without delays for a smooth and efficient journey.”
Leveraging some of the key features of Bombardier's renowned Global family, the Challenger 3500 offers unparalleled comfort and luxury in the cabin, seamlessly integrating design and technology innovations. Passengers can enjoy Bombardier's patented Nuage seat, the first new seat architecture in business aviation in over 30 years. When it comes to purposeful technology, the Challenger 3500 aircraft leads the way. It introduces several industry-first features, including voice-control, unmatched 4K entertainment, first-in-class wireless chargers and a true bring-your-own-device cabin philosophy, making it the leading-edge aircraft in its class.
Bombardier's iconic Challenger family - the best-selling super mid-size platform for the past seven years - continues to lead the industry, with the Challenger 3500 recording a dispatch reliability of 99.8%.
NEW LUFTHANSA ALLEGRIS FIRST CLASS TAKES OFF ON 9 NOVEMBER
The time has come: in a few days, Lufthansa Allegris First Class, the flagship of the new cabin on long-haul routes, will take off on a scheduled flight for the first time. The first destinations will be Bangalore on November 9 and Mumbai (both in India) a little later, on November 15, which will then be served alternately with the new First Class. Two individual suites and the globally unique Suite Plus in the A350-900 will then take off on a scheduled flight for the first time.
After a technical introduction phase, Lufthansa will initially present the new, innovative product to its most loyal guests by invitation. As soon as more aircraft with the new First Class are part of the fleet, targeted upgrades by passengers and later targeted bookings will be possible step by step.
The furnishings in the First Class Suite set new standards: guests can heat or cool their almost one-meter-wide seats in the suite according to their personal needs. The separate suites with ceiling-high walls and lockable door, large table and wide seat, a huge screen and wireless over-ear headphones, set new standards in comfort and individuality in the highest class. A personal wardrobe in the suite provides ample storage space so that travellers can change comfortably and have all their personal items to hand. Individual lamps allow travellers to create their very own feel-good atmosphere. The Suite Plus also combines maximum comfort for individual guests with the unique option of traveling together with a travel partner in a suite.
USA, Louisville-Muhammad Ali International Airport, KY (SDF/KSDF): An United Parcel Service Airbus A300F4-622R, experienced tail-strike while landing on runway 17R at SDF. The aircraft taxied to the ramp without further incident. No injuries reported. A post-accident photo shows that the airplane sustained substantial damage.
Saudia Arabia, Madinah-Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz Airport (MED/OEMA): A passenger on a Flynas Lion Air Airbus A330-343 fell and sustained fatal injuries during disembarkation via stairs on the apron.
Russia, 100 km south-east of Moscow Sheremetyevo: An Aeroflot Airbus A321, was 100 km south-east of Moscow Sheremetyevo at flight level 240 when the crew reported the failure of the cabin pressurization system. The crew declared a Mayday and descended to FL100. The decision was made to return to the departure airport Moscow Sheremetyevo, where it landed safely.
Taiwan, Taipei-Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE/RCTP): A Starlux Airlines Airbus A321-252NX, performed a go around after a bounce developed during an attempted landing on runway 05R in strong winds at Taipei-Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). A video of the incident shows the aircraft banking left as it touched down after the bounce. The crew then immediately carried out the go around. The flight landed normally on the second try, 30 minutes later. At the time of the incident Typhoon Kangri was passing through the area. The Civil Aeronautics Administration ordered the aircraft to be grounded for inspection. Starlux stated that the aircraft underwent a preliminary inspection immediately after landing. No issues were noted, but a detailed inspection would be carried out later.
Indian Ocean, over the Red Sea: While flying over the Red Sea Air France Boeing 777-228Er the crew spotted a bright object, probably a missile, near the plane. The crew decided to turn back to France, it landed back safely in Paris. Later that day Air France declared that it would stop overflying the Red Sea region, due to the threats posed by the situation in the Middle East.
