China’s Air Passenger Travel Set to Hit Record 700 Million in 2024

China is poised to set a new record in air passenger travel in 2024, with projections indicating that the number of passenger flights could reach 700 million, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. This optimistic forecast was announced by Song Zhiyong, head of the Civil Aviation Administration, during the Asia Pacific Summit for Aviation Safety, as reported by China’s State Council.

In the first half of 2024, China witnessed a 9% increase in total passenger trips compared to the same period in 2019, reflecting a robust recovery in the air travel sector from the pandemic’s impacts. This growth marks a significant rebound, with the 2024 projections notably exceeding the 619.6 million air passenger trips recorded in 2023.

The surge in air travel is not just limited to domestic routes. During the Lunar New Year holidays earlier this year, China experienced a 47.4% increase in tourism revenues year-on-year, fueled by a domestic travel boom that outpaced pre-pandemic levels.

The recent Paris Olympic Games also contributed to an uptick in international travel. According to a CAAC official, there has been a strong demand for flights between China and international destinations such as Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Europe.

This resurgence in travel has not only benefitted China but has also spurred growth across the broader Asia-Pacific region, driven by the influx of Chinese tourists. The increasing mobility and the rebound in both domestic and international travel highlight China’s pivotal role in the global aviation market’s ongoing recovery.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, cnbc.com