Air traffic set to rise significantly

The total number of air travellers could increase by 800 million by 2014, according to a new industry forecast.

The total number of air travellers could increase by 800 million by 2014, according to a new industry forecast.

Data from the International Air Transport Association (Iata) suggests that the total number of passengers could reach 3.3 billion following a growth in Asia-Pacific flight routes.

It is expected that 360 million people could take air trips within the region as there is an increase in demand for flights to Dubai and other United Arab Emirates states as well as China, Vietnam and Sri Lanka.

Giovanni Bisignani, Iata’s director general and chief executive, stressed that the predicted demand could lead to many airlines upgrading their current facilities and services to meet increasing numbers.

He added: “To realise the economic growth potential that this will bring, we will need even more efficient air traffic management, airport facilities and security programs. Industry and governments will be challenged to work together even more closely.”

Iata represents around 230 airlines that operate 93 per cent of the world’s scheduled international air traffic.

Written by Erin Marshall.