In a comprehensive report released by aviation intelligence company OAG, the world’s busiest flight routes for 2024 have been unveiled, showcasing notable trends and shifts in global aviation. The data highlights how certain international and domestic routes are recovering and even surpassing pre-pandemic levels, with Asia-Pacific and the Middle East emerging as key regions of growth.
Asia-Pacific Leads the Way: Dominance in International Routes
Hong Kong-Taipei has reclaimed its position as the busiest international flight route, despite seat capacity being 15% below pre-pandemic levels. This route, along with six others from the Asia-Pacific, demonstrates the region’s continued dominance in international travel. Factors such as regional tourism and business travel are major contributors, with the World Bank forecasting a 5% annual increase in Asia-Pacific’s air passenger market by 2027.
John Grant, chief analyst at OAG, explains, “The Asia-Pacific region’s resilience and strategic airline allocations have been pivotal in its recovery. Airlines are tapping into markets like Japan, where demand is surging.”
Middle East Routes Show Remarkable Growth
Two Middle Eastern routes have shown significant growth since 2019, with Cairo to Jeddah taking the spotlight as the second busiest route globally, boasting a 62% increase in available seats. This reflects the strong economic ties and pilgrimage travel between Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the route connecting Jeddah and Riyadh has also grown by 9%, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s push to bolster its domestic aviation sector in line with Vision 2030.
North America’s Presence in the Top Ten
The New York-JFK to London-Heathrow route is the sole representative of North America and Europe on the top 10 list. With a slight increase of 3% in seat capacity, this transatlantic route remains a vital corridor for business and leisure travel.
Domestic Routes: A Surge in Regional Travel
Domestic flight routes have outpaced international ones in terms of seat volume. The busiest domestic route globally is in South Korea, linking Seoul to Jeju Island with 14.2 million seats. Despite a 19% reduction from pre-pandemic figures, this route highlights the growing preference for domestic travel within Asia.
In China, the Beijing to Shanghai route features prominently with 7.7 million seats, reflecting a realignment as international capacities are restored. Grant adds, “Chinese carriers are gradually shifting focus back to international routes, leading to a recalibration of domestic services.”
Regional Highlights: Africa and Europe
Africa’s busiest route is between Cape Town and Johannesburg, offering 5 million seats, underscoring South Africa’s role as a key aviation hub on the continent. In Europe, the route connecting Barcelona to Mallorca sees 2.9 million seats, driven by robust tourism demand.
The 2024 report by OAG paints a dynamic picture of global aviation, marked by recovery and strategic growth. These insights reflect broader trends in travel and economic connectivity across regions. As airlines continue to adapt, the aviation industry is poised for a transformative era driven by innovation and sustainability.