Air transport: rapid growth despite the challenges
According to Jean-Louis Barroux, an air transport expert, the air transport industry has experienced impressive growth over the past few decades. Indeed, the demand for air transport has doubled every ten years, rising from 310 million passengers in 1970 to nearly 4.5 billion passengers in 2019. This steady growth has been fueled by many factors such as the opening of borders, falling air ticket costs and the boom in tourism.
However, this growth was seriously hampered by the Covid-19 pandemic in 2019. The airline sector was hit hard, with passenger numbers dropping dramatically to just 1.77 billion. However, despite these difficulties, the industry is gradually recovering from the crisis and air traffic is on the rise, reaching 3.05 billion passengers in 2022.
This recovery is supported by massive aircraft orders by major airlines. For example, the Indian company Indigo has ordered 500 new aircraft, while the Air India/Vistara conglomerate has ordered 500 more. Royal Air Maroc also plans to acquire 200 new planes. Additionally, Chinese carriers are keeping their production lines running at full capacity.
These impressive figures also highlight the resilience of modern aircraft. Unlike their 1970s predecessors, today’s aircraft have a lifespan of around 30 years, which allows them to be operated longer and generate a greater return on investment.
Despite the challenges and disruption caused by the pandemic, the airline industry appears ready to rebound. Growth prospects are encouraging and airlines continue to invest heavily in new aircraft. It is therefore very likely that the sector will regain its long-term growth momentum, offering new opportunities for travelers around the world.
In conclusion, although air transport has been hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic, the industry is gradually recovering and experiencing an encouraging recovery. Massive aircraft orders and the resilience of modern aircraft are positive signs for the future of the sector. It remains to be hoped that this growth will take place in a sustainable and responsible manner, taking into account environmental and social issues