The aviation sector in Latin America and the Caribbean is experiencing a strong recovery, marked by an impressive increase in passenger traffic. According to the Airports Council International for Latin America and the Caribbean (ACI-LAC), passenger numbers rose by 4.7% in the first half of 2024 compared with the same period in 2023.
A strong comeback
The region’s airports have seen a massive return of travellers, with growing demand for both domestic and international flights. Major tourist destinations such as Peru, Colombia and Chile have largely contributed to this recovery (with +20%, +17% and +16% respectively), once again attracting international tourists in search of sun and culture.
Brazil and Mexico, the region’s two largest markets, recorded growth of +2.6% and +0.6% respectively over the first six months.
The ACI-LAC report stresses that the economic recovery in these countries, coupled with the easing of travel restrictions, has played a key role in this growth. Airlines have also increased their capacity to meet this increased demand, restoring interrupted routes and opening new ones to attract more passengers.
Mr Echevarne, ACI-LAC CEO said: “This growth is testament to the recovery and dynamism of the aviation industry in our region, and we expect the positive trend to continue through to the end of the year.”
Factors contributing to growth
Several factors have contributed to this dynamic recovery in air traffic. Firstly, the ongoing efforts of governments to promote tourism and strengthen airport infrastructures have borne fruit. Mexico, for example, has recorded significant growth thanks to its investment in airport infrastructure and the strengthening of health safety measures.
In addition, the development of domestic tourism, encouraged by promotional campaigns and government incentives, has helped to offset the slow recovery in international travel. Local populations have rediscovered their own countries, boosting domestic traffic, particularly in Brazil and Argentina.
In addition, low-cost airlines have played a crucial role by offering attractive fares, making travel more accessible to a broad population. These airlines have captured a significant share of the market, contributing to the overall increase in passenger traffic.
Outlook for the second half of 2024
The second half of 2024 looks just as promising, with continued growth forecast. Airlines are planning to add new routes to capitalise on this growing demand, seeing that Latin America is well on the way to consolidating its position as a key region for tourism and global aviation.
The 4.7% increase in passenger traffic at Latin American and Caribbean airports in the first half of 2024 is a clear sign of the sector’s robust recovery. With growing demand, continued investment in infrastructure and favourable government initiatives, the region is poised to build on this momentum, strengthening its role on the international tourism stage.
