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    IATA Chief Reflects on Aviation’s Past, Present, and Future at Industry Event

    Minister Chee, honorable ministers, Salvatore Sciacchitano, Directors General, friends, and honorable guests. It is a great pleasure to be here and I want to add my thanks to all of those involved in organizing this wonderful event.
    It was said at the panel discussion last night that to better understand the future, it’s good to understand the past and the present. And I fully agree with that. Now, I don’t intend to reflect too much on the period of the pandemic. But I just want to give you some flavor for what has happened to the industry in 2023, to look back at the shape of the industry over the past few decades, and then to maybe draw some conclusions as to what we think might happen going forward.
    I’m pleased to say that the progress and recovery of the industry continued strongly during 2023. Full year 2023 was at just over 94% of where we were in 2019. And that consisted of very strong performance in domestic markets, almost 4% ahead of 2019, with international markets lagging at just over 88%.
    Now if we look at this region, the situation was slightly less than that, overall at 86% of where the region was in 2019. The strong performance in domestic markets over 2% ahead, but international travel in the region still lagged behind at about 73% of 2019. It is important to point out that there was a strong recovery as we went through the year, moving from about 57% in January to almost 83% in December.
    Looking forward, IATA estimates that over the next 20 years, the industry will grow at about 3.3% per annum. That is significantly lower than the growth we witnessed during 2010 to 2019. But I think it does reflect some of the challenges that we as an industry are facing and will face going into the future. Infrastructure constraints both in the air and on the ground. Supply chain issues which have now been a feature of the industry for a number of years and are likely to continue for a few more years. The delay and delivery of new aircraft, the problems in relation to engines, labour shortages in some parts of the world, and significantly the cost impact of our transition to net zero in 2050.ADVERTISEMENTBecause whatever way you look at this, there will be a cost associated with transitioning to net zero. And ultimately, that costs will have to be reflected in the ticket prices that we charge our customers, which will have a dampening effect on the level of growth that the industry sees going forward.
    Now I’m pleased to say this region is likely to lead the markets with growth around 4.5% per annum during that same period.
    Now, if I reflect back at 1990, and I’ve chosen 1990 for a couple of reasons. It recognizes that we had the introduction of the Boeing 737-300, 400 and 500s in the mid 80s, and the Airbus A320 in the late 1980s. It also reflects a fully deregulated market in the US, and a deregulated market in Europe. And it’s fascinating to look at the shape of the industry in that year.
    At IATA, we look at six major geographic regions when we’re assessing our economic performance, and we report on these on a monthly basis. That’s Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America, Middle East and North America. In 1990, African airlines contributed 2.2% of global aviation.  Asia-Pacific carriers were 19.7%, Europe 28%, Latin America and Caribbean 5.4%, Middle East carriers 2.4% and a lot has been written about what has happened in the Middle East. But significantly North American carriers 42% of the global markets.
    Now if we roll forward and look at 2019, Africa continued to be at 2.1%. But we saw significant growth in the Asia-Pacific region, reaching almost 35% of the global market in 2019. Europe remained pretty static at 27%, Latin America 5%, the Middle East has grown from 2.4% to 9.1%, and North American carriers had reduced from 42% to just over 22%.
    The figures for 2023 are broadly similar. Asia Pacific, reflecting the fact that the recovery has been slightly slower in international markets at about 32%.
    Now, it’s interesting also to reflect on the fact that if I look at the major domestic markets, the domestic market in China in 1990 was just over 1% of all global activity, and India about 0.2%. Looking forward at 2023, the Chinese domestic market now represents over 11%, of total commercial aviation, and India has grown to almost 1.8%. We’ve seen significant growth in these markets in that period. And I think when you look at the demographics of the world, it doesn’t take much to imagine what is going to happen in these countries going forward, particularly in India, which I think represents a fantastic opportunity for the industry.
    I think it is disappointing for us to reflect on the fact that Africa remains in the doldrums at just over 2%. I think the potential for growth in Africa is huge. But there has to be change to enable consumers in the African region to take advantage of the opportunities that aviation provides.
    We also looked at major route groups. The top 20 route groups account for about 95% of all international travel. I’m not going to go through them all but just to reflect that in 2019, before the pandemic, the Asia-Pacific region was at number two, with 13.3%. The biggest international market was Western Europe. International travel within Europe at 18%, and Europe to North America represented 11.4%.
    In 2023, and this demonstrates why we’ve seen a lag in the recovery in Asia-Pacific, international travel within the Asia-Pacific region had fallen to 9.7%. So, this is a huge opportunity for continuing recovery in the market here and I’m excited about what things are going to look like in the years ahead.
    Now, a lot has been said about the challenges we face. And some of these will be discussed in the panel. But I just want to comment briefly on the environment.
    This industry is absolutely committed to achieving net zero CO2 in 2050. And we cannot fail or falter in our efforts to achieve that goal. It is absolutely essential that we work together to ensure that we can credibly provide people with confidence that we have a pathway to decarbonize our industry. And I think we can take a lot of confidence from what we’ve achieved already. And we’ve talked about this in many different forums.
    But just to give you one figure. If you look at the CO2 produced by the industry in 2000, and compare that to what we did in 2019 just before the pandemic, our CO2 footprint increased by almost 54%. But during that same period, passenger traffic grew by 175%. So, there is complete disconnect between passenger growth and our C02 growth. So, we know that we can be confident that with the measures we’ve put in place, with the advances in new technology, there are opportunities for us to address this critical issue. But as the Minister said, central to achieving our goal will be the use of sustainable aviation fuel. For us, this is the most important issue in the short to medium term.
    Now I believe the industry has shown strong demand for this product. Every single drop of sustainable aviation fuel that has been produced has been used by the industry. In 2020, 2021, 2022, during the height of the pandemic, the industry continued to invest in this expensive product. And I’ve absolutely no doubt that we will continue to do so. What we need to see as an industry is greater production. We need to see governments providing the incentive for production to significantly increase. And with that increase in production, I guarantee you that the airlines will use all of the fuel produced despite the cost impact that will represent.
    Technology, labour issues, all of these are fascinating opportunities for the industry going forward. But as I stand and look at the future of this industry, I’m very confident that we can overcome all of the challenges that we’re likely to face. We can take confidence in our ability to overcome some significant challenges in recent times. And working together, with the right policy frameworks in place from governments, the industry has a very credible path to achieving all of the necessary measures to ensure that we are net zero in 2050.
    Thank you very much.

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    KSA companies tap into new markets and reach global investors with launch of MIPIM Saudi Club

    Businesses in Saudi Arabia can attend MIPIM – the world’s biggest, most influential real estate event – at special rates, with exclusive benefits through the MIPIM Saudi Club, a new, independent platform designed to foster networking, learning, partnerships and collaborations between KSA and international companies.MIPIM Saudi Club enables KSA entities to tap into new markets and reach tens of thousands of global investors and decision makers at the event, taking place in Cannes, France, 12-15 March 2024.The brainchild of a group of seasoned, KSA and UAE-based business, events and communications professionals, MIPIM Saudi Club further bridges the gap between Saudi and global businesses, in turn encouraging more foreign direct investment into the country, by making MIPIM more affordable and more accessible. A MIPIM Saudi Club pass costs SAR8,500, which includes full event access, affiliate listing as part of KSA’s overall presence at MIPIM, dedicated meeting spaces, top-flight catering services, increased brand awareness and listing on MIPIM Saudi Club’s official channels. Passes are available until 28 February. MIPIM Saudi Club Co-Founder, Laura Martin, said: “MIPIM is the world’s leading event of its kind, bringing together more than 25,000 delegates, 6,500 investors and 300 exhibitors from 90 countries. With KSA’s unprecedented investment in infrastructure, real estate, tourism and hospitality, MIPIM is a golden opportunity for Saudi companies to get in front of the investors, decision makers and partners who can help turn Vision 2030 into a reality. “MIPIM Saudi Club unites our long-standing experience of working with companies in the Kingdom and wider Middle East with our extensive knowledge of the workings of MIPIM and many other leading global business events. We are proud be part of KSA’s future success by bringing this unique opportunity to Saudi businesses large and small.”For the third year in a row, KSA government entities, developers and projects are exhibiting at MIPIM under the Invest Saudi umbrella. Through the MIPIM Saudi Club, any company in the Kingdom can attend as a visitor or exhibitor. For information and updates, follow MIPIM Saudi Club on LinkedIn or email [email protected]

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    Little Gems by My Second Home stages weekend Valentine’s party exclusively for small dogs

    My Second Home, Dubai’s first and largest luxury pet resort, is inviting owners of small dogs to celebrate the month of love at a Valentine’s party for pets, taking place this weekend at Little Gems. Bring your petite pooch along to Little Gems, My Second Home’s newly opened facility exclusively for small dogs, for Valentine’s themed events, including prize competitions and photo opportunities. Open to both members and non-members, the event takes place from 4pm to 6 pm on Saturday, 17 and Sunday, 18 February. Saturday’s Valentine’s ‘pawty’ is for miniature breed weighing less than five kilogrammes, with dogs weighing up to 10 kg welcome on Sunday. Dress to impress for Little Gems’ Cupid Cutest Canine Contest, with prizes for the best owner-dog Valentine’s outfits. Plus, pucker up at the Smooch-A-Pooch photo booth and take away a Valentine’s pic to treasure forever. To book your spot, WhatsApp 054 247 1945, or email [email protected]Non-members must show their dog’s up-to-date vaccination record and a successful VacciCheck test on arrival. Little Gems, opened in December as part of My Second Home’s US$10 million expansion. With three facilities across Dubai and over 220 members, My Second Home offers unrivalled dog park, day care, boarding and pet grooming services, with a fully trained team on board to ensure pets are socialised in clean, safe surroundings. For more information on My Second Home, visit the website, email [email protected] or call 04 881 8002. 

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    PATA Travel Mart 2024: Uniting Asia Pacific’s Tourism Industry in Bangkok

    The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is set to organise PATA Travel Mart 2024 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) in Bangkok, Thailand from August 27-29.
    “Thailand has been home to PATA’s HQ for a quarter of a century. We relocated from San Francisco to Thailand in 1998 after a highly selective process. Over the years, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau and the PATA Thailand Chapter have given their unwavering support to the association. Holding the 47th iteration of PATA Travel Mart (PTM) is a celebration of the close partnership between PATA and Thai Tourism over many years.” said PATA Chair, Peter Semone.
    “As the travel and tourism industry in the Asia Pacific region shows promising signs of recovery and robust growth, PATA Travel Mart is particularly timely. Featuring a 1-day conference, a 2-day business-to-business travel mart, over 10,000 business appointments, and buyers and sellers from more than 40 destinations across six regions; the event offers attendees a firsthand experience of the industry’s resurgence, making it an ideal platform for networking, collaboration, and seizing emerging opportunities,” said PATA CEO, Noor Ahmad Hamid. “With nearly 30 million international visitors in 2023 and a recent visa exemption announcement for travellers from more than 60 destinations, Thailand is the perfect setting for all to engage in B2B networking and partnership-building with clients, decision-makers, and exhibitors worldwide. “
    Noor added, “Furthermore, according to the report of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI), in 2022 Thailand was ranked No.1 in ASEAN and No.4 in Asia in terms of exhibition spaces, while Bangkok is a MICE hub for meetings and incentives events, conventions, exhibitions and mega-events, with its ease of connectivity to the city via its two international airports, Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang, as well as the rail transport system as well as travel within via the public transport systems such as BTS, MRT or Airport Rail Link. Therefore, we would like to welcome all industry stakeholders to join us this year as we celebrate the industry’s growth.”
    PATA Travel Mart, now in its 47th edition, is Asia Pacific’s international travel trade exhibition featuring unparalleled networking and contracting opportunities to help travel and tourism organisations access decision makers, meet new clients, expand their networks, establish new relationships, and consolidate existing business partnerships.ADVERTISEMENTLocated in central Bangkok, the newly renovated, state-of-the-art Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) embraces a modern, elegant design that reflects Thai Identity with sustainability in mind. It is accessible by several modes of transportation, making it a prime venue for major events since its inception. The venue is easily reached by the MRT, with the QSNCC station connecting directly to the venue. Visitors can also enjoy the view of the lake and park or take a walk through Benjakitti Park nearby.
    For more information or to register for PATA Travel Mart, please visit https://www.pata.org/pata-travel-mart-2024 or email [email protected].

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    PATA Forecasts Strong Growth in Asia Pacific International Visitor Arrivals Amid Post-COVID Recovery

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    PATA Forecasts Strong Growth in Asia Pacific International Visitor Arrivals Amid Post-COVID Recovery

    The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) released the Executive Summary report for its latest forecasts for international visitor arrivals (IVAs) into and across Asia Pacific, which shows strong annual increases in numbers for 2024 with growth momentum continuing to 2026.
    It is expected that pre-COVID levels of IVAs shall be surpassed in 2024 under the mild scenario, and in 2025 under the medium scenario. However, the severe scenario remains a possibility and arrival numbers are predicted to remain around 13 percentage points below the 2019 benchmark by the end of 2026 under such conditions. Nevertheless, the growth felt across the Asia Pacific region validates the enormous work by destinations in luring international travellers and that the complete visitor economy remains vital for national economic recovery.
    “The latest PATA forecasts shed light on the swift recovery of the international arrivals numbers in and across the Asia Pacific region, showing signs of strong visitor growth each year between 2024 and 2026 under the mild and medium scenarios, such trends were somewhat driven by joint agreements on destination visa requirements.” PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid noted.
    “We cannot, however, expect uniformity in growth from that and other source markets across all the destinations of Asia Pacific, as many will increase their inbound counts at their own pace and in their own time. Furthermore, we must recognise this as the time of fast-paced and constant changes. All of us must remain vigilant of sudden shifts within the industry and be prepared with viable strategies and appropriate coping mechanisms for future uncertainties.”
    In absolute terms, the number of IVAs predicted for 2024 ranges from a high of 750 million under the mild scenario, to 619 million under the medium scenario, and 477 million under the severe scenario.ADVERTISEMENTWhile annual increases of IVA numbers into and across Asia Pacific are expected to be robust from 2024 to 2026, significant differences exist for each of the three destination regions as well as for each of the 39 individual destinations covered in the report, and by each of the possible scenarios.
    The annual growth rate for IVAs into and across Asia, for example, is predicted to be in this order: 34% in 2024 under the mild scenario, 29% under the medium scenario, and 11% under the severe scenario. The annual IVA numbers are also predicted to decrease slightly during the three years leading up to 2026, reflecting the return to a more stable longer-term growth rate as the ‘s-shaped’ travel demand curve returns to a more consistent position.
    While the Americas and the Pacific regions are forecast to have less potent growth compared to Asia, they still have generally significant growth rates and absolute volume increases, with some minor fluctuations over the forecast period.
    Despite the prevailing scenario conditions, it seems Asia will maintain a powerful advantage in IVA numbers each year from 2024 to 2026, capturing more than 70% of arrivals into and across Asia Pacific.
    Asia is also predicted to dominate as a supplier region of IVAs, returning to a significant level of dominance by supplying more than 58% of all IVAs into Asia Pacific in 2024, under each of the three scenarios. The Americas and Europe follow with shares of around 19% and 14% that same year.
    By the end of 2026, Asia is forecast to account for more than 61% of all foreign arrivals across Asia Pacific.
    Mr Hamid added, “Even as arrival numbers climb on an upward trajectory, the issues of staffing and maintaining service excellence remain critical issues for destinations within the region, especially now as global competition seeks out the growing source markets contained within Asia Pacific. Any aspect of complacency will be an ever-present danger and must be avoided.”
    This report provides:
    A forecast summary of IVAs for Asia Pacific between 2024 and 2026 by destination region and sub-region, highlighting changing opportunities in the post-COVID era; andHighlights of the key source markets within each Asia Pacific destination region over the forecast period of 2024 to 2026.The PATA Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts Executive Summary 2024-2026 is now available here, and is complimentary for all PATA members.
    PATA members have exclusive on-demand video access to the forecast related webinar, “The Scientific Crystal Ball: Forecasting the Future Tourism Market”, held later today on Wednesday, February 7, 2024. The webinar includes expert panellists from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), Euromonitor International, Mastercard, and Amadeus. The speakers will contribute invaluable insights on travel trends of the coming years, key factors driving tourism recovery, and various aspects of the Asia Pacific international visitor numbers forecast from 2024 to 2026.

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    Hamad International Airport Wins Prestigious Digital Signage Award

    Hamad International Airport (DOH) was presented with the ‘Large-Format Digital Canvases’ award at the Digital Signage Awards for its digital ribbon that wraps the ORCHARD, the airport’s indoor tropical garden. Hosted at Esferic Events Centre in Barcelona, the global Digital Signage Awards is an annual international search for excellence and innovation across projects, creativity, products and services. The project was submitted by multimedia studio Moment Factory who was tasked with enhancing the ORCHARD with a creative multimedia ecosystem.
    Unveiled in November 2022, part of Phase A of Hamad International Airport’s expansion plan, the 6,000 square-meter ORCHARD is home to trees, plants and shrubs sourced from sustainable forests from around the world. The ribbon display is a notable feature of the ORCHARD, that compliments the lush greenery and 10,000 square-meters of multi-dimensional retail and F&B space offering, adding to the visual ecosystem.
    Key features of the Digital Ribbon Display at the ORCHARD:
    The state-of-the-art digital ribbon installation is approximately 1.2 kilometers, spanning across two storeys, tailored to enhance the ambiance of the tropical garden with bespoke visuals.The intricate visuals created in collaboration with Moment Factory are projected through high resolution display with over 169 million pixels of animation.The visual displays of the ribbon consist of multiple themes including a luxe botanical elements, flora and fauna, Qatar Sands of time and a Mirage, embodying the culture and heritage of the state of Qatar.The display comes to life every hour creating an immersive experience for passengersThe ORCHARD is located in the North Plaza, and is connected to the South Plaza, where the famous Lamp/Bear resides, and can be accessed via the Passenger Train – travel time between both stations in 90 seconds, or can be reached by travelators, buggies or walking.
    Winning the accolade is testament to Hamad International Airport’s investment in creating a memorable experience for passengers by introducing an open gallery experience through a collection on one-of-a-kind art installations and incorporating digital art to elevate the airport journey.ADVERTISEMENT

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    Love Is Literally in the Air, as Hovertravel Launches Romantic Experience for Valentines

    Hovertravel launches romantic experience for Valentines
    For anyone planning something different for Valentine’s, Hovertravel has announced a new, romantic-themed experience for couples for Sunday 18th February.Loretta Lale, Head of Commercial at Hovertravel, explains: “In a first for Hovertravel, we are offering a unique opportunity for couples to celebrate in our hovercraft environment. Research indicates that people who enjoy Valentine’s Day are looking for different events and we have added elements to our classic VIP experience to make a special occasion. This event is part of our all new for 2024 Showcase range of themed experiences.“
    On arrival, guests will be welcomed into a champagne and chocolates reception in the Solent Views suite at Hovertravel’s terminal in Ryde. 
    Offering exceptional views over the hover pad with the ability to watch arriving and departing hovercraft from an elevated balcony, this viewpoint also reveals a sweeping vista of the Solent.
    Following a meet and greet with one of Hovertravel’s pilots, guests will then board a hovercraft for a 20 minute hovercraft experience including 360 degree turns, deflating the skirt and a demonstration of the unique manoeuvrability of a hovercraft accompanied by expert commentary from the pilot.ADVERTISEMENTLoretta adds: “There are also plenty of opportunities to capture loved-up selfies for your memories and obviously we would welcome anyone who might wish to be the first ever wedding proposal on a hovercraft!”
    For more details and bookings please visit: https://www.hovertravel.co.uk/Valentines
    £75 per adult (16+), £35 per child (5-15yrs), £5 infant (0-4yrs)

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    Be at the heart of the action at Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi’s Fanzone

    The race to Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has begun! Fans can head to Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi for a racing-themed experience in this year’s Fanzone. From November 20 to 26, guests can enjoy the ultimate race build up while watching highlights of the 2023 season ahead of the live broadcast of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
    Lucky guests will have the opportunity to meet Scuderia Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz during his visit to the park on November 22.
    Adding to the excitement, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will be hosting a variety of entertaining activities including a live DJ, break dancers, themed merchandise, designated chill-out sections with large LED screens and more!
    Formula One enthusiasts can look forward to an exhibit of The Ferrari SF-23 racing car designed and constructed by Scuderia Ferrari and driven by Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz in Grand Prix races. Guests can also snap photos in front of a racing themed Fanzone backdrop to commemorate their visit. At the heart of the Fanzone, Ferrari fans can expect the first touring exhibition showcasing the Formula One Driver Racing Kits as seen on Antonio Giovinazzi who won at the 24 hours of Le Mans race in June 2023, Kimi Räikkönen throughout his races in 2018 and Leclerc and Sainz in the 2023 Italian Grand Prix in Monza, amongst others.
    Gear up for a thrilling week of activities as family and friends come together at the heart of the world’s leading theme park, all in anticipation of the year’s most exciting event.ADVERTISEMENTFerrari World was voted World’s Leading Theme Park 2022 at last year’s World Travel Awards and in addition, Yas Island collected the award for World’s Leading Theme Park Destination 2022.

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