Middle East region leads air connectivity with 28% surge

The Middle East posted robust gains last year, with air connectivity soaring 28 per cent over 2023, according to the latest ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East Air Connectivity Ranking. Stefano Baronci, Director-General of ACI Asia-Pacific and Middle East, said, “The Middle East outpaced all post-Covid-19 recovery forecasts, driven by strong international demand, expanding cargo-linked belly hold capacity and passenger flights. The Middle East, however, is not just recovering—it is setting a new pace. Both intra-regional and inter-continent connectivity have not only bounced back but have exceeded pre-pandemic levels by a significant margin of 18 per cent and 16 per cent, respectively. Air connectivity is crucial for supporting global trade and economic resilience, particularly through belly capacity. While we celebrate this growth, we must remain forward-looking to ensure the momentum is sustained. Investment in airport infrastructure and technological upgrades is a prerequisite for enhancing linkage, and airports across the region are undertaking vital investments to make this possible.”