INTERNATIONAL. The global passenger traffic figures from Airports Council International (ACI) for January 2020 show the rapid impact the COVID-19 outbreak had on air travel.
Global passenger traffic grew by just +1.9% year-on-year for the month, a substantial slowdown compared to the +4.9% year-on-year growth for December 2019. The slowing of growth was led by Asia Pacific, which saw overall traffic decline -1.8% and domestic traffic drop -3.6%.
In other regions, North America had a strong month in January with growth of +4.1%, thanks to a strong domestic segment; European traffic was up +2.2%; the Middle East was up +7.7%; Africa was up +8.4%; and Latin America/Caribbean traffic was up +3%.
“These figures show that the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on aviation was rapid, especially in the Asia Pacific region,” said ACI World Director General Angela Gittens.
“The aviation industry is facing unprecedented upheaval due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the situation calls for an exceptional policy response to ensure the continuity and sustainability of airport operations.”
“Airport operators are prioritising the health of passengers and staff first and foremost and, while it is hoped that the global health crisis will recede well before the year ends, it is possible that the economic impact could persist into 2021.
“The financial cost to the global industry in 2020 is rapidly growing. This is a fast-moving and ever-changing crisis and governments must act decisively and quickly.
“ACI World urges the aviation industry and governments to come together to ensure the impact is borne equitably and solutions are fair and reasonable, so as to provide the greatest impetus for a swift and balanced recovery.”
