An annual analysis of global flight data by aviation research firm OAG has revealed a strong post-pandemic rebound in air travel, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. Seven of the world’s ten busiest international routes in 2024 connect cities within this region, underscoring Asia’s travel revival after years of disruption caused by COVID-19.
The report, which analyzed scheduled seat volumes between January and December 2024, highlights that Asia’s major aviation hubs, including Hong Kong, Seoul, and Singapore, have reclaimed their status as bustling international gateways. The surge in leisure travel continues to outpace business demand, a trend that has defined much of the industry’s recovery.
Hong Kong to Taipei is the undisputed leader, with 6.8 million available seats, reaffirming its position as the busiest international route. This represents a steady return to pre-pandemic travel patterns, as the route had held this title in 2019 as well. The Asia-Pacific region’s dominance is further illustrated by other high-ranking routes, including Seoul to Tokyo Narita (5.4 million seats), and Kuala Lumpur to Singapore (5.38 million seats).
While Asia’s resurgence is the dominant trend, the Middle East has also seen significant growth. Dubai to Riyadh, a major link between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, ranks as the sixth-busiest route, with 4.3 million seats scheduled. This route, alongside others in the region, benefits from growing demand driven by both leisure and business travel, particularly in light of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, which is boosting tourism and economic activity.
Interestingly, the Cairo to Jeddah route takes second place in global rankings, with 5.47 million available seats. Despite the significant number of flights, this route reflects predominantly leisure-driven demand, contrasting with the more traditional corporate travel hubs like Riyadh and Dubai.
The report also underscores a notable shift in travel patterns, with regional markets in the Middle East showing notable growth, particularly in Saudi Arabia. The UAE and Saudi Arabia have seen increasing air traffic due to their expanding roles as hubs for both leisure and business tourism.
Meanwhile, the New York to London Heathrow route remains the only transatlantic flight to feature in the top ten, ranking 10th with 4 million seats scheduled. Although it represents the only major link between North America and Europe, the route’s volume has increased by 5% compared to pre-pandemic levels, underscoring the continued importance of transatlantic connectivity.
John Grant, Chief Analyst at OAG, pointed out the significant role of Asia’s recovery, saying, “With the Asia Pacific region very close to a full recovery, the busiest routes are concentrated in the familiar major hubs of Hong Kong, Seoul Incheon, and Singapore.” This resurgence signals a return to the vibrant travel patterns that existed before the global health crisis.
The World’s 10 Busiest International Routes of 2024:
Hong Kong (HKG) to Taipei (TPE): 6.8 million seats
Cairo (CAI) to Jeddah (JED): 5.47 million seats
Seoul (ICN) to Tokyo Narita (NRT): 5.4 million seats
Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Singapore (SIN): 5.38 million seats
Seoul (ICN) to Osaka (KIX): 4.98 million seats
Dubai (DXB) to Riyadh (RUH): 4.3 million seats
Bangkok (BKK) to Hong Kong (HKG): 4.2 million seats
Jakarta (CGK) to Singapore (SIN): 4.07 million seats
Bangkok (BKK) to Singapore (SIN): 4.03 million seats
New York JFK (JFK) to London Heathrow (LHR): 4.01 million seats
As the global aviation industry continues its recovery, these figures paint a clear picture of a world re-engaging in travel, with Asia at the forefront of this revival.
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