The UAE’s aviation industry saw impressive expansion in the first quarter of 2024, welcoming 36.5 million passengers, as reported by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).
This figure represents a notable 14.7 percent surge compared to the corresponding period last year, demonstrating the sector’s impressive upward trajectory.
Breakdown of figures:
- 10,723,639 arrivals
- 10,874,232 departures
- 14,944,466 transit passengers
Air Cargo Sector Flourishes with 32% Growth in Q1
The air cargo segment also experienced significant growth in Q1, soaring by 32 percent compared to the same period in the previous year, handling a total of 1.1 million tons of cargo.
This volume included 269,526 tons of imports, 119,490 tons of exports, and 714,446 tons of transit goods.
Of note, domestic carriers spearheaded around 68 percent of the overall air cargo movement during this timeframe.
Director-General Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi attributed this achievement to the concerted efforts between the Authority and its partners at both the federal and local government levels.
Al Suwaidi emphasised that these growth rates underscore the sector’s robustness, competitiveness, and potential for continuous progress.
Facilitated by 189 air transport agreements with nations globally, the strategic opening of new markets for domestic carriers has played a crucial role in nurturing international collaborations and advocating the open skies policy.
