IATA
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AFCAC, AASA Join Forces with IATA on Focus Africa to Strengthen Aviation’s Economic Contribution on the Continent
Istanbul – The International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) “Focus Africa” drive is gaining momentum, spurred on by the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) and the Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) as its newest partners.
Focus Africa will strengthen aviation’s contribution to Africa’s economic and social development and improve connectivity, safety and reliability for passengers and shippers. It will see private and public stakeholders deliver measurable progress in six critical areas: safety, infrastructure, connectivity, finance and distribution, sustainability and skills development.
“Focus Africa is all about establishing a coalition of partners committing to pool their resources and delivering a set of African air transport solutions that let the continent, its people and economies play a greater, more meaningful and representative role in the global economy. The combined contributions of AFCAC and AASA will be critical to Focus Africa’s success. Africa accounts for 18% of the global population but less than 3% of global GDP and just 2.1% of air passenger and cargo transport activity. With the right interventions those gaps will be closed, and Africa will benefit from the connectivity, jobs and growth that aviation enables,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
“The ability to access, serve and develop intra-African markets is crucial as the continent’s populace is set to increase by over a billion people by 2050. For this to be sustainable, economic opportunities must be created. As other regions have demonstrated, air transport connectivity unlocks broad prosperity. As the African Union’s civil aviation agency, we will support Focus Africa through our work developing a set of harmonized rules and regulations designed to make this connectivity a reality and drive our strategic objectives,” said AFCAC Secretary-General, Adefunke Adeyemi.
“Time is not on our side as AASA’s members and the communities they serve face rising costs, unprecedented unemployment, obsolete constraints on trade and market access, inadequate infrastructure and a looming skills shortage. These demand urgent action, so we do not get stranded on the runway. It is why we have no hesitation standing with IATA and other Focus Africa partners,” added AASA CEO, Aaron Munetsi.
Leaders and decision-makers from airlines, airports, air navigation services, government agencies, aircraft manufacturers, industry suppliers and other stakeholders will convene at the IATA Focus Africa Conference, hosted by Ethiopian Airlines, in Addis Ababa on 20-21 June, to address the six priority task areas in detail.For more information, please contact:
Email: iata-pr-spa@llorenteycuenca.com
Notes for Editors:- IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents some 300 airlines comprising 83% of global air traffic.
- You can follow us at twitter.com/iata for announcements, policy positions, and other useful industry information.
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Ground Handling Priorities: Recruitment & Retention, Global Standards and Digitalization
16 May 2023 Abu Dhabi – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) highlighted three priorities to enable the ground handling sector to build resilience and ensure long-term sustainability. The priorities, outlined at the 35th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) which opened in Abu Dhabi today sponsored by Etihad Airways are:
Effective staff recruitment and retentionConsistent implementation of global standardsAccelerating digitalization and automation
“It’s going to be a busy peak Northern Hemisphere summer travel season for the aviation industry, and the ground handling sector will need to be ready. Short-term we must act fast to prepare for increased traffic. Ensuring efficient onboarding of new employees and working with governments to reduce bottlenecks in security clearances is critical. Longer-term, more effective staff recruitment and retention, implementing global standards and accelerating digitalization and automation will be critical to build resilience and ensure sustainability,” said Monika Mejstrikova, IATA’s Director of Ground Operations.
Effective Staff Recruitment and Retention
A recent IATA survey found that 37% of ground handling professionals anticipated staffing shortages until the end of 2023 and beyond, and 60% felt they didn’t have enough qualified staff to ensure smooth operations. Additionally, 27% of respondents feared that their current employees would leave soon.
“Creating a stable ground handling talent base is essential. And it can be achieved by making ramp work more attractive. We need to embrace automation to relieve staff from difficult and hazardous tasks, foster a culture of continuous learning and career growth and create a safe and inclusive environment for people where talents are nurtured,” said Mejstrikova.
IATA outlined a series of initiatives to help alleviate labor shortages:
Implementation of competency-based training, with more online assessments to improve speed and efficiencyMutual recognition of security training and employee background records among authorities, to expedite the recruitment process and reduce redundancyAutomation of processes to relieve people from performing physically challenging tasksPromoting career development and rewarding years of training and skills
IATA has just launched a Ground Ops Training Passport which supports staff retention and professional growth. It mutually recognizes skills and training across ground handlers, airlines, and airports to drive cross-utilization of skilled personnel.
“The real beneficiary of the training passport is the employee. They will have access to their training records, allowing them to use their knowledge and skills for ongoing professional growth. An industry-wide approach to talent development will pay big benefits in terms of efficiency for all concerned. We need to empower our employees for success,” said Mejstrikova.
Global Standardization of Processes
Global standards are the foundation for safe and efficient operations. Two key tools for ground handlers are the IATA Ground Operations Manual (IGOM) and the IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations(ISAGO).
IGOM: IATA called for the ground handling industry to accelerate the global adoption of IGOM to ensure worldwide operational consistency and safety. To support this, IATA has launched the IGOM Portal. A user-friendly online platform where airlines and ground handlers can share the results of their gap analysis between company procedures and IGOM, offering a global benchmark for harmonization and driving efficiency. Over 140 airlines have already subscribed to its services and the Portal is now opening to ground handling service providers (GHSPs).
ISAGO: Close to 40 airports and regulators globally endorsed ISAGO to complement their monitoring /compliance, performance or licensing systems through cooperation agreements. IATA urged more governments to recognize ISAGO in their regulatory frameworks for oversight to deliver significant benefits, including greater harmonization, Safety Management System (SMS) implementation and reduction of duplicate audits.
Another area where IATA called for greater standardization is baggage. IATA is working on updating the baggage standards to reflect new developments in real-time tracking, electronic bag tags, and Bluetooth technology.
“We all know the frustration of losing luggage. And the cost to the industry is staggering. In 2019, 25.4 million bags were lost or delayed resulting in a bill of $2.5 billion. IATA is committed to improving baggage handling through collaboration and innovation,” said Mejstrikova.
Digitalization and Automation
Digitalization and automation are critical to improving both sustainability and efficiency and driving process improvements. IATA outlined three priorities:
Ramp Digitalization – IATA’s Ground Operations Digitalization and Automation Working Group (GAD) has developed the Timestamps Turnaround (XTST) message to provide standardized communication and real-time network monitoring for airlines. Implementing the XTST standard can reduce ground handling delays by up to 5% globally.
Load Control Digitalization – IATA is pioneering the automation of load control, utilizing the new X565 digital standard to reduce workload, costs, and errors while enabling real-time updates.
GSE Automation – transitioning to enhanced ground support equipment (Enhanced GSE) potentially reducing ground damage costs by 42% and creating a safer environment. Autonomous GSE trials are already underway in over 15 countries. Transitioning to Enhanced GSE not only improves safety but also reduces GSE CO2 emissions by 1.8 million tonnes annually, contributing to a more sustainable industry.
“Ground operations are complex, and delays are the bane of every turnaround coordinator’s existence. But with technology and communication advancements, we can avoid delays, make operations safer, more efficient and more environmentally sustainable, while providing a better working experience for staff on the ramp,” said Mejstrikova.
For more information, please contact:
Email: iata-pr-spa@llorenteycuenca.comNotes for Editors:
IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents some 300 airlines comprising 83% of global air traffic.You can follow us at twitter.com/iata for announcements, policy positions, and other useful industry information.Fly Net Zero -
Get Ready: Booking Data Points to Strong Peak Season Travel
16 May 2023Abu Dhabi – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported high levels of confidence among travelers for the peak Northern summer travel holiday season. This corresponds with first quarter 2023 forward bookings data for May – September which is tracking at 35% above 2022 levels.
The survey covering 4,700 travelers in 11 countries shows that:
79% of travelers surveyed said that they were planning a trip in the June-August 2023 periodwhile 85% said that peak travel season disruptions should not be a surprise, 80% said that they expected smooth travel with post pandemic issues having been resolved
Forward bookings data indicates that greatest growth is expected in:
Asia Pacific region (134.7%)Middle East (42.9%)Europe (39.9%)Africa (36.4%) Latin America (21.4%) North America (14.1%)
“Expectations are high for this year’s peak Northern summer travel season. For many this will be their first post-pandemic travel experience. While some disruptions can be expected, there is a clear expectation that the ramping-up issues faced at some key hub airports in 2022 will have been resolved. To meet strong demand, airlines are planning schedules based on the capacity that airports, border control, ground handlers, and air navigation service providers have declared. Over the next months, all industry players now need to deliver,” said Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Operations, Safety and Security.
Preparing
Collaboration, sufficient staffing and accurate information sharing are all essential to minimize operational disruptions and their impact on passengers. The key is ensuring that the capacities which have been declared and scheduled are available.
“A lot of work has gone into preparing for the peak Northern summer travel season. Success rests on readiness across all players in the supply chain. If each player delivers on what has been declared, there should be no last minute requirements to reduce the scale of the schedules that travelers have booked on,” said Careen.
Labor unrest, particularly in France, is cause for concern. Eurocontrol data on the impact of French strikes earlier this year shows that cancellations can spike by over a third.
“We need to keep a very careful eye on Europe where strike actions have caused significant disruptions earlier this year. Governments should have effective contingency plans in place so that the actions of those providing essential services like air traffic control maintain minimum service levels and do not disrupt the hard-earned vacations of those traveling or put at risk the livelihoods of those in the travel and tourism sectors,” said Careen.
For more information, please contact:
Email: iata-pr-spa@llorenteycuenca.comNotes for Editors:IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents some 300 airlines comprising 83% of global air traffic.You can follow us at twitter.com/iata for announcements, policy positions, and other useful industry information.Fly Net Zero -
LATAM Cargo and Swiss Airtainer Win 2023 IATA Air Cargo Innovation Awards
News Brief 27 April 2023Istanbul – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that LATAM Cargo and Swiss Airtainer (SAT) are the recipients of the IATA Air Cargo Innovation Awards for 2023. The awards were presented at the 16th World Cargo Symposium (WCS) in Istanbul, Türkiye.
LATAM Cargo received the Corporate Innovation Award for its plastic reduction projects in its cargo operations in Chile and Brazil, initiatives that are part of its commitment to become a zero waste to landfill group by 2027.
Swiss Airtainer (SAT) received the Start-ups and Innovators Innovation Award for the development of a temperature-controlled container for the transport of pharmaceutical products. SAT “reinvented” the container from scratch with the following proprietary components: composite material (IP); architecture (IP), inflight detector (IP), control system, cooling system with redundancy, new battery packs, and a battery management system & solar panel system to render the container sustainable and energy self-sustaining.
“Innovation holds the key to development, sustainability, and success in the air cargo industry, that’s why we launched the IATA Air Cargo Innovation Awards. I am honored to present the Corporate Award to LATAM Cargo for their innovation efforts in sustainability and to Swiss Airtainer for the development of an innovative temperature-controlled container for the transport of pharmaceutical goods. It’s important to recognize the individuals and companies that are driving change,” said Brendan Sullivan, IATA’s Global Head of Cargo.
An independent jury which included industry experts, academics and CEOs evaluated 42 entries from across the industry from small start-ups to large multinationals. Projects were evaluated based upon the idea, its potential to create value, and the likelihood of achieving success.
The jury selected the winner of the Corporate Innovators Award and the three finalists for the Start-ups and Innovators Innovation Award. The finalists presented their projects to over 500 audience members during the IATA WCS closing plenary, who subsequently cast their vote for their preferred innovation project. SAT received $15,000 to further develop their innovation.
The IATA Innovation Awards were launched in 2014 to encourage and promote innovation in the air cargo industry.
Notes for Editors:
IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents some 300 airlines comprising 83% of global air traffic.You can follow us at twitter.com/iata for announcements, policy positions, and other useful industry information.Fly Net Zero -
IATA’s Ground Handling Conference to Focus on Embracing Technology
News Brief 27 April 2023 Geneva – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the 35th IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC)will focus on fostering technology to improve safety, operational efficiency, and sustainability. IGHC is taking place in Abu Dhabi, 16-18 May 2023, with Etihad Airways as the host airline.
“Passenger and air cargo traffic are close to pre-pandemic levels. Efficient ground operations are essential to meet the scaling-up of demand. Unfortunately, the ground handling sector continues to face operational, recruitment and retention challenges following the greatest aviation downturn in history. This year’s IGHC will explore how these can be overcome and how technology can be implemented to improve efficiency, increase compliance with global standards and improve safety and environmental performance,” said Monika Mejstrikova, IATA’s Director of Ground Operations.
Antonoaldo Neves CEO, Etihad Airways, will deliver an Opening Keynote Address. “We are delighted to host the 35th IATA Ground Handling Conference and welcome the aviation industry to our home, Abu Dhabi. The aviation industry is a complex and interconnected ecosystem with collaboration at its heart. The conference will allow industry leaders to join forces and discuss implementing global standards and adopting new technologies while ensuring customer safety as the top priority,” said Neves. “
Speakers & Sessions
Neves, Mejstrikova, and Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President Operations, Safety and Security will be speaking at the event along with:
· Rami Al-Haddad, CIO Menzies Aviation, · Steve Allen, CEO, dnata, · Richard Fairchild, director Autonomous Products, Aurrigo· Brian Bartal, SVP Safety & Compliance Unifi
Session tracks will address:
· Aviation and ground handling prospects for 2023· Leveraging technology for efficient, sustainable modern baggage operations· Whether autonomous vehicles are “ramp-ready”· Optimizing and integrating resources for streamlined ramp operations· Analytics – a model for improved safety in ground operations
Workshops
The IGHC program will be complemented by a series of workshops, including:· The benefits of certifying airlines and ground handling companies through IATA’s Training Validation Program · How financial services can support ground handlers · Smartly managing end-to-end cargo operation to achieve compliance to new regulatory requirements in air cargo
IGHC will also offer a dedicated exhibit area for ground service providers and ground handling solutions providers including Aviapartner, Celebi, dnata, SAL, SGS, Fraport and Zafire, Textron GSE, Denge, Inform, SITA, JBT, Mototok and many others. New this year, IGHC will feature a technical session on the IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO) and on the changes to the IATA Ground Operations Manual (IGOM). The session will be open to all delegates.
View the program and register for IGHCNotes for Editors:
· IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents some 300 airlines comprising 83% of global air traffic.· You can follow us at twitter.com/iata for announcements, policy positions, and other useful industry information.· Fly Net Zero -
Nominations Open for 2023 IATA Diversity and Inclusion Awards
Geneva – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the opening of nominations for the 2023 IATA Diversity and Inclusion Awards. Nominations will be accepted from all individuals or organizations working in the aviation value chain and will close at 23:59 CET on 19 April 2023.
The annual awards program recognizes excellence in diversity and inclusion in three categories:
Inspirational Role Model Award: Recognizes a woman holding a senior position within the air transport industry who has had a significant impact on the aviation agenda through her strong contribution to business delivery, as well as her ongoing support for the diversity and inclusion agenda. Nominees are welcome from across the aviation industry.
High Flyer Award: Recognizes a woman aviation professional under the age of 40 who has demonstrated leadership through concrete action in favor of diversity and inclusion, making a positive impact on the industry. Open to all women professionals in the aviation industry.
Diversity & Inclusion Team Award: Recognizes an airline that has seen measurable positive change in diversity and inclusion as a result of the work it has been doing in this area. Open to all IATA member airlines.“Diversity and inclusion are top priorities across the aviation industry—particularly as the industry competes for the next generation of talent to deliver the benefits of global connectivity. The IATA Diversity and Inclusion Awards help accelerate progress by recognizing the leaders who are making a difference. By acknowledging the results that they have generated, we are aiming to inspire others to also take action to advance aviation’s gender balance. I encourage people to send in their nominations and look forward to shining the spotlight on the winners at our upcoming Annual General Meeting and World Air Transport Summit in Istanbul,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
Each award winner will receive $25,000 (payable to the awardee or their nominated charity for diversity and inclusion activities) thanks to the generous sponsorship of Qatar Airways.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, HE Akbar Al Baker said: “We have taken several initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion within our airline, which we believe is essential to remain strong and have a broad representation where everyone can thrive in our industry. The IATA Diversity and Inclusion Awards celebrate the efforts of all the organizations which is why we have been a supporter since the program was launched in 2019. We will continue to work collaboratively with IATA to inspire leaders in the industry, promote equality and make a positive impact by providing an inclusive environment.”
Gender diversity matters to travelers. The IATA Passenger Survey (November 2022) found that 64% of travelers prefer to fly with airlines that are leaders in gender diversity. The importance of gender diversity ranks even higher for younger age groups with 84% of 18- to 34-year-olds, and 77% of 35- to 44-year-olds, expressing a preference for airlines with a strong commitment to gender diversity.
This year’s nominations will be evaluated by an independent judging panel chaired by Karen Walker, Editor-in-Chief, Air Transport World, and consisting of the 2022 Awards recipients: Güliz Öztürk, CEO of Pegasus Airlines;Kanchana Gamage, Founder and Director of the Aviatrix Project;Alina Aronberga, Senior VP Human Resources, airBaltic.
Details for the submission of nominations are available on the IATA website.
The winners of the 2023 IATA Diversity & Inclusion Awards will be announced at IATA’s 79th Annual General Meeting & World Air Transport Summit.
Notes for Editors:IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents some 300 airlines comprising 83% of global air traffic.You can follow us at twitter.com/iata for announcements, policy positions, and other useful industry information.Fly Net Zero -
New Guidance to Improve Transportation of Mobility Aids
08 February 2023 Geneva – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced new guidance to assist airlines and handling agents to transport mobility aids safely and efficiently and improve the travel experience for passengers with disabilities.
Providing safe, reliable and dignified transport for passengers with disabilities is a priority for airlines that was reinforced by a unanimously approved Resolution at the 75th IATA Annual General Meeting in 2019. The safe and efficient transport of mobility aids was identified as a key area for improvement by airlines, working with industry stakeholders and disability groups.
“Airlines are committed to ensuring passengers with disabilities can travel with dignity, confidence and comfort. Working with representatives from the disability community, we established that new protocols to improve the transport of mobility aids were urgently required. This new guidance, created in partnership with key players in the travel chain, will improve service, and significantly reduce damage to these vital devices that are often an extension to the body of a passenger with a disability,” said Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Operations, Safety and Security.
Key elements of the new guidance include:
Better processes for booking and information exchange, including the use of Special Service Request (SSR) and Passenger Name Requirement (PNR) codes to give advance information on the specifications of mobility aids
A recommendation to create an electronic mobility aid tag, fixed to the mobility aid and containing technical information which will help airlines and ground handlers transport the aid safely
Advice to airlines on developing a communications toolkit for engaging with passengers with disabilities, including a clearly signposted and accessible website area.
Best practices for loading, collection and return of mobility aids
A recommendation for dedicated specialized ramp personnel to be trained and deployed to handle mobility aids
Guidance for how to properly resolve instances where mobility aids are damaged
Revised and enhanced training of ground handlers and airline staff
“Experience shows that communication is key to improving the handling of mobility aids. This guidance sets out steps for passengers, airlines, and the travel chain to exchange information at every stage of the travel journey. It will help airlines perform better and give passengers using mobility aids greater confidence. We’ll be working with our members and stakeholders to operationalize this guidance, and the industry will be reaching out to policymakers to encourage harmonization with national regulations,” said Careen.
The guidance reflects and builds on industry best practices and will continue to be revised and expanded prior to developing into industry standards. Other aspects include recommendations for airport designs to meet accessibility standards, as well as specific guidance to ensure compliance with the Dangerous Goods Regulations (for lithium-battery powered devices), in addition to step-by-step instructions on safely and securely loading mobility aids on board.
Access IATA Guidance on the Transport of Mobility Aids (pdf)
Notes for Editors:
IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents some 300 airlines comprising 83% of global air traffic.You can follow us at twitter.com/iata for announcements, policy positions, and other useful industry information.The new guidance is the result of the work from IATA’s global Mobility Aids Action Group (MAAG), established in July 2021 to examine and improve the transport journey of mobility aids, including wheelchairs. This working group brings together a full range of stakeholders, including accessibility organizations (representing passengers with disabilities), airlines, ground service providers, airports, and mobility aids manufacturers. Fly Net Zero
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Air Cargo Closes 2022 Near Pre-Pandemic Levels
Geneva – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for global air freight markets showing that 2022 full-year demand for air cargo took a significant step back from 2021 levels but was close to 2019 performance.
Global full-year demand in 2022, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs*), was down 8.0% compared to 2021 (-8.2% for international operations). Compared to 2019, it was down 1.6% (both global and international).
Capacity in 2022, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTKs), was 3.0% above 2021 (+4.5% for international operations). Compared to 2019 (pre-COVID) levels, capacity declined by 8.2% (-9.0% for international operations).
December saw a softening in performance: global demand was 15.3% below 2021 levels (-15.8% for international operations). Monthly cargo demand tracked below 2021 levels from March 2022. Global capacity was 2.2% below 2021 levels (‑0.5% for international operations). This was the tenth consecutive monthly contraction compared to 2021 performance.
2022 ended with mixed signals:
Global new export orders, a leading indicator of cargo demand, have stayed at the same level since October. For major economies, new export orders are shrinking except in Germany, the US, and Japan, where they grew.
Global goods trade decreased by 1.5% in November, down from a 3.4% increase in October.
The Consumer Price Index for G7 countries indicated inflation tracking at 6.8% for December. The 0.6 percentage point drop compared to November (7.4%) was the largest over the course of year. Inflation in producer (input) prices reduced to 12.7% in October, its lowest level so far in 2022.
“In the face of significant political and economic uncertainties, air cargo performance declined compared to the extraordinary levels of 2021. That brought air cargo demand to1.6% below 2019 (pre-pandemic) levels. The continuing measures by key governments to fight inflation by cooling economies are expected to result in a further decline in cargo volumes in 2023 to -5.6% compared to 2019. It will, however, take time for these measures to bite into cargo rates. So, the good news for air cargo is that average yields and total revenue for 2023 should remain well above what they were pre-pandemic. That should provide some respite in what is likely to be a challenging trading environment in the year ahead,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.December 2022 (% year-on-year)World share1CTKACTKCLF (%-pt)2CLF (level)3Total Market100.0%-15.3%-2.2%-7.3%47.2%Africa2.0%-10.0%1.3%-5.4%43.2%Asia Pacific32.4%-21.2%-3.9%-11.6%52.8%Europe21.9%-17.4%-7.0%-7.0%55.9%Latin America2.7%0.0%27.6%-8.9%32.2%Middle East13.0%-14.4%2.8%-9.2%45.4%North America28.0%-8.5%-2.9%-2.5%40.6% 1 % of industry CTKs in 2022 2 Change in load factor 3 Load factor level 2022 Regional PerformanceAsia-Pacific airlines posted an 8.8% decrease in demand in 2022 compared to 2021 (-7.4% for international operations) and a capacity increase of 0.5% (+5.8% for international operations). Compared to 2019 (pre-COVID levels), demand was 7.8% below (-3.9% for international operations) and capacity was down 17.2% (-12.2% for international operations). In December, Asia-Pacific airlines recorded the worst performance of all regions, posting a 21.2% decrease in demand (-20.4% for international operations) compared to 2021. Capacity fell 3.9% (-1.4% for international operations) during the same period. Airlines in the region continue to be impacted by lower levels of trade and manufacturing activity and disruptions in supply chains due to China’s rising COVID cases. North American carriers reported a 5.1% decrease in demand in 2022 compared to 2021 (-6.3% for international operations) and a capacity increase of 4.2% (+4.9% for international operations). Compared to 2019 (pre-COVID levels), demand was 13.7% above (+12.7% for international operations) and capacity was up 8.2% (5.1% for international operations). In December, airlines in the region reported an 8.5% decrease in demand for both global and international operations, compared to 2021. Capacity fell 2.9% (+1.8% for international operations) during the same period.European carriers posted the worst year-on-year performance of all regions, with an 11.5% decrease in demand in 2022 compared to 2021 (-11.8% for international operations). During the same period, airlines posted a capacity increase of 0.5% for both global and international operations. Compared to 2019 (pre-COVID levels), demand was 8.7% below (-9.1% for international operations) and capacity was down 16.5% (-17.3% for international operations). In December, airlines in the region posted a 17.4% decrease in demand (-17.9% for international operations) compared to 2021. Capacity fell 7.0% (-7.4% for international operations) during the same period. Airlines in the region continue to be most affected by the war in Ukraine. Middle Eastern carriers reported a decrease of 10.7% for global and international demand in 2022 compared to 2021 and an increase in capacity of 4.3% (+4.5% for international operations). Compared to 2019 (pre-COVID levels), demand was 1.6% below for global and international operations and capacity was down 6.3% (-6.1% for international operations). In December airlines in the region posted a 14.4% decrease in demand for both global and international operations compared to 2021. Capacity increased 2.8% (+3.0% for international operations) during the same period.Latin American carriers posted the strongest year-on-year performance of all regions, with an 13.1% increase in demand in 2022 compared to 2021 (+15.0% for international operations). During the same period, airlines posted a capacity increase of 27.1% (+27.8% for international operations). Compared to 2019 (pre-COVID levels), demand was 4.3% below (-2.6% for international operations) and capacity was down 14.3% (-10.8% for international operations). In December airlines in the region posted stagnant growth in demand (+2.3% for international operations) compared to 2021. Capacity grew 27.6% (+32.7% for international operations) during the same period. African airlines reported a decrease in demand of 1.4% for global and international demand in 2022 compared to 2021 and an increase in capacity of 0.3% (-0.2% for international operations). Compared to 2019 (pre-COVID levels), demand was 8.3% above (+9.4% for international operations) and capacity was down 15.3% (-14.2% for international operations). In December, airlines in the region posted a 10.0% decrease in demand for both global and international operations compared to 2021. Capacity grew 1.3% (+0.2% for international operations) during the same period.
View the 2022 Air Cargo Market Analysis (pdf)
Notes for Editors:* Please note that as of January 2020 onwards, we have clarified the terminology of the Industry and Regional series from ‘Freight’ to ‘Cargo’, the corresponding metrics being FTK (changed to ‘CTK’), AFTK (changed to ‘ACTK’), and FLF (changed to ‘CLF’), in order to reflect that the series have been consisting of Cargo (Freight plus Mail) rather than Freight only. The data series themselves have not been changed. IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents some 300 airlines comprising 83% of global air traffic.You can follow us at twitter.com/iata for announcements, policy positions, and other useful industry information.Explanation of measurement terms:CTK: cargo tonne-kilometers measures actual cargo trafficACTK: available cargo tonne-kilometers measures available total cargo capacityCLF: cargo load factor is % of ACTKs usedIATA statistics cover international and domestic scheduled air cargo for IATA member and non-member airlines.Total cargo traffic market share by region of carriers in terms of CTK is: Asia-Pacific 32.6%, Europe 22.8%, North America 27.2%, Middle East 13.4%, Latin America 2.2%, and Africa 1.9%.Fly Net Zero
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Fly Net Zero Media Update
As we enter the new year, we’re resuming our monthly bulleting to share the latest updates from the industry around #FlyNetZero and the journey to decarbonize the industry.
Don’t hesitate to reach out should you have any questions or comments, and we look forward to working together this year.
For more information, please contact: IATA Corporate Communications
SAF
As we turned to 2023, in Europe, the NATO pipeline supplying Brussels Airport with kerosene was opened on 1 January for the transport of SAF. Brussels Airlines transported the very first batch of sustainable aviation fuel transported via this route on the same day at Brussels Airport. Teesside International Airport has collaborated with Air France-KLM on the airline’s SAF program, becoming the first UK airport to do so.
On the other side of the pond, The US Department of Energy announced over $100m in funding to expand US biofuels production, as the Biden administration works to cut greenhouse gas emissions from transportation and meet climate goals, the department told Reuters. The Department plans to award $118m to 17 projects designed to accelerate the production of biofuels. In the State of Illinois, state lawmakers have approved legislation to create a $1.50/USG SAF tax credit that airlines can use to satisfy all or part of their state use tax liabilities. The legislation will create a tax credit for every gallon of SAF sold to or used by an air carrier in Illinois. Honeywell recently received its first delivery of SAF at its Phoenix Engines campus to support development and production testing of auxiliary power units (APUs) and propulsion engines at the site, along with testing of fielded units from Honeywell’s repair and overhaul facility.
In the Middle East, Masdar, ADNOC, bp, Tadweer (Abu Dhabi Waste Management Company) and Etihad Airways announced an agreement to conduct a joint feasibility study on production of SAF and other products in the UAE, such as renewable diesel and naphtha, using municipal solid waste (MSW) and renewable hydrogen. Meanwhile, Emirates successfully completed the ground engine testing for one of its GE90 engines on a Boeing 777-300ER using 100% SAF. Newly-established Saudi Arabian lessor AviLease has reached a provisional agreement with the Saudi Investment Recycling Company (SIRC) for production and distribution of sustainable fuel in the country.
In Asia, Asiana Airlines announced entering an agreement with Shell to secure SAF from 2026. Japan’s two leading air carriers, All Nippon Airwaysand Japan Airlines, have agreed to source SAF from US producer Raven in deals involving Tokyo-based trading house Itochu. The airlines will buy SAF that Raven aims to produce commercially as early as 2025, using it on international flights.Emissions
Following a $175m agreement with Aviation Partners Boeing (APB), Ryanair installed Split Scimitar Winglets to the first of over 400 of its Boeing 737-800 Next Generation aircraft. This modification will improve aircraft fuel efficiency by up to 1.5%, reducing Ryanair’s annual fuel consumption by 65 million liters and carbon emissions by 165,000 tonnes. Finnish airport company Finavia has published its new sustainability targets that include reducing carbon emissions to “nearly zero”. Wizz Air reported that its average carbon emissions for 2022 amounted to 55.2 grams per passenger/km, 15.4% lower than in 2021. This represents its lowest ever annual carbon intensity result recorded in one calendar year.
Electric and hydrogen propulsion
Sweden has pledged to invest at least SKr15m ($1.4m) each year into research and innovation activities to support the rapid adoption of electric aircraft in the country. In addition, the Swedish government has commissioned an analysis on whether it is feasible to mandate the use of electric-powered aircraft on public service obligation (PSO) routes.
“Learning how to safely fly hydrogen-powered aircraft will be the challenge of a generation” said Christopher Raymond, Boeing’s CSO, in an op-ed in Fortune, noting that it is unlikely that we will see an aircraft fly on hydrogen before 2050 and need to focus on availability and price of SAF: “The world must scale sustainable aviation fuels that can be dropped into existing aircraft today, while exploring decarbonized propulsion technologies like hydrogen and electricity that can make an impact in the second half of the century.”Technology
NASA and Boeing will work together on the Sustainable Flight Demonstrator project to build, test and fly an emission-reducing single-aisle aircraft this decade. NASA has signed a funded Space Act Agreement with Boeing under which it is to provide $425 million in funding through milestone payments while Boeing and its industry partners contribute $725 million. A yearlong flight-test campaign is planned to begin at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center, California, in 2028.
Delta Air Lines is launching an airline innovation lab to accelerate research, design and testing for a more sustainable future of air travel. Delta Sustainable Skies Lab will feature ongoing work across Delta today, inspire disruptive industry innovation, and scale known tech and actions to reach Delta’s goal of net zero emissions by 2050.Finance
Pegasus Airlines closed the first ever sustainability-linked aircraft-secured term loan for the financing of ten new Airbus A321neo aircraft. Air France-KLM raised €1bn from landmark sustainability-linked bond from its debut sustainability-linked bond(SLB), believed to be the first Euro-denominated bond of this type in the public market from an airline.
Focus on…
Cabin waste
Rule changes are needed to deliver a sustainable cabin, argues Jon Godson, IATA Assistant Director, Sustainability.
The average passenger generates approximately 1.43kg of waste per flight, equating to nearly 6 million tonnes of waste per year once traffic fully recovers in 2024. Approximately 20% of this is untouched food and drink. That alone is worth about $4 billion, money that is effectively incinerated and that could be allocated to environmental initiatives.
The cabin is a highly visible element of aviation’s environmental performance. The packaging used and the waste collected are indicative of an airline’s commitment to sustainable initiatives. Unfortunately, this visible sign is subject to invisible forces. Regulations must change to allow aviation to fully contribute to the circular economy.
Read more on Airlines. Magazine -
Passenger Recovery Continues in November
Geneva – The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that the air travel recovery continued through November 2022.
Total traffic in November 2022 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) rose 41.3% compared to November 2021. Globally, traffic is now at 75.3% of November 2019 levels.
International traffic rose 85.2% versus November 2021. The Asia-Pacific continued to report the strongest year-over-year results with all regions showing improvement compared to the prior year. November 2022 international RPKs reached 73.7% of November 2019 levels.
Domestic traffic for November 2022 was up 3.4% compared to November 2021 with travel restrictions in China continuing to dampen the global result. Total November 2022 domestic traffic was at 77.7% of the November 2019 level.
“Traffic results in November reinforce that consumers are thoroughly enjoying the freedom to travel. Unfortunately, the reactions to China’s reopening of international travel in January reminds us that many governments are still playing science politics when it comes to COVID-19 and travel. Epidemiologists, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control and others have said that the reintroduction of testing for travelers from China can do little to contain a virus that is already present around the world. And China’s objections to these policy measures are compromised by their own pre-departure testing requirements for people traveling to China. Governments should focus on using available tools to manage COVID-19 effectively—including improved therapeutics and vaccinations—rather than repeating policies that have failed time and again over the last three years,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.November 2022 (% year-on-year)World share1RPKASKPLF (%-pt)2PLF (level)3Total Market 100.0%41.3%23.8%10.0%80.8%Africa1.9%84.5%51.7%13.3%74.8%Asia Pacific27.5%68.4%31.3%17.0%77.0%Europe25.0%37.0%19.6%10.6%83.8%Latin America6.5%27.8%27.6%0.2%82.0%Middle East6.6%77.9%41.3%15.9%77.5%North America32.6%19.6%13.3%4.4%83.2%1% of industry RPKs in 2021 2year-on-year change in load factor 3Load Factor Level 
International Passenger MarketsAsia-Pacific airlines had a had a 373.9% rise in November traffic compared to November 2021, which was the strongest year-over-year rate among the regions. Capacity rose 159.2% and the load factor was up 35.9 percentage points to 79.2%.
European carriers’ November traffic climbed 45.3% versus November 2021. Capacity increased 25.1%, and load factor moved up 11.6 percentage points to 83.6%, highest among the regions.
Middle Eastern airlines saw an 84.6% traffic rise in November compared to November 2021. November capacity increased 45.4% versus the year-ago period, and load factor climbed 16.5 percentage points to 77.7%.
North American carriers experienced a 69.9% traffic rise in November versus the 2021 period. Capacity increased 45.5%, and load factor climbed 11.6 percentage points to 81.0%.
Latin American airlines’ November traffic rose 59.2% compared to the same month in 2021. November capacity climbed 55.6% and load factor increased 1.9 percentage points to 82.9%.
African airlines had an 83.5% rise in November RPKs versus a year ago. November 2022 capacity was up 48.4% and load factor climbed 14.2 percentage points to 74.3%, the lowest among regions. Domestic Passenger MarketsNovember 2022 (% year-on-year)World share1
RPKASKPLF (%-pt)2PLF (level)3Domestic62.3%3.4%-3.1%5.1%80.7%Australia0.8%190.0%90.5%29.0%84.4%Brazil1.9%5.1%7.0%-1.4%80.9%China P.R.17.8%-38.8%-41.6%2.9%64.0%India2.1%11.1%0.5%8.4%87.9%Japan1.1%37.3%17.7%10.8%75.5%US25.6%5.0%2.2%2.3%84.0%1% of industry RPKs in 2021 2year-on-year change in load factor 3Load Factor LevelBrazil’s domestic RPKs rose 5.1% in November compared to November 2021 and are now at 96.2% of 2019 levels.
US domestic traffic climbed 5.0% in November compared to November 2021, pushing it to 99% of the November 2019 level. November 2022 (% ch vs the same month in 2019)World share in1RPKASKPLF (%-pt)2PLF (level)3Total Market 100.0%-24.7%-24.6%-0.1%80.8%International37.7%-26.3%-26.9%0.7%80.9%Domestic62.3%-22.3%-20.8%-1.5%80.7%
View the November Air Passenger Market Analysis (pdf)Notes for Editors:IATA (International Air Transport Association) represents some 300 airlines comprising 83% of global air traffic. You can follow us at twitter.com/iata for announcements, policy positions, and other useful industry information.Statistics compiled by IATA Economics using direct airline reporting complemented by estimates, including the use of FlightRadar24 data provided under license.All figures are provisional and represent total reporting at time of publication plus estimates for missing data. Historic figures are subject to revision.Domestic RPKs accounted for about 62.3% of the total market; the seven domestic markets in this report accounted for approximately 54.0% of global RPKs in 2021. Explanation of measurement terms:RPK: Revenue Passenger Kilometers measures actual passenger trafficASK: Available Seat Kilometers measures available passenger capacityPLF: Passenger Load Factor is % of ASKs used.IATA statistics cover international and domestic scheduled air traffic for IATA member and non-member airlines.Total passenger traffic market shares for 2021 by region of carriers in terms of RPK are: Asia-Pacific 27.5%, Europe 25.0%, North America 32.6%, Middle East 6.6%, Latin America 6.5%, and Africa 1.9%.Fly Net Zero
