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About
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About
Academic
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About
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Aviation market trends: insights from IATA's 2024 Global Passenger Survey
Air travel is constantly evolving, shaped by the preferences and expectations of passengers worldwide. Understanding these shifts is crucial for long term success in the industry. IATA’s 2024 Global Passenger Survey (GPS) provides a unique glimpse into the needs of modern travelers, offering valuable insights for the future of aviation.
Key findings from IATA’s 2024 GPS
IATA’s survey gathered input from over 10,000 travelers across 200 countries, focusing on critical aspects of the passenger journey. These findings highlight the changing expectations in the industry:
1. Speed and convenience matter more than ever
Efficiency is a top priority for travelers. The survey found that 37% of passengers want to spend less time in security queues, while 52% are looking for faster boarding processes. These insights underline the growing demand for smoother, more streamlined airport experiences.
2. Payment preferences are shifting
Payment methods are evolving alongside technology. While credit and debit cards remain the most popular options (79%), the use of digital wallets has risen to 20%, and instant payment solutions now account for 7%. This trend reflects the need for airlines and service providers to embrace modern payment technologies to enhance convenience.
3. Online booking dominates the market
Digital platforms have become the go-to option for travel planning, with 71% of passengers booking their trips online or via mobile apps. Of these, 53% favor booking directly on the airline’s website or app, while 19% still prefer human interaction. This shift highlights the importance of strong digital infrastructure and user-friendly platforms in the aviation sector.
What these trends mean for the aviation industry
The GPS findings highlight a clear demand for efficiency, innovation, and adaptability. For airlines, airports, and other stakeholders in the aviation ecosystem, this means investing in solutions that prioritize convenience and digital accessibility. From optimizing airport processes to expanding digital payment options, the industry must continue evolving to meet passenger expectations.
These trends also have significant implications for the workforce. As digitalization and customer experience take center stage, the aviation industry will require professionals who can manage and adapt to these changes. Understanding passenger needs and leveraging data-driven insights will be key to driving innovation and growth.
These trends also have significant implications for the workforce. As digitalization and customer experience take center stage, the aviation industry will require professionals who can manage and adapt to these changes. Understanding passenger needs and leveraging data-driven insights will be key to driving innovation and growth.
A global perspective from Switzerland
Switzerland has long been a hub for aviation innovation and education, with its central location and strong connections to global markets. Programs like the Aviation Management Specialization offered at the American Institute of Applied Sciences in Switzerland (AUS) provide a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the industry. By studying aviation management in such an international context, students gain a deeper understanding of global trends and the tools to address them effectively.