Air traffic in Latin America and the Caribbean grew by 7.6%

2024 started with good wings. Passenger traffic in Latin America and the Caribbean It grew by 7.6% in January this year, an increase that translates into almost 3 million additional passengers compared to January 2023. This figure exceeded not only the number of passengers from January 2023, but also the peak recorded last July years.

In January, they were transported to, from and from region 41.7 million passengers, it is emphasized in the Passenger Traffic Report, prepared by the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA).

This month’s report reflects a spectacular start to the year. Increasing flight frequency and capacity offered on the domestic and international markets underline the potential for continued growth our countries when it comes to basic service.

This data shows that 2024 is shaping up to be the year promising for the region, said José Ricardo BotelhoCEO and CEO of ALTA.

The seating offer is also experienced growth, reaching 51.2 million available places, 5% more compared to 2023.

Growth in international market, with an increase 15.7%, while a decrease of 3.5% was recorded on the domestic market.

Positive data on passenger traffic in January is not only a an indicator of the prosperity of the sector, but also a wake-up callbut the importance of encouraging the development of aviation in our region.

These data reflect a encouraging perspective, however, to take full advantage of Because of this positive momentum, it is crucial to establish an enabling environment that provides the legal certainty, predictability and competitiveness necessary for the continued growth of aviation.

These figures are a reminder that aviation is not only a means of transport, but also a vital industry that requires attention and support in order to thrive and fully contribute to progress. our region, remembers Botelho.

Venezuela stood out as one of the countries with the highest growth in local market. with movement of 199,291 passengers, reached an increase of 36% compared to 2023.

For its part, Chile experienced a significant increase of 21% in domestic traffic, adding 1.7 million passengers.

Brazil recorded a movement of 8.1 million passengers, reaching 98% of the traffic volume recorded in the same period in 2023. The domestic market of Colombia, for its part, grew by 2% compared to 2023, carrying a total of 2.8 million passengers, the data represents slight deceleration compared to December, when a growth of 4% was recorded.

Mexico experienced a 3% drop in the total number of passengers carried, reaching 4.8 million. This figure signals the continuation of the slowing trend, after a decrease of 1% domestic market observed in December.

“From June 2023 The Mexican domestic market is facing challenges due to inspections required for GTF engines, which has resulted in some aircraft being temporarily grounded while overhauls take place. Additionally, following Mexico’s recent return to Category 1 by the FAA, local airlines have been able to increase capacity offered to the United States, reflecting efforts to expand their presence and services in this important market,” the report explains.

Increase in International traffic in the region was also noted, with an increase of 14 percentThey represent 20.3 million passengers. Venezuela once again stood out in this area with an increase of 58%, with Caracas-Madrid (+33%) the route with the highest growth. Colombia also showed significant growth, carrying 1.9 million international passengers, an increase of 30% compared to January 2023, and 457,939 additional passengers.

Brazil, similarly, experienced a 26% increase. international passengers, reaching 2.3 million.