HIGH: air traffic in Latin America and the Caribbean grew 7,6%

The year started off in full swing. Passenger traffic in Latin America and the Caribbean grew 7,6% in January this year, an increase that translates into almost 3 million additional passengers compared to January 2023. This number surpassed not only January's passenger volume 2023, but also the peak recorded in July last year.

In the first month of the year, 41,7 million travelers were transported to, from and within the region, highlights the Passenger Traffic Report, produced by the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA).

“The report reflects an extraordinary start to the year. The increase in flight frequencies and capacity offered in domestic and international markets highlights the potential for continued growth in our countries for an essential service. This data indicates that 2024 is shaping up to be a promising year for the region”, stated José Ricardo Botelho, Executive Director and CEO of ALTA.

The supply of seats also increased, reaching 51,2 million available seats, 5% more compared to 2023. Growth in the international market stood out, with an increase of 15,7%, while the domestic market recorded a drop of 3,5%.

“The positive data on passenger traffic in January not only indicates a growing sector, but also highlights the importance of fostering aviation development in our region. These data paint an encouraging picture; however, to fully harness this positive momentum, it is essential to create an enabling environment that ensures legal certainty, predictability and competitiveness for the continued growth of aviation. These numbers serve as a reminder that aviation is not just a means of transport, but also a vital sector that demands attention and support to flourish and fully contribute to the progress of our region”, emphasizes Botelho.

domestic market

Venezuela stood out as one of the countries with the highest growth in the domestic market. With a movement of 199.291 passengers, there was an increase of 36% compared to 2023. Chile also saw a significant increase in domestic traffic, with an increase of 1,7 million passengers, equivalent to an increase of 21%.

In Brazil, there was a flow of 8,1 million passengers, reaching 98% of the traffic observed in the same period of 2023. In Colombia, the domestic market grew 2% compared to 2023, with a total transport of 2,8 million passengers. This indicates a slight slowdown compared to December, when growth was 4%.

Mexico recorded a 3% reduction in the total number of passengers transported, reaching 4,8 million. This number indicates a continuation of the deceleration trend, following a 1% reduction in the domestic market in December.

“Since June 2023, the Mexican domestic market has faced challenges due to necessary inspections for GTF engines, leading to the temporary grounding of some aircraft during overhauls. Furthermore, with the recent reestablishment of Mexico's Category 1 status by the FAA, local airlines have been able to increase their capacity to the US, demonstrating an effort to expand their presence and services in this important market”, details the report.

International market

The increase in international flow in the region was notable, with an increase of 14%, totaling 20,3 million passengers. Venezuela stands out again, which showed growth of 58%, with Caracas-Madrid (+33%) being the most significant growth route. Colombia also showed a significant increase, transporting 1,9 million international passengers, representing a 30% increase compared to January 2023, i.e. 457.939 additional passengers. Brazil, similarly, recorded a 26% increase in the number of international passengers, reaching the 2,3 million mark.

Traffic breakdown:

Domestic market: 21,4 million passengers (+1,8%)

International market: 20,3 million passengers (+14%)

Intra-regional: 4,8 million passengers (+17,5%)

Extra-regional: 15,5 million passengers

Growth by country:

Venezuela: +36% (domestic) / +58% (international)

Belize: +49% (domestic)

Chile: +21% (domestic)

Colombia: +30% (international)

Dominican Republic: +13% (international)

Argentina: +33% (international)