Dubai: In the first quarter of 2024, the UAE’s civil aviation sector experienced significant expansion, welcoming a noteworthy 36.5 million passengers, as reported by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA).
This figure reflects a remarkable 14.7% surge compared to the corresponding period in the previous year, highlighting the sector’s impressive growth trajectory.
Detailed statistics reveal 10,723,639 arrivals, 10,874,232 departures, and 14,944,466 transit passengers.
Additionally, the air cargo sector observed substantial growth, witnessing a 32% increase compared to Q1 of the previous year. During Q1 2024, it handled a total of 1.1 million tons of cargo, consisting of 269,526 tons of imports, 119,490 tons of exports, and 714,446 tons of transit goods. Notably, national carriers spearheaded about 68% of the total air cargo movement during this period.
Saif Mohammed Al Suwaidi, Director-General of GCAA, attributed this achievement to collaborative efforts between the Authority and its partners at both federal and local government levels.
Al Suwaidi emphasized that these growth figures underscore the sector’s resilience, competitiveness, and potential for ongoing progress.
Moreover, the strategic expansion into new markets for national carriers, facilitated by 189 air transport agreements worldwide, has played a pivotal role in fostering international collaborations and advancing the open skies policy.
Also read: Sharjah Airport welcomes over 4.2 million passengers in first quarter of 2024
