SUBANG: The demand for world air transport is expected to increase by an average of 4.3 per cent annually over the next 20 years, says Anthony Loke.
The Transport Minister said this would create 15.5 million direct jobs and contribute US$1.5 trillion to the global gross domestic product (GDP) by 2036.
He said the Malaysian aviation sector is set to experience a 4 per cent growth in overall passenger movement, driven by fleet expansions and the return of foreign airlines.
"As of 2024, we have witnessed a remarkable rebound in the airline industry, with many regions surpassing pre-pandemic air traffic levels.
"Connectivity to the Asia-Pacific region, for example, is expected to be fully restored by the end of this year. We anticipate a year-on-year increase of 10.4 per cent in total passenger numbers globally for 2024.
"Here in Malaysia, we have seen similar growth. Our aviation sector is set to experience a 4 per cent growth in overall passenger movement, driven by fleet expansions and the return of foreign airlines.
"In August 2024, we recorded 8.7 million passengers, marking a robust 12.7 per cent increase from the previous year. The Asia-Pacific region will remain ICAO's fastest-growing air transport region through 2035," he said in his opening speech at the International Civil Aviation Organisation Air Services Negotiation Event (ICAN) 2024 opening ceremony.
Loke added that in terms of air cargo, Malaysia expected a 6.0 per cent to 6.6 per cent year-on-year growth for 2024, amounting to roughly 20 billion freight tonne-kilometres.
This growth, he said, was driven by factors such as the recovery in China, an upturn in the global technology cycle and economic stabilisation.
"Malaysia's aviation sector is not only recovering but also preparing for the future. We recognise the importance of enhancing both operations and the passenger experience at our airports.
"As we gear up for significant events like the Asean Chairmanship 2025 and Visit Malaysia Year 2026, we are prioritising customer experience and comfort to ensure seamless travel.
"Currently, 72 airlines fly into Malaysia, offering 119 outbound destinations. To further boost air traffic, we have introduced incentive schemes for new airlines, new routes and increased flight frequencies," he said.
He added that Malaysia's main airport operator, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), was making significant investments in expanding and enhancing airport capacities, ensuring it keeps pace with growing passenger volumes.
As an ICAO member state, Loke said Malaysia remains fully committed to the ICAO Global Framework, particularly in advancing sustainable aviation.
For this, Malaysia has launched the Malaysia Aviation Decarbonisation Blueprint (MADB), a strategic framework aimed at decarbonising the aviation sector and positioning Malaysia as a regional hub for sustainable aviation.