Traffic News
Dubai maintains ranking as busiest international airport in 2025
Traffic at the UAE hub rose 6.1% year-on-year, as London Heathrow remained second and Incheon International in third, measured by international passenger numbers.
North Asia and Europe routes buoy Changi Airport traffic in Q1 despite Middle East impact
Vietnam and China posted the strongest growth among Changi’s top ten markets, rising +26.5% and +17.7% year-on-year respectively, but there was a sharp fall in Middle East traffic during March.
Heathrow Airport says traffic outlook remains uncertain amid Middle East conflict
While Middle East traffic fell -51.1% at Heathrow due to the regional conflict, other markets showed strong growth, including Asia Pacific and Africa.
Asia Pacific passenger traffic climbs on solid February demand but geopolitical tensions affect outlook
“Asian airlines are facing increased operational challenges, as the rise in conflicts has reduced the availability of airspace, particularly along key Asia-Europe corridors, effectively constraining capacity on these routes and limiting network flexibility for affected carriers.” says AAPA Director General Subhas Menon.
OAG data: Southeast Asia emerges as alternative hub as Middle East conflict disrupts air capacity
Travel businesses anticipate demand will move towards travel within Southeast Asia (64%) amid the escalating conflict, while Europe (24%) remains a preferred destination despite flight disruptions.
IATA long-term outlook: Passenger traffic set to double by 2050 amid strong air travel resurgence
The global airline trade body’s long-term demand model points to 20.8 trillion RPKs by 2050 under a mid-range scenario, with alternative scenarios outlining the range of outcomes.
Food & beverage leads London Gatwick Airport commercial growth in 2025
By commercial channel, food & beverage delivered the highest growth in 2025 with a +3.4% increase, with retail spend flat year-on-year.
ACI Europe reports strong January growth in the region but geopolitical risks threaten momentum
Europe’s airports started the year strongly, with passenger traffic up +4.6% year-on-year, though ongoing Middle East conflicts could disrupt momentum and weigh on positive traffic forecasts.
DFWC Global Shopping Monitor reveals key consumer drivers as passenger traffic roars ahead
The Duty Free World Council’s Full Year 2025 Global Shopping Monitor identifies the latest shopper spending habits and drivers.
IATA reports strong start to 2026 for air travel, but warns Middle East tensions pose risks
The airline trade body forecasts that strong demand growth will continue into 2026, though escalating conflict in the Middle East presents a significant risk to this outlook.
Vienna Airport posts robust retail growth in 2025 amid space expansion
Retail & Properties revenue climbed by +5.9% year-on-year, buoyed by higher shopping, hospitality, lounge and parking income related to passenger growth.
cdf Sanya International Duty Free Shopping Complex delivers strong Spring Festival results
Over the Spring Festival, cdf Sanya International Duty Free Shopping Complex achieved strong results with five-day sales up +23.7%, nine-day visitor numbers of 678,900, and single-day sales exceeding CNY200 million, reflecting its first peak season after Hainan’s customs closure.
