The International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) 2026 forecast projects continued growth for the airline industry, with record revenues around $1.053 trillion and a net profit of $41 billion (record high 3.9 per cent margin) despite ongoing supply chain issues – driven by strong passenger demand and record high load factors (83.8 per cent).
Passenger traffic is expected to rise to 5.2 billion, with the Asia-Pacific region leading the growth. A slower growth rate is forecasted for air cargo but it remains resilient due to e-commerce and time-sensitive needs. Industry challenges include delayed new aircraft deliveries flight crew shortages and airport infrastructure.
Total industry revenue is forecasted at US$1.053 trillion (4.5 per cent increase)...
Locally, all eyes would be focused on state-owned Caribbean Airlines Ltd (CAL) to assess the impact of the airline’s new corporate governance structure. CAL has since terminated operations in its loss-making San Juan, Puerto Rico and British Virgin Islands routes.
