In his remarks at the 2024 Changi Aviation Summit in Singapore, International Air Transport Association (IATA) Director General Willie Walsh outlined aviation's progress, challenges, sustainability efforts.

Reflecting on the panel discussion's insight that understanding the past and present aids in envisioning the future, Walsh highlighted the industry's performance in 2023 and its trajectory over recent decades. Notably, the industry exhibited strong progress and recovery in 2023, with domestic markets performing well but international travel lagging behind.

He expressed: “Looking forward, IATA estimates that over the next 20 years, the industry will grow at about 3.3% per annum. That is significantly lower than the growth we witnessed during 2010 to 2019. But I think it does reflect some of the challenges that we as an industry are facing and will face going into the future.”

Looking ahead, Walsh emphasized the challenges facing the industry, including infrastructure constraints, supply chain issues, and the transition to net-zero emissions by 2050, which will impact ticket prices and growth. Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism about the region's potential to lead market growth and underscored the need for transformative measures to unlock growth opportunities in Africa.

Walsh also addressed environmental concerns, emphasizing the industry's commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and the importance of sustainable aviation fuel. He expressed confidence in overcoming challenges and achieving sustainability goals with collaborative efforts and supportive policy frameworks.