ATM to focus on aviation and the future of transport

Private and domestic flights expected to recover faster than international travel

The Middle East’s aviation industry is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate of more than 6% over the next five years, according to data from research firm Mordor Intelligence. 

The news comes as the global travel and tourism community prepares to gather in Dubai for Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2022, which will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre from Monday 9 to Thursday 12 May.

Although the recovery estimated for international passenger traffic is gradual, the study showed that the Middle East’s private and domestic aviation segments remained resilient during the pandemic and are continuing to display signs of growth.

Danielle Curtis, ATM exhibition director Middle East, said: “The latest market analysis suggests that budget carriers such as Air Arabia Abu Dhabi and Wizz Air Abu Dhabi will drive demand for new narrow-body aircraft during the coming years. The Middle East’s aviation sector has also witnessed high demand for private travel during recent years, thanks to corporations and high-net-worth individuals opting for business jet and helicopter journeys during the pandemic.

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“As such, the Middle East’s aviation sector will represent a major focus at ATM 2022, thanks to a dedicated session on the Global Stage, plus a number of related events and forums throughout the event. We also look forward to exploring long-term opportunities related to the future of transport.”

The programme will include sessions dedicated to the topic including ‘Airlines Evolving for the Future: Hear from the Industry Leaders’, which will address pandemic-related challenges faced by the industry. Connecting Travel editorial director Middle East Sarah Hedley Hymers will moderate ‘The Future of Transport’, held in conjunction with the Global Travel & Tourism Resilience Council, which will explore new and emerging modes of transport such as hyperloop systems, driverless vehicles, next-generation aircraft and space travel.

Curtis added that market leaders including Emirates, Etihad, Saudia and Qatar Airways are implementing positive longer-term strategies including the reduction of C02 emissions, enhancing existing fleets and placing substantial orders with Airbus and Boeing for new aircraft.

For more information, visit www.wtm.com/atm/en-gb.html