Aviation's global impact on trade and jobs
Explore the profound influence of aviation on global trade and job creation. Uncover how this industry boosts economic growth, fosters international tourism, and drives e-commerce, shaping a world where opportunities know no borders
Beyond its role in transporting passengers, aviation plays a crucial role in fostering economic prosperity and facilitating global trade. Drawing from a recent ICAO report, let's take a closer look at how the aviation industry contributes to the world's economic landscape and supports the interconnectedness of nations.
Aviation's economic impact
Aviation stands as a major contributor to global economic prosperity, generating growth, creating jobs, and fostering international trade and tourism. The industry's total economic impact reached an impressive USD 2.7 trillion, constituting 3.6% of the world's GDP in 2016. Notably, it supported 65.5 million jobs globally, with direct employment reaching 10.2 million. The air transport network, with over 1,303 airlines, 31,717 aircraft, 3,759 airports, and 170 air navigation service providers, forms a vital global infrastructure.
Tourism and economic growth
Each year approximately 1.4 billion tourists cross borders, with over half of them relying on air travel. In 2016, aviation supported almost 37 million jobs within the tourism sector, contributing roughly USD 897 billion a year to global GDP. By facilitating tourism, air transport becomes a catalyst for economic growth and poverty alleviation.
Driving global trade and e-commerce
Aviation is a pivotal facilitator of global trade and e-commerce. The speed and reliability of air transport provide a competitive advantage, allowing businesses to be more responsive to customer needs. In 2018, USD 6.8 trillion worth of goods were transported internationally by air, representing 35% of world trade by value.
Notably, around 90% of business-to-consumer e-commerce parcels are currently carried by air, showcasing the industry's crucial role in the evolving landscape of global commerce
Aviation’s impacts on other industries
Beyond its direct contributions, aviation has catalytic impacts on various industries. It enhances supply chain efficiencies, enables international investments, and fosters innovation through effective networking and collaboration. Good air transport links are considered essential factors influencing where companies choose to invest, encouraging higher productivity, investment, and innovation.
As we soar into the future, it's evident that aviation is not merely about flying from one place to another; it's a driving force behind global economic prosperity, connecting nations, facilitating trade, and fostering innovation. The dynamic and constantly evolving air transport network serves as a testament to the industry's resilience and its unwavering commitment to shaping a world where opportunities know no borders.