Top 10 Busiest International Flights Routes of 2024

The aviation industry is witnessing a strong resurgence in 2024, with passenger numbers steadily climbing back to pre-pandemic levels. While travel restrictions have largely been lifted, the global air travel landscape has shifted significantly.

According to an OAG report, Asia has emerged as a dominant force this year, claiming seven spots on the list of the world’s busiest international flight routes.

Busiest International Flights Routes of 2024

Discover the busiest international airline routes of 2024, reflecting the aviation industry’s robust recovery post-pandemic. This year’s list offers intriguing insights into evolving travel trends, from Asia’s thriving travel corridors to key global routes.

1. Hong Kong (HKG) to Taipei (TPE)

After briefly relinquishing its top spot in 2023, the Hong Kong to Taipei route has roared back to life, boasting a staggering 6.8 million seats in 2024. This represents a remarkable 48% increase compared to the previous year, although it still falls slightly short of the pre-pandemic peak in 2019.

• Seats in 2024: 6,781,577
• Highlights:
  • Crowned the busiest route of 2024, reclaiming its pre-pandemic prominence.
  • Capacity surged by 48% compared to 2023, though it remains 15% below 2019 levels.
  • A key player in Asia’s post-pandemic travel boom.

2. Cairo (CAI) to Jeddah (JED)

Connecting two major cities in the Middle East, the Cairo to Jeddah route has seen a significant surge in demand. With 5.5 million seats, it occupies the second position on the list. This route has witnessed a 14% increase compared to 2023 and a substantial 62% growth compared to 2019.

• Seats in 2024: 5,469,274
• Highlights:
  • Ranked second globally, this route showcases 14% growth from 2023.
  • An impressive 62% increase compared to 2019, driven by regional demand.

3. Seoul Incheon (ICN) to Tokyo Narita (NRT)

The vibrant route between Seoul and Tokyo continues to be a major player in international air travel. With 5.4 million seats, it ranks third on the list. This route has experienced a 30% increase in capacity compared to 2023, demonstrating strong demand for travel between these two East Asian powerhouses.

• Seats in 2024: 5,410,456
• Highlights:
  • Marked 30% growth compared to 2023 and a staggering 68% increase over 2019.
  • Strengthened by the resurgence of business and leisure travel between South Korea and Japan.

4. Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Singapore Changi (SIN)

The Kuala Lumpur to Singapore route, a perennial contender for the top spot, has slipped slightly to fourth position in 2024. Despite this, it remains a vital air link, connecting two major Southeast Asian hubs.

• Seats in 2024: 5,382,163
• Highlights:
  • Previously the busiest international route of 2023, now in fourth place.
  • Capacity grew 10% year-on-year but remains 3% shy of 2019 levels.

5. Seoul Incheon (ICN) to Osaka Kansai (KIX)

Reflecting the strong intra-regional travel within the region, the Seoul Incheon to Osaka Kansai route maintains its position among the busiest, offering 4.9 million seats in 2024. This represents an 18% increase compared to the previous year.

• Seats in 2024: 4,982,769
• Highlights: Achieved 45% growth over 2019 and an 18% increase from 2023, reflecting strong demand in East Asia.

6. Dubai (DXB) to Riyadh (RUH)

An important route within the Middle East, connecting two major commercial centres, Dubai to Riyadh secures sixth place with 4.3 million seats. This route has seen a steady 8% increase in capacity compared to 2023.

• Seats in 2024: 4,306,599
• Highlights: Witnessed an 8% increase from 2023 and 37% growth over 2019, driven by robust Middle East travel.

7. Bangkok (BKK) to Hong Kong (HKG)

Showcasing the growing connectivity within the region, the Bangkok to Hong Kong route has moved up into the top 10, offering 4.2 million seats. This represents a 29% increase compared to 2023, although it still falls 13% short of its 2019 peak.

• Seats in 2024: 4,201,802
• Highlights:
  • A notable addition to the Top 10, with 29% growth from 2023.
  • Still 13% below 2019 levels, but showcasing a strong recovery.

8. Jakarta (CGK) to Singapore Changi (SIN)

Reflecting the strong economic and cultural ties between Indonesia and Singapore, the Jakarta to Singapore route maintains its position with 4.1 million seats. This route has seen a modest 4% increase in capacity compared to 2023.

• Seats in 2024: 4,069,071
• Highlights: Declined 26% from 2019, with a modest 4% growth from 2023. Remains a vital Southeast Asia route.

9. Bangkok (BKK) to Singapore Changi (SIN)

Connecting two major tourist destinations in Southeast Asia, the Bangkok to Singapore route remains a popular choice with 4.0 million seats. This route has experienced a 16% increase in capacity compared to the previous year.

• Seats in 2024: 4,033,344
• Highlights: Demonstrated 5% growth over 2019 and 16% increase from 2023, driven by strong leisure traffic.

10. New York JFK to London Heathrow (LHR)

The sole transatlantic route on the list, the New York JFK to London Heathrow route highlights the enduring importance of this key air corridor. With 4.0 million seats, this route has seen a 3% increase in capacity compared to 2023.

• Seats in 2024: 4,011,235
• Highlights: The only transatlantic route in the Top 10, with 5% growth from 2019 and 3% increase from 2023.

Key Takeaways

• Asia’s Dominance: The strong showing of Asian routes underscores the region’s growing importance in global air travel.
• Post-Pandemic Recovery: The aviation industry is steadily recovering from the pandemic, with passenger numbers on the rise.
• Regional Connectivity: Intra-regional travel within Asia is booming, with several routes connecting major cities within the region.
• Middle East and Africa contribute with notable routes like Dubai-Riyadh and Cairo-Jeddah.

Final Words

The 2024 busiest airline routes highlight Asia-Pacific’s post-pandemic recovery, with increased capacity and global connectivity. As travel demand surges, these routes reflect evolving trends, offering valuable insights into regional and international aviation growth and passenger preferences.