The critical role of global travel in economic growth and resilience

As the world moves past the disruptions of recent years, the importance of open borders and the free movement of people has never been more evident. Aviation, as a key enabler of global connectivity, underscores these benefits, emphasizing the urgency of policies that promote seamless and accessible travel.

At this year’s World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, I had the privilege of discussing the vital role aviation plays in fostering global economic growth and connectivity. Aviation is far more than a convenience for the privileged – it is a lifeline that connects families, enables access to education and healthcare, and facilitates commerce on a global scale. As leaders and policymakers gathered in Davos, I urged them to recognize aviation as a cornerstone of sustainable economic development, one that continues to demonstrate resilience and indispensable value to both global and domestic economies.

Quantifying Aviation’s Economic Impact

Global travel generates trillions of dollars in GDP and supports millions of jobs, making it a pivotal contributor to economic growth. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council ’s Economic Impact Report, travel accounts for 10% of global GDP and supports approximately 1 in 10 jobs worldwide. These figures highlight the profound influence of travel on employment, trade, and economic resilience. With travel returning and in some regions surpassing pre-pandemic levels and governments placing both domestic and international travel at the heart of their growth strategies, the opportunity to unlock even greater economic benefits is immense.

Several regions and nations have demonstrated how strategic investments in travel and aviation drive economic prosperity. Standout examples come to mind:

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) open-skies policy and Emirates Airline’s extensive network have positioned the UAE as a leading global transit hub, transforming Dubai International Airport into one of the busiest aviation hubs in the world. It contributes over $26 billion to the local economy and supports 750,000 jobs. Aviation’s total contribution to the UAE’s GDP exceeds $47 billion (14% of total GDP). With continued investments in aviation infrastructure and its tourism sector, the UAE exemplifies how a robust aviation strategy can drive national prosperity.

In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitious blueprint, tourism and aviation are key pillars for its plan for economic diversification. Aviation is projected to contribute $75 billion (10%) to GDP by 2030, with 100 million visitors annually by the same year, positioning Saudi Arabia as a major competitor to established hubs like Dubai and Doha. By 2034, the aviation sector is expected to employ more than 3.6 million people, equating to one in five jobs. These ambitious targets highlight the transformative potential of strategic aviation investments.

China’s recent expansions in visa-free travel aim to boost inbound tourism and stimulate economic growth. For example, Fujian Province has introduced measures to enhance inbound tourism by 2025. Projections indicate that China’s inbound tourism could contribute up to 4% of GDP over the next decade, a significant increase from just under 1% in 2019.

By eliminating border controls, the EU has fostered an interconnected economy, enabling seamless business and leisure travel. The Schengen Area facilitates an estimated 1.3 billion business trips annually, bolstering economic growth and regional integration.

It is Our Collective Responsibility to Champion Aviation

The global travel industry—powered by aviation—is more than a means of transportation; it is a driver of economic growth, a catalyst for cultural understanding, and a pillar of global resilience. As nations invest in infrastructure, policies, and partnerships to promote seamless travel, they unlock not only economic benefits but also the shared opportunities that come with a connected world.

As the largest aviation services group in the world, Menzies Aviation operates at more than 300 airports in more than 65 countries, employing over 55,000 people. We are proud to be at the heart of this dynamic sector, working tirelessly to support the seamless journeys that drive global progress.

Global travel stands as a testament to the enduring power of human connection and cooperation, it is our collective responsibility to champion the policies and innovations that will ensure its continued success.