Dhaka: Global air passenger traffic is projected to hit 9.8 billion in 2025, driven by strong international demand, Airports Council International (ACI) World said in its latest World Airport Traffic Report.

The study, covering data from more than 2,800 airports in 185 countries, forecasts overall growth of 3.7pc next year, with international traffic expanding 5.3 pc compared with 2.4 pc for domestic.

ACI World Director-General Justin Erbacci said the rebound underscored aviation’s role in mobility and economic growth but highlighted the need for supportive policies to ensure resilience and sustainable expansion.

Asia-Pacific is expected to lead with 3.6 billion passengers (+5.6pc), powered by Southern and Southeast Asia. Europe is forecast to surpass 2.5 billion (+3.6pc), while the Middle East will rise to 466 million (+5.9pc), boosted by investment and tourism. Africa is seen growing to 273 million (+9.4pc) on the back of tourism and a rising middle class, and Latin America-Caribbean to 789 million (+4.1pc). North America is projected at 2.1 billion passengers.

ACI said emerging markets will remain the main growth engine, while mature aviation regions face headwinds from geopolitical tensions, demographic shifts and evolving travel patterns.

-B