The aviation industry’s biggest event of the year, Routes World 2024, opened its doors in Bahrain with a spectacular display of collaboration, innovation, and opportunity. Hosted by Bahrain Airport Company, the event attracted over 2,300 decision-makers, representing more than 230 airlines and 390 airports, along with key players from over 110 countries. Routes World 2024 showcased the dynamic, interconnected nature of the aviation sector while serving as a vital platform for shaping the future of global air routes.

A Gathering of Aviation Giants

On October 5, 2024, the Bahrain International Circuit became the focal point for the aviation industry, as key figures from major airlines, airports, and destinations convened to discuss, negotiate, and unveil new route developments. Notable attendees included representatives from some of the world’s leading airlines such as Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates Airline, Lufthansa Group, Air Canada, Air France, and Gulf Air, among many others. These industry leaders came together to explore new opportunities, share insights, and form partnerships that would shape the future of air travel.

With over 9,000 meetings scheduled between airlines, airports, and destinations, Routes World provided a unique and valuable networking opportunity for decision-makers to explore strategic alliances, operational efficiencies, and innovative solutions aimed at improving the passenger experience and increasing air connectivity.

A Thriving Aviation Hub: Bahrain’s Strategic Growth

Routes World 2024 was particularly significant for Bahrain, as the Kingdom's aviation sector continues to grow and evolve. This year’s event comes at a time when Bahrain International Airport (BIA) reached new milestones in passenger traffic, with a 13.2% increase in the first half of 2024 alone, serving over 4.6 million travelers. The country’s new passenger terminal, which opened in January 2021, has already doubled the airport’s capacity to handle over 14 million passengers annually, alongside an increase in cargo and flight operations.

Mohamed Yousif AlBinfalah, CEO of Bahrain Airport Company, underscored the significance of hosting Routes World 2024, highlighting Bahrain’s growing stature as a regional hub for aviation and tourism. He emphasized that the event aligns with Bahrain’s broader vision to establish itself as a global aviation and tourism center. By 2026, the Kingdom aims to connect to 100 destinations worldwide, creating exciting opportunities for airlines and travelers alike.

The Future of Aviation

Routes World is much more than a networking event. It is a forum for addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the aviation industry. In 2024, participants engaged in high-level discussions surrounding key topics such as sustainability, new technologies, evolving passenger expectations, and the critical need for operational efficiencies. The 9,000 meetings held throughout the event provided fertile ground for new partnerships, route development, and collaborative efforts designed to enhance the overall air travel experience.

Steven Small, Director of Routes, expressed his enthusiasm for Bahrain hosting such an important event. He noted that Bahrain's strategic investments in infrastructure and tourism initiatives position the Kingdom for continued growth in the aviation sector. Hosting Routes World has highlighted Bahrain’s potential as a major player in the global aviation industry, helping to drive its goal of becoming an internationally recognized center for both air travel and tourism.

Among with the Global Participants; Turkey's largest airports, Sabiha Gökçen and Istanbul Airport took place in the event 

One of the standout performers is Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (ISG), which reported welcoming over 31 million passengers during the first half of the year. This surge in traffic underscores the growing demand for air travel to and from Istanbul, positioning Sabiha Gökçen as a key gateway for both international travelers and domestic passengers.

Sabiha Gökçen, located on the Asian side of Istanbul, is a vital airport for low-cost carriers and offers direct flights to a wide range of global destinations. Its growth in passenger numbers aligns with the broader recovery of the aviation industry, which has rebounded strongly after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Istanbul Airport: The Growing Global Hub

Meanwhile, Istanbul Airport (iGA), the city's largest and one of the busiest airports in the world, continues to establish itself as a major player in international air travel. Opened in 2018, iGA Istanbul Airport has already become a key transit hub, connecting millions of passengers between continents. The airport's extensive facilities, which include advanced technology, luxury lounges, and a wide variety of dining and retail options, have contributed to its increasing popularity among travelers. 

Istanbul's central geographic location makes both airports pivotal for connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. This strategic positioning is expected to keep both airports growing as Turkey becomes an even more essential hub for global aviation. By the end of 2024, the number of passengers at Istanbul Airport is expected to reach 82 million, these figures was  52 million in 2019.

Looking Ahead to Hong Kong 2025

As Routes World 2024 wrapped up, attention turned to the future of the event. Routes World 2025 will take place in Hong Kong from September 24-26, offering another significant opportunity for the aviation community to come together, share insights, and shape the global air network. As the aviation landscape continues to evolve, industry leaders will undoubtedly rely on platforms like Routes World to stay ahead of emerging trends, foster innovation, and ensure the continued growth and success of the global aviation sector.

Routes World 2024 was a defining moment for the aviation industry, highlighting the sector's resilience, connectivity, and the exciting opportunities on the horizon. For Bahrain, hosting such a prestigious event was an opportunity to showcase its growing infrastructure, strategic vision, and position as an emerging global hub. As the aviation sector continues to navigate a post-pandemic recovery, the collaboration and partnerships formed at Routes World will be crucial in shaping the future of air travel. With Bahrain setting its sights on becoming a key player in the global aviation market, the future looks bright for both the Kingdom and the aviation industry as a whole.

Rimini - Italy will host  Routes Europe 2026 

At Routes World 2024, it was officially announced that Rimini will host Routes Europe 2026. Situated in Italy's Emilia-Romagna region, Rimini has seen significant growth as a key tourist destination. By hosting Routes Europe 2026, the city will highlight its ongoing urban transformation and commitment to sustainability, showcasing its potential to leading airlines from the region’s fastest-growing markets.

Leonardo Corbucci, CEO of AIRiminum 2014 S.p.A., which operates Rimini and San Marino International Airport, spoke to the strategic importance of the airport in connecting the region to Europe. “Rimini Airport is the gateway to our region, and its continued development is crucial in positioning Rimini as a cutting-edge international city,” Corbucci stated.

Newcastle International Airport named overall winner of the Routes World Awards

At a glittering gala night at the Bahrain National Theatre, the Routes Awards found their owners.The 2024 Routes World Awards recognized excellence across the aviation industry with several key winners. Newcastle International Airport was celebrated as the Overall Winner and took home the award for airports with fewer than 5 million passengers. Other notable airport winners included Edmonton International Airport in the 5-10 million passenger category, Prague Airport for 10-20 million passengers, and Brussels Airport, which claimed the award for airports with over 20 million passengers. The Destination Award went to the Deputy Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Cyprus, while British Airways was honored as the Airline of the Year. In individual accolades, Michael Garko, Senior Network & Scheduling Analyst at Sun Country Airlines, was named Rising Star, and Jay L. Lingeswara, Vice President of Commercial at VietJet Air, received the Individual Leadership Award. This year’s awards highlighted the outstanding contributions of organizations and individuals shaping the future of air travel