IATA: Fewer new airlines but also fewer exits

IATA has released analysis of new and ceasing airlines last year, with 2024 seeing the lowest number of new entrants and exits in a decade. The association’s data shows a total of 28 new airlines started operations last year – the annual figure has been declining for the last three years and now stands at less than half the peak of 2021, a year that was boosted by post-Covid reorganisations. New airlines in 2024 included KM Malta Airlines (effectively a replacement of its predecessor Air Malta), FlyGabon and AirJapan (a low-cost subsidiary of ANA). Meanwhile 19 airlines ceased flying in 2024, with examples including Canada Jetlines, Air Malta (see above) and Australian low-cost carrier Bonza. IATA said the low number of new entrants last year “can be attributed to a combination of economic, supply chain, and geopolitical challenges”, while the majority of airlines which ceased operations did so “due to financial difficulties and intense competition”.<br/>