Unprecedented growth
The Middle East has developed into one of the world's most prominent regions for air travel. Driven by a unique combination of economic expansion, well-coordinated growth plans, modern air transport infrastructure and favorable geographic location, air travel has grown at unprecedented rates during the past several years.
Vital connections
Middle East carriers have focused on establishing the region, with its relatively small population, as a transfer point for passengers traveling between Europe, Asia and Africa. Using the region's central location between three continents generates tremendous market potential. Market access is critical to success. Many routes that the region's airlines currently serve were, until recently, restricted by bilateral agreements intended to protect local air carriers.
New long-haul aircraft capabilities have made it possible for the region to serve as a transfer point on routes to North and South America, as well. Airplanes such as the Boeing 777 can reach nearly any city in the world from the Middle East, allowing the region's carriers to serve the East Coast of the United States and even longer-haul destinations, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston and Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Airplane capability is crucial
The role of Middle East air carriers in global air transport will expand as greater numbers of new, highly efficient airplanes with very long-haul capabilities join Middle East airline fleets. More than 100 new airplanes, including 45 twin-aisle airplanes, will be delivered to operators in the region during 2009. This accounts for approximately 20 percent of 2009 twin-aisle deliveries, worldwide. Another 50 twin-aisle airplanes will be delivered to the region in 2010, enhancing the already strong competitive position of the region's carriers.
Budget travel markets
The Middle East is a large, relatively underserved market for budget travel. Significant migrant worker populations need an affordable way to return home. The youthful middle-class workforce has a strong appetite for travel, and the region's proximity to high-growth markets, such as India, Europe and Central Asia, create many opportunities to introduce service to medium-haul destinations. During the past few years, six low-cost airlines have initiated service in the region and market potential continues strong.
