One of the most significant trends that is reshaping how people explore the world is digitalisation. Finland became the first, and will certainly not be the last, country to test digital passports, and electronic visas are becoming more prevalent, offering faster and safer travel experiences. Airlines are investing in digital solutions for check-ins and boarding with reduced contact, while airports are implementing automation through e-gates and self-check-in kiosks.

With peak optimism, the Airports Council International (ACI) World expects 2024 to be a milestone year for global passenger traffic as it reaches 9.4 billion passengers. This is despite new visa and other entry restrictions being imposed on for travellers worldwide, and security concerns dominating migration debates, such as continued or new airspace restrictions due to regional conflicts. Major international events like the Paris 2024 Olympics will also drive up prices, and some routes catering to flights between Australia and Europe are likely to remain high until mid-2024 due to low capacity.

The rise of sustainability will remain forefront in 2024. With increasing awareness about climate change and environmental conservation, more travellers are opting for destinations and accommodations that offer eco-friendly options, such as green hotels and low-carbon transportation. This is coupled with the impact of climate change and natural disasters on travel. The El Niño phenomenon will make 2024 the hottest year on record, leading to heatwaves, wildfires, droughts, and stronger tropical storms in various regions around the world.