Passenger air transport in Portugal has shown significant variability over the years. Between 2013 and 2019, the sector experienced steady growth, with annual increases ranging from 3.38% to 10.63% and a CAGR peaking at 7.83% in 2017. However, the COVID-19 pandemic caused a drastic decline in 2020, with a 70.45% drop. Recovery began in 2021 and rebounded significantly in 2022, with an impressive 128.28% increase. In 2023, the value stood at 21.87 billion passenger kilometers, reflecting a robust 20.8% year-on-year growth and a recent five-year CAGR of 2.28%. Forecasts for 2024-2028 suggest a moderate upward trend, with a forecasted annual growth rate of 2.52% and a total growth of 13.26% over five years.

Future trends to watch for:

Impact of fuel prices on ticket costs and passenger demand.
Technological advancements in aircraft efficiency.
Potential resurgence or new waves of global health crises.
Changes in travel regulations and consumer preferences towards sustainable travel.