What percentage of people have never flown?

Percentage of People Who Have Never Flown

Air travel has become an integral part of our modern world, connecting people and cultures across vast distances. However, despite its widespread accessibility, a significant portion of the global population has yet to experience the wonders of flight.

Statistics

According to a 2023 report by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), approximately 78% of the world’s population has never flown. This means that only 22% of people have ever boarded an airplane.

Regional Differences

The percentage of people who have never flown varies significantly by region. In developed countries like the United States and Europe, the proportion of non-flyers is relatively low. In the United States, for example, only about 12% of the population has never flown.

In contrast, the percentage of non-flyers is much higher in less developed regions like Africa and Asia. In Africa, approximately 88% of the population has never flown, while in Asia, the figure is around 75%.

Factors Influencing Non-Flying

There are a number of factors that can contribute to someone never having flown, including:

• Cost: Air travel can be expensive, especially for long-distance flights. This is a major barrier for people in low-income countries.
• Lack of infrastructure: In some remote areas, there may be no airports or direct flights available, making air travel inaccessible.
• Cultural factors: In some cultures, there may be a stigma associated with air travel, or it may be considered a luxury reserved for the wealthy.
• Fear of flying: Some people experience a fear of flying, which can prevent them from ever boarding an airplane.

Changing Landscape

While a large percentage of the world’s population has never flown, the number of first-time flyers is constantly increasing. This is particularly true in emerging economies like China and India, where the growth of low-cost airlines and expanding airport infrastructure is making air travel more accessible.

As air travel becomes more affordable and available, it is expected that the percentage of people who have never flown will continue to decrease. This will have significant implications for the tourism industry and the global economy as a whole. By connecting more people to the world, air travel can foster cultural exchange, promote economic development, and create countless opportunities.

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