Top 10 Busiest International Routes in 2024, Surprising Changes

The global aviation industry continues to recover and thrive in 2024, with several international routes experiencing record-breaking traffic. The busiest international routes are the lifelines of international travel, connecting key business hubs, tourism destinations, and cultural centers.

In this article, we explore the top 10 busiest international routes of 2024, detailing the total number of seats, flights, and the most significant airlines operating on these routes. Additionally, the analysis dives into available seat miles (ASMs), a crucial metric indicating the total passenger carrying capacity.

1. Taipei (TPE) – Hong Kong (HKG)

Total Seats: 6,574,383
Total Flights: 26,402

The Taipei-Hong Kong route remains the busiest international corridor globally in 2024. The route’s available seat miles (ASMs) reached an astonishing 3,293,765,883, reflecting its vital role in connecting these two major Asian financial hubs. Operated by leading airlines like Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, and EVA Air, this route serves a high volume of business travelers and tourists.

With Hong Kong positioned as a gateway to mainland China and Taipei emerging as a vibrant tech and business center, the demand for frequent and efficient connections continues to soar.

2. Seoul (ICN) – Tokyo Narita (NRT)

Total Seats: 5,295,404
Total Flights: 22,673

Seoul and Tokyo are two of the most dynamic cities in East Asia, and their connection through Narita Airport facilitates robust economic and cultural exchanges. With an impressive ASM of 4,151,596,736, this route ranks second.

Multiple carrier including Korean Air, Japan Airlines, and All Nippon Airways (ANA) dominate this route, catering to both corporate and leisure travelers. The blend of tourism, trade, and bilateral relations between South Korea and Japan underpins the consistent growth in traffic on this route.

3. Kuala Lumpur (KUL) – Singapore (SIN)

Total Seats: 5,259,628
Total Flights: 27,629

Known for being one of the shortest yet busiest international routes, Kuala Lumpur to Singapore boasts a bustling 967,771,552 ASMs. Despite its short distance, the route hosts airlines such as Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and budget carriers like AirAsia and Scoot.

The frequency of flights and accessibility make it a favorite among business commuters and weekend travelers. Its strategic significance lies in connecting two major Southeast Asian financial and commercial hubs, fostering cross-border commerce and tourism.

4. Jeddah (JED) – Cairo (CAI)

Total Seats: 5,182,049
Total Flights: 23,000

Jeddah-Cairo ranks fourth, with a significant ASM figure of 3,917,629,044. This route is essential for linking Saudi Arabia with Egypt, two of the most populous and influential countries in the Arab world.

Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia), EgyptAir, and Flynas dominate this corridor, which is particularly vital during religious pilgrimage seasons. Beyond tourism, the route facilitates strong family and cultural ties between the two nations.

5. Seoul (ICN) – Osaka Kansai (KIX)

Total Seats: 4,929,414
Total Flights: 21,824

Connecting Seoul and Osaka, this route generates 2,642,165,904 ASMs, reflecting its importance for tourism and business activities. Airlines like Korean Air, Jeju Air, and Peach Aviation ensure seamless connectivity between these two cities.

Osaka’s proximity to Kyoto and Seoul’s appeal as a modern metropolis drive consistent traffic, making this route one of the busiest in East Asia.

6. Riyadh (RUH) – Dubai (DXB)

Total Seats: 4,364,926
Total Flights: 20,630

Riyadh to Dubai is a vital route for the Middle East, marked by an ASM of 2,370,154,818. As two leading cities in the Gulf region, Riyadh and Dubai are centers of commerce and innovation.

Emirates, Saudia, and Flydubai dominate the skies, catering to business executives and luxury travelers alike. The strategic importance of this route stems from the rapid economic growth and diversification efforts in both nations, enhancing intercity connectivity.

7. Bangkok (BKK) – Hong Kong (HKG)

Total Seats: 3,984,729
Total Flights: 15,628

With an ASM of 4,175,995,992, Bangkok-Hong Kong is a route that exemplifies robust tourism and business ties. Thai Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Hong Kong Airlines are the primary operators.

Bangkok’s status as a global tourist hotspot and Hong Kong’s role as a business hub make this route indispensable for travelers seeking leisure and commerce.

8. Singapore (SIN) – Bangkok (BKK)

Total Seats: 3,969,641
Total Flights: 14,363

Singapore-Bangkok serves as a critical link in Southeast Asia, with an ASM of 3,481,375,157. Airlines such as Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, and low-cost carriers like Scoot and Jetstar Asia offer frequent connections.

This route’s significance lies in linking Bangkok’s rich cultural heritage with Singapore’s business-friendly environment, attracting diverse travelers year-round.

9. London Heathrow (LHR) – New York JFK (JFK)

Total Seats: 3,951,589
Total Flights: 15,359

As a transatlantic powerhouse, the London-New York route remains iconic, supported by an exceptional ASM of 13,640,885,228. It is a vital link between Europe and North America, operated by major players like British Airways, American Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, and Delta Airlines.

This route caters to premium business travelers, reflecting its importance in global commerce, finance, and diplomacy.

10. Tokyo Narita (NRT) – Taipei (TPE)

Total Seats: 3,914,759
Total Flights: 15,003

Tokyo Narita to Taipei rounds out the top 10 busiest international routes with an ASM of 5,308,413,204. The route’s significance is anchored in the strong economic, cultural, and tourism ties between Japan and Taiwan.

ANA, Japan Airlines, and EVA Air lead operations, ensuring excellent service and frequency.