Tunisian Airports See 12.5 Million Passengers, with Domestic Flights Lagging Behind
Last year, Tunisian airports recorded a flow of 12.5 million passengers, a 12.9% increase year-over-year, but a deceleration compared to 2023 (+27.8%). The growth comes exclusively from international lines (+13.7%), while domestic flights decreased by 10.6%. And it's this particular point that interests us.
In today's world, connectivity is a vital element for an economy. Efficient transportation networks are essential for promoting growth. Beyond their ability to reduce travel time, domestic flights create indirect employment in auxiliary services, tourism, and related sectors. As travel becomes more accessible, tourism develops, stimulating local economies and investments in supporting infrastructure.
Furthermore, internal air connectivity facilitates commerce, enabling small local businesses to reach markets more quickly. In Europe, the multiplier effect for every euro spent on air transport is 2.7 in terms of commercial revenue. Interconnection fosters competitive environments and encourages economic diversification.
This is another opportunity we are missing out on to gain on all fronts. The workforce in Greater Tunis and major cities largely comes from other governorates. If we offer them a recurrent and accessible air transport service, the balance between family and work will be easier to achieve. This will encourage skills to work in interior regions, just like doctors. We must give this dossier the attention it deserves, as the social and economic benefits are real and rapid.
