In the bustling world of aviation, medium-sized airports often find themselves in a unique position – big enough to serve a significant volume of passengers, yet small enough to avoid some of the logistical nightmares that come with mega-airport status. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on these middleweight champions, particularly those that have demonstrated exceptional performance in on-time departures throughout 2023, serving between 15,000,000 and 25,000,000 travelers annually worldwide.
Our annual report highlights the top 20 airports worldwide in this category. The data clearly shows that there are several medium-sized airport hubs that excel in departure on-time performance.
Leading the pack and taking the #1 ranking is Osaka International Airport (ITM), the regional gateway for Japan’s Kansai region, boasting a departure performance of 90.71% on over 130,000 flights for the year.
Deserving of honorable mention, is Tocumen International Airport (PTY) in Panama, a gateway airport to the Americas, with a departure OTP of 90.51% on over 121,000 flights. Also ranking high is Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM) in Lima, Peru, with a departure OTP of 89.10% on over 150,000 flights.
These top performers are accompanied by numerous other medium-sized airports that have demonstrated impressive on-time departure performance. Congratulations to Osaka International Airport for their exceptional performance!
While ensuring on-time departures is crucial, it is equally important to adopt a comprehensive approach to airport management. The exemplary performance of medium-sized airports in 2023 has demonstrated that success stems from a combination of robust infrastructure, strategic partnerships, economic growth, and a culture of innovation. This serves as a valuable lesson for airports of all sizes, emphasizing the significance of embracing these principles.
Report highlights
Delta Air Lines Secures Cirium’s Platinum Award for Operational Excellence for Fourth Year Running
Aeromexico Recognized as the Most On-Time Airline in the Global Category
Regional Leaders Announced: Delta Air Lines, Copa Airlines, Iberia Express, Japan Airlines, and FlySafair Take Top Honors
Bogotá El Dorado International Airport Earns Cirium’s Inaugural Airport Platinum Award
Riyadh King Khalid International Airport Named Most On-Time Global Airport for 2024
Jay Morgan, Director, Professional Data Services, Cirium
In a very demanding year Copa Airlines soared to the top of our on-time rankings.
Copa operated at a very high level of on-time performance, with 89.46% of its flights arriving on time, surpassing avianca (85.73%) and last year’s winner Azul (85.51%). In addition, Copa achieved significant reduction in cancellations (63%) year over year—a noteworthy improvement in the passenger experience.
In 2023 LATAM (84.07%) recorded over 494,000 flights — more than double the number of the other carriers in the top nine, apart from Azul that flew approximately 303,000 flights.
Latin America continued to see growth in operations throughout 2023. Increased demand for domestic and international travel, cargo, plus the addition of Aerus and Mexicana de Aviacion set the stage for newly opened routes and significant new aircraft orders and leases.
Scheduled Latin American commercial passenger flights increased by 16% year over year. The top carriers in the region operated at 117% of their pre-pandemic levels and are fully expected to continue to see growth in 2024.
These are very encouraging statistics overall, in a year that saw the restructuring of three major Latin American carriers. These airlines added new routes to their schedules and modernized their fleets demonstrating that they are keeping pace with a very strong post-COVID recovery.
Report highlights
Delta Air Lines Secures Cirium’s Platinum Award for Operational Excellence for Fourth Year Running
Aeromexico Recognized as the Most On-Time Airline in the Global Category
Regional Leaders Announced: Delta Air Lines, Copa Airlines, Iberia Express, Japan Airlines, and FlySafair Take Top Honors
Bogotá El Dorado International Airport Earns Cirium’s Inaugural Airport Platinum Award
Riyadh King Khalid International Airport Named Most On-Time Global Airport for 2024
Mariscal Sucre International Airport had the best operational performance in 2023 among the world’s small airports. Located near Quito, Ecuador, the airport is referred to as Tababela, and is relatively new — it opened in 2012. It’s Ecuador’s largest airport. The two largest carriers there are Avianca and LATAM, each flying around 1M seats in 2023, with Avianca flying around 43% more seats from there since 2019.
Mariscal Sucre beat out Chubu Centrair, the Japanese single runway operation just outside of Nagoya, Japan. ANA is the largest carrier there, whose strong on-time performance factors into both that carrier and this airport’s excellence.
2023’s results are an excellent result for these Ecuadorian airports.
The top three small airports are rounded out by José Joaquín de Olmedo International Airport, serving Guayaquil, Ecuador, and Ecuador’s second largest airport, after Mariscal Sucre. 2023’s results are an excellent result for these Ecuadorian airports. Cirium categorizes airports by percentile, and a small airport serves between the 25th and 50th percentile by total flights served in a month, with an actual gate departure coverage 80% or better.
Report highlights
Delta Air Lines Secures Cirium’s Platinum Award for Operational Excellence for Fourth Year Running
Aeromexico Recognized as the Most On-Time Airline in the Global Category
Regional Leaders Announced: Delta Air Lines, Copa Airlines, Iberia Express, Japan Airlines, and FlySafair Take Top Honors
Bogotá El Dorado International Airport Earns Cirium’s Inaugural Airport Platinum Award
Riyadh King Khalid International Airport Named Most On-Time Global Airport for 2024
As we reach the end of 2023, it is evident that this has been a significant year for the airline industry, particularly for North American carriers, which is the home to four of the five largest passenger airlines worldwide in terms of flight operations. The industry has experienced a whirlwind of developments, including a continuous increase in travel demand after the pandemic, strain on airport infrastructure, labor shortages, and rising fuel costs. Additionally, the diverse routes and varying weather conditions in North America present additional complexities for airline operations.
Despite these challenges, North American airlines have excelled in maintaining high operational efficiency and punctuality. Their ability to navigate these complexities is a testament to their resilience and adaptability. In terms of arrival performance, the overall rate for 2023 was 74.45%, with approximately 400,000 more scheduled flights compared to 2022, which had an on-time arrival rate of 74.26%.
Investment in technology, coupled with an unwavering commitment to customer service, undoubtedly contributed to the impressive on-time punctuality.
North American airlines have successfully adapted to these market challenges, while meeting the continuous increase in travel demand. Their investment in technology, coupled with an unwavering commitment to customer service, undoubtedly contributed to the impressive on-time punctuality statistics for the year.
Delta Air Lines once again claims the top spot in terms of performance, with 84.72% arriving on-time on over 1.5M flight operations. Following closely behind, and deserving honorable mention, was Alaska Airlines boasting an OTP of 82.25% on over 400,000 flights and American Airlines at 80.61% on over 1.9M flights. These airlines performed exceptionally over the course of the year overcoming tremendous travel demand and disruptive weather events. Congratulations to Delta Air Lines for their exceptional and consistent on-time performance!
In 2023, North American airlines underwent a remarkable transformation. They skillfully navigated the dynamic market landscape and elevated their operations in the face of increasing air travel demand. As we look ahead to 2024, we anticipate sustained operational excellence as challenges arising from labor shortages and airport infrastructure are gradually addressed and resolved.
Report highlights
Delta Air Lines Secures Cirium’s Platinum Award for Operational Excellence for Fourth Year Running
Aeromexico Recognized as the Most On-Time Airline in the Global Category
Regional Leaders Announced: Delta Air Lines, Copa Airlines, Iberia Express, Japan Airlines, and FlySafair Take Top Honors
Bogotá El Dorado International Airport Earns Cirium’s Inaugural Airport Platinum Award
Riyadh King Khalid International Airport Named Most On-Time Global Airport for 2024
Cirium Ascend Consultancy is trusted by clients across the aviation industry to provide accurate, timely, and insightful aircraft appraisals. The team provides the valuations and analysis the industry relies on to understand the market outlook, evaluate risks and identify opportunities.
Sara Dhariwal, Senior Aviation Analyst, Lead Appraiser – Helicopters & AAM, Cirium Ascend Consultancy
The spotlight is once again on the Sikorsky S-92A as concerns mount over the manufacturer’s ability to maintain the aircraft. The lack of parts supply has already prevented some of the type from returning to service. Norway’s energy minister Terje Aasland joined the debate in early 2024, suggesting to news outlet Energy Voice that “oil and gas activity may be hit by a lack of spare parts for S-92 helicopters”.
Since the fatal crash of Airbus Helicopter’s H225 off the coast of Norway in 2016, the S-92A has been the main heavy helicopter operating in the oil and gas industry. Heavies play a crucial role as they possess the range and payload to complete a return journey to oil rigs furthest offshore without having to refuel.
The current fleet of just under 200 S-92 helicopters therefore provide important support in transporting oil rig workers, and supplies, between shore and oil rig platforms. A disruption of its ability to operate could, at worst, disrupt the ability to continue to produce oil and gas.
Source: Cirium Fleets Analyzer
The highlighted issue brings attention to the risks associated with relying solely on a single helicopter model, such as the S-92A, which possesses comparable payload and range capabilities.
However, until recently, there was an abundance of aircraft available to fulfil the mission requirements due to excess capacity resulting from the prolonged downturn in the oil and gas industry.
The increasing demand within the industry has resulted in a swift utilisation of the stored fleet. The storage rates for the S-92 helicopters have experienced a notable decline, reducing from an average of 15% between 2018 and 2022 to a mere 7% at present.
As a result, and in addition to overhauls required to get stored aircraft back in service, the already operational S-92A helicopters are accumulating higher flight hours, leading to an accelerated need for overhauls.
This situation creates a potential bottleneck for demand of parts and maintenance capacity.
In 2015, a new category helicopters were introduced to the market – the super mediums. The category includes Airbus Helicopters H175 and the Leonardo AW189. While they do not have quite the range/payload combination of a heavy, they have proved themselves a worthy replacement of the S-92A on most routes.
Source: Cirium Fleets Analyzer
The introduction to the market for the super mediums has so far been relatively slow. With a combined current fleet of just over 80 helicopters, no spare capacity, and a typical lead time of 18-24 months for new orders, they do not provide a short-term capacity solution when the S-92 is unavailable.
The heavy/super medium categories are not the only type that have seen a sharp decline in deliveries for the offshore sector. The number of overall deliveries into the sector has reduced by over 70% in the past decade, compared to the previous 10-year period.
Limited growth is predicted in the next decade, and the 2023 Ascend Helicopter Fleet Forecast suggests that focus will be on replacement of around 25% of the current fleet. That means a replacement of around 350 aircraft in the next 10 years, which would require an average of 35 deliveries per year.
There are two new types in the market such as the Airbus Helicopters H160 and yet-to-be-certified Bell 525 Relentless. They both have the ability to take some market share from the more established types.
Even where new orders are an option, financing can be an issue. With the oil and gas downturn, dialogue about reducing reliance on fossil fuels and unfavourable contract terms from the oil majors are increasing investment uncertainty.
Lessors have increased their share of the overall fleet operating in the offshore sector over the past decade. Lessors can be beneficial in raising finance and managing fluctuating capacity requirements, but a lessor-dominant market brings its own issues.
Could the Coming Months Provide Some Clues as to the Future of the Sector?
Will there be an increase in order announcements, for what and from whom?
Will the start of the replacement cycle become more evident?
Will the lessors continue to increase market share, or will there be an increase in direct operator ownership?
Will oil majors step up to provide more stability?
Will there be an improvement in maintenance supply challenges?
What about further explorations vs renewables?
This year is set to be another very interesting one for the helicopter industry and as always, the Cirium Ascend Consultancy team will be there to monitor the developments closely.
Hear more from Sara as she welcomes special guests Junia Hermont, Líder Aviação, and Samantha Willenbacher, Bristow, to our upcoming webinar on the offshore market. To join them live on Thursday 14th March, register your place.
Lydia Webb, Marketing Director – Americas & Strategic Programs, Cirium
After delivering an impressive on-time performance amid the 2022 World Cup tournament, Oman Air once again achieved the highest on-time performance score of 92.53% for the Middle East and Africa region in 2023. This was also the highest score among all carriers across all categories.
Oman Air celebrated its 30th anniversary this year – a journey which began in March 1993 with a single flight between Muscat and Salalah. The airline has grown from a small regional carrier since then to an award-winning airline with over 45 destinations connecting visitors from around the world to Oman.
To meet the rising demand in tourism, the airline launched an expanded network and schedule in 2023.
To meet the rising demand in tourism, the airline launched an expanded network and schedule in 2023, with significant frequency increases on existing routes, and the addition of new destinations— representing a 60% increase in the number of flights from Muscat compared to last year.
Oman Air also took delivery of a new Boeing 737 MAX 8 from CDB Aviation in 2023 – a total fleet size of 52 aircraft. The 737 Max 8 is configured with 12 Business and 150 Economy Class seats to support the airline’s expanding network. The expanded network, schedule and fleet demonstrate Oman Air’s ongoing efforts to contribute to the economy of the Sultanate of Oman while also exhibiting its drive for increased global reach. The airline’s anticipated oneworld Alliance membership in 2024, will help broaden its network’s global reach and provide travelers with greater travel options and other benefits.
On-Time performance in the region was especially competitive with Safair (FA) following closely behind taking 2nd place with an OTP of 92.36% on 55,444 flights and Royal Jordanian (RJ) taking 3rd place with an 87.51% OTP on 32,706 flights.
Congratulations to Oman Air for its outstanding commitment to on-time performance while they continue to position themselves as a major international carrier, and has set several benchmarks for quality, comfort, and hospitality. Additionally, we commend and give honorable mention to Safair and Royal Jordanian for their fine performance.
Report highlights
Delta Air Lines Secures Cirium’s Platinum Award for Operational Excellence for Fourth Year Running
Aeromexico Recognized as the Most On-Time Airline in the Global Category
Regional Leaders Announced: Delta Air Lines, Copa Airlines, Iberia Express, Japan Airlines, and FlySafair Take Top Honors
Bogotá El Dorado International Airport Earns Cirium’s Inaugural Airport Platinum Award
Riyadh King Khalid International Airport Named Most On-Time Global Airport for 2024
All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Japan Airlines (JAL) have consistently ranked at or near the top of our Global and Asia-Pacific (APAC) categories since the inception of The On-Time Performance Awards. Last year, ANA emerged victorious in the APAC category, a source of great pride for the Japanese carrier and its team.
The results for 2023 reveal ANA’s continued success, albeit with a narrow margin.
The competition in the APAC region remained intense throughout the year, with JAL following closely behind by near fraction of percentage taking 2nd place.
Throughout the year, the OTP rankings in APAC were frequently occupied by Thai AirAsia (FD), the 20-year-old low-cost airline that showcased exceptional performance. Thai AirAsia’s achievement is particularly noteworthy considering the over 113,871 domestic and international flights it operates. As an established yet continuously expanding low-cost carrier, Thai AirAsia’s commitment to punctuality and ultimately contributing to customer satisfaction taking the #3 position in photo finish with ANA and JAL.
These carriers have truly mastered on-time performance. However, given their determination, it is likely that they will strive to further improve in 2024. While the statistical difference between the three APAC carriers is minimal, we would have preferred to see them share the award. Nevertheless, rules are rules and, as such, the 2023 APAC award goes to ANA this year, with an impressive OTP of 82.75% across 302,279 flight operations. Honorable mentions are well deserved for Japan Airlines with an OTP of 82.58% on 308,302 flights and Thai AirAsia with OTP of 82.52% on 113,871 flights for their outstanding performance in 2023.
Report highlights
Delta Air Lines Secures Cirium’s Platinum Award for Operational Excellence for Fourth Year Running
Aeromexico Recognized as the Most On-Time Airline in the Global Category
Regional Leaders Announced: Delta Air Lines, Copa Airlines, Iberia Express, Japan Airlines, and FlySafair Take Top Honors
Bogotá El Dorado International Airport Earns Cirium’s Inaugural Airport Platinum Award
Riyadh King Khalid International Airport Named Most On-Time Global Airport for 2024
Iberia Express has consistently demonstrated outstanding operational performance, distinguishing itself in the highly competitive airline industry.
In 2023, Iberia Express achieved the highest on-time performance (OTP) score in the European category, recording an impressive 84.58%.
This achievement reflects the airline’s unwavering focus on maintaining a punctual schedule-a critical factor for passengers when selecting an airline.
The airline also showed significant capacity growth for its 2023/2024 winter schedule, with a 10% increase compared to 2022. This expansion includes strengthening connections between the Iberian Peninsula and the Canary Islands, as well as expanding routes to Ibiza and several international destinations, such as Marrakech, Cairo, Dublin, Manchester, and Naples. Despite this growth, Iberia Express maintained operational discipline and effectively synchronized its schedules across its network.
Another notable achievement in 2023 was Iberia Express’s attainment of the IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) environmental certification. This certification underscores the airline’s commitment to environmental sustainability, focusing on efficient operations and fleet renewal. The airline’s dedication to reducing emissions and enhancing environmental performance is commendable.
What sets Iberia Express apart from other airlines is not only its exceptional punctuality but also its strategic role within Iberia and the International Airlines Group (IAG). As a subsidiary, Iberia Express benefits from Iberia’s strong brand recognition and extensive network, while contributing significantly to the group’s overall performance and profitability. The airline’s success in maintaining high OTP rates is a key factor in bolstering the group’s reputation and reliability among passengers.
In conclusion, Iberia Express’s operational performance clearly demonstrates its excellence in the airline industry.
The airline’s punctuality, efficient operations, and strategic alignment within the Iberia and IAG frameworks differentiate it from competitors.
This performance is a sustained effort, reflecting the airline’s commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction. As the airline industry continues to face post- pandemic challenges, the team at Iberia Express has built a proven track record that positions it for continued success and growth.
Report highlights
Delta Air Lines Secures Cirium’s Platinum Award for Operational Excellence for Fourth Year Running
Aeromexico Recognized as the Most On-Time Airline in the Global Category
Regional Leaders Announced: Delta Air Lines, Copa Airlines, Iberia Express, Japan Airlines, and FlySafair Take Top Honors
Bogotá El Dorado International Airport Earns Cirium’s Inaugural Airport Platinum Award
Riyadh King Khalid International Airport Named Most On-Time Global Airport for 2024
LONDON, UK – January 30, 2024 – Cirium Ascend Consultancy, part of the world’s most trusted source of aviation analytics company, Cirium, has once again demonstrated its unparalleled expertise in aircraft appraisal by winning the coveted ‘Appraiser of the Year’ award at the Airline Economics Aviation 100 Global Leaders Awards 2024. This remarkable achievement marks the ninth time that Cirium Ascend Consultancy has been honored with this prestigious award, reinforcing its position as a leading consultancy in the aviation industry.
The award, presented in Dublin at the Growth Frontiers conference, recognizes Cirium Ascend Consultancy’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in aviation analytics and consultancy. This year’s accolade is particularly significant, as it reflects the company’s dynamic adaptation and resilience in the face of ongoing global challenges, including the evolving landscape of the post-pandemic aviation industry.
Rob Morris, Global Head of Cirium Ascend Consultancy, said: “Receiving the ‘Appraiser of the Year’ award for the ninth time is not just an honor, it’s a tribute to our team’s dedication and hard work. This recognition perfectly demonstrates our commitment to providing accurate, timely, and insightful aircraft appraisals to our clients. In a year that has been full of complexities and rapid changes, this award is a reminder that our relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation sets us apart. We have a team of 30 appraisers, nine of which are ISTAT certified.”
Over the years, Cirium Ascend Consultancy has consistently raised the bar in aviation analytics, providing invaluable insights that have shaped the strategies of key players in the industry.
The company’s comprehensive approach, combining cutting-edge technology with deep market knowledge, has been instrumental in offering precise appraisals and strategic advisory services.
The award further underscores Cirium Ascend Consultancy’s role in navigating the recovery and growth of the aviation market in 2024, amidst a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Cirium Ascend Consultancy’s contributions extend beyond appraisals, encompassing various aspects of aviation analytics such as risk management, asset tracking, and sustainability evaluations.
The firm’s innovative solutions, including CO2 emissions benchmarking and fuel consumption analysis, reflect its commitment to supporting the industry’s transition towards a more sustainable future.
This year’s award also highlights Cirium Ascend Consultancy’s significant impact on aviation finance, with their analytics playing a critical role in smarter investment decisions. The firm’s data and insights have proven invaluable for banks, insurers, lessors, and other financial institutions in managing risk and maximizing opportunities.
The 2024 ‘Appraiser of the Year’ award not only celebrates Cirium Ascend Consultancy’s achievements but also symbolizes the trust and confidence that the aviation community places in the firm. It is a recognition of their ability to deliver reliable and innovative solutions that drive the industry forward.
Get more information about Cirium Ascend Consultancy and their award-winning services, here.
About Cirium Ascend Consultancy Cirium Ascend Consultancy, a division of Cirium, offers market-leading expertise to help inform and drive successful strategies in the commercial aviation industry. With a global team of seasoned consultants and analysts, Cirium Ascend Consultancy delivers comprehensive data, expert insights, and tailored services that directly impact strategic investments and open avenues for growth in aviation.
David White, Senior Director of Advanced Initiatives, Cirium
Global airlines must deal with global problems in order to fulfill their missions. 2023 presented some significant headwinds that all carriers in this category had to face.
Despite the challenges, the leading airlines managed to finish the year with impressive on-time performance metrics.
Post-pandemic growth in demand coincided with commercial aviation capacity constrained by external factors that were mostly beyond the airlines’ control. Staffing shortages among the ranks of air traffic controllers, pilots, crew, and ground services made it difficult to satisfy a rapidly rebounding demand especially in the US and Europe. Supply chain shortages delayed the delivery of more modern and efficient aircraft. Safety and reliability concerns for certain engine models caused prolonged grounding of key parts of their existing fleets. War and political violence closed heavily trafficked airspaces. Volatile fuel prices and inflation put pressure on fares and margins. Despite all of that, the global carriers, as a group, turned in a composite OTP of 83%, down only slightly from last year’s 83.6%.
In addition to the global challenges, this year’s winner in the Global OTP Category, avianca (formerly Avianca), had to deal with a unique set of situational complexities.
avianca succeeded in reinventing itself following its emergence from bankruptcy in December 2021 with a plan to modernize its fleet, improve customer satisfaction, increase operational efficiency, and to help fill the void left by the cessation of operations by low-cost Columbian carrier Viva.
avianca adapted to fill the void by adding more seats to its A320 aircraft, expanding its network, and lowering prices.
When its bid to merge with Viva and rescue the ailing carrier was denied by the Columbian civil aviation authority, avianca adapted to fill the void by adding more seats to its A320 aircraft, expanding its network, and lowering prices.
The world’s second oldest airline has made itself new again.
The world’s second oldest airline has made itself new again with new aircraft, new branding, new destinations, and an expanded mission. avianca added 7 new A320-200neo aircraft to its fleet in 2023 in addition to the 8 put into service in 2022, with more than 80 A320-200neo deliveries scheduled over the next 7 years. 2023 also marked the airline’s return to profitability after showing significant losses in 2021 and 2022. Its Q3 financial statements indicated >30% growth in passengers, ASK, and RPK over the same period in 2022. avianca embodies the qualities necessary to thrive in challenging times – agility, adaptability, resilience, determination, and a clear strategic vision. Cirium offers avianca its heart-felt congratulations on an outstanding 2023 performance.
Report highlights
Delta Air Lines Secures Cirium’s Platinum Award for Operational Excellence for Fourth Year Running
Aeromexico Recognized as the Most On-Time Airline in the Global Category
Regional Leaders Announced: Delta Air Lines, Copa Airlines, Iberia Express, Japan Airlines, and FlySafair Take Top Honors
Bogotá El Dorado International Airport Earns Cirium’s Inaugural Airport Platinum Award
Riyadh King Khalid International Airport Named Most On-Time Global Airport for 2024
Following the release of Cirium’s On-Time Performance Report for 2023, Delta Air Lines has once again been named the most punctual North American airline. The airline recorded an impressive 84.72% punctuality, the best among North American airlines, maintaining a successful performance from the previous year.
For the third year in a row, Cirium also presented the Atlanta-based carrier with the Platinum Award for Operational Excellence. This prestigious accolade is a testament to Delta’s unwavering commitment to punctuality and operational excellence. The Cirium Platinum Award, given to airlines that excel in on-time performance while navigating considerable operational complexities, reflects the hard work and dedication of Delta’s team.
The Cirium Platinum Award is not just about on-time performance; it also considers the airline’s network, volume of flights, and the ability to limit the impact of flight disruptions on passengers. Delta’s accomplishment in these areas, particularly during challenging times for the airline industry, speaks volumes about its operational efficiency and customer-focused approach.
An award presentation took place on January 24th and 25th during Delta LEAD 2024 Conference at the Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, to mark their outstanding achievements.
The LEAD 2024 Conference brought together 6,000 employees from Delta’s leadership team from across the company to discuss the airline’s objectives for 2024. This two-day conference set the tone for the year, discussing the airline’s finance, operations, people, customer experience (CX), and listening to external perspectives.
Jeremy Bowen, Cirium CEO, presented Delta’s awards to Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Air Lines along with six frontline team members representing all who make on-time performance a reality for Delta. Mike Malik, Cirium Chief Marketing Officer, Lydia Webb, Cirium Marketing Director, and Kirk Nagy, Cirium Enterprise Business Development Manager, were also in attendance.
“At Cirium we have a team that is passionate about airline operations. Many have decades of airline experience; we understand the complexity and challenge of getting people to their destinations safely and on time. Delta’s accomplishment, particularly during challenging times for the airline industry, speaks volumes about its operational efficiency and customer-focused approach.”
Jeremy Bowen, CEO of Cirium
Congratulations to the entire Delta team for their hard work and dedication, which have contributed to this amazing success. Delta’s achievement sets a high standard for operational performance in the airline industry, and it is an inspiration for others. – Jeremy Bowen.
Report highlights
Delta Air Lines Secures Cirium’s Platinum Award for Operational Excellence for Fourth Year Running
Aeromexico Recognized as the Most On-Time Airline in the Global Category
Regional Leaders Announced: Delta Air Lines, Copa Airlines, Iberia Express, Japan Airlines, and FlySafair Take Top Honors
Bogotá El Dorado International Airport Earns Cirium’s Inaugural Airport Platinum Award
Riyadh King Khalid International Airport Named Most On-Time Global Airport for 2024
About Cirium Cirium® is the world’s most trusted source of aviation analytics. The company delivers powerful data and cutting-edge analytics to empower a wide spectrum of industry players. It equips airlines, airports, travel enterprises, aircraft manufacturers, and financial entities with the clarity and intelligence they need to optimize their operations, make informed decisions, and accelerate revenue growth.
Cirium® is part of LexisNexis® Risk Solutions, a RELX business, which provides information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. The shares of RELX PLC are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York Stock Exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX.
The airline industry has emerged from the shadows of the pandemic, showing signs of robust recovery and resilience. As we review the year 2023 and look forward to 2024, it’s clear that the sector is not just surviving but thriving in many aspects.
The 2023 On-Time Performance Review showcases the airline industry’s performance rebound. It’s a pleasure for Cirium to acknowledge the industry leaders of this resurgence.
A special congratulations to Delta Air Lines for winning the prestigious 2023 Platinum Award for the third year in a row, achieving an impressive 84.72% on-time rate.
Cirium’s on-time performance analysis, a staple in the industry for over 15 years, has been pivotal in evaluating the punctuality of airlines and airports. In 2023, the industry saw significant growth, with over 32+ million scheduled passenger flights. This increase, coupled with an upsurge in seat capacity, underscores the sector’s expansion. As we look towards 2024, Cirium remains committed to delivering comprehensive and unbiased on- time performance (OTP) data. This information, derived from an extensive array of sources including airlines, airports, and civil aviation authorities, offers a neutral, third-party perspective. Our independent board of advisors, experts in the field, guarantees the accuracy and fairness of our reports, ensuring they reflect a true picture of the industry’s performance.
In reviewing 2023, global passenger numbers made a significant comeback, narrowly surpassing pre-pandemic levels by the peak summer months. This recovery, while uneven across different regions, marked a pivotal moment for an industry that had faced unprecedented challenges. The US and Western European markets led the way, with passenger revenues in the US domestic market reaching 20% above 2019 levels by the third quarter.
This surge in demand, however, came with its own set of challenges, including increased competition and rising operational costs.
Business travel, a key segment for the industry, continued to lag behind due to ongoing cost management and a growing focus on sustainability within corporate policies. This was reflected in the major Global Distribution Systems (GDS), where agency bookings remained below pre-pandemic levels throughout 2023.
Looking ahead to 2024, the outlook remains cautiously optimistic. The recovery is expected to continue, albeit at a slightly moderated pace. While passenger numbers might end slightly lower than pre-pandemic levels, revenue growth is projected to be robust, potentially surpassing 2019 figures. However, this optimism is tempered by the need for the industry to balance supply and demand effectively, especially considering the rising input costs.
The Asia-Pacific region, particularly China, has shown a delayed but steady recovery trajectory, contributing to the global upswing in demand. This regional growth is expected to play a significant role in driving the global industry forward in 2024.
However, the industry faces new challenges and uncertainties. The lessons learned from the pandemic, combined with ongoing geopolitical tensions and environmental pressures, are shaping a new era of strategic thinking and operational efficiency in the airline industry.
How airlines navigate these factors will be crucial in determining their success in the coming year.
In conclusion, the airline industry is on a path to recovery, marked by significant strides in 2023 and a positive but cautious outlook for 2024.
The Cirium team looks forward to providing more critical aviation data in 2024. The journey ahead is laden with opportunities and challenges, as the sector adapts to a rapidly changing global landscape.
Report highlights
Delta Air Lines Secures Cirium’s Platinum Award for Operational Excellence for Fourth Year Running
Aeromexico Recognized as the Most On-Time Airline in the Global Category
Regional Leaders Announced: Delta Air Lines, Copa Airlines, Iberia Express, Japan Airlines, and FlySafair Take Top Honors
Bogotá El Dorado International Airport Earns Cirium’s Inaugural Airport Platinum Award
Riyadh King Khalid International Airport Named Most On-Time Global Airport for 2024
There was also a top place finish in the medium airports category for another APAC airport, with Osaka International Airport who managed an impressive 90.71% of flights on time. There was a second-place finish in the small airports category for Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) with 90.17% of flights on time, just 0.12% behind the top spot.
It should also be noted that Indigo Airlines was achieved an impressive fourth place in punctuality for the Asia Pacific Airline category with 82.12% of its flights arriving on-time. While operating nearly 680,000 flights in 2023.
An on-time flight is defined as a flight that arrives within 15 minutes of the scheduled gate arrival. For an airport, it is defined as departing within 15 minutes of its scheduled departure.
Indian airports performed particularly well, with podium finishes in the global and large airport categories, and there was further representation for the APAC region in the other two airport categories as well.
Jeremy Bowen, CEO of Cirium, said: “Cirium’s annual On-Time Performance Review is a global assessment of the punctuality of all types of carriers and airports, as evidenced by the widespread representation of operations from each corner of the globe, in this year’s review. Indian airports performed particularly well, with podium finishes in the global and large airport categories, and there was further representation for the APAC region in the other two airport categories as well. I’d like to extend my congratulations to all the featured airlines and airports in this year’s review.”
Now in its 15th year, the Cirium On-Time Performance program continues to meticulously monitor global airline operational performance. Our extensive and unbiased data, derived from over 600 real-time information sources, is essential for industry stakeholders. Our data encompasses airlines, airports, global distribution systems, civil aviation authorities, and more, ensuring a comprehensive and neutral perspective.
Cirium is continuing to lead the way, worldwide, in monitoring aviation on-time performance in the New Year, as the industry adjusts to post-pandemic norms.
The company’s data and analytics are designed to provide industry stakeholders with a neutral, third-party perspective, based on the widest and deepest pool of information collected and curated from more than 600 sources of real-time flight information.
These include the airlines themselves, airports, global distribution systems, positional data, civil aviation authorities, air navigation service providers, proprietary data partnerships and the internet. Cirium’s on-time performance data is backed by a completely independent board of advisors, comprised of industry experts with an unbiased view of the aviation sector. The board’s oversight ensures accuracy and proper representation of all the information the company presents.
Top Performing Global Airports of 2023
Airport
On time ranking
On time departure
Totalflights
Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
1
84.44%
289,817
Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (HYD)
2
84.42%
168,426
Kempegowda International Airport (BLR)
3
84.08%
237,461
El Dorado International Airport (BOG)
4
84.01%
292,486
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
5
83.99%
226,705
Top Asia Pacific Airlines of 2023
Airline
On time ranking
On time arrival
Totalflights
All Nippon Airways (NH)
1
82.75%
302,279
Japan Airlines (JL)
2
82.58%
308,302
Thai AirAsia (FD)
3
82.52%
113,871
IndiGo (6E)
4
82.12%
678,446
Air New Zealand (NZ)
5
79.68%
175,876
DOWNLOAD THE FULL 2023 ON-TIME PERFORMANCE REVIEW.
About Cirium Cirium® is the world’s most trusted source of aviation analytics. The company delivers powerful data and cutting-edge analytics to empower a wide spectrum of industry players. It equips airlines, airports, travel enterprises, aircraft manufacturers, and financial entities with the clarity and intelligence they need to optimize their operations, make informed decisions, and accelerate revenue growth.
Cirium® is part of LexisNexis® Risk Solutions, a RELX business, which provides information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. The shares of RELX PLC are traded on the London, Amsterdam and New York Stock Exchanges using the following ticker symbols: London: REL; Amsterdam: REN; New York: RELX.
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At the turn of the year, the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) market reflected the changing seasons with a gradual cooling, influenced by spiking interest rates and the rising cost of capital. Yet, in the face of these headwinds, the number of commitments and orders recorded in Cirium’s database increased to over 13,000 as of 31 December 2023, with over 3,700 secured in the past 12 months.
Data Coverage Includes:
Market Grouping
Manufacturer
Type
Comment
Regional Electric – Small
LYTE Aviation
LA-44 Skybus
Business Electric – Multi Engine
Electron
Electron 5
Business Electric – Multi Engine
Airflow
M200
Business Electric – Multi Engine
Bye Aerospace
eFlyer 800
Business Electric – Multi Engine
Eviation
Alice
Business Electric – Multi Engine
Electra
Electra eSTOL
Business Electric – Single Engine
VoltAero
Cassio 330
Business Electric – Single Engine
BETA Technologies
CX300
eVTOL – UAV/UAS
BETA Technologies
ALIA-250c
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
EHang
VT-30
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
Joby Aviation
S4
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
Manta Aircraft
ANN2
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
Wisk Aero LLC
Cora
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
Volocopter GmbH
VoloConnect
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
TCab Tech
E20 eVTOL
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
Overair Inc
Butterfly
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
Aerofugia
AE200
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
Plana
CopterPlane CP-01
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
DuFour Aerospace
Aero3
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
AutoFlight
Prosperity 1
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
BETA Technologies
ALIA-250
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
SkyDrive
SD-05
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
EHang
EH216
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
Jaunt Air Mobility
Journey
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
Volocopter GmbH
VoloCity
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
Archer Aviation
Midnight
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
Ascendance Flight Technologies
Atea
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
Odys Aviation
Odys eVTOL
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
XTI Aircraft Company
TriFan 600
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
Lilium GmbH
Lilium Jet
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
Vertical Aerospace Group Ltd
VX4
eVTOL – Urban Air Mobility
Eve Air Mobility
Eve
Regional Electric – Small
Maeve Aerospace
Maeve 01
Regional Electric – Small
Jekta
PHA-ZE 100
Regional Electric – Small
Heart Aerospace
ES-19
Programme Cancelled
Regional Electric – Small
Aura Aero
ERA
Regional Electric – Small
Heart Aerospace
ES-30
eVTOLs – Urban Air Mobility (UAM)
The competition is heating up, with Eve Air Mobility and Vertical Aerospace‘s VX4 at the forefront. Notably, Eve has won a remarkable number of orders even without a full-scale test flight, showing strong investor confidence. At the same time, other start-ups like Archer, Jaunt Air Mobility, Ascendance Flight Technologies, Volocopter, and AutoFlight are also making waves, each with about 200 orders in the past 12 months, indicating a growing interest in these eVTOL types.
Source: Cirium Fleet Analyzer, as at 31st December 2023
The order commitment landscape presented a picture of ambition and strategy, with North America leading significantly at over 3,300 orders, driven predominantly by the USA. Asia-Pacific followed with nearly 2,300 orders, where India, China, and Japan were the top contributors. Europe’s total orders stood at around 1,700, with the UK accounting for the largest share. Latin America showed a substantial number of orders at 550, mainly from Brazil.
Source: Cirium Fleet Analyzer, as at 31st December 2023
EHang First to Achieve Type Certification
In October 2023, EHang achieved a major milestone by receiving the world’s first type certification for an unmanned eVTOL, the EH216-S, from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). EHang aims to transform the experience of aerial sightseeing. The EHang EH216 orderbook includes commitments from different general aviation and business operators across Asia, with Indonesia’s Prestige Aviation ordering 101 units, China’s Shenzhen Boling Holding Group at 95 units, Malaysia’s Aerotree Flight Services Sdn Bhd at 61 units and Japan’s AirX Inc at 50 units.
Source: Cirium Fleet Analyzer, as at 31st December 2023
Business Electric – Multi-Engine
Source: Cirium Fleet Analyzer, as at 31st December 2023
In the business electric sector, Electra’s eSTOL has received more than 1,100 order commitments, including from notable clients like the helicopter lessor Bristow Group. However, the identities of the majority of these order commitments remain undisclosed. Electra’s eSTOL completed its inaugural all-electric test flight on 11 November, followed by a hybrid-electric flight on 19 November. Unlike eVTOLs, Electra’s eSTOL requires only 1/10th the length of a traditional runway, thanks to its advanced blown lift technology. This feature enables Electra’s eSTOL to offer flights to locations that lack space for conventional runways, significantly expanding potential air travel destinations and operational flexibility.
