Asia on the ascent: another five Asian airports reach 60 million annual passengers in 2017

Asia now accounts for nine of the 20 airports that handle at least 60 million annual passengers. Five Asian airports reached 60 million annual passengers for the first time in 2017 - Bangkok Suvarnabhumi, Delhi Indira Gandhi, Guangzhou Baiyun, Seoul Incheon and Singapore Changi.

In 2016 Asia only accounted for four, or 29%, of the 14 airports handling at least 60 million passengers. Asia will likely account for 50% of the airports, with at least 60 million passengers in 2018, and more than 60% by 2020.

Asia's fast-growing share is an indication of Asia's increased role in global traffic. Large Asian airports (over 30 million annual passengers) without infrastructure constraints are particularly well placed for growth, leading to a steady stream of airports reaching the 50 million and 60 million annual passenger milestones.