Aviation and international shipping have helped to dramatically reduce distances and increase our access to cheaper holidays and goods. And they have helped to create millions of jobs at home and abroad due to increased trade and tourism.
Demand for the two sectors is expected to grow globally for more leisure, convenience and access to goods in the years ahead. Between 1995 and 2050, passenger transport in the EU, including aviation, is expected to grow by around 70 % and freight transport by 100 %. According to the International Transport Forum (ITF) at the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, world freight volumes will also increase. This is partly due to projected growth in global trade. The ITF also foresees geographical shifts in trade patterns around the world, where growth in trade in emerging economies will lead to longer haulage distances.