By Staff Reporter
Global Air Travel Demand Rises 4.6 Percent as IATA Reports Record August Load Factor
Global air travel demand surged to record levels in August 2025, with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) reporting a 4.6% year-on-year increase in passenger traffic and the highest-ever August load factor of 86%.
International routes drove much of the growth, rising 6.6% compared to August 2024 and accounting for 87% of the net global increase. Domestic markets grew at a slower pace of 1.5%, reflecting weaker performance in the United States but stronger demand in Brazil.
Regional performance varied, with Asia-Pacific carriers leading the surge at 9.8% growth, fueled by strong demand in China and Japan. Latin American airlines recorded a 9.0% increase, while Middle Eastern carriers posted an 8.2% rise. European carriers grew 5.3%, African airlines 7.1%, and North American carriers 1.8%.
Capacity across the industry grew in line with demand, rising 4.5% year-on-year, while airlines managed to keep planes fuller than ever.
Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General, said the results highlighted the resilience of global air travel despite economic and geopolitical headwinds. He added that airlines are maximizing efficiency but stressed the importance of resolving supply chain challenges in aerospace manufacturing to meet future demand.
Looking ahead, airlines are planning a 3.4% increase in capacity for October, signaling continued momentum as the industry closes out a record-breaking summer.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
