Global Air Travel Demand Hits August Record

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported that global passenger demand rose 4.6% in August 2025 compared to the same month in 2024. Total capacity increased 4.5% year-on-year, and the load factor reached 86.0%, the highest ever recorded for August.

International demand was up 6.6% compared to August 2024, with capacity growing 6.5%. The load factor for international flights was 85.8%. Domestic demand increased 1.5% year-on-year, with capacity up 1.3% and a load factor of 86.3%.

“August year-on-year demand growth of 4.6% confirms that the 2025 peak northern summer travel season reached a new record high. Moreover, planes were operating with more seats filled than ever with a record load factor of 86%. Despite economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions, the global growth trend shows no signs of abating, as October schedules are showing airlines planning 3.4% more capacity. Airlines are doing their best to meet travel demand by maximizing efficiency, making it even more critical for the aerospace manufacturing sector to sort out its supply chain challenges,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Asia-Pacific carriers posted a 9.8% year-on-year rise in international traffic, driven by demand from China and Japan. Middle Eastern airlines reported an 8.2% increase, while Latin America recorded 9.0% growth. African carriers saw a 7.1% increase, and European airlines reported 5.3% growth. North American carriers grew by 1.8%.

IATA noted that international traffic accounted for 87% of the global increase in August RPKs, underscoring the importance of cross-border demand in driving growth.