Tourexpi
Global air passenger traffic continued its upward
trajectory in August, with demand increasing 4.6% year-on-year, according to
the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Capacity, measured in
available seat kilometers, rose by 4.5%, while the load factor reached a record
86% for the month, up 0.1 percentage point from August 2024.
International and domestic growth
International passenger demand led the way, climbing 6.6%
year-on-year. Domestic demand also grew, though more modestly, with an increase
of 1.5%. IATA noted that airlines are responding to sustained demand with
higher capacity, with October schedules showing a planned 3.4% increase in
available seats.
“Despite economic uncertainties and geopolitical
tensions, the global growth trend shows no signs of abating,” said Willie
Walsh, IATA Director General. He added that while airlines are maximizing
efficiency to meet demand, challenges in aerospace manufacturing supply chains
must be urgently resolved.
Air cargo demand strengthens
Air freight also posted solid growth in August. Cargo
demand rose 4.1% year-on-year, marking the sixth consecutive monthly increase.
Cargo capacity expanded by 3.7% in the same period.
Walsh highlighted that cargo flows are shifting due to
global trade dynamics: “Air cargo has benefited from a shift from sea for some
high-value goods as shippers try to minimize the risk of tariff changes. Growth
patterns indicate volumes being diverted away from North America, fueling
stronger flows on Europe–Asia, within Asia, Africa–Asia, and Middle East–Asia
trade lanes.”
Outlook
The August results underscore aviation’s resilience in
the face of economic headwinds and shifting trade policies. Both passenger and
cargo markets continue to adapt, positioning the industry for steady growth
into the final quarter of 2025.
Image
Credit: © AA
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