Global air passenger demand rises again in August

International

International demand surges 6.6% while air cargo records sixth consecutive month of growth

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.