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Global air passenger demand rose by 4.6% in August 2025 compared to the same month last year, according to data released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The industry also saw a 4.5% increase in total capacity, while the load factor reached a record high for August at 86.0%.
International travel was the main driver of growth, with international demand up 6.6% year-on-year and accounting for 87% of the net increase in global revenue passenger kilometers (RPK) during the month. Capacity on international routes increased by 6.5%, and load factors stood at 85.8%. In contrast, domestic demand grew more modestly at 1.5%, with capacity rising by 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.
