The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has reported steady growth in global air travel demand for May 2025, with international passenger traffic showing notable gains despite regional variations. According to IATA’s latest data release, total global passenger demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), increased by 5.0 percent compared to the same month in 2024. Capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), also grew by 5.0 percent year-on-year. The overall load factor for May stood at 83.4 percent, marking a slight decline of 0.1 percentage points compared to May 2024.
The load factor reflects the percentage of available seating capacity that was actually utilized. International air travel demand led the growth, rising by 6.7 percent compared to May last year. Capacity for international flights increased by 6.4 percent year-on-year, with the load factor reaching 83.2 percent. This figure represents a record load factor for international flights in the month of May, highlighting strong utilization across global routes.
In contrast, domestic travel growth was more subdued. Demand in the domestic sector rose by 2.1 percent year-on-year, while capacity expanded by 2.8 percent. The domestic load factor came in at 83.7 percent, representing a 0.5 percentage point decline compared to May 2024. The figures suggest that while international travel is driving industry momentum, domestic markets face varying conditions. IATA Director General Willie Walsh acknowledged the uneven nature of air travel demand growth in May. He pointed to the Asia-Pacific region as a key driver, with passenger demand in that area increasing by 9.4 percent.
Asia-Pacific drives international passenger surge as North America slows
However, North America recorded a slight decline of 0.5 percent in overall demand, primarily due to a 1.7 percent fall in the United States domestic market. Walsh also addressed ongoing geopolitical concerns, noting that disruptions in the Middle East in late June underscore the persistent challenges of regional instability. While these events occurred after the period covered by the latest data, they serve as a reminder of the operational complexities faced by airlines in certain parts of the world.
Despite these challenges, Walsh expressed cautious optimism for the months ahead. He highlighted that oil prices remained relatively low throughout May, providing some relief to carriers contending with volatile operating costs. Additionally, strong forward bookings for the peak Northern Hemisphere summer travel season indicate sustained consumer confidence. The latest IATA figures reinforce the aviation sector’s ongoing recovery trajectory, though regional disparities and external risks continue to influence the pace and consistency of growth. – By MENA Newswire News Desk.
