Demand for air travel reached an all-time high in 2024, as reported by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Revenue passenger kilometers (RPKs) increased by 10.4% compared to 2023.
This growth allowed the industry to surpass pre-pandemic levels from 2019 by 3.8%. These figures confirm a strong recovery in the market and demonstrate sustained demand from travelers around the world.
International air traffic increased by 13.6% compared to 2023, while capacity rose by 12.8%. Europe experienced traffic growth of 9.7%, followed by the Middle East, with an increase of 9.4%, and North America, at 6.8%. Notably, the Asia-Pacific region saw an impressive 26% surge in international traffic, highlighting the reopening of markets and the significant revival of transcontinental travel.
Global Air Traffic: Record Occupancy Rates in 2024
The domestic market experienced steady growth, with traffic increasing by 5.7% and capacity rising by 2.5%. Notably, China reported domestic air traffic growth of 12.3%, while the United States and India recorded increases of 3.7% and 6%, respectively. Airline efficiency was underscored by an average load factor of 83.5% for the year, which peaked at 84% in December. "2024 has clearly demonstrated that people want to travel. With demand growing by 10.4%, travel has reached record levels both domestically and internationally. Airlines have responded to this strong demand with unprecedented efficiency," stated Willie Walsh, IATA's Director General.
Prospects for 2025
Willie Walsh predicts that travel demand will continue to grow in 2025, with an estimated increase of 8%, which aligns more closely with historical averages. However, the aviation sector will face several challenges, including safety and ecological transformation issues.
"As for 2025, all indicators show that travel demand will keep growing, but at a moderate rate of 8%, more in line with historical averages."
Despite record investments in sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) in 2024, these fuels only met 0.5% of the industry's needs. As a result, IATA is urging governments to enhance the production of renewable fuels and to redirect a portion of subsidies from fossil fuels to support these sustainable alternatives.