The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced record-breaking passenger demand in 2024 with total traffic rising 10.4% compared to 2023. Full-year demand surpassed pre-pandemic levels by 3.8% while total capacity grew by 8.7%. The overall load factor reached an historic high of 83.5%.

International traffic increased by 13.6% year-on-year with a 12.8% rise in capacity. Domestic travel grew by 5.7% while capacity rose by 2.5%. December 2024 capped off the year with an 8.6% increase in demand and a 5.6% rise in capacity, resulting in a monthly load factor record of 84%.

IATA Director General Willie Walsh commented on the sustained demand: “On average, 83.5% of all seats on offer were filled – a new record high partially attributable to the supply chain constraints that limited capacity growth. Aviation growth reverberates across societies and economies at all levels through jobs, market development, trade, innovation, exploration and much more.”

Looking ahead, Walsh expects continued demand in 2025 although it is likely to align with historical averages.