The International Air Transport Association (IATA) published a report revealing that global airlines experienced a significant increase in passenger demand in September 2024, compared to the same period the previous year. The total seat capacity offered also increased that month.
North American airlines saw a 0.5% increase in demand, with a year-on-year capacity increase of 4.6% and a load factor of 81.4%. Meanwhile, European airlines experienced a 7.6% increase in demand, with a 17.7% increase in capacity and a load factor of 82.6%.
Middle Eastern airlines recorded a 4.4% rise in demand, with a 1.9% increase in capacity and a load factor of 84.4%. Meanwhile, African and Latin American airlines had demand increases of 11.9% and 12.4% respectively.
Globally, total passenger demand rose by 7.1% compared to September 2023, while total capacity grew by 5.8% year-on-year. The global load factor reached 83.6%.
Regarding international demand, there was a year-on-year increase of 9.2%, with a 9.1% increase in capacity and a load factor of 83.8%. Domestic flights also experienced a 3.7% increase, with a load factor of 83.3%.
Willie Walsh, IATA's Director General, highlighted that growth in air travel presents challenges, such as the need to manage air capacity efficiently to meet the demands of travelers and businesses. He also emphasized the importance of investments to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and the need for active policies to support this goal.
In summary, the global air sector showed positive growth in passenger demand in September 2024, resulting in economic and social benefits for both passengers and the global economy.
