Total air passenger traffic grew by 10.4% in 2024, with aircraft load factors reaching a record high of 83.5%, according to a statement published on the website of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
It is noted that the volume of transport last year exceeded the pre-pandemic level (2019) by 3.8%. „2024 showed absolutely clearly that people want to travel. With demand increasing by 10.4%, international and domestic transport reached record levels. „On average, 83.5% of all seats offered [by airlines] were occupied – "a new record," said IATA Director General Willie Walsh. He estimates that travel demand will continue to grow in 2025, but at a moderate pace.
It is specified that a particular increase in demand for air travel was observed in December last year. Thus, total demand grew by 8.6% on an annual basis, and the occupancy rate reached a record 84% in a single month.