The global aviation industry continues to “take off”, as August 2025 recorded historical passenger traffic records, according to official data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Total passenger demand (RPK) increased by 4.6% compared to August 2024, while available seat capacity (ASK) increased by 4.5%. The average load factor was 86%, the highest rate ever recorded for this month.
The biggest boost came from international travel, with demand increasing by 6.6% and capacity by 6.5%, year-on-year, and load factor at 85.8%. In contrast, the domestic market recorded a smaller increase, just 1.5%, although it maintained a slightly higher load factor than August 2024, at 86.3%.
According to IATA Director General Willie Walsh, this August confirmed that the summer season recorded a new record performance and despite economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions, the growth trend shows no signs of slowing down.
Record in Asia – Rise in the Middle East and Latin America
Asia-Pacific airlines stood out with a 9.8% increase in demand, mainly driven by China (+11.8%) and Japan (+12%). The Middle East also showed strong growth (+8.2%), as did Latin America (+9%).
In Europe, demand increased by 5.3%, while in North America the increase was more limited (+1.8%), with the occupancy rate recording a decrease for the fourth consecutive month.
Domestic markets
Among domestic markets, Brazil stood out with an impressive increase of 12.7%, thanks to government initiatives to boost tourism. Japan also recorded a dynamic increase (+6%) with an occupancy rate of almost 90%. In contrast, the United States recorded a decrease (-0.2%), continuing a downward trend that has already lasted for eight months.
