Global air travel demand climbed in July 2025, with passenger traffic rising 4% compared to the same month last year, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
The increase came despite slightly lower load factors as airlines expanded capacity.
International traffic drove much of the growth, up 5.3% year-on-year, while domestic demand rose 1.9%. Capacity across both segments grew faster than demand, leading to marginal declines in load factors, which stood at 85.5% globally.
Middle Eastern carriers recorded a 5.3% rise in demand, supported by a rebound following disruptions from regional conflict in June. Africa was the only region to see stronger load factors, while Japan posted a record-high domestic load factor for July at 81.4%.
IATA Director General Willie Walsh said airlines benefitted from solid summer momentum, with demand strengthening from June into July. He noted that early September flight volumes are showing renewed growth, positioning airlines to maintain positive momentum in the months ahead.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
