Global Air Travel Grows Slower, While US Demand Drops

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released its Air Passenger Market Analysis for September 2025, indicating a 3.6 percent year-over-year growth in global passenger demand.

This growth slowed slightly compared to August's 4.6 percent increase but remained strong despite ongoing supply constraints affecting the industry.

Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), reached approximately 789 billion.

Capacity, expressed as available seat kilometers (ASK), rose 3.7 percent, slightly outpacing demand growth.

Airlines are preparing for further growth, with November flight schedules showing a projected 3 percent capacity increase compared to last year.

Domestic passenger demand rose only 0.9 percent, with notable contractions in the US and Indian domestic markets.

International travel continued to drive growth, increasing by 5.1 percent year-over-year, with Asia Pacific carriers leading at a 7.4 percent increase.

Europe recorded a 2.9 percent increase with the highest global load factor at 86.2 percent, while North America saw a slight decline of 0.1 percent in passenger traffic, reflecting weaker trans-Pacific travel.

To learn how US carriers are performing, check out the Q3 2025 results for American Airlines, JetBlue Airways, United Airlines, Alaska Air Group, and Delta Air Lines.

Photo by Arnaud Weyts on Unsplash