Global air traffic continues to rise, with Latin America setting the pace
In August, global passenger demand grew 4.6% year-on-year and reached record occupancy, with Latin America leading the expansion and consolidating its strategic role in global aviation
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) published its monthly report on air traffic developments, and the results confirm a positive trend. In August 2025, global passenger demand, measured in Revenue Passenger Kilometers (RPK), increased by 4.6% compared to August 2024. Global capacity also grew by 4.5%, and the average load factor reached a historic 86%, the highest on record for this month.
Performance was solid across all regions, but Latin America and the Caribbean stood out with 7.5% growth, significantly exceeding the global average. Airlines in the region even achieved a 9% year-over-year increase in demand, with a load factor of 84.7%. This performance reflects the consolidation of regional connectivity and the strengthening of key routes to international markets.
Willie Walsh, IATA's Director General, emphasized that sustained growth is a sign of the sector's resilience and traveler confidence, although he cautioned that challenges remain related to aircraft production capacity and airport infrastructure, which must keep pace with expanding demand.
Beyond global economic uncertainties, the recovery of air transport shows solid foundations. With fuller planes and a greater range of routes, aviation remains a fundamental driver of tourism and international trade, and Latin America is consolidating its position as a key player in this process.
Source: IATA.