ISTANBUL

Global air passenger demand rose 3.6% year-on-year in September 2025, driven mainly by a strong rebound in international travel, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said Thursday.

Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers, increased 3.7% during the month, slightly outpacing demand growth. The industry’s overall load factor stood at 83.4%, marginally lower than a year earlier.

“Solid international demand drove 90% of September’s 3.6% overall growth,” said IATA Director General Willie Walsh. “Importantly, the capacity expansion slightly nudged ahead of demand growth at 3.7%.”

International passenger traffic rose 5.1% in September compared with the same month last year, while domestic demand edged up just 0.9%.

Walsh said growth is expected to continue despite the "severe" constraints of "unresolved supply chain issues."

“With November flight schedules indicating a 3% expansion from last year, airlines are gearing up for sustained growth into the year-end holiday season,” he added.