IATA Reports More Than Six Per Cent Surge in Global Passenger Demand for October 2025, Here are Key Trends in Air Travel

Published on November 26, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

In October 2025, global air passenger demand surged, with a 6.6% year-on-year increase in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK). The rise in demand was supported by a 5.8% increase in available seat kilometers (ASK), and a solid load factor of 84.6%. International travel saw an 8.5% growth, while domestic markets grew by 3.4%. The IATA’s report highlights a strong recovery in global travel, particularly across Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and North America. Let’s explore how different regions contributed to this remarkable growth and what the future of air travel holds.

Global Passenger Demand Sees Remarkable 6.6% Rise in October

In October 2025, global air passenger demand continued its upward trajectory with a 6.6% year-on-year increase. This growth reflects the industry’s resilience, despite ongoing uncertainties in the global economy. As more people returned to the skies for both business and leisure, the demand for air travel surged across various regions. Total capacity, measured in ASK, also rose by 5.8%, showing that airlines are increasing their operations to meet the growing demand. This increase in demand indicates the ongoing recovery of the aviation industry after the disruptions caused by the pandemic.

Strong Growth in International Travel

International travel rose significantly in October, with global demand for international passenger services increasing by 8.5% compared to the previous year. This growth was especially strong in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, which recorded double-digit increases in demand. Asia-Pacific airlines saw a 10.9% rise in RPK, largely driven by strong demand for flights to and from China, Japan, and Vietnam. European and North American carriers also saw a rise in international demand, with European carriers posting a 7.4% increase and North American airlines experiencing a 4.5% growth.

Domestic Passenger Markets: Modest but Steady Growth

While international demand stole the spotlight, domestic markets also showed steady growth in October. Domestic RPKs increased by 3.4% year-on-year, with notable performances in countries like Brazil and China. Brazil, in particular, experienced an impressive 12.4% rise in domestic demand, while the US market showed signs of recovery with a modest 1.3% increase. The continued growth in domestic travel highlights the resilience of regional markets and their importance in supporting the aviation industry.

Regional Breakdown: Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and North America Lead the Way

The IATA’s report reveals that different regions experienced varying levels of growth. Asia-Pacific, with a 10.9% increase in demand, led the way, supported by the strong recovery in China and Japan. The Middle East also posted impressive growth, with a 10.7% increase in demand. North America, although growing at a slower rate, saw a 4.5% increase in demand, particularly in the trans-Atlantic market. Europe’s performance was also strong, with a 7.4% rise in demand, reflecting a steady recovery across the region.

Key Takeaways: Optimism for the Future of Air Travel

The positive trends observed in October 2025 paint a promising picture for the global aviation industry as it heads into the final months of the year. With a notable 6.6% increase in global passenger demand compared to October 2024, the recovery of air travel continues to gather momentum. This rise in demand is fueled by both international and domestic travel, which experienced substantial growth. Particularly, international travel saw an 8.5% rise in demand, reflecting the broader trends of post-pandemic recovery and increasing global connectivity.

One of the key takeaways from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) report is the resilience of air travel demand. The aviation industry, which was hit hard by the global pandemic, has shown remarkable adaptability and growth in recent years. October’s results are an encouraging sign that the sector is not only bouncing back but also positioning itself for continued success in the years to come. The demand for air travel, particularly international services, continues to reflect the critical role aviation plays in connecting economies, businesses, and people across the globe.

For international markets, the growth has been especially notable in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, with demand up by double digits in these regions. The increase in international traffic, particularly within Asia and the Middle East, is driven by a combination of factors, including the easing of travel restrictions, pent-up demand from past years, and increasing economic activity. Asia-Pacific airlines saw a 10.9% rise in international demand, supported by strong growth in traffic to and from countries like China, Japan, and Vietnam. Similarly, the Middle East reported a 10.7% growth in international traffic, a notable recovery from previous years when geopolitical tensions had dampened travel demand.

On the domestic front, airlines are also benefiting from steady growth, with domestic RPKs up 3.4% year-on-year. Domestic markets, particularly in regions like Brazil, China, and the United States, are seeing continued demand for air travel. Brazil’s domestic market showed an outstanding performance, with a 12.4% increase in demand, reflecting the country’s recovering economy and a growing desire for both leisure and business travel. Meanwhile, in the U.S., the domestic market rebounded from a period of stagnation, showing signs of sustained growth with a 1.3% rise in passenger demand.

As the global aviation industry moves into 2026, airlines are preparing to expand their operations, adding new flights and increasing seat capacity. The IATA report predicts continued growth in passenger demand, particularly during peak travel seasons, as airlines cater to the increasing demand for both leisure and business travel. With scheduled seat capacity set to grow by 3.6% in November and 4.7% in December, the outlook for the rest of 2025 and into 2026 remains positive.

This strong demand for air travel will not only drive economic recovery but also create thousands of new jobs across the aviation sector. From pilots and cabin crew to ground operations and support staff, the aviation industry will continue to be a critical source of employment worldwide. Moreover, as airlines expand their services and capacity, the global economy will benefit from the increased flow of goods and services, facilitating international trade and commerce.

In conclusion, the resilience of air travel demand, as highlighted by the IATA’s October 2025 report, signifies that the aviation industry is on track for continued recovery and growth. Airlines are poised to meet the rising demand, contributing significantly to global economic growth, job creation, and international connectivity. As we move into 2026, air travel will remain a vital link for people and businesses worldwide, providing opportunities for economic development and fostering global cooperation.