Global Passenger and Cargo Traffic Growth Slows in September: IATA
Global air traffic increased by 3.6% year-on-year in September 2025, while air cargo grew by 2.9%, showing signs of slowing momentum in both sectors, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Passenger Traffic Trends
Passenger traffic, measured in Revenue Passenger Kilometers (RPK), rose 3.6% compared to 4.6% growth in August. The Passenger Load Factor (PLF) for the industry was 83.4%, slightly lower than 83.5% a year ago. All regions experienced weaker growth, with North American carriers facing a 0.1% decline year-on-year.
- Domestic air travel growth slowed to 0.9% year-on-year, with decreases in the United States and India.
- International passenger traffic increased by 5.1%, driven by Asia-Pacific airlines, which led with 7.4% growth.
- Flight schedules are expected to rise by 3.0% year-on-year in November, indicating continued but softer activity into the year-end.
Cargo Traffic Developments
Air cargo demand, measured in Cargo Tonne-Kilometers (CTK), grew by 2.9% year-on-year, slowing by 1.1 percentage points from August. International cargo traffic expanded 3.2%, with Africa posting the strongest growth at 14.7%, followed by Asia-Pacific at 6.9%.
Global air transport activity showed moderated growth in September 2025, signaling a slowdown in both passenger and cargo markets after months of steady expansion.
Capacity expansion has remained steady despite the slowdown, reflecting cautious optimism for the final quarter of 2025.
Summary: Air travel and cargo sectors continue to grow but at a slower pace in late 2025, indicating moderated demand and cautious market conditions.