In March, the latest data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) reveals a notable increase in air travel. Passenger demand surged by 13.8 percent compared to March 2023.
Total demand, measured by revenue passenger kilometers (RPKs), witnessed a 13.8% rise from March last year. Available seat kilometers (ASK), representing total capacity, also saw a year-on-year increase of 12.3%. March’s load factor stood at 82.0%, marking a 1.0 percentage point increase compared to March 2023.
International demand experienced a substantial 18.9% growth compared to March 2023, with capacity increasing by 18.8% year-on-year. The load factor improved to 81.6%, indicating a 0.1 percentage point increase from March 2023.
Domestic demand saw a 6.6% rise compared to March 2023, with capacity increasing by 3.4% year-on-year. The load factor reached 82.6%, marking a significant 2.5 percentage point increase compared to March 2023.
Overall, the demand for travel remains robust, with indications pointing towards continued growth into the peak Northern Summer travel season.
“It is critical that we have the capacity to meet this demand and ensure a hassle-free travel experience for passengers. That means making urgent progress to resolve supply chain issues and for airports and air traffic management to be fully staffed and operating at maximum efficiency. While airlines are prepared for customer care and assistance when operational issues arise, they are fed-up of bearing the cost when delays and cancellations are the result of poor preparation in other parts of the value chain,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.