Global air travel continues recovery
The strong post-pandemic passenger traffic recovery continued in August, IATA says.
Total traffic in August 2023 (measured in RPKs) rose 28.4% compared to August 2022. Globally, traffic is now at 95.7% of pre-Covid levels.
Domestic traffic is now 9.2% above pre pandemic levels, which is largely driven by Chinese domestic demand.
International traffic was up nearly one third from a year ago as all markets saw double-digit percentage gains year on year.
International RPKs reached 88.5% of August 2019 levels.
“Demand for air travel performed well in August. For the year to date, international traffic has increased by 50% versus last year,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
IATA says ticket sales for international bookings are strengthening for travel in the last quarter of the year.
“The industry is determined to secure a sustainable long-term future by achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. “
All regions except Africa have reached above 80% load factors.
The North American market remained top for a third consecutive month with a load factor of 87.7%.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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