Global Passenger, Cargo Traffic Growth Slows in September: IATA

Global Passenger and Cargo Traffic Growth Slows in September 2025

Global air traffic increased by 3.6% year-on-year (YoY) in September 2025, while cargo traffic grew by 2.9%, reflecting slower momentum in both sectors and signaling moderated demand towards the end of the year.

Passenger Traffic Performance

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), global passenger traffic growth softened after months of steady gains. Revenue Passenger Kilometers (RPK) rose by 3.6% YoY in September, down from 4.6% in August.

The Passenger Load Factor (PLF) across the industry was 83.4%, slightly below the 83.5% recorded the previous year. All regions experienced weaker growth, with North American carriers contracting by 0.1% YoY.

Domestic air travel expansion eased to 0.9% YoY, driven by declines in the United States and India. In contrast, international passenger traffic rose 5.1% YoY, led by Asia-Pacific airlines, which posted a 7.4% increase.

Capacity and Flight Schedules

Capacity growth remained steady, and flight schedules are forecasted to expand by 3.0% YoY in November, indicating continued but moderated activity as the final quarter progresses.

Cargo Traffic Trends

Global air freight demand, measured in Cargo Tonne-Kilometers (CTK), grew by 2.9% YoY, showing a slowdown compared to August’s growth rate which was 1.1 percentage points higher.

International CTK increased by 3.2%, with Africa leading the gains at 14.7%, followed by Asia-Pacific with a 6.9% rise.

"Global air transport activity showed moderated growth in September 2025, signaling a slowdown in both passenger and cargo markets after months of steady expansion." – IATA

Author's summary: In September 2025, global air travel and cargo growth slowed notably, reflecting moderated demand worldwide, especially in North America and domestic markets.

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Mexico Business News Mexico Business News — 2025-11-06

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