August 2024 Load Factor Reaches Record 86.2% – IATA
African airlines see 10.1% increase in passenger demand
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for August 2024 global passenger demand with the following highlights:
Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), was up 8.6% compared to August 2023. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), was up 6.5% year-on-year. The August load factor was 86.2% (+1.6ppt compared to August 2023), a new record high.
International demand rose 10.6% compared to August 2023. Capacity was up 10.1% year-on-year and the load factor rose to 85.7% (+0.4ppt compared to August 2023). Domestic demand rose 5.6% compared to August 2023.
IATA’s Director General, Willie Walsh, noted:
“The market for air travel is hot and airlines are doing a great job at meeting the growing demand for travel. Efficiency gains have driven load factors to record highs while the 6.5% capacity increase demonstrates resilience in the face of persistent supply chain issues and infrastructure deficiencies.”
MEA Regional Breakdown
Middle East
Middle Eastern carriers saw a 4.9% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity increased 5.6% year-on-year and the load factor was 82.5% (-0.6ppt compared to August 2023).
Africa
African airlines saw a 10.1% year-on-year increase in demand. Capacity was up 7.3% year-on-year. The load factor rose to 77.8% (+2.0ppt compared to August 2023).
