### Record Highs in Global Air Travel Demand Amid Supply Constraints In November 2025, global air passenger demand surged by **5.7%** compared to the same month in the previous year, as reported by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This increase in demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), occurred despite ongoing supply issues affecting the aviation industry. Notably, total capacity also rose, albeit at a slightly lower rate of **5.4%**, leading to a high load factor of **83.7%**. This growth reflects a robust recovery in the aviation sector, particularly driven by international travel, which saw a **7.7%** increase in demand year-on-year [https://cyprus-mail.com/2026/01/12/global-air-travel-hits-record-high-as-demand-defies-supply-issues][https://www.zawya.com/en/economy/africa/african-carriers-lead-as-global-air-travel-hits-november-record-t4ohdchj]. ### Breakdown of Key Insights and Trends 1. **Overall Demand Growth**: - Global air travel demand increased by **5.7%** in November 2025 compared to November 2024 [https://techeconomy.ng/5-7-air-passenger-demand-growth-in-november-2025-iata]. 2. **Capacity and Load Factors**: - Total capacity rose by **5.4%**, resulting in a load factor of **83.7%**, which is a **0.3%** increase from the previous year [https://www.az.com.na/mw-main/global-air-travel-demand-rises-5.7-in-november2026-01-12180943]. 3. **Regional Performance**: - African carriers led the growth, with international capacity increasing by **7.1%** and a record load factor of **84%** [https://www.latestly.com/agency-news/business-news-global-air-travel-demand-increases-5-7-yoy-in-november-2025-iata-7267908.html]. - Domestic markets experienced a more modest demand increase of **2.7%** [https://www.aninews.in/news/business/global-air-travel-demand-increases-57-yoy-in-november-2025-iata20260108213122]. ### Supporting Data and Metrics - **Demand Growth**: - **5.7%** increase in global air passenger demand (November 2025 vs. November 2024) [https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/global-air-travel-demand-surges-5-7-in-november-2025-as-international-travel-soars-record-load-factors-reach-new-highs-and-regional-growth-in-africa-asia‑pacific-and-europe-drive-industry]. - **Capacity Increase**: - **5.4%** rise in total capacity [https://www.marketwatch.com.na/classifieds/global-air-travel-demand-rises-57-in-november2026-01-12180943]. - **Load Factor**: - **83.7%** load factor, indicating efficient use of available capacity [https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2026/01/passenger-demand-grew-5-7-in-november-2025]. ### Conclusion: A Resilient Recovery in Air Travel The data from November 2025 indicates a **strong recovery** in global air travel, characterized by significant demand growth and high load factors. The aviation industry is navigating supply challenges while still achieving record performance levels. Key takeaways include: 1. **Demand Resilience**: The **5.7%** increase in demand highlights a robust recovery trajectory for the aviation sector. 2. **Capacity Management**: The **5.4%** rise in capacity, coupled with high load factors, suggests effective management of available resources. 3. **Regional Leadership**: African airlines are at the forefront of this growth, showcasing the potential for regional markets to drive industry recovery. This comprehensive overview underscores the aviation sector's ability to adapt and thrive despite ongoing challenges, setting a positive outlook for future travel trends [https://aviationghana.com/global-air-travel-demand-rises-5-7-in-november-as-african-airlines-lead-growth].