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African Airlines See 14.9% Growth in Passenger Demand in January 2025 African Airlines See 14.9% Growth in Passenger Demand in January 2025

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has reported a significant increase in passenger demand for African airlines in January 2025, with a year-on-year growth of 14.9% in Revenue Passenger Kilometers (RPK). Capacity also rose by 11.2% during the same period, while the continent’s load factor climbed to 75.9%2.4 percentage points compared to January 2024 [[1]](https://newtelegraphng.com/africas-passenger-demand-growth-up-10-in-january/).

Global Aviation Trends

Globally, passenger demand grew by 10% in January 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, reflecting a strong start to the year for the aviation industry. Capacity, measured in Available Seat Kilometers (ASK), increased by 7.1%, while the global load factor reached a record-breaking 82.1%, up 2.2 percentage points year-on-year.

Domestic demand also showed robust growth, rising by 6.1% compared to January 2024, with capacity up 4.5% and a record-high load factor of 81.2% (+1.2 percentage points). This growth was driven by strong performances in key markets such as India (+17.1%), Japan (+12.1%), and China (+10%), with China benefiting from record travel numbers during the Lunar New Year.

Regional Highlights

All regions experienced growth in international passenger markets in January 2025 compared to January 2024, with the Asia-Pacific region leading the way. Airlines in Asia-Pacific recorded a remarkable 21.8% increase in demand, with capacity up 16.5% and a load factor of 86.7% (+3.8 percentage points). Traffic from Northeast Asia was particularly strong, reflecting the region’s continued recovery and growing connectivity.

In Africa, the 14.9% growth in passenger demand highlights the continent’s increasing role in global aviation. The rise in capacity (+11.2%) and the improved load factor (75.9%) indicate that African airlines are effectively meeting growing demand while optimizing operations. This growth aligns with the broader global trend of recovery and expansion in the aviation sector.

Other regions also showed positive results:

  • Middle East: Demand rose by 9.6%, with capacity up 4.4% and a load factor of 83.8% (+4.0 percentage points).
  • Europe: Demand increased by 8.6%, with capacity up 6.2% and a load factor of 79.2% (+1.8 percentage points).
  • North America: Demand grew by 3.8%, with capacity up 0.6% and a load factor of 81.8% (+2.6 percentage points).
  • Latin America: Demand rose by 12.9%, but the load factor declined by 1.9 percentage points to 84.3%, reflecting capacity growth outpacing demand.

Passenger Confidence and Industry Outlook

IATA’s Director-General, Willie Walsh, attributed the strong growth in demand to increased passenger confidence and the aviation industry’s ability to adapt to challenges. According to a November 2024 passenger survey, 94% of travelers plan to maintain or increase their travel in 2025, while 80% believe air travel offers good value for money. Walsh emphasized that airlines are doing an excellent job of accommodating growing demand despite fleet and infrastructure constraints, with satisfaction levels exceeding 95%.

Walsh also highlighted the importance of choice for passengers, noting that 70% of travelers prefer to pay the lowest fare and customize additional services as needed. He urged regulators to consider these preferences when shaping policies, ensuring that passengers are not forced to pay for services they do not require.

Opportunities for African Travel Professionals

The strong performance of African airlines in January 2025 presents significant opportunities for African travel agents and industry stakeholders. The growth in passenger demand and capacity reflects increasing connectivity across the continent and beyond, making it easier for travelers to explore Africa’s diverse destinations. Travel professionals can leverage this momentum to promote regional and international travel, offering tailored packages that cater to the growing demand for air travel.

Additionally, the improved load factor indicates that airlines are optimizing their operations, which could translate into more competitive pricing and better service offerings for passengers. By staying informed about these trends, African travel professionals can position themselves to capitalize on the aviation industry’s continued growth and recovery.

Looking Ahead

As global and regional aviation markets continue to recover, the strong start to 2025 signals a promising year for the industry. For African airlines, the double-digit growth in passenger demand underscores the continent’s potential as a key player in global aviation. With increasing connectivity, improved load factors, and growing passenger confidence, the future looks bright for Africa’s aviation sector and the travel professionals who support it.