The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported strong post-COVID recovery in passenger markets in June 2023. Total traffic in June 2023 increased by 31.0% compared to June 2022, reaching 94.2% of pre-COVID levels globally. First half 2023 total traffic grew by 47.2% compared to the previous year.
International traffic surged by 33.7% in June 2023 compared to the previous year, with all markets experiencing robust growth. International RPKs reached 88.2% of June 2019 levels, and first half 2023 international traffic saw a 58.6% increase over the same period in 2022.
Asia-Pacific airlines had the highest traffic gain at 128.1% in June 2023, European carriers saw a 14.0% rise, Middle Eastern airlines grew by 29.2%, North American carriers had a 23.3% climb, Latin American airlines increased by 25.8%, and African airlines rose by 34.7%. Australia’s traffic slipped by 1.7% in June but remained 3.9% above pre-pandemic levels. Indian airlines saw a 14.8% rise in domestic demand in June, surpassing June 2019 levels by 1.3%.
Overall, while travel demand is strong, supply chain issues are impacting capacity growth and causing delays and frustrations for both passengers and airlines. Governments need to address accountability of air navigation service providers to ensure smoother travel experiences.
