Passenger Demand, Bookings Recover In October 2022: IATA

Global air transport demand continues recovering as people are enjoying the freedom to travel, reports the International Air Transport Association (IATA). In October 2022, despite a minor setback, air traffic represented 74.2 percent of 2019 levels. 

“Total traffic in October 2022 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) rose 44.6 percent compared to October 2021. Globally, traffic is now at 74.2 percent of October 2019 levels,” explained IATA via a press release. 

IATA explained that domestic traffic suffered a setback in October, in comparison to the same period in 2021 of 0.8 percent. The decline can be attributed to strict COVID-19-related travel restrictions in China, which have been driving the market down. The domestic traffic figures stood at 77.9 percent of the October 2019 level, as bookings stand at around 70 percent of pre-pandemic levels.  

“Traditionally, by October we are into the slower autumn travel season in the Northern Hemisphere, so it is highly reassuring to see demand and forward bookings continuing to be so strong. It bodes well for the coming winter season and the ongoing recovery,” said Willie Walsh, Director General, IATA.

International traffic continues to boost impressive figures, showing a climb of 102.4 percent in comparison to October 2021. RPKs reached 72.1 percent of October 2019 levels, and all markets presented strong growth. The Asia-Pacific market led the world with the strongest recovery so far, as bookings for international travel increased to 75 percent of pre-pandemic levels. The growth can be attributed to the re-opening of numerous Asian economies. 

“People are enjoying the freedom to travel, and businesses recognize the importance of air transport to their success… Governments need to pay attention to the message that air travel is fundamental to how we live and work. That reality should drive policies to enable aviation to operate as efficiently as possible while supporting the industry’s 2050 Net Zero emission goals with meaningful incentives to encourage the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuels,” said Walsh.

In Mexico, airlines and airports continue reporting an increase in traffic. For example, the Airports and Auxiliary Services Network (ASA Network) grew by 30.8 percent during the first 10 months of 2022, as previously reported by MBN.