India has achieved a significant milestone in the aviation sector in 2024 by topping the global list for domestic flight passenger load.
According to the latest report from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), India recorded an impressive passenger load factor (PLF) of 86.4%, surpassing both the United States and China, which held second and third positions respectively.
In 2024, India’s booming aviation industry transported 16.3 crore passengers on domestic flights, according to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
The passenger load factor of 86.4% represents the highest for any domestic market globally. The IATA’s report highlights that India’s growth outpaced the US, where the PLF stood at 84.1%, and China at 83.2%.
Other countries, including Brazil (81.9%), Australia (81.8%), and Japan (78%) followed in the rankings.
The IATA’s full-year report also reveals that global domestic and international demand reached record highs in 2024. Passenger traffic grew by 10.4% compared to 2023, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 3.8%.
As a result, airlines worldwide were able to operate with greater efficiency, achieving a record overall load factor of 83.5%. In December 2024, overall demand rose by 8.6% year-on-year, with international demand increasing by 10.6% and domestic demand rising by 5.5%.
Looking ahead, International Air Transport Association (IATA) Director General Willie Walsh forecasted that travel demand will continue to grow in 2025, although at a slower pace of 8.0%, aligning more with historical averages. Walsh noted the impact of the aviation sector’s growth, emphasizing how it contributes to job creation, market development, trade, and innovation across societies and economies.
Despite the industry’s remarkable growth, Walsh also stressed the need for ongoing safety measures in aviation. Referring to a recent tragic incident in Washington, he reminded the industry of the constant need to improve safety protocols to ensure passenger protection.
“While aviation continues to thrive, we must never lose sight of the importance of safety. Our thoughts are with those affected by the tragic accident,” said Walsh.
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