Global air passenger demand declines, cargo traffic posts strong growth

Geneva : Global air passenger demand declined in June 2026, while air cargo traffic continued to grow strongly, according to the latest data released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Passenger demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), fell 1.7 percent year-on-year in June, with international traffic down 0.9 percent and domestic traffic declining 3 percent. Total capacity also slipped 1.3 percent, while the global load factor stood at 84.2 percent.

IATA attributed the decline largely to weaker domestic markets in China, the United States, and Japan, along with the lingering impact of tensions in the Middle East on international travel.

Despite the downturn in passenger traffic, the global air cargo market maintained strong momentum. Cargo demand, measured in cargo ton-kilometers (CTK), rose 8.5 percent year-on-year in June, outpacing the 4.4 percent increase in cargo capacity.

North American airlines recorded the strongest cargo growth at 13.1 percent, followed by Asia-Pacific carriers at 7.9 percent and European airlines at 6.9 percent. Air cargo demand also increased across the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America.

Commenting on the results, IATA Director General Willie Walsh said passenger demand was affected by regional conflicts and higher fuel prices, while cargo markets continued to benefit from shipments of high-value technology products and urgent freight. He added that geopolitical tensions and trade uncertainties remain key risks for the aviation industry during the second half of 2026.