Global air travel reached historic levels in Summer 2025, with international routes fueling a 6.6% surge in passenger demand. According to IATA, airlines matched this rise with expanded capacity, achieving a record load factor of 86%. While domestic flights saw modest growth, long-haul routes proved the strongest driver. Europe and Asia-Pacific led gains, underscoring aviation’s resilience and its growing role in global mobility, economic recovery, and cross-border connectivity.