Global air travel is back on a growth trajectory—but it’s not a simple, universal rebound. According to Airports Council International (ACI) World’s latest World Airport Traffic Report (WATR), passenger traffic is projected to hit 9.8 billion in 2025, a 3.7 percent increase over 2024.
The report, drawing on data from more than 2,800 airports across 185 countries and territories, underscores a story of strong international demand offset by uneven domestic performance and region-specific challenges.
“Air travel is on track to reach 9.8 billion passengers in 2025, underscoring aviation’s role as a driver of global mobility and economic growth,” said ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci.
Photo: Courtesy of Jue Huang / Unsplash
“International travel remains the main engine of growth, but regional variations reflect a mix of structural strengths, policy challenges, and evolving travel patterns. To sustain air travel demand globally, regulators must foster policies and frameworks that enable improved connectivity, long-term resilience, and sustainable growth.”
