The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for May 2026 global passenger demand: 

Total demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), was down 2.2% compared to May 2025. Excluding the Middle East, demand grew by 0.7%. Total capacity, measured in available seat kilometers (ASK), decreased 2.3% year-on-year. The load factor was 83.5% (+0.1 ppt compared to May 2025), a record high for May.

International demand fell 1.6% compared to May 2025. Excluding the Middle East, demand grew by 3.1%. Capacity was down 2.4% year-on-year, and the load factor was 83.7% (+0.7 ppt compared to May 2025). 

Domestic demand contracted 3.1% compared to May 2025. Capacity decreased 2.1% year-on-year. The load factor was 83.0% (-0.8 ppt compared to May 2025).

Regional Breakdown 

International Markets 

International RPK fell 1.6%, with capacity falling 2.4%. The pace of decline reduced compared to April and many regions hit record load factors for May, with only the Middle East posting a load factor decline.

Domestic Markets

Domestic RPK fell (-3.1%) in May 2026 compared to the same month last year, with the largest fall in China, which may be linked to higher fares and/or the Dragon Boat Festival occurring in June this year. The US also had a notable decline while most other markets achieved moderate growth.