India Tops Global Domestic Flight Load Rankings

India has emerged as the global leader in passenger load factor (PLF) for domestic flights, recording an impressive 86.4% in 2024, surpassing the US (84.1%) and China (83.2%), according to the latest International Air Transport Association (IATA) report. India’s booming aviation sector carried 16.3 crore domestic passengers in 2024, highlighting its rapid growth and efficiency.

Key Findings from the Report

India’s Performance in Domestic Aviation

• Passenger Load Factor (PLF) in 2024: 86.4% (highest globally).
• Total domestic passengers carried: 16.3 crore (as per DGCA data).
• Ranked ahead of the US (84.1%) and China (83.2%).
• Other major countries,
• Brazil: 81.9% (4th place).
• Australia: 81.8% (5th place).
• Japan: 78% (6th place).

Global Air Travel Trends in 2024

• Total air traffic growth (domestic & international): 10.4% increase over 2023.
• International traffic growth: 13.6% compared to 2023.
• Capacity increase (Available Seat Kilometers – ASK): 8.7% in 2024.
• Overall Load Factor: 83.5% (new global record).

December 2024: Strong Year-End Performance

• Total demand growth: 8.6% YoY.
• Capacity increase: 5.6% YoY.
• International demand rise: 10.6%.
• Domestic demand rise: 5.5%.
• December 2024 Load Factor: 84% (highest for the month).

IATA’s Statement on Aviation Growth

• Willie Walsh (IATA Director General) highlighted,
• Record demand for travel in 2024, showing strong global aviation recovery.
• 83.5% of all available seats were filled, reflecting efficient capacity management.
• Aviation’s role in economic growth, job creation, trade, and innovation.
• 2025 outlook: Travel demand to continue growing at 8.0%, aligning with historical averages.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	India Tops Global Domestic Flight Load Rankings
India’s Domestic PLF (2024)	86.4% (Highest globally)
Total Domestic Passengers in India (2024)	16.3 crore
US Domestic PLF	84.1% (2nd place)
China Domestic PLF	83.2% (3rd place)
Brazil Domestic PLF	81.9% (4th place)
Australia Domestic PLF	81.8% (5th place)
Japan Domestic PLF	78% (6th place)
Global Load Factor (2024)	83.5% (New record)
Total Global Air Traffic Growth (2024)	10.4% (vs 2023)
International Air Traffic Growth (2024)	13.6% (vs 2023)
Capacity Growth (ASK) (2024)	8.7%
December 2024 Load Factor	84% (New record for December)
2025 Growth Projection	8.0% (Aligned with historical averages) This report underscores India’s remarkable progress in the aviation sector and highlights global travel trends