Global air traffic declines again in May, IATA reports continued slowdown

Wednesday 01 - 16:00

By: Azzat Manal

Global air traffic declines again in May, IATA reports continued slowdown

Global air passenger traffic declined again in May 2026, marking a second consecutive monthly contraction, according to the latest data released by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The downturn comes amid rising operational costs, geopolitical instability, and increasing ticket prices affecting demand worldwide.

The IATA reported a 2.2% year-on-year decrease in global passenger traffic measured in revenue passenger-kilometers (RPKs). This continued decline follows a similar contraction recorded in April, signaling a rare slowdown in the sector after years of post-pandemic recovery.

According to the association, several factors are contributing to the weakening demand. Ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have led to flight cancellations, rerouting, and longer travel times. At the same time, key markets such as the United States and China are showing signs of reduced domestic travel activity.

IATA Director General Willie Walsh noted that airlines are operating in a challenging economic environment. While overall demand remains higher than pre-pandemic levels, carriers are facing sustained increases in operating costs, particularly fuel, insurance, and logistical expenses.

Rising airfares are also weighing on passenger demand. In France, ticket prices increased by 8.7% in May year-on-year, driven largely by high jet fuel costs and geopolitical pressures. Similar trends are being observed globally, forcing airlines to adjust pricing strategies while maintaining profitability.

Booking data further reflects this slowdown. Ticket sales for future travel dropped by 7.4% in May compared to the previous year, following a 3.3% decline in April. International bookings were hit hardest, falling by 10.2%, while domestic travel showed relative resilience with a 6% increase.

Regional performance remains uneven, with the Middle East, Europe, and Africa experiencing the sharpest declines in demand. Analysts say this reflects ongoing economic uncertainty and more cautious consumer spending on travel.

Despite the current slowdown, the aviation industry continues to benefit from long-term recovery trends in global tourism. However, rising costs, geopolitical risks, and fluctuating demand may continue to pressure the sector in the coming months as airlines prepare for the summer travel season.