Global air traffic recovered to almost 75% of pre-pandemic levels in October, the latest data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) reveals. Following a rise of 44.6% in the same month the year prior, international air traffic figures have almost doubled now at 74.2%.

While international travel has driven an increase of 102%, the Asia-Pacific region is leading the rebound with the biggest jump in passenger traffic, by far, following the re-opening of multiple Asian economies. In fact, Asia-Pacific airlines recorded a 440% rise in international traffic compared to October 2021, while European airlines’ international traffic climbed 60.8%. A positive sign for global aviation amid the current climate.

Middle Eastern airlines swoop in at second place, with the next biggest rise in passenger traffic up 150%, followed by North American and Latin American airlines up 129% and 99%.

Domestic travel, however, saw a decline of 0.8% year-on-year due to China (the region’s largest economy) continuing to carry out an ultra-strict Covid-19 policy, restricting non-essential travel by its citizens and subjecting all arrivals to 10 days of quarantine.

Domestic forward bookings remain at 70% of pre-pandemic levels.

IATA director general Willie Walsh said: “Traditionally, by October we are into the slower autumn travel season in the northern hemisphere, so it is highly reassuring to see demand and forward bookings continuing to be so strong.”

“People are enjoying the freedom to travel, and businesses recognise the importance of air transport to their success. Governments need to pay attention to the message that air travel is fundamental to how we live and work.”