The IBA aviation market intelligence and advisory company has released its latest analysis of global aviation trends for the first half of 2025, highlighting continued growth in global passenger capacity, notable increases in international traffic, and shifting dynamics in aircraft deliveries.
Global Available Seat Kilometres (ASKs) rose by 4.6% in H1 2025 compared to the same period in 2024, and were up 9.8% against pre-pandemic levels in H1 2019, underscoring the industry’s recovery.
International traffic was the primary driver of growth, with ASKs up 6% year-on-year in H1 2025, while domestic capacity saw a more modest increase of 2%. Compared to H1 2019, domestic capacity is 16% higher, with international capacity now ahead by 7%, marking a steady return of long-haul connectivity and cross-border demand.
IBA data shows that aircraft deliveries reached 626 units across H1 2025 – up 13% compared to H1 2024, but 20% below H1 2018 levels. Airbus and Boeing delivered 303 and 270 commercial aircraft, respectively, in H1 2025, with Airbus output declining 8% year-on-year, while Boeing deliveries surged by 62%, reflecting a jump in B737 MAX production and delivery output.
The A320neo and B737 MAX families remain the backbone of narrowbody deliveries, averaging 39 and 34 aircraft per month across H1 2025, respectively.
China continues to outperform global trends, cementing its status as an important growth engine for the sector. Passenger ASKs from Chinese operators ended H1 2025 16% above 2019 levels. A total of 2.81 million commercial passenger flights were recorded by Chinese carriers during H1 2025, up from 2.72 million in H1 2024 and 2.38 million in H1 2019.
