Global air travel in January returned to 84% of equivalent 2019 pre-pandemic levels, latest figures show.
Total traffic for the month was up by 67% against the same month last year.
International numbers reached 77% of the January 2019 equivalent as traffic rose by more than 100% over the same month last year with the Asia-Pacific region leading the recovery.
Domestic carryings rose by almost a third year-on-year, helped by the lifting of China’s zero-Covid policy, to bring numbers up to more than 97% of the January 2019 level.
Iata director general Willie Walsh said: “Air travel demand is off to a very healthy start in 2023.
“The rapid removal of Covid-19 restrictions for Chinese domestic and international travel bodes well for the continued strong industry recovery from the pandemic throughout the year.
“And, importantly, we have not seen the many economic and geopolitical uncertainties of the day dampening demand for travel.
“With strong travel demand continuing through the traditionally slower winter season in the northern hemisphere, the stage is set for an even busier spring and summer.”
But he reiterated criticism of efforts to limit capacity at Amsterdam Schiphol airport.
“ At a time when many are just beginning to enjoy their newly restored travel freedoms, it is especially disappointing to see the Dutch government making plans to limit their movements by unilaterally and unjustly reducing operations at Schiphol airport.”