As Australia’s skies hum with the return of domestic flights, the latest data from the Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE) reveals a resilient and recovering aviation sector. March 2024 has been a significant month, with 4.98 million passengers taking to the skies, a 3.1% increase from the previous year, showcasing the sector’s ability to bounce back.

The industry’s capacity is soaring even higher, with a 5.1% rise compared to March 2023. This rapid expansion, slightly outpacing passenger growth, has led to a modest 1.4% dip in the average load factor, now at 80.4%. However, this figure doesn’t dampen the spirits of airlines and travellers alike, as it signals a market eager to expand and embrace the skies once more, with passenger numbers on a positive trajectory.

Regional routes have shown particular strength, with 2.05 million domestic passenger movements recorded, a 2% uptick from last year. The bustling air corridor between Melbourne and Sydney remains the nation’s busiest, with nearly 710,000 passengers and 4,980 scheduled flights. This route alone sees roughly twice the traffic of the Brisbane-Sydney route and more than double that of Brisbane-Melbourne.

Adelaide to the Gold Coast flights have been packed to the brim, boasting the highest average load factor at an impressive 91.3% across 126 services. Meanwhile, the Canberra to Gold Coast route has witnessed the most significant year-on-year growth, with passenger numbers soaring by 12.9%.

However, not all routes have shared this upward trajectory. The Perth to Port Hedland connection has experienced a notable decline, with passenger numbers falling by 16.8%. This drop reflects the dynamic nature of domestic travel, where economic shifts and changing travel patterns can quickly alter the fortunes of specific routes.

As we look to the future, the Australian domestic aviation market shows no signs of slowing down. With travellers filling seats almost as quickly as they’re offered, the sky is the limit for this vibrant and essential industry.