January 2025 Digest

In January 2025, the air travel industry experienced several significant events:

Surge in Global Travel Demand
January saw a notable increase in international travel demand, with global passenger numbers reaching new highs. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported a 10% growth in passenger demand compared to the previous year.
Implementation of New UK Travel Requirements
Starting January 8, 2025, the United Kingdom introduced the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for inbound travelers. Modeled after the U.S. ESTA system, the ETA aims to enhance border security by screening visitors before arrival.
Introduction of Stricter Border Policies Affecting Airlines
Lufthansa reported no decline in bookings despite stricter border policies under President Donald Trump. The airline's transatlantic business remained strong, and it anticipates significant earnings improvements in 2025, particularly in the North Atlantic market.
Significant Aviation Accidents
On January 29, a collision between a Bombardier CRJ700 airliner and a U.S. Army Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter over the Potomac River resulted in the deaths of all 67 individuals aboard both aircraft. This incident marked the deadliest U.S. air disaster in nearly 24 years.
Advancements in Supersonic Travel
Boom Technology's XB-1 demonstrator successfully achieved a speed of Mach 1.1, marking a significant milestone in the pursuit of commercial supersonic flight.
Prohibition of Commercial Air Tours Over Canyon de Chelly
The Canyon de Chelly National Monument in Arizona implemented a ban on commercial air tours to protect the site's cultural and spiritual significance to the Navajo Nation.
Increase in U.S. Air Passenger Departures
U.S. citizen air passenger departures to foreign countries totaled 4.971 million in January 2025, a 6.7% increase compared to January 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.