International travel is becoming more affordable in 2024, with long-haul flights significantly cheaper than in previous years, according to flight-tracking company Hopper. Flights from the U.S. to Asia have decreased by 11%, averaging $1,087, while European flights are down 6% at $754. Meanwhile, fares to South America have also declined by 4% to $685, while travel to Mexico and Central America has risen by 9% to $469. This decrease in international fares is attributed to increased airline capacity and stabilized demand after the surge post-pandemic, when travelers rushed to book trips as restrictions lifted.
High demand continues for destinations like Japan, where international arrivals surged nearly 50% in 2024. Kayak reported that flights to Asia are at their lowest in three years, with notable increases in search interest for cities like Tokyo, Sapporo, and Osaka. The Caribbean also sees lower airfares, particularly to Dominica, Barbados, and St. Lucia. Additionally, there’s a growing interest in business class travel, with searches for these fares up 19% over last year, indicating a trend that carriers are eager to serve as they prepare for 2025 earnings.
