Light Load Alert: These US Flights Had The Lowest Load Factors in May 2024

If you’ve been shut out by full flights lately, you’re not alone. But we’ve got some intel that might help you get a leg up this May. We dug into Department of Transportation (DOT) data to find out which routes had the lowest load factors last May—giving you a sneak peek at where you might have the best shot at an open seat next month.

We focused on international flights departing the U.S. with at least 15 departures in May 2024 and only included routes that are still scheduled for May 2025. While past performance isn’t a guarantee (especially with seasonal shifts and aircraft changes), these trends offer helpful clues for any savvy passrider.

So, where should you go? Let’s break it down by region.

Mexico & Caribbean: Surprisingly Chill Late-Spring Escapes

May tends to be the calm before the summer storm for leisure travel, and a few beach routes stayed delightfully roomy last year.

JetBlue’s JFK to Bermuda flight had a rock-bottom 39% load factor, and Silver’s Fort Lauderdale–North Eleuthera service wasn’t far behind at 46%. If you’re looking for a beach trip without the baggage (or crowds), these might be your best bets.

Europe: Empty Middles Across the Atlantic

Transatlantic flights often fill up fast—but May’s a bit of a sweet spot before peak summer travel kicks off.

United’s San Francisco–London Heathrow flight had a manageable 73% load factor, and Icelandair’s Detroit and Boston routes to Reykjavik were among the lightest in the skies. Bonus: JetBlue’s growing transatlantic network showed some promising trends too (for standbys, that is).

Asia & Oceania: Pacific Flights Worth a Shot

If Asia-Pacific is on your radar, May could be your move. Flights haven’t yet hit their summer peak last year, leaving room for nonrevs to stretch out.

Singapore Airlines’ LAX–Singapore route posted a jaw-dropping 25% load factor in May 2024, and United’s SFO–Sydney flight came in at just 54%. Not bad for long-haul luxury on a nonrev budget.

Other Long-Haul Routes: Think Beyond the Obvious

Want to go big in May without battling every other traveler? Look to the overlooked.

Royal Air Maroc’s Casablanca flights from Miami and Dulles stayed below 40%, and United’s Houston–Guyana route barely cracked 30%. If you’ve got ZED privileges or partner access, these under-the-radar flights might be your ticket to a new adventure.

What This Means for Passriders

While these routes had light loads in May 2024, it’s always best to check updated availability before making travel plans. Our favorite tool to do that is Staff Traveler, which can give you real-time insights into current loads.

Remember: May is a shoulder-season sweet spot. Before summer chaos kicks in, now might be your chance to grab that dream seat to Europe, Asia, or beyond.

If your airline isn’t listed in this roundup, don’t worry! Check your airline’s staff travel agreements to see which carriers you can ZED on. Many of these routes are operated by airlines that participate in interline agreements, meaning you might have more options than you think. Whether it’s a legacy carrier, a leisure airline, or an international partner, a little research into your ZED agreements can open up a whole new world of possibilities. Check out our detailed guide on ZED travel for more details.

Airlines adjust schedules, and demand shifts based on holidays, events, and aircraft swaps year-over-year. However, if you’re hoping to score a seat next month, these routes could be your best bet for an open cabin.

Which of these routes are you eyeing for May 2025? Tell us what’s tempting you.