NAN-H-36
Passengers
By Solomon Asowata
Lagos, Oct. 6, 2016 (NAN) The International Air Transport Association (IATA) on Thursday said that global passenger traffic increased by 4.6 per cent in August 2016, compared to August 2015.
IATA, however, said this was a reduction from the 6.4 per cent increase recorded in July 2016.
The world aviation regulatory body made the announcement in a statement issued by its Director-General, Mr Alexandre de Juniac in Lagos.
De Juniac said August capacity (available seat kilometers or ASKs) increased by 5.8 per cent, while load factor slipped 0.9 percentage points to 83.8 per cent.
“Growth in passenger demand dipped to 4.6 per cent. While that is disappointing compared to the previous month’s performance, it is still healthy growth.
“And although terrorist attacks in Europe have dampened demand, the impact is ebbing,’’ it said.
According to him, all regions recorded increases, but growth is dominated by airlines in the Middle East.
De Juniac said capacity climbed by 6.5 per cent, causing load factor to slide 1.4 percentage points to 83.9 per cent.
He said that African airlines’ traffic climbed 1.8 per cent, International growth had tracked sideways since the start of the year, reflecting challenges in the major economies.
“Lower airfares are a major factor sustaining demand for air travel. And airline profitability is stronger than ever as a result of a better industry structure and efficiency gains.
“But the lingering impact of terrorist attacks in Europe earlier in the year reminds us that the aviation industry is vulnerable to many external factors beyond its control.
“The risks including the normal ups and downs of the business cycle won’t go away. The industry has improved resilience along with its profitability.
“That will be critical to responding quickly should the business environment change.’’ (NAN)
ASO/MO/EEE
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Edited by Morayo Omolade/Ese E. Ekama