October Air traffic up 3.6pc, says IATA

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) says international air passengers rose 3.6 per cent in October compared to a year ago.

This is in line with growth year-to-date, and stronger than the September rise of 2.3 per cent. Premium passenger numbers were up at a slower rate of 2.9 per cent in October than economy class passenger numbers of 3.7 per cent. “There has been no further increase in premium’s share of total traffic, which could suppress growth in premium yields and revenues,’’ IATA said.

The Far East market recorded a stronger rise in October, up 2.9 per cent, compared to the trend so far this year (0.4 per cent). Trade in emerging Asia has been growing over recent months, which has provided a boost to business related air travel.

 —Philip Mwakio