British Airways has reported a 3.4% year-on-year drop in overall passenger numbers in December 2008.
BA’s first and business classes were worst hit with a 12.1% decrease while the economy cabin saw a 1.7% fall in passenger numbers.
The airline also reduced its surcharges on all flights from December 18 with the charge on some longhaul routes dropping by up to a third while 11 new generation fuel-efficient aircraft were ordered on behalf of BA CityFlyer.
Talks between BA and Qantas were also brought to a close although both airlines will continue work together on their joint business between the UK and Australia as part of the oneworld alliance.