Global airline passenger traffic grew by 6.6% in February, according to latest data produced by the Airports Council International (ACI).
The numbers signalled regained momentum in global passenger growth following a slower January, which was negatively affected by the timing of the Lunar new year.
International passenger traffic, which grew by 7.5%, was the major driver in February while domestic traffic increased by 6% year-on-year.
But geopolitical tensions throughout the Gulf region, as well as the blockade in Qatar, continued to depress Middle East passenger figures.
Total passenger numbers in the region declined by 1% in February, falling into negative territory for the second month in a row.
The 12-month rolling figure for the region has been on a downward trend for five months.
Asia-Pacific total passenger traffic grew the fastest, rising by 8.2%, followed by Europe and North America, gaining 6.6% and 5.5% respectively.
ACI director general Angela Gittens said: “Growth in air traffic has gained momentum at the beginning of this year.
“While the Asia-Pacific region led the world again in the rate of growth, all regions posted solid gains despite some escalating political tensions around the globe.”