Iata has joined the ranks warning of the problems Brexit uncertainty is causing to the travel sector.
The airline trade body reported a weakening in global passenger demand in February.
Passenger traffic rose by 5.3% over the same month in 2018 – the slowest rate of growth in more than a year but still in line with long-term demand trends.
Monthly capacity increased by 5.4%, and the load factor slipped 0.1 percentage point to 80.6%, which Iata described as still high by historic standards.
Iata director general and CEO Alexandre de Juniac said: “After January’s strong performance, we settled down a bit in February, in line with concerns about the broader economic outlook.
“Continuing trade tensions between the US and China, and unresolved uncertainty over Brexit are also weighing on the outlook for travel.”
He added: “While overall economic confidence appears to be softening, aviation continues to deliver solid results, helping to sustain global commerce and the movement of people.
“The Brexit deadline has come and gone with no separation agreement, but with vital air connectivity between the UK and the Continent maintained for the present.
“Temporary measures, however, are no substitute for a comprehensive Brexit package that will ensure that the ‘business of freedom’ is able to play its vital role in contributing to the well-being of the region – and the world.”
His concerns were raised the same day as Saga described Brexit as putting a “clear dampener” on 2019 holiday bookings.
UK travel agents previously warned that Brexit is dampening demand for breaks this year.
More: Iata issues no-deal Brexit warning
