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Cost-conscious business travellers downgrading to fly in economy class helped push up airline carryings in Europe in November.
Numbers flying in Europe rose by 4.9% over the same month in 2013, surpassing the overall growth in international air passengers of 3.6%, according to latest Iata figures.
But much of the European increase was in economy travel – up 5.2% – partly driven by business travellers shifting away from premium seats – up 0.9% – as a means of cost cutting, the association said.
“Stronger growth in total international travel was inhibited by other markets where expansion remained robust but below trend,” Iata added. “Examples include international travel on Europe–Far East, Europe–Middle East and Middle East–Far East.
“The outlook for international air travel remains positive overall, but recent slowdown in major economies like China and the eurozone could place downward pressure on demand in coming months.
“Moreover, although growth in world trade has been supportive of business-related air travel over recent months, gradual easing in business confidence since mid-2014 suggests the improvements in international trade could be limited.”
There was a gradual slowdown in improvements in business confidence throughout the second half of last year, with economic conditions in the eurozone and China deteriorating, Iata added.