Air travel increases but premium passenger numbers take a hit

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International airline passenger travel was up 5.1% in September year-on-year, similar to the 5.4% level achieved in August.

But the September rise was due to weakness in the same period a year ago, rather than growth over the month, according to Iata.

The growth in premium travel of 2.9% year-on-year was down from 5.3% figure achieved in August, reflecting weakness in markets connected to the Far East.

Iata said: “International passenger numbers continue to show a broadly positive trend for both economy and business travel classes in 2015, despite a fall in volumes in both travel classes in September compared to August.

“But economy class travel – the more price sensitive travel market – has experienced slightly stronger growth so far this year, supported by lower fares over recent months.”

The airline trade association added: “Growth in premium international travel has been relatively slower due to weakness in business travel demand drivers, with global business confidence being dragged down by emerging markets.

“The outlook for international passenger growth remains mixed because the growth over recent months has been narrowly based, and supported mostly by within Europe and North Atlantic markets.

“Moreover, growth on other markets like the Far East has decelerated recently and, given continued weakness in business confidence and trade, the demand environment remains fragile.”