Preliminary traffic figures for the month of July released today by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed positive growth in both international air cargo and air passenger markets.

Air cargo volumes for Asian airlines in July grew by 3.9 per cent as measured in freight tonne kilometre (FTK) terms. Offered freight capacity increased by 3.4 per cent, leading to a 0.4 percentage point increase in the average international freight load factor to 62.1 per cent for the month.

Commenting on the results, Andrew Herdman, AAPA director general said: “The first seven months of the year saw Asian airlines post a solid 6.8 per cent increase in the number of international passengers carried to an aggregate total of 170.3 million. International air cargo demand has been relatively weak, with year-to-date demand registering a 1.5 per cent decline compared to the same period a year ago, but we have seen a modest pickup in air cargo volumes during the past couple of months.”

Looking ahead, Mr. Herdman concluded, “The overall demand outlook for air passenger markets remains positive, as air travellers in the region continue to enjoy the benefits of affordable fares, although demand for some European destinations has been affected by security concerns. Given highly competitive market conditions, Asia Pacific airlines are focusing on carefully managing costs, whilst continuing to deliver high levels of customer service.”