Load factors improve at WestJet; Garuda to launch an LCC; AirAsia X to be profitable in FY2009

WestJet reported a sixth consecutive year of record January load factors in Jan-2010, with load factors gaining 2.0 ppts to 78.8% in Jan-2010. The load factor occurred as the carrier's 6.9% capacity (ASMs) increase was more than matched by a 9.7% increase in traffic (RPMs). The LCC, while not disclosing monthly traffic numbers, stated it transported 74,000 additional passengers in the month.