IATA: demand slowdown continues in Aug-2012

IATA reported (28-Sep-2012) global traffic results for Aug-2012 showing demand for air transport continuing to flatten, but with significant regional variations. Freight volumes shrank as business and consumer confidence continued to slip. The minor recovery seen at the start of the year has faded quickly and the stability seen in freight markets during 2012 could be under threat owing to continued economic weakness. Middle East, African and North American carriers bucked the trend and remained in positive growth territory (11.3%, 10.2% and 2.0%, respectively). All other regions saw freight volumes decline, the most significant being for Asia Pacific carriers at 5.5%. Details include:

• Passenger traffic (RPKs): +5.1% year-on-year;
  • Domestic: +4.8%;
  • International: +5.3%;
• Passenger load factor: 82.1%;
  • Domestic: 82.3%;
  • International: 82.1%;
• Cargo traffic (FTKs): -0.8%;
  • Domestic: +2.2%;
  • International: -1.3%. [more - original PR]

IATA: "Passenger markets have not grown since June and global air freight volumes are below previous year levels. In the face of these adverse conditions, disciplined capacity management has kept load factors high. There are always opportunities and some parts of the world are growing. But, overall, trading conditions are tough," Tony Tyler, director general and CEO. Source: Company statement, 28-Sep-2012.