Melbourne Tullamarine Airport pax up 4% in Apr-2013, CHina continues to lead the way

Australia's Melbourne Tullamarine Airport reported (17-May-2013) a 4% year-on-year increase in passenger numbers to 2.5 million in Apr-2013. Domestic passengers increased 3.6% to 1.9 million and international passengers increased 4.7% to 572,437. The airport said passengers from China continued to lead the way in international growth, with a 22.9% increase, reaffirming the ongoing importance of this market for Victoria's tourism, education and business sectors. Other markets in Asia also grew during April, with passengers from Taiwan up by 18.1%, Vietnam by 14.3%, Philippines by 7.4% and India by 4%. International travel by Australian passport holders increased by almost 6% during the month. Melbourne Airport CEO Chris Woodruff said "This growth the highlights the importance of providing more aviation capacity between Australia and key international markets, particularly in Asia. The Australian Government must lead the way in supporting more capacity on key air routes so airlines can provide the additional seats the travelling public is demanding." [more - original PR]