IATA passenger numbers improve, but recovery not complete

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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released its latest monthly statistics for scheduled international airline traffic

In August 2002 global passenger traffic remained down 4.6% compared to a year ago, but this was better than July when the result was -6.5%.

Measured in Revenue Passenger Kilometres (RPKs) passenger traffic growth was 3.0% in Asia compared to August 2001. Europe was 8.3% down on 2001 and North America 7.4% down.

"Asia/Pacific leads the way with actual year-on-year traffic growth" commented IATA ceo and director general Giovanni Bisignani.

"Passenger traffic for European and North American carriers remains below 2001 levels, however August showed improvement over July. Recovery is faster for international freight traffic. Asia again is leading but all major route areas recorded positive growth. Continued recovery requires stability. War in the Middle East is the industry's biggest threat as it would mean fewer passengers and higher costs at a time when we are already fighting to survive."

IATA has 273 member airlines from 143 countries. Its members carry over 98% of total international scheduled traffic.

• For further statistics and subscription information contact Patrick Folley at the IATA Aviation Information & Research Department. Email folleyp@iata.org or tel: +44 20 8607 6207