Asia Pacific airlines report increased passengers

New figures show that the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) reported a strong increase in passenger traffic during August.The AAPA data reveals the airlines carried 16.8 million international passengers last month – 12.4 per cent more than in August 2009.

There was also an increase in seat capacity levels, with 5.3 per cent more tickets available onflights to Thailand and other Asia Pacific destinations.

AAPA director general Andrew Herdman explained there has been strong demand, especially as the global economic situation improves.

“The outlook for the remainder of the year remains broadly positive, although reported growth rates are expected to stabilise as the recovery phase is completed,” he added.

The AAPA has 17 airline members including Thai Airways International, Singapore Airlines, Japan Airlines and Dragonair. The history of the association can be traced back to 1965, when it had four members.

Written by Alex Cochrane.