The global trade body representing over 290 international airlines across 120 countries said that strong demand helped the industry cope with high fuel prices.
The statement read, “Total traffic in September 2022 (measured in revenue passenger kilometers or RPKs) rose 57.0 per cent compared to September 2021. Globally, traffic is now at 73.8 per cent of September 2019 levels.
”Domestic traffic for September 2022 was up 6.9 per cent compared to the year-ago period. Total September 2022 domestic traffic was at 81 per cent of the September 2019 level.
“International traffic climbed 122.2 per cent versus September 2021. September 2022 international RPKs reached 69.9% of September 2019 levels. All markets reported strong growth, led by Asia-Pacific.”
The Director General, IATA, Willie Walsh, said, “Even with economic and geopolitical uncertainties, the demand for air transport continues to recover ground.
“The outlier is still China with its pursuit of a zero COVID strategy keeping borders largely closed and creating a demand roller coaster ride for its domestic market, with September being down 46.4 per cent on the previous year.
“That is in sharp contrast to the rest of Asia-Pacific, which, despite China’s dismal performance, posted a 464.8 per cent increase for international traffic compared to the year-ago period.”
He further said that after nearly three years of pandemic travel complexity, travellers now wanted simplification and convenience, noting that it was an important message for airlines but also for airports and governments.
Walsh said, “They own many of the facilitation processes that let passengers down at some key airports over this year’s northern summer travel season. According to the GPS, a majority of passengers want to use biometric data rather than passports for border processes.
“And 93 per cent of passengers are interested in trusted traveler programs to expedite security screening.
“Modernising the facilitation experience will not only help alleviate the choke points, it will create a better experience for all.”
