The latest figures from IATA show international premium passenger numbers grew 3.3% in September compared to a year ago, although this is less than the 8.6% increased observed in August.
“The downward pressure on demand for premium air travel has eased over recent months, consistent with developments in key demand drivers. Business confidence has been increasing throughout Q3 and Europe and the United States have both shown signs of improving economic conditions,” says IATA.
Major markets like the North Atlantic have contributed to the recent increase in volumes. Premium passenger numbers rose 3.1% in September on a year ago for the North Atlantic market, following a strong rise of 5.7% in August. All this suggests that business conditions in Europe and the US are starting to pick-up.
Within Far East premium travel was up 8.9% in September, another month of improving growth results after a rise of 7.8% in August. Growth rates on some other routes continue to show the impacts of seasonal factors. Some routes connected to the Middle East and Africa show either weak growth or contraction in September compared to a year ago.
IAAT states that the outlook for air travel markets continues to improve, alongside steady improvements in the business environment.