News

Oil price fall welcomed by airlines amid Brexit anxiety

A recent easing of soaring fuel prices has been hailed as a welcome development for airlines amid anxiety over Brexit.

The comment came from Iata chief Alexandre de Juniac as the association reported a rebound in passenger demand in October.

Global demand rose by 6.3% against 5.5% in September, which was an eight-month low.

Capacity also grew 6.3% and the load factor was flat at 81.1%, matching last year’s record for the month.

October demand for European carriers climbed 7.5% year-on-year – the strongest growth among all global regions – and up on the 5.3% increase for September.

But Iata warned: “Given mixed signals on the economic situation for the region, it’s unclear if the rebound is sustainable.”

Iata director general and CEO de Juniac said: “October’s healthy performance is reassuring after the slower demand growth in September – some of which was attributable to weather-related disruptions.

“However, the bigger picture is that traffic growth has moderated compared to earlier in the year, reflecting a more mixed economic backdrop and reduced demand stimulation from lower fares.

“Demand for air travel is strong as we head into the holiday travel season.

“Trade wars and uncertainty around the political and economic impact of Brexit remain concerns but the recent easing of fuel prices is a welcome development.”

Share article

View Comments

Jacobs Media is honoured to be the recipient of the 2020 Queen's Award for Enterprise.

The highest official awards for UK businesses since being established by royal warrant in 1965. Read more.