Korean Air Reports Increase in International Passenger Traffic

Korean Air has reported that the average number of reserved seats on its international routes in September 2009 is up 21% from the same period last year whereas overall supply of seats has increased 9%.

Japan has seen the biggest increase in demand for seats at 59%, followed by the Americas at 12%, Europe 10%, Southeast Asia 7% and Oceania 6%. Demand for seats to China in the month of September is flat when compared to the same month last year.

The numbers of both business and leisure travelers on Korean Air have been increasing since July as the world economy seemed to begin to stabilizing.

Overall international passenger traffic rose 5% and 9% in July and August when compared to the same months last year.

An easing in concerns surrounding the swine Flu (H1N1) has also helped rekindle demand for air travel.

On routes to and from Japan, in particular, a string of public holidays in the country from September 19 to 23 has put shine on Japanese outbound travel.

“For Korea, increased demand in outbound and inbound travel and a growing number of transit passengers are expected to drive steady growth in overall demand for international air travel in the latter half of this year,” said Korean Air President and COO Jong-Hee Lee.

Korean Air recently reported a net profit in the 2nd quarter of 2009. Helped by lower fuel prices and a stronger won against the dollar, the airline posted a net profit of 78.5 billion won ($63 million) for the three month period.

International Passenger Reservations in September 2009 (based on number of passengers compared to September 2008)

Japan + 59%
China -3%
SE Asia +7%
Oceania +6%
The Americas +12%
Europe +10%
Overall +21%

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