Dragonair Passenger and Cargo numbers set new highs in August 2004

Dragonair's passenger and cargo numbers set new highs in August 2004, the second consecutive month that both areas of operation at Dragonair has posted record figures.

The airline flew 444,498 passengers in August to record its third consecutive monthly record. The number was 7.7% higher than in July, with travel in both months driven by holiday traffic. August 15 saw a new daily mark set, with 17,220 passengers carried on the day.

“August saw the summer holidays get into full swing and represented the season’s peak,” said Chief Executive Officer Stanley Hui. “We have been operating our most extensive schedule ever and the excellent numbers reflect that.

“Not surprisingly, the emphasis has been on leisure travel. This has helped boost numbers, but given the more competitive environment yield continues to remain lower than we would like it.”

Cargo surpassed the record of 28,195 tonnes set in July by 8.6%, and passed the 30,000-tonne mark for the first time in a month. The 30,613 tonnes carried was 33.2% higher than in the same month last year.

“The first full-month contribution of Frankfurt and London Stansted following the entry into service of our fourth freighter aircraft at end of July has had a positive effect,” said Mr. Hui. “The outlook for the cargo market for the remainder of the year remains positive as it is traditionally a strong time for shipments.

 He added: “The cloud that continues to hang over our business is the persistently high price of oil.”