The International Air Transport Association (IATA) just released its assessment of premium and economy air travel in June.
Here are the highlights:
Passenger travel on international markets rose by just 3 percent in June compared to a year ago, decelerating significantly on the May increase of 6.2 percent year-on-year. Economy class travel grew at a stronger rate than premium international air travel, but both classes experienced a notable slowdown within the Far East region.
Economy class travel rose 3.2 percent in June year-on-year, a slowdown on May growth of 6.4 percent. Growth in economy class travel – the more price sensitive travel market – has been supported by lower fares over recent months.
Premium travel was up just 1.4 percent in June year-on-year, down from May growth of 4.1 percent. Growth in premium travel has been reflecting continued weakness in business travel demand drivers, with global business confidence being dragged down by emerging markets.
In June, the subdued performance in both travel classes was mostly a result of slow growth within the Far East. This result could be the first sign of weakness in air travel demand following months of sluggish economic performance in some parts of Asia.
Looking ahead, although improvements in the Eurozone economy have translated into stronger demand for travel in both premium and economy classes over recent months, weakness in emerging markets could counter this positive trend. The June data suggests downside risks may already be materializing.