UK. British Airways has reported that February 2006 passenger traffic, measured in revenue passenger kilometres, was up +3.6% year-on-year.
Passenger capacity, measured in available seat kilometres, was +3% higher year-on-year. This resulted in a passenger load factor up 0.4 points versus last year, at 71.2%.
Premium traffic climbed by +7.1% while non-premium passengers edged up by +2.9%. The airline saw a +12% upswing in passengers carried on Asia Pacific scheduled routes to 140,000 in February.
BA said market conditions remained broadly unchanged as significant promotional activity is required to maintain seat factors.
In terms of strategic developments, British Airways has sold its London Eye interests for £100.5 million. The airline said it would continue its brand association with the attraction by extending its existing franchise agreement.
In an e-commerce move, the airline appointed e-Dialog as its email service provider for customer communications in the UK including Executive Club members and registered customers on ba.com. The decision reflects the increasing importance of direct electronic customer communication as part of the airline’s marketing communications strategy.
BA said Japan Airlines and oneworld had exchanged a memorandum of understanding, completing the Asian carrier’s first step towards joining the world’s leading global airline alliance.
MORE STORIES ON BRITISH AIRWAYS
British Airways unveils encouraging third quarter results – 07/02/06
British Airways January traffic boosted by premium seats and Asia Pacific routes – 07/02/06
