International Air Transport Association (IATA) statistics show that the Middle East again ranks at the top for global passenger demand this November with a16.5 percent increase compared to November 2008.   The November increase in passenger demand continues a trend of double digit growth throughout the year.  The region’s airlines also saw their highest year-to-date (January-November 2009) passenger demand increase at 10.4 percent compared to the same period last year. 

According to Iata, global air traffic demand grew 2.1 percent compared to November 2008, and freight demand was up 9.5 percent.  However, passenger demand remains six percent below the peak levels posted in 2010. While the Middle East saw the highest growth in passenger demand, Latin American Airlines also performed well, recording an 8.2 percent increase.  Iata explained in a statement “The Middle East growth of 16.5 per cent can also be related to the strength of Asia and the ability of Middle Eastern carriers to facilitate connection traffic to the region through regional hubs.”