Global Airline Capacity Grows for 11th Consecutive Month

China GDP Growth reflected in Aviation Industry as Beijing Set to Become Busiest Airport, according to OAG Analysis

CHICAGO, April 11, 2012 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- This month's analysis of the OAG schedules database indicates that airlines worldwide will operate 1% more flights in April 2012, compared to April 2011. The total number of scheduled flights operating in April 2012 is 2,553,480 with an overall seat offering of 328,335,126 an increase of 3% as compared to April 2011. This marks the eleventh consecutive month of growth, according to the latest statistics from OAG, a UBM Aviation brand.

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The OAG FACTS (Frequency and Capacity Trend Statistics) for April 2012 reveals that whilst the global picture remains encouraging, the trends on a regional basis vary significantly in performance. Capacity development within Europe and North America remains sluggish, compared to the Asia, Middle East and Latin American markets. Indicative of this trend and the economic growth pattern within China, is the continuing race for the number one airport spot which Atlanta looks set to relinquish this year to Beijing after 15 years at the top.

"The Chinese air travel market has the potential to grow 10 times from where it is today, assuming China will reach a similar level of propensity to travel as Europe and the US," said John Grant, EVP OAG UBM Aviation. "If increased infrastructure demands can be met, the Chinese aviation market has the future potential to grow to over 4 times the size of the US air travel market."

A detailed review of the OAG FACTS statistics for April 2012 – including information, commentary and charts about specific airports, routes, countries and regions worldwide – is available to download now at http://www.oagaviation.com/OAG-FACTS/2012/April-Executive-Summary

Editors' Notes:

• OAG, a UBM Aviation brand, is the trusted source for aviation information and analytical services. Our leading aviation databases unrivalled in their scale, accuracy and comprehensiveness are integral to the worlds' aviation industry operations. For more information, visit www.oag.com.  
• OAG FACTS provides a visual snapshot of airline activity around the world, updated monthly. It uses interactive graphs to display 10-year performance trends from OAG's consolidated database of global airline schedules.
• UBM Aviation, a UBM plc company, is the pioneer of innovative market leading aviation solutions. Our instantly recognisable brands provide the data, analysis, events, media and consultancy services that drive route development and financial growth for our customers' businesses. For more information, visit www.ubmaviation.com.