British Airways (BA) is reporting a "measurable improvement" in market conditions, despite a 10.4 per cent fall in passenger numbers during December.
Monthly statistics show the rate of decline continued to slow in the wake of the September 11th terrorist attacks.
December's year-on-year fall in passenger traffic compares with a 17.8 per cent drop in November and 24.7 per cent in October.
The airline says passenger traffic figures - measured in revenue passenger kilometres - comprised an 18.3 per cent fall in premium traffic; and a 9.2 per cent drop in non-premium business.
BA says promotional activity to entice customers back has been successful as its passenger load factor was 1.5 points up on last December.
"Market conditions in December continued to be difficult, but showed a measurable improvement on the previous month," the company said. "Promotional activity, particularly in the economy cabins, has been successful in supporting both seat factor and revenue".
PA