BA Traffic Down 8.3 Percent; 20 Percent in Premium Classes

British Airways said its passenger volumes fell 8.3 percent in February, led by a 20.2 percent slump in its key premium, or business and first class travelers. In February 2009, passenger capacity, measured in available seat kilometers, was 9.0 percent below February 2008.

Traffic, measured in revenue passenger kilometers, fell by 8.3 percent. This resulted in a passenger load factor increase of 0.5 points versus last year, to 72.0 percent. Traffic comprised a 20.2 percent decrease in premium traffic and a 5.5 percent fall in non-premium traffic.

The results are impacted by February this year having one less trading day, worth 3.5 percent, and a significant number of cancellations in the first week of the month due to heavy snowfall in the southeast of England.

A reduced flying program was necessary due to airport closures, runway restrictions and enforced diversions. Cargo, measured in cargo ton kilometers, fell by 20.7 percent.