Global passenger traffic slowed markedly in April 2008 compared to April 2007, although the worldwide average for the past 12 months remained at 5 percent, according to Airport Council International (ACI). International traffic, which in previous months buoyed overall traffic results, grew by a modest 2 percent, and domestic traffic fell by 5.4 percent compared to April 2007. This drop reflects the impact of slowing economic growth and high fuel prices on airline fares and consumer confidence. The largest domestic market, North America, was down by 13 percent as a result of flight cancellations (American Airlines mandatory groundings), ongoing route reduction and carrier consolidation, and the absence of Easter holiday travel (in March in 2008 and in April in 2007).


Freight traffic growth was steady for April 2008 at 4 percent increase, as compared to April 2007, with strongest growth in international traffic (up by over 5 percent) and for the past twelve months by 6 percent. Domestic freight grew more modestly at 1 percent, with the continuing impact of high fuel prices making other modes of transport more attractive. Regional results vary, as Table 3 indicates, with flat results in North America holding down worldwide averages.