September 04 sees Record Cargo Run continue for Dragonair

Dragonair’s cargo operation achieved a new high for the third consecutive month in September, although the good figures were tempered with concern over the high oil price.

“The shipment of goods out of eastern China to Europe and Taiwan, increased flights to Europe and in the region, and high demand throughout most of our network pushed us to our third monthly freight record in a row,” said Chief Executive Officer Stanley Hui.

At 33,829 tonnes, shipments were 10.5% higher than the previous record set in August. Ports including Beijing, Shanghai, Taipei and Dubai all achieved record uplift levels. A single day record was also set for cargo on September 2, with 1,537 tonnes uplifted.

“This excellent start to the peak cargo season bodes very well for volumes in the remainder of the year,” Mr Hui said.

Meanwhile, passenger numbers remained above 400,000 for the third month in a row, at 415,343. The number eased by 6.6% from the record mark set in August.

“September is a traditionally slower month for travel, following the busy holiday month of August,” said Mr. Hui. “However, the numbers have held up very well, although the yield remains on the low side.”

He continued: “Again the good top-line numbers tell only part of the story, as September saw the price of oil reach new highs. It continues to be of great concern to us, given that our hedging programme and the surcharges in place can only do so much to reduce the overall impact on the bottom line, and oil looks set to test new highs.”

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