Dragonair Cargo continues stellar run in September 2002

Dragonair set a new monthly cargo record in September, with 18,328 tonnes carried, a 5.24% increase over the previous record of 17,415 tonnes set one month earlier. It was also a 47.56% increase on the amount of freight carried in September last year.

"Two consecutive record months keep us on track for our best year ever in cargo," said Stanley Hui, Chief Executive Officer of Dragonair.

"September's performance was the result of continuing strong demand in our main market of mainland China. Shipments were particularly strong in the second half of the month ahead of the National Day holidays."

The new figures mean that in the first three quarters of the year Dragonair carried 132,188 tonnes of cargo, 61.95% more than in the same period last year.

September's figures also mean that passenger numbers for the first three quarters were up 16.03% over last year.

The number of passengers flying in September rose 24.23% year-on-year, from 245,494 to 304,999. 

The first part of September is traditionally slower for passenger travel as it's when the new school term starts," explained Mr. Hui.

"However, for the rest of the month passenger numbers were satisfactory, with business traffic being particularly robust as we head into the seasonally busy months for the mainland China market."

Dragonair is a Hong Kong-based airline, operating a fleet of eight A330-300s, four A321s and eight A320s, in addition to two Boeing 747-300 freighters. The airline's passenger network covers 28 destinations across the Asia-Pacific region, while its cargo network connects the markets of Europe, the Middle East, Japan, Taiwan and mainland China.