We are the worst in class. In a context of slight improvement in the accounts of airlines around the world, Europe is also taking part (despite the recession). But Italy – with Meridiana, Alitalia-Cai, and Blue Panorama – finds itself in stark contrast to this positive trend.
According to estimates by the Iata (International Air Transport Association), the world association of 240 companies that represent 84% of scheduled world traffic, there is talk of a "modest improvement" and an aggregate net profit of 10,6 billion US dollars. A result that goes beyond the previous estimate made in December (8,4 billion dollars). Tony Tyler, director general and chief executive of Iata, said that "industry profits are taking a small step in the right direction". “The improvements are encouraging – he continued – but they must be considered in perspective”. The association also noted that "there is a structural improvement in aviation's financial results, as demonstrated by a 7% increase in share prices since the beginning of the year despite a 5% increase in fuel costs .
According to Iata, Europe should improve its results, despite the recession: a profit of 800 million dollars is expected. "The European market - said Iata - continues to be weak but companies are expected to show better results on long-haul routes with emerging markets". The most profitable areas are Asia-Pacific (4,2 billion profits) and North America (3,6 billion). Italy, with its companies' accounts in the red, remains the rear of Europe and, moreover, of the whole world.
