Middle East, Africa 'still attracting interest'

The Middle East and Africa regions are continuing to attract interest from business and leisure travellers alike despite the recession, according to the Official Airline Guide (OAG).

Commenting on the general state of the aviation industry, David Beckerman of OAG said that many airlines are lowering capacity as they are anticipating a reduction in demand.

In the Middle East and Africa, however, many carriers are expecting continued strong demand for their services to important corporate hubs as well as leisure destinations such as Dubai and Egypt.

"Airlines see opportunities to offer new or expanded services to airports in these regions," Mr Beckerman said.

"Moreover, the airlines in the Gulf have had continuous deliveries of new large aircraft which, as they are deployed, expand the overall capacity in those regions, regardless of demand."

Major airlines based in the Middle East and Africa include Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways, which offer flights to Cairo, Abu Dhabi, Doha and other destinations.

Posted by Mike, 01 May 2009 15:34

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• Abu Dhabi
• Emirates
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• Qatar Airways