It remains the most comprehensive and timely source of airline statistical information available. The unique feature of this year's WATS is that, using data provided by more than 200 IATA Member airlines, it presents a complete statistical picture of the year 2001 - the worst in the history of air transport.

Overall, IATA member airlines carried 1.35 billion scheduled passengers during 2001, a decline of 3.3 percent on 2000 and the first year-on-year decline since 1991. International scheduled passengers declined 2.2 percent.

The decline in the freight market was more severe; freight tonnes carried by IATA Members on international scheduled services fell by nearly 7 percent. The combination of reduced traffic, falling yields and rising unit costs, with capacity only marginally reduced, produced a net loss of USD 12 billion on international scheduled services.

These are headline findings. WATS has more than 140 pages of data on regional trends, alliance activity, aircraft fleets, employment levels and individual airlines'activity, supplemented by data from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), Airports Council International (ACI) and the World Tourism Organisation (WTO).

WATS will be available online later this year with 10 years of historic data. For further information on this interactive product contact: efkolidesg@iata.org

You can order the World Air Transport Statistics today from: IATA's Customer Service Representatives Tel: +1 (514) 390 6726 Fax: +1 (514) 874 9659 E-mail: sales@iata.org

IATA Cargo works with airline Members, forwarders, customs administrators, shippers and government authorities to improve standards in shipment documentation and automated tracking. It also helps to develop streamlined procedures supporting cargo agent activities, and to develop fine-tuned regulations pertaining to the transportation of dangerous goods and live animals.

IATA Cargo works around the clock and around the world to serve the cargo community by ensuring the safe, secure, efficient and cost-effective movement of cargo.