Emirates interim profit up 29pc

DUBAI - Emirates, the largest Arab airline, says first-half profit rose 29 per cent after it offset higher fuel costs by carrying more passengers and cargo.

Net income in the six months to September 30 climbed to US$323 ($488) million, said the Dubai Government-owned company. Operating revenue rose 30 per cent to US$3.67 billion.

Emirates said the number of passengers carried in the first six months rose 20 per cent to 8.39 million.

The International Air Transport Association said Middle East passenger traffic in the first nine months of the year rose 15.4 per cent, the fastest of the world's regions.

- REUTERS