Seat capacity has continued its upward trajectory in the third quarter of 2023. Whilst air travel demand was still growing and positive, the increases have moderated for a third quarter, according to FCM Consulting’s latest Global Quarterly Trend Report. It forecasts +71.8 million (+5.3%) more seats globally than 2019. However, the final 2023 seat capacity is forecast to be 2.2% below 2019. The report finds Europe is the only region with overall reduced capacity – down 2%. Elsewhere, Africa leads the way with a predicted increase of 14%, followed by Middle East (up 11%), The Americas (8 and Asia (7%) Australasia will be flat, it says. One of the biggest obstacles faced during the recovery period has been lack of airline capacity and competition but conditions are improving. This is expected to benefit business travellers as the years progress. However, there is still concern remains regarding the lack of available seats on Australia – Europe services via the Middle East. As reported IATA in August 2023, global passenger load factors were at 84.6%. When it comes to accommodation, hotel occupancy levels averaged 68% in 2023. Over the past six months corporate average room rates have plateaued, signalling rate stability. In terms of car hire, the overall global average daily rate (ADR) has increased by 4%. Andy Hegley, MD for FCM UK, Ireland and the Netherlands, said; “This continuous growth throughout the travel industry is encouraging and something we all counted on.”

FCM Meetings & Events, the flagship division of the Flight Centre Travel Group, has announced a global expansion of the business. It sees Simone Seiler taking the role of Global General Manager to oversee the global meetings & events businesses. Seiler is a seasoned travel industry executive with over two decades of experience. "We believe the meetings, events, and event travel markets are ripe for disruption worldwide," Seiler said. "With this investment, we're well-positioned to capitalise on the growing demand for personalised event experiences.” "It's clear the demand for in-person connection continues to increase.” It marks a significant milestone for FCM M&E, a business already with a strong footprint across several countries. "We're experiencing and anticipating a steady annual growth rate of demand a 12%  year on year for in-person meetings.,” Seller added. "We're thrilled to embark on this new chapter for FCM M&E." FCM Meetings & Events priorities going forward include the development of technology solutions and investing in extra talent. It is planning to focus on the three core areas of meetings, event travel and full event management services, including planning, strategies, execution, and delivery.