Bangladesh, Sept. 14 -- Emirates is heading into the winter travel season with rising demand and plans to expand capacity across several key markets, following a stronger-than-expected summer performance.

The Dubai-based airline carried more than 8.6 million passengers during July and August, with seat load factors remaining healthy across its network. It is currently operating at about 93 percent of its pre-disruption capacity.

Winter bookings are running ahead of last year in markets including South Africa, Brazil, India, Portugal, Egypt, Ghana, Colombia, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Demand for premium travel is also increasing, while Nepal has benefited from Emirates' partnership with flydubai.

Dubai remained a major destination duri...