Bangladesh, Sept. 30 -- Global air cargo demand increased 4.4 percent in August from a year earlier, while available cargo capacity edged lower, according to new data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Demand, measured in cargo ton-kilometers, rose 5.3 pc on international routes. At the same time, available cargo ton-kilometers fell 0.1pc globally, although international capacity increased 0.1pc.

IATA said stronger demand and higher load factors helped airlines offset some of the impact of rising fuel expenses. Yields also increased month over month in August for the first time since April. AirTravel

"Air cargo demand rose 4.4pc year-on-year in August with all regions reporting growth even as capacity was trimmed...