downturn in the world economy

Wilhelm Bender also said he remained optimistic about growth despite the potential impact of inflation on consumers' ability to pay for trips.

"The trend in air transport is not signalling a downturn in the world economy. We are growing," Bender told Reuters on the sidelines of an event to mark construction of the Lufthansa Cargo service centre at Frankfurt airport.

The oil price was the biggest worry for the air travel industry, but there was growth in both passenger travel and air freight transport, Bender said.

"I have a fundamental optimism when it comes to further development, but I am seeing the clouds of energy prices," he added.