Flight disruptions in the Middle East and a decline in traffic from Asia over the Chinese New Year holidays have been blamed for a 9% decline in cargo tonnage at Dubai International Airport in February, compared with a year ago.

Dubai handled 156,259 tonnes of international freight in February, down from 171,707 tonnes in February 2010. Passenger traffic on the other hand was up 5.2%, hitting 3.83 million, compared with 3.64 million in the same period in 2010.

"Dubai International continues to achieve consistent growth even during a period of globl turbulence which is affecting the travel plans of millions of people," says Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports. "We are pleased that Dubai is able to provide a level of consistent service during this time of uncertainty."

By Oliver Clark.