US carriers drive record global profits for airline industry

Iata says global profits will almost double to $29.3bn (19bn) in 2015, helped by the stronger dollar

Airlines are making more profits than ever before, boosted by lower fuel prices and carrying more passengers on fuller planes, according to the industry's global body.

The International Air Transport Association said global profits will almost double to $29.3bn (19bn) in 2015, with American-based airlines having a particularly lucrative year on the back of a strong dollar.