Led by US airlines, net profits in the aviation industry are set to rise by some 11 percent in 2018, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) said on Tuesday as it presented economic forecasts for the industry.

According to the forecast by the industry's global trade association, combined net profits will hit $38.4 billion, from a revised $34.5 billion in 2017, with US carriers weighing in with almost half. "Strong demand, efficiency and reduced interest payments will help airlines improve net profitability in 2018 despite rising (operating) costs," said IATA, whose 280 members account for more than three quarters of global air traffic.

"These are good times for the global air transport industry. Safety performance is solid. We have a clear strategy that is delivering results on environmental performance," said IATA director general and CEO Alexandre de Juniac. "Airlines are achieving sustainable levels of profitability," added de Juniac, while highlighting the challenges of rising fuel costs and well as labour and infrastructure expenses.

De Juniac urged governments to "raise their game" and do more to ensure infrastructure can cope with higher aviation demand.

"Governments are not meeting their responsibility to provide sufficient infrastructure for the industry to meet demand," de Juniac said. "Aviation is the business of freedom and a catalyst for growth and development," he said, adding the industry benefits to the economy include 2.7 million direct jobs and support for 3.5 percent of global economic activity.