Singapore  - Singapore Airlines Ltd on Thursday posted its first quarterly loss since 2003 and said it expected a loss for the full year if the tough conditions for the airline industry persist.

The global economic downturn, the outbreak of swine flu and fuel hedging resulted in a loss of 307.1 million Singapore dollars (212.7 million US dollars) in the company's first quarter, which ended in June. The loss compared with a profit of 358.6 million Singapore dollars a year ago, the company said in a statement.

It was the first quarterly loss for Singapore's national carrier since the outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome, or SARS.

"The group's first-quarter performance reflected the adverse business conditions for airlines," the company said.

"If these conditions continue, the group expects to make a loss for the full year," it added.

Revenue in the first quarter fell by 30 per cent compared with the same period a year ago to 2.87 billion Singapore dollars.

Because of slumping demand in air traffic, Singapore Airlines reduced its capacity and cut the salaries and working hours of its staff.(dpa)