Asia-Pacific airlines lead global growth, passenger numbers soar

Asia-Pacific airlines have reclaimed their spot as leaders in global aviation growth, with impressive passenger and cargo figures.

Passenger numbers surged by 31.4% in the first 11 months of 2024 compared to 2023, according to the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA). By November, the region’s airlines had carried 31.04 million passengers, up from 25.92 million in the same month last year. The load factor—how full flights were—rose to 82%, reflecting airlines’ strategic seat management.

“This year has been a remarkable recovery for Asia-Pacific airlines,” said Subhas Menon, AAPA Director General. “Demand for business and leisure travel has fully returned to pre-pandemic levels.”

Strong Demand Powers Recovery

Passenger revenue grew 21.7% year-on-year in November, with airlines expanding capacity by 17.6%. For January to November, 333.7 million passengers were carried at an 81.5% load factor, a leap from 253.9 million in 2023.

Airlines like Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Japan Airlines have added routes and deployed more aircraft. These strategies boosted the region’s share to 39% of global seat capacity—cementing Asia-Pacific’s position as the largest airline market.

Challenges on the Horizon

Despite the rebound, global economic uncertainty and lingering supply chain disruptions present hurdles. “2024 is ending on a high note,” Menon noted. “But challenges remain, particularly with supply chain issues and economic volatility.”

Cargo demand also saw a notable rise. Freight tonne kilometers grew by 10.5% in November, driven by e-commerce growth and pre-emptive export shipments ahead of expected U.S. tariffs. This outpaced the 10% increase in freight capacity, lifting the cargo load factor to 62.3%.

A Region on the Rise

In December, analysis from OAG highlighted Asia-Pacific’s growing dominance in global aviation. Weekly seat capacity for the region hit 189.7 million, up 5.5% from 2023. North America and Europe followed, with 109.1 million and 104.9 million seats, respectively.

This growth is fueled by sustained consumer confidence and strategic planning. “Asia-Pacific is not just recovering; it’s shaping the future of global aviation,” Menon added.

With continued innovation and resilience, Asia-Pacific airlines are expected to maintain their upward trajectory, ensuring brighter skies for 2025 and beyond.

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