The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) recently released preliminary traffic figures for April 2024, highlighting a robust demand for international travel. Both business and leisure markets have shown significant growth, signaling a positive trend for the region’s aviation industry.

Passenger Travel Soars

In April, Asia Pacific carriers transported a combined total of 28.0 million international passengers, marking a 32.0% increase compared to the same month last year. This surge brings traffic to 87.3% of 2019 levels. Demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), rose by 33.7% year-on-year, particularly on long-haul routes. Seat capacity grew by 30.4%, and the average international passenger load factor increased by 2.1 percentage points to 81.6%.

Cargo Demand Rises

The demand for consumer and intermediate goods continues to drive growth in the air cargo sector. In April, international air cargo demand, measured in freight tonne kilometers (FTK), saw a 13.7% year-on-year increase. Freight capacity also expanded by 14.4%, with a slight decrease in the average international freight load factor to 59.9%.

Expert Insights

Mr. Subhas Menon, AAPA Director General, commented on the encouraging figures. “Improving economic sentiment, coupled with high demand on major routes connecting Asia with other regions such as Europe and the Southwest Pacific, drove growth in long-haul travel markets. Within the region, travel demand remained strong, supported by relaxed visa policies and economic resilience.”

For the first four months of 2024, the number of international passengers carried rose by 51%, totaling 117 million. “During this period, Asia Pacific airlines also posted a 15% year-on-year increase in air cargo traffic volumes, driven by rising global demand supporting exports from key manufacturing hubs, particularly in China,” Menon added.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Mr. Menon remains optimistic about continued growth in both air passenger and cargo markets. “Positive business and consumer confidence levels are likely to sustain growth in the coming months. However, supply chain constraints, higher operating costs, and geopolitical tensions pose challenges. The region’s carriers are focused on improving operational efficiency, ensuring sustainable growth, and maintaining safety standards.”

With these promising developments, the Asia Pacific aviation industry appears set for a strong recovery, buoyed by rising demand and strategic growth efforts.