Last year, the AAPA reportedan increase of 161.0 % in the number of international passengers carried by companies in Asia-Pacific. A combined total of 278.5 million passengers. In terms of revenue passenger kilometres (RPK), demand rose by 131 %, reflecting in particular the strength of short-haul markets.
The increase in demand was underpinned by a 106.2 % increase in seat capacity available over the year. Airlines restored their networks and frequencies last year. The load factor on international flights has returned to its pre-pandemic levels. It stood at 80.9 % on average in 2023This represents an increase of 8.7 points compared to 2022.
Commenting on the results, Subhas Menon, Managing Director of AAPAsaid: " International passenger traffic carried by Asian airlines saw solid growth of 161% in 2023. Passenger numbers averaged 72 % of pre-pandemic 2019 levels. This represents a significant increase on the 28 % in 2022.. "
And Subhas Menon added: " Overall, 2023 was a good year for the region's carriers. Passenger demand grew steadily, while air cargo markets ended the year on a high note. The gradual restoration of flight frequencies and connections between cities gave travellers more options. This, in turn, reduced transport costs." .
Looking to the future, Subhas Menon said: " 2024 promises to be another good year for Asian airlines. International passenger traffic should return to pre-pandemic levels in the coming months, thanks to the return of tourism and the good health of the region's economies. However, a number of uncertainties remain, notably the potential erosion of business and consumer morale against a backdrop of growing geopolitical risks." .
