ASIA PACIFIC. Asia Pacific airlines delivered strong international passenger traffic growth in 2025, underpinned by resilient regional economies and sustained travel demand, according to preliminary full-year figures released by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA).
The region’s carriers transported a combined 390.5 million international passengers during the year, representing a +9.4% increase against 2024.
Growth was driven by continued recovery and expansion across key long-haul and intra-regional markets, supported by steady economic conditions across much of Asia Pacific.
Measured in revenue passenger kilometres, international demand rose +11%, reflecting particular strength on longer-distance routes.
Airline capacity expanded +10.2% year-on-year as carriers continued to rebuild and grow their networks. This resulted in a 0.5 percentage point increase in average international passenger load factor to a record 82.2%.
AAPA Director General Subhas Menon noted the growth in Asia Pacific international passenger traffic was supported by robust demand across key markets in the region, including China, India, Japan and Vietnam. This resulted in a +9.4% increase in the number of international passengers carried for the year.
Looking ahead, Menon said the outlook for air travel remains constructive, despite ongoing macroeconomic and geopolitical risks.
He commented: “The broader outlook for air travel remains positive in 2026, supported by steady economic growth and continued network expansion. At the same time, Asian airlines continue to face inflationary pressures on operating costs, partly reflecting ongoing supply chain disruptions.
“Overall, Asia Pacific airlines remain focused on active cost management, investments in digital capabilities, and network adjustments in response to market changes, as they navigate ongoing uncertainties while delivering sustainable, long-term growth.” ✈
