The 68th Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) Assembly of Presidents, held on 12-13 November in Brunei Darussalam, brought together aviation leaders to address the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of Asia’s aviation industry. With the theme “Jetting into 2050: Future Proofing Asian Aviation,” the event served as a critical summit for industry executives to discuss innovation, sustainability, and long-term resilience.
Royal Brunei Airlines CEO Captain Sabirin Haji Abdul Hamid called for greater collaboration to tackle challenges such as labour shortages, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical uncertainties. He emphasised the need for collective action and urged platforms like AAPA and IATA to amplify the industry’s voice. Captain Sabirin also highlighted the resilience of the sector, noting that air traffic has not only recovered but surpassed pre-pandemic levels, demonstrating the capacity for growth through innovation and collaboration.
Brunei’s Minister of Transportation, Pengiran Dato Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha, emphasised aviation’s critical role in connecting global communities. He stressed the importance of sustainability, setting ambitious goals such as net-zero emissions by 2050 and 5% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) usage by 2030. The Minister also called for innovation, technological advancements, and collaboration to overcome challenges like supply chain disruptions.
Subhas Menon, Director General of AAPA, praised the recovery of the Asia Pacific aviation industry, particularly the progress in air cargo, driven by strong e-commerce demand. He highlighted that sustainable growth depends on coordinated global efforts and innovative solutions. However, he also pointed out challenges, such as potential competition from sea transport as trade lanes reopen and the need for more modern freighter aircraft to sustain long-term growth.
Tao Ma, Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), stressed the importance of safety, sustainability, and collaboration in shaping the future of aviation in the region. He reiterated safety as the industry’s foundational duty and called for stronger collaboration in data sharing and workforce diversity to drive innovation and reduce the sector’s carbon footprint.
Engaging panel sessions
The AAPA Assembly featured three impactful panel sessions on sustainability, emerging markets, and strategic directions.
The Aviation Sustainability: From Ground Zero to Net Zero 2050 panel focused on achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a particular emphasis on the ASEAN Sustainable Aviation Action Plan. Panelists stressed the need for collaboration across governments, industries, and stakeholders to drive sustainable aviation practices, including SAF production and infrastructure investment.
The Emerging Market Focus panel, featuring Bangkok Airways and Vietnam Airlines, discussed their recovery from the pandemic and innovative strategies for growth. The session also explored challenges like fleet management and the potential market entry of new aircraft manufacturers such as China’s COMAC.
In the Air Travel of Tomorrow panel, industry leaders discussed the importance of operational readiness, strategic investments, and government support. They projected a cautious 5-6% growth rate over the next decade and emphasised the transformative role of technologies like artificial intelligence in reshaping the industry.
Airbus’s vision for Asia Pacific aviation
Airbus projected a demand for 19,500 new aircraft in Asia Pacific by 2043, driven by a 4.8% annual growth rate in air travel. The company emphasised fleet modernisation and sustainability, with next-generation aircraft like the A350 and A330neo offering significant fuel efficiency improvements. The A220 was also noted for its potential to connect new city pairs for short- and medium-haul markets.
The demand for freighters in Asia was also highlighted, with Airbus forecasting a need for 250 wide-body freighters by 2043, driven by the A350 freighter’s efficiency and reduced emissions. Airbus acknowledged ongoing supply chain challenges but outlined steps to support suppliers and provide financing assistance. Anand Stanley, President of Airbus Asia Pacific, stressed the region’s role as a key driver of global aviation transformation.
New member milestone
A significant highlight of the Assembly was the inclusion of Lion Air as a new member. As Indonesia’s largest privately-run airline and Southeast Asia’s leading budget carrier, Lion Air brings vital connectivity within Indonesia and to key international destinations. This membership strengthens AAPA’s role as a unifying voice for airlines with diverse business models in the region.
Approved resolutions
The Assembly adopted several key resolutions, reaffirming AAPA’s commitment to advancing the industry. AAPA called for a multi-pronged approach to achieving net-zero emissions, focusing on SAF, breakthrough technologies, and operational efficiencies. “We shouldn’t put all our eggs in one basket,” Menon said, emphasising that SAF is a promising but still emerging technology.
Safety remained a top priority, with the Assembly resolving to strengthen partnerships among civil aviation authorities, airlines, and safety agencies. Recommendations included leveraging data analysis and promoting a proactive safety culture. Menon reiterated, “Safety is the most important aspect of this industry. We need to leverage data and work closely with organisations like the Flight Safety Foundation to mitigate risks.”
Finally, AAPA addressed challenges from fragmented regulations and supply chain disruptions, urging governments to avoid unilateral measures that increase airline costs without addressing the root causes. The Assembly stressed the need for harmonised protocols and greater recognition of aviation’s economic value. Reflecting on the region’s strong recovery, Menon concluded, “The sustained demand for air travel and the rebound in trade activity showcase the resilience of Asia Pacific airlines.”
The 68th AAPA Assembly underscored the airline industry’s collective resolve to navigate challenges and seize opportunities for growth and sustainability. As the industry moves forward, AAPA remains a vital force driving collaboration and innovation in Asia Pacific aviation.
