Air Passenger Traffic in Asia Pacific Showed 4.2 Percent Growth in 2019

The number of international passengers carried by the airlines-members of the association grew by 4.2% to reach 375.5 million during the year. Both long and short haul travel markets grew by 4.1% in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK).

The last year's figures look much more modest compared to a stronger growth of several preceeding years, but still remain quite bright on the background of increased geopolitical and trade tensions that may have affected business confidence levels and overall traffic demand.

Also on the positive side are launches of new routes as well as increased frequencies on many existing routes that now provide more options to travellers. Air fares which remained highly attractive throughout 2019 continued to drive passenger numbers higher, supported by ongoing regional economic expansion. 

The international air cargo demand showed an opposite trend further falling by 5.1% after 2018's decrease of 1.6%.

Speaking about 2020 prospectives, AAPA Director General said, "The general outlook for 2020 was already clouded by uncertainty over prospects for the global economy and still unresolved trade disputes. The recent 2019-nCoV coronavirus outbreak has now been categorised by the World Health Organization as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The related imposition of travel restrictions and widespread public concern has led to significant falls in demand for air travel on routes to/from and within China, and corresponding adjustments to airline schedules. Airlines continue to closely monitor further developments, and are operating in accordance with established standards and practices developed in conjunction with public health authorities regarding outbreaks of communicable diseases."

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