Asia Pacific airlines achieved a combined net profit of $12.1 billion in 2025, according to preliminary figures released by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA).

The financial performance was bolstered by strong passenger and cargo demand, alongside a decline in fuel prices, which helped mitigate cost pressures from ongoing supply chain disruptions.

The airlines' operating revenue increased by 4.3% to $223.7 billion, up from $214.5 billion in 2024. Passenger revenue saw a 4.7% rise to $178.4 billion, driven by a 7.7% increase in passenger demand measured in revenue passenger kilometres (RPK). Despite a 2.8% drop in passenger yields, the robust traffic growth offset the decline. Cargo revenue also grew by 1.4% to $23.6 billion, despite a 2.0% fall in cargo yields.

Operating expenses rose by 4.3% to $209.4 billion, with non-fuel costs jumping 7.8% due to supply chain issues and inflation. However, fuel expenditure decreased by 3.7% to $58.3 billion, thanks to a 9.5% reduction in global jet fuel prices.

Wong Hong, AAPA Director General, noted, “Asia Pacific airlines entered 2025 from a position of strength, with robust passenger and cargo demand supporting another year of profitable growth.” He cautioned about the challenging operating environment, citing geopolitical tensions and rising jet fuel prices as potential hurdles.

Looking forward, Wong Hong expressed optimism, stating that the outlook remains broadly positive with continued expansion of networks and service offerings, despite increasing cost pressures

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