Monica Priscilla / Shutterstock.comInternational passenger numbers for Asia Pacific airlines saw a modest increase in September 2026, according to the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA). The airlines carried 30.4 million international passengers, marking a 0.7% rise from the previous year. This uptick follows five months of consecutive declines, with longer-haul markets showing growth as travellers opted for routes bypassing Middle East hubs.
Passenger demand, measured in revenue passenger kilometres, grew by 5.9%, whilst seat capacity expanded by 6.8%. However, the average international passenger load factor dipped slightly to 80.2%. In contrast, air cargo markets experienced robust growth, driven by global manufacturing activity and demand for AI-related goods. Freight tonne kilometres increased by 6.4%, surpassing the 4.9% rise in freight capacity, leading to a 60.3% load factor.
Wong Hong, Director General of AAPA, noted the resilience of demand despite challenges such as high jet fuel prices and airspace restrictions. "Passenger markets continued to adjust to changes in capacity and travel patterns," he said, highlighting the impact of manufacturing and AI-related goods on cargo flows.
Looking forward, Wong Hong anticipates that year-end holiday travel will bolster passenger demand, whilst investments in AI infrastructure will support cargo markets. However, he cautioned that higher travel and shipping costs, along with geopolitical tensions, could affect growth.
This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
