Asia Pacific Airlines Reach New Heights with 29.2 Million Passengers Recorded in September

In September 2024, the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) reported substantial growth in both international passenger and cargo traffic, fueled by strong consumer and business demand across the region. AAPA’s latest data reveals an impressive 18.8% year-over-year increase in international passenger numbers, reaching a total of 29.2 million travelers for the month. This figure represents an encouraging recovery, with traffic volumes at 97.5% of the pre-pandemic levels from September 2019. Revenue passenger kilometers (RPKs), a key metric for passenger demand, rose by 19.3% year-over-year, highlighting the continued popularity of long-haul travel routes. Meanwhile, international passenger load factors improved slightly, rising 0.4 percentage points to 80.5% amid an 18.7% growth in available seat capacity.

The air cargo sector also demonstrated resilience despite ongoing challenges in global manufacturing. September saw international air cargo demand, measured in freight tonne kilometers (FTK), increase by 8.9% compared to the previous year. This demand coincided with a 9.4% rise in available freight capacity. As a result, the average international freight load factor experienced a minor decrease, edging down by 0.3 percentage points to settle at 60.2%. This performance underscores the stability of cargo demand as the region approaches the end-of-year festive season.

These figures reflect a positive trajectory for Asia-Pacific airlines, driven by a steady return of long-haul travelers and a resilient cargo market.

Commenting on the results, Mr. Subhas Menon, AAPA Director General said, “Asianairlines have seen robust growth in travel markets this year. Leisure demand remainedbuoyant, driving increases in tourist arrivals across the region. Meanwhile, business travelwas underpinned by the region’s growing economies.