Preliminary February 2026 traffic figures released by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) showed robust growth in international air passenger demand, supported by increased leisure travel during the Lunar New Year festive period. In February, the region's carriers saw a 9.0% year-on-year increase in international passengers carried, reaching an aggregate total of 33.0 million.

International air cargo demand also recorded solid growth, despite the traditional factory closures associated with the festive season, with volumes underpinned by continued strength in e-commerce and demand for intermediate goods.

Trade activity remained resilient, reflecting demand for consumer, intermediate and investment goods. This, in turn, drove a strong 8.7% year-on-year increase in international air cargo demand, as measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTK) in February. Demand growth outpaced a corresponding 8.3% increase in offered freight capacity, resulting in a 0.3 percentage point rise in the average international freight load factor to 58.2%.

Commenting on the results, Mr. Subhas Menon, AAPA Director General, said, "The broadly positive outlook for the airline industry will continue to be clouded by the evolving geopolitical situation. Prolonged conflicts over the Middle East may increase inflationary pressures and affect business and consumer sentiment on both passenger and cargo markets. Close coordination between governments and industry stakeholders is critical to ensure the continued safe and efficient operation of air services, while maintaining global connectivity."

Source: AAPA

 

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