Preliminary October 2020 traffic figures released by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) underscore the “devastating impact” of prolonged border closures and travel restrictions on international passenger demand, while relatively firm demand for air cargo reinforces the need to restore network connectivity given potential capacity shortages.
An AAPA spokesperson said that “crippled by the lack of progress in the reopening of borders in the region,” Asia Pacific airlines carried only 1.5 million international passengers in October, just 4.9% of the 31.3 million that travelled in the same month last year.
Meanwhile, against a backdrop of further improvements to overall business conditions globally, international air cargo demand remained relatively firm, although traffic as measured in freight tonne kilometres (FTK) terms was still 13% below last year’s level in October, held back by the lack of passenger service bellyhold space.
Consequently, the average international freight load factor climbed 9.7 percentage points higher to 71.4% for the month.
Commenting on the results, AAPA Director General Subhas Menon, said: “Prolonged border restrictions have led to precipitous declines in air traffic and global connectivity, with Asia Pacific alone suffering a 76% plunge.
“The dismal numbers underscore the severity of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the airline industry. Whilst government financial support lent critical lifelines to some airlines, already a number of carriers are being restructured, whilst others may not survive this protracted crisis.”
Menon concluded: “AAPA calls on governments to redouble their efforts to work cooperatively with other governments and industry stakeholders to safely restart international air travel. Governments must heed calls to adopt and implement mutually agreed protocols.
“New ICAO guidance materials developed in conjunction with WHO, CDC and ECDC, recommend incorporating harmonised testing as part of a multi-layered and risk-managed approach to facilitate international air transport. As 2021 beckons, Asia Pacific aviation is ready and willing to play its part in a successful restart and recovery.
“Airlines will also play a critical role in ensuring that the global distribution of COVID-19 vaccines is accomplished in a timely and efficient manner once the necessary regulatory approvals have been confirmed and production can be scaled up accordingly.”
