Asian airlines address future challenges at Routes Asia Conference 2025

Cebu Pacific is dealing with airspace limitations and fleet constraints. "Rohan Kapoor," Group Director of Operations, highlighted the difficulties caused by Manila Airport's airspace congestion and the limited capacity of small airports serving high-demand routes. The airline struggles with engine issues that have grounded aircraft, forcing a shift in fleet planning.

Japan Airlines is adapting to a changing passenger demographic. "Motohisa Abe," Japan Airlines VP for International Route Strategy, noted that the majority of travelers are now foreign visitors. JAL is focused on maintaining its "signature hospitality," even as it faces operational challenges such as longer flight times due to the closure of Russian airspace and a shortage of pilots.

Airline network planners have outlined several needs from airports, requesting incentives for new routes, lower airport taxes for short-haul flights, better slot coordination, and advanced demand forecasting systems.

The Routes Asia 2025 conference emphasized the booming growth of the Asia-Pacific aviation sector, predicting a significant increase compared to pre-pandemic levels. However, airlines are encountering a mix of operational challenges, from aircraft delivery shortfalls to shifting passenger expectations. A coordinated effort between airlines and airports is needed to overcome these hurdles and capitalize on growth opportunities.