AAPA: Asia Pacific airlines encouraged by growth and positive about outlook

Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) DG Andrew Herdman reported (23-May-2016) Asia Pacific carriers have been "encouraged" by sustained growth in passenger demand so far for 2016, but "continue to face a challenging operating environment characterised by intense competition, cost pressures and volatile currency markets". Air cargo markets "remain weak as a result of the slowdown in global trade", but airlines are "taking a positive view of the future". Mr Herdman noted that Asia Pacific airlines are "continuously reviewing their fleet and network development plans in line with evolving market trends, and introducing new customer service initiatives, whilst continuing to focus on disciplined cost management efforts." [more - original PR]