Chief executives and senior leaders of the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) are gathering in Kuala Lumpur on 12 and 13 November for the association's 70th Assembly of Presidents, hosted by Malaysia Airlines.

Held under the theme "Redefining Aviation: Growth, Resilience and Innovation", the assembly brings together more than 170 delegates from across the Asia Pacific aviation sector, including leaders from AAPA's 18 member airlines, government representatives, regulators and industry partners.

Record load factors, stubborn headwinds

Asia Pacific airlines have shown remarkable resilience in 2026 despite a demanding operating environment. Passenger demand grew by 1.9 percent in the first nine months of the year, while average passenger load factors reached a record 83 percent, reflecting sustained travel demand and airlines' ability to adapt their networks.

Challenges remain, however. Persistent aircraft delivery delays, maintenance bottlenecks and labour shortages continue to constrain operational efficiency and fleet modernisation plans across the region.

Resilience and collaboration on the agenda

The assembly will provide a platform for regional airline leaders to exchange perspectives on industry challenges and opportunities, including operational resilience, supply chain pressures, sustainable aviation and the importance of closer regional collaboration.

The meeting is being opened by Malaysia's Deputy Minister of Transport, Datuk Haji Hasbi bin Haji Habibollah. Malaysia Airlines is chairing AAPA for 2026, with Malaysia Aviation Group president and chief executive Captain Nasaruddin A. Bakar leading the host delegation alongside AAPA director general Wong Hong.

Source: Press KL