January 2013 Regional aviation soars in Asia Pacific By Sarah Chew cific’s share of world gross domestic product is projected to expand from Asia, with its booming economic 28 percent today to 36 percent in 2031 growth, improved infrastructure, top with nearly half of the world’s air traf- convention and tourism destinations fic growth driven by travel to, from, or and increased spending is now the within the region. epicentre where changes in global Brisk market growth is expected mobility, operations and markets take to be sustained, as the Association of place. Today, Asia Pacific has some of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) rein- the world’s largest and most efficient forces business and leisure travel ties cargo operators. with China and Taiwan. Growth will The Association of Asia Pacific also be driven by the relaxing of do- Airlines’ (AAPA) 2011 estimates show mestic market regulation within the that Asia Pacific aviation raked in $163 aforementioned countries, with im- billion in revenue with Asia Pacific proved service between capitals, all carriers accounting for 27 percent of leading to a more a cohesive aviation global passenger traffic and 41 percent market. of global cargo traffic. In 2012, airlines Complementing this transition are increased engagement for “ongoing regional air shows which have expanded Photos courtesy of Kingsmen capital investment in fleets, airports tremendously over the last decade. Ma- Asian Pacific-based airlines carriers are responsble for a growing amount of passenger and other services infrastructure” said jor air shows like Aero India, Airshow and cargo traffic each year. Andrew Herdman, director general, China, Asian Aerospace, Indodefence International Maritime and Aerospace to have a strong presence at major air AAPA. Expo and Forum, Japan Aerospace, Seoul Exhibition continue to attract exhibitors shows for better access to buyers and Based on Boeing’s long-term mar- International Aerospace & Defense Exhi- and visitors from all over the world. to foster strategic partnerships with ket outlook for 2012-2031, Asia Pa- bition, Singapore Airshow and Langkawi The neighbouring United Arab the aviation community at large,” said Emirates is also making its presence Anthony Chong, managing director of felt in the industry with the Dubai Air Kingsmen Exhibits Pte Ltd. “We are Show, and more recently, the 18th able to support clients like the Civil Avi- World Route Development Forum, also ation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), known as World Routes 2012, held in Kallman Worldwide Inc. and Korea Abu Dhabi. These shows are important Aerospace Industries with the design as global meeting places for airlines, and/or build of their booths, chalets airports, maintenance, repair and over- and pavilions at these air shows.” haul providers, defence contractors, With six airports in Asia listed in civil and military aviation companies the Top 10 for the 2012 World Airport and tourism authorities to examine air services and get updates on new mar- Awards – three of which clinched the ket developments. top 3 spots (South Korea, Singapore The increase in the number of air and Hong Kong respectively), the Asia shows and participants has also raised Pacific region is well-positioned to sus- the level of competition, urging aviation tain its growth as a bustling air hub. companies, providers and authorities The contributor is the sales & mar- to differentiate themselves and step up keting director of Kingsmen Exhibits their game in supporting the region’s Pte Ltd, a leading communication de- Major air shows like Seoul International Aerospace & Defense Exhibition continue to attract developments. sign and production group in Asia Pa- exhibitors and visitors from all over the world. “It is crucial for aviation companies cific and the Middle East.