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AAPA says Asia-Pacific airlines facing increased operational risks amid ongoing conflicts
March 18th 2026
The Association of Asia-Pacific Airlines (AAPA) said shrinking safe pathways for air travel along the Asia-Europe air corridor have increased operational risks and costs for airlines. Read More » In addition to the conflict in the Gulf region, airspace has been constrained due to military fighting in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Russia and Ukraine. "Higher jet fuel prices and insurance premiums, together with increased operating costs from longer flight routings, are placing additional strain on the airline industry," the regional airline lobby group said. "Flight crews and operators rely on timely intelligence, robust risk assessments and clear, state-issued airspace information when operating near conflict-affected regions. If the hostilities persist, governments should consider measures to support the industry in mitigating operational challenges and maintaining global air connectivity, which remains vital to economic activity and social wellbeing." AAPA said governments were able to support airlines through providing timely threat information, maintaining clear and responsive airspace restrictions and facilitating coordinated repatriation arrangements." It noted collaboration between government and industry was crucial to managing the impact of major global disruptions such as COVID-19 pandemic and the September 11 terrorist attacks in the U.S. in 2001.
