Airline leaders gathered in Brunei at the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines Assembly to drive sustainability, enhance safety, and streamline global travel.

The 68th Assembly of Presidents organized by the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) unfolded in Brunei Darussalam on November 14, 2024, bringing together top executives and decision-makers from across the region. The assembly focused on the most pressing challenges in the aviation sector, including sustainability, safety, and streamlining regulations for international travel. Resolutions adopted during the event will shape the future of aviation in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

Commitment to Sustainability in Aviation

Addressing the urgent need to mitigate aviation’s environmental impact, AAPA airlines reiterated their commitment to reducing their carbon footprint. The assembly highlighted the increased risks posed by climate change, such as extreme weather events that could disrupt aviation safety and operations.

A resolution emphasized the necessity of a multi-pronged strategy aligned with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) net zero emissions reduction roadmap. This approach involves scaling up the production and deployment of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), leveraging innovative technologies, and implementing the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

Despite the current limited availability of SAF, the assembly identified co-processed SAF—produced using sustainable feedstock combined with fossil fuels in conventional refineries—as a cost-effective and immediate solution. This approach could ensure a swift transition while making SAF available at major airports.

Advancing Aviation Safety in the Asia-Pacific Region

Ensuring aviation safety is the foundation of the industry’s core operations. Recognizing the heightened risks posed by loss of control in-flight and other critical incidents, the AAPA Assembly adopted a resolution urging collaboration among civil aviation authorities, safety agencies, and airlines.

The focus is on sharing data-driven best practices and implementing safety measures tailored to the Asia-Pacific region’s specific risk categories. Enhanced coordination will not only improve safety outcomes but also establish a unified framework for addressing emerging challenges across the sector.

Challenges from Supply Chain Disruptions and Airspace Closures

The assembly acknowledged the ongoing disruptions caused by supply chain constraints and airspace closures. These factors have led to increased flight diversions, delays, and cancellations, while also hindering long-term growth in the aviation sector.

Leaders stressed the importance of addressing these challenges collaboratively to ensure that the industry can continue to expand and meet growing demand.

Regulatory Streamlining for Seamless International Travel

In light of evolving regulations and rising operational costs, the assembly passed a resolution urging governments to avoid unilateral measures that impose undue burdens on airlines and travelers. Such measures, they argued, often result in limited benefits while disproportionately inconveniencing the public and driving up costs.

Instead, the assembly called for greater recognition of aviation’s pivotal role in the global economy. It encouraged closer collaboration among governments, industry stakeholders, and service providers to simplify protocols and ensure seamless international travel.

Strengthening the Value of Aviation in the Global Economy

The assembly underscored the vital contribution of aviation to the global economy, emphasizing that the industry serves as a critical enabler of commerce, tourism, and cultural exchange. Leaders urged stakeholders to work collectively to enhance the sector’s efficiency and sustainability, ensuring its long-term viability as a driver of economic growth.

Call for Immediate Action on SAF Deployment

One of the most actionable takeaways from the assembly was the focus on rapidly increasing the supply and accessibility of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The resolution highlighted the importance of co-processed SAF in bridging the gap between current capabilities and long-term goals. Airlines and fuel suppliers were encouraged to work together to stimulate the production and availability of SAF, creating a ripple effect across the industry.

A Transformative Moment for Asia-Pacific Aviation

The 68th Assembly of Presidents of the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) marked a transformative moment for the region’s aviation industry. With resolutions addressing sustainability, safety, and streamlined regulations, the assembly set the stage for collaborative action and innovation.

As the Asia-Pacific region continues to lead the global aviation sector, the commitments made in Brunei Darussalam will play a crucial role in driving progress toward a sustainable, safe, and efficient future for airlines and travelers alike.

Key Takeaways from the AAPA Assembly

1. Sustainability: Adoption of the ICAO net zero emissions roadmap and a call for immediate SAF deployment.
2. Safety: Strengthened collaboration among stakeholders to address key risks in aviation safety.
3. Streamlining Regulations: Emphasis on avoiding unilateral measures and fostering closer cooperation to enhance travel protocols.
4. Supply Chain and Airspace Challenges: Recognition of current disruptions and the need for industry-wide solutions.

With these resolutions in place, the AAPA Assembly has not only reaffirmed its commitment to tackling today’s challenges but also paved the way for a brighter future in aviation.

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