Last Updated on 2025 年 12 月 10 日 by 総合編集組
2026 Asia Aviation Boom: Record $41 Billion Profits and AirAsia’s Inclusive Hijab Uniform Revolution
The global aviation industry is poised for a landmark year in 2026, with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasting record net profits of $41 billion worldwide, up from $39.5 billion in 2025. This marks the first time total revenues are expected to surpass $1 trillion, reaching $1.053 trillion. Despite challenges like supply chain constraints and geopolitical tensions, the sector demonstrates remarkable resilience.
Asia-Pacific Leads Global Recovery
The Asia-Pacific region stands out as the primary growth driver. Passenger traffic, measured in revenue passenger kilometers (RPK), is projected to rise by 7.3% year-on-year—significantly outpacing the global average of 4.9%. Total global passenger numbers could hit 5.2 billion, fueled by robust economic momentum in markets like China, India, and Vietnam.
However, profitability per passenger in Asia-Pacific remains lower at $3.20 compared to the global $7.90, highlighting intense low-cost carrier competition and structural cost pressures. Load factors are anticipated to stay high at 83.8%, supporting yields amid limited aircraft supply.
Key Financial Highlights for 2026:
- Global Net Profit: $41 billion (Asia-Pacific: $6.6 billion)
- Total Revenue: $1.053 trillion
- Passenger Growth (RPK): Global 4.9%, Asia-Pacific 7.3%
- Return on Invested Capital (ROIC): 6.8% (still below weighted average cost of capital at 8.2%)
Airlines Want to be More Like Apple Despite Forecasts of Record …
AirAsia’s Groundbreaking Uniform Policy: A Step Toward Greater Inclusion
One of the most talked-about developments is AirAsia’s new cabin crew uniform policy, set to roll out in the first quarter of 2026. Female crew members will have the option to wear a hijab (tudung) on all flights, extending a privilege previously limited to specific routes like those to Saudi Arabia.
This change maintains the iconic red color scheme while introducing professionally tailored long-sleeve tops and pants for those opting for the hijab. AirAsia emphasizes that the decision stems from employee feedback, reinforcing its people-first culture. In a labor-short market, this move broadens talent attraction, particularly among Muslim women—nearly 40% of eligible crew in Malaysia and AirAsia X have shown interest.
Globally, this aligns with trends seen at carriers like Qantas (ending mandatory heels in 2023), Japan Airlines (allowing pants in 2020), and British Airways/Virgin Atlantic (expanding options for diversity).
Low-Cost Carriers Expand Aggressively
Low-cost carriers (LCCs) are capitalizing on demand. Cebu Pacific plans to add 7 aircraft in 2026, including widebodies, and launch Manila-Riyadh flights. Vietjet eyes 22 new planes to bolster Vietnam-Singapore links amid 13% domestic growth.
Full-service airlines focus on premium differentiation: Singapore Airlines introduces next-gen business class on A350s, while Cathay Pacific aims to restore pre-pandemic capacity and expand to 100 destinations.
Digital transformation is key—AirAsia evolves into a lifestyle platform with facial recognition boarding, and ANA optimizes operations via advanced tools.
Infrastructure Upgrades Unlock Capacity
Major hubs are set for breakthroughs. Hong Kong International Airport’s three-runway system fully activates in 2026, boosting capacity to 102 million passengers annually. Singapore’s Changi Terminal 5, with 50 million passenger capacity, emphasizes sustainability and passenger comfort.
Vietnam accelerates Long Thanh Airport to handle 95 million passengers.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel: Pragmatic Progress in Asia
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) adoption targets 5% by 2030 regionally, but global production slows to 2.4 million tons in 2026. Asia prioritizes local supply: Australia’s Queensland plant and Japan’s synthetic fuel initiatives lead the way, avoiding costly mandates.
Asia’s green jet fuel ambitions exceed demand, heralding exports …
Customer Experience Challenges Persist
Despite operational strengths, social media sentiment is declining. Response rates to queries hover at 25%. AirAsia faces complaints over delays, refunds (up to six months), and lack of human support. Premium carriers like Singapore Airlines see backlash on service standards and baggage handling.
Outlook: Resilience Amid Transformation
2026 represents a pivotal year for Asian aviation—balancing surging demand with constraints. Inclusive policies, infrastructure leaps, and sustainable shifts position the region for long-term success, though bridging digital service gaps remains critical.
