Why are Asian airlines urgently seeking government support, according to AAPA’s new director general?

Asian airlines urgently need government support because jet fuel prices have more than doubled, putting carriers at risk of collapse—similar to the recent shutdown of US-based Spirit Airlines Inc. Wong Hong, AAPA’s new director general, emphasized that without timely intervention, some airlines could face the same fate, and stressed the need for varied relief measures, including direct financial aid and flexibility to cut flight schedules without penalty.

What specific forms of government support have been implemented in Asia so far, and which major airlines remain unsupported?

Since the Iran war began in late February, Malaysia has offered airport fee extensions and exemptions, while India reduced duties on jet fuel; however, Hong Kong airlines and state-controlled Air New Zealand Ltd. have received no support despite forecasting a large full-year loss that forced accelerated cost cuts. Additionally, AAPA’s Wong Hong highlighted that governments have criticized airlines for cutting flights—a sign of insufficient understanding of the sector’s fragility—and urged authorities to recognize the airline ecosystem’s critical importance to prevent collapses.

Asian Airlines Seek Govt Support Amidst Jet Fuel Price Surge, Trade Body Warns

May 18, 2026

The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines urges government aid as jet fuel prices double, warning of potential carrier collapses akin to Spirit Airlines amidst rising geopolitical tensions.

bloomberg

2026-05-18

Asian Airlines Seek Govt Support Amidst Jet Fuel Price Surge, Trade Body Warns

Asian Airlines Seek Govt Support Amidst Jet Fuel Price Surge, Trade Body Warns

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