One-Third of APAC’s Business Jets Are Long-Range—What’s Driving the Demand? 

The Asia Pacific’s business aviation market is undergoing a significant transformation making it an extremely exciting and challenging region to operate in. It is a market characterized by a combination of rapid growth and diverse demands, as well as evolving dynamics the reflect both regional and global trends. Economic growth is fuelling the upward trajectory of the market; and in tandem, regulatory complexities and geopolitical uncertainty represent challenges for operators. Ultimately, the rising demand for luxury and efficient air travel in the region is undoubted, making it one of the most dynamic regional markets in the world. Let’s consider what is driving this market in light of some data for 2024 recently published by Asian Sky Group.

It’s reported that at the close of 2024, the Asia Pacific boasted 1,156 active civil registered business jets, marking a modest 1.2% year-on-year increase and demonstrating a steadily growing demand for private air travel. This is driven by a dominant demand for non-stop international connectivity and the resulting preference for long range business jets. Executives in APAC increasingly need to travel non-stop for business between cities like Tokyo, Singapore, Hong Kong, and New York. Long-range jets – like the Global Express offer the flexibility and global reach required for this and are high in demand. In fact, long-range jets now account for one-third of the total Asia-Pacific fleet. And while the number of new deliveries is increasing, there is also a growing interest in pre-owned aircraft.

Another notable feature of the APAC market over the past year is the continued prominence of mainland China which maintained the largest business jet fleet in the region at 249. This is despite a net reduction of 21 aircraft, indicating a steadily strong demand for private aviation. In South Asia, India, with its rapidly growing economy and strategic position, is continuing to develop as an important travel hub. In Southeast Asia, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, are seeing rapid growth in business aviation fuelled by increasing wealth, tourism, and improved infrastructure.

The vastness of this continent brings differing regulatory environments which can easily scupper business aviation operations. Operators need to navigate complex airspace regulations, airport restrictions, and customs procedures across various countries. This makes working with a reliable trip support partner incredibly important, and this is being reflected in demand for trip support solutions that ensure consistency, quality, safety, and efficiency. As this dynamic market continues to evolve, both operators and manufacturers are positioning themselves to meet the diverse needs of an increasingly diverse and affluent client base. There is no doubt as to this region’s growing demand and expanding role in global business travel.

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