Despite lingering COVID-19 restrictions, most notably in China, the global airline industry mounted a strong recovery in 2022, with capacity forecast to end the year at around 87% of 2019 levels, according to the latest data by analysts at air travel intelligence company OAG. Barring any unforeseen setbacks, this growth trend is set to continue over the next 12 months, with the effects of the pandemic retreating into the distance. However, there are still major headwinds that could cause problems. Recruitment challenges, soaring costs, a looming recession, war in Europe and big question marks over the number and viability of carriers mean dark clouds are lurking on the horizon. Amid these changing times, industry leaders recently gathered in Las Vegas for the Routes World 2022 conference to discuss how to weather any future storm. Talks centred on how their respective networks may change in 2023, as well as their visions for the short and medium term, from fleet growth to recruitment challenges. AIR International was at the event to gauge the mood of the industry and assess how carriers from the region are approaching the year ahead.
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