KUALA LUMPUR – The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines has played down the decision by Qantas to quit AAPA membership when it expires this year.
But there is speculation that if other airlines follow the lead of Qantas, the future of AAPA as a regional representative body could be under threat.
Andrew Herdman, director general, AAPA, said, “All airlines are under severe pressure given the impact of the global economic downturn.
“Nevertheless, the benefits of cooperation and working together on key industry policy issues have never been more evident.
“Whether it concerns safety, security, environment policy, or customer service standards, these are all important to the six million passengers who fly every day.â€
Herdman said AAPA would continue to work on behalf of all members of the Asia Pacific aviation community, “to promote the successful development of the industryâ€.
“AAPA engages with a wide range of industry stakeholders, and articulates Asia Pacific perspectives on global aviation policy issues.â€
He said membership of the AAPA “remains open to all international airlines based in the region, regardless of business modelâ€.
Qantas this week announced a non-equity alliance between its low cost subsidiary, Jetstar, and Asia’s lowest cost carrier, Air Asia.
In ending its four decade association with the AAPA regional body, Qantas executive David Epstein said, “Qantas continually reviews the effectiveness of public affairs activities, including membership of industry bodies. This includes international organisations, such as the AAPA.â€
The carrier said that its interests in the broader Asia-Pacific had increased significantly in scale, and now extended beyond those focussed on by the AAPA.
“With the growth of aviation in Asia, and the need to manage our premium brand, Qantas, and our low fare Jetstar brands, it is now more appropriate for the Qantas Group to manage more stakeholder relationships in the Asia -Pacific directly or in tandem with regional airline partners,” Epstein added.
