The current solid economic situation is predicted to lead to a rise in the cost of business class travel during the year. Meanwhile, the prices for economy class are projected to stay relatively steady, according to market experts.
American Express Global Business Travel Consulting has suggested that a robust demand may trigger a 7.4% surge in business class fares for routes from Asia to the Middle East.
Routes from Asia to Europe could see a fare increase of around 4.8%, while a 3.4% hike is expected for Asia to Australia journeys.
The consulting firm also noted that the highly popular route between India and Singapore might witness a significant rise in fares. The air passenger traffic on this route reached an all-time high in 2024, with more than 5.5 million passengers according to data from Singapore Changi Airport.
American Express Global Business Travel Consulting further mentioned that a hike in business class fares from Singapore to the US is anticipated. From 2026 onwards, all flights departing from Singapore will be required to use sustainable aviation fuel.
Linus Bauer, the founder of aviation consultancy BAA & Partners, anticipates that passenger traffic in the Asia-Pacific region will increase moderately by 4% to 6%, equivalent to 150-200 million passengers, taking the total tally to approximately 3.8 billion.
He believes that 2026 will bring a more mature pricing environment where economy fares will gradually decline, while premium yields will remain relatively stable.
In the high-density, price-sensitive markets of South-east Asia, South Asia and Oceania, Bauer anticipates that average economy fares will be 5% to 10% lower than in 2025. This decline is expected due to an increase in narrow-body capacity and a larger market share for budget airlines.
On the other hand, business and first-class fares are projected to remain steady or improve modestly by 2% to 5%. This stability is predicted to be supported by a stronger demand for premium leisure travel and a resurgence in corporate travel.
Rico Merkert, a transportation and supply chain management professor at the University of Sydney, warns that inflationary pressures, such as increased airport and labour costs, will burden airlines. These costs are likely to be passed on to passengers, resulting in higher airfares, unless jet fuel prices remain low.
However, he adds that the continued expansion of budget airlines and new entrants into the low-cost segment should help maintain the affordability of air travel in the Asia-Pacific region in 2026.
What factors could potentially lead to a rise in business class fares?
Strong demand and regulatory requirements to use sustainable aviation fuel are two factors that could drive up business class fares.
What trends are expected in the economy class segment?
Economy fares are projected to gradually decline due to increased competition from budget carriers and an increase in narrow-body capacity.
How might inflationary pressures impact airfares?
Inflationary pressures such as higher airport and labour costs could lead to a rise in airfares, as airlines are likely to pass these costs on to passengers.
