Aviation industry should reinforce institutional capacity to absorb global volatility - Hasbi

KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah has urged the aviation industry to bolster its resilience against global economic fluctuations and external uncertainties, emphasizing safety as the utmost priority. During the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) 70th Assembly of Presidents (AP70), Hasbi highlighted the need for stringent regulatory oversight, independent civil aviation governance, and strict adherence to international standards to maintain passenger trust.

He advocated for enhanced collaboration within the industry to alleviate pressure points, such as expanding maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities, streamlining cross-border regulatory certifications, harmonizing air traffic management, and accelerating technical training for future aerospace professionals. Hasbi also stressed the critical importance of cybersecurity and the resilience of flight data in the face of digitization and interconnectedness within the industry's operational architectures.

Furthermore, he addressed the pivotal role of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), calling for commercial availability, secure supply chains, and competitive pricing. Hasbi stressed that Asia Pacific, as the world's largest and fastest-growing aviation market, must focus on securing certified feedstocks, developing domestic refining infrastructure, establishing robust logistics chains, and narrowing the green premium against conventional jet fuel.

AAPA director general Wong Hong echoed these sentiments, noting the region's impressive operational and commercial resilience despite a challenging operating environment. He attributed this resilience to Asia Pacific's expanding middle class, rising disposable incomes, urbanization, and strong demand for international travel.