Asia Pacific Travel Growth remains Strong

Asia Pacific travel growth continues to remain strong, according to the latest booking figures issued today by travel facilitator, Abacus International.

In September 2005, total bookings (FIT + domestic + group) on the Abacus system increased by 14% over the corresponding period in 2004 to more than 4.47 million.

Abacus President and CEO Don Birch said, “As we enter the last quarter of what looks to be another record year for the industry, we see that Intra-Asia travel is continuing to drive the growth in Asia Pacific travel. We expect this growth to continue through 2006, fuelled by the estimated 7.5% growth in passenger volumes from 2004 to 2008 predicted by the International Air Transport Association.

“That said, in recent years travel – especially short-haul intra-Asia travel – has proven to be resilient to periodic shock events, and because travel is now considered by many to be a consumer ‘right’ rather than a luxury, it will continue to remain resilient in the face of rising fuel prices.”

As with previous months, Intra-Asia travel accounted for the majority of bookings made at more than 81%. Star performer this month was again the Asia to Middle East travel route, with strong growth figures showing a 117% increase in bookings over the corresponding period in 2004. Travel between Asia and the Middle East have been showing strong growth signs month on month since July this year. Factors contributing to this rise in consumer and business travel can be linked to the stronger ties being formed between the governments of Asia and the Middle East, thus spurring an increase in business and trade relations.

E-ticketing

Electronic ticketing for the month of September 2005 increased by 80% over September 2004, with the newer e-ticketing markets such as the Philippines and Thailand recording the highest growth rates at 454% and 730% respectively. Some 3.45 million e-tickets have been issued to date this year on the Abacus system, an increase of 82% over the same period last year.

“E-ticketing continues to be a very efficient and cost-effective travel option for the travel agent, the traveller and the airline, as it reduces overheads and offers travellers greater security and convenience,” said Mr Birch.

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