Connectivity and airspace closures dominated the discussions as more than 1,000 senior aviation professionals gathered in the historic city of Xi’an in central China for the opening day of Routes Asia 2026i at the Xi’an International Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The event brought together airlines, airports, tourism authorities and industry suppliers to forge new partnerships and plan future connectivity. Organisers highlighted that over six hundred new air services in the region have previously stemmed from similar meetings, underlining the practical value of these gatherings in driving post pandemic recovery and market expansion.
Opening remarks by the mayor of Xi’an emphasised Xi’an’s strategic role as a growing aviation hub with ambitions to strengthen its long haul network, positioning the ancient Silk Road starting point as a modern gateway for enhanced regional and international links. Participants engaged in a full schedule of face to face meetings, networking opportunities and conference sessions that explored actions needed to stimulate future growth amid strong but evolving demand patterns. Industry leaders discussed rebuilding route networks, with particular focus on intra Asia travel rebound and the restoration of long haul connections involving markets such as Europe, North America and beyond.
Key themes on the first day included infrastructure readiness, collaborative marketing efforts between airports and airlines, and the importance of flexible scheduling to meet traveller expectations for premium services and seamless connections. Several destinations, including those from Vietnam and Malaysia, showcased their preparedness to welcome increased international visitors through upgraded facilities and targeted cooperation proposals. Attendees noted the event’s role in affirming the Asia Pacific’s position as a leader in defining its own aviation trends rather than following global patterns, with emphasis on sustainable connectivity and innovative network strategies. China West Airport Group, as host, extended a warm welcome and facilitated discussions aimed at concrete outcomes for new routes.
With more than 70 airlines already registered and broad international participation from countries including the United States, England, Japan, Thailand and Australia, Routes Asia 2026 is set to deliver tangible progress in regional aviation growth.
