Demand for air travel to Asia up but economy class prices fall

Average fares for flights to Asia rose two per cent between March and June as demand for travel to the region increased, American Express Business Travel has reported.

In spite of an often bitter public climate change debate, it seems that travellers' appetite to hit the Asia-Pacific has not abated, with thousand flying out of Gatwick Airport and Heathrow Airport each year looking for adventure.

Japan and Australia are the largest powers in the region, but a host of hot spots favoured by travellers on a shoestring, such as Thailand and Laos, are nearby.

"The Asia Pacific region tends to demonstrate higher and more consistent profitability for its air carriers compared to the European and North American markets," said Kurt Knackstedt, head of American Express Business Travel Advisory Services.

In excellent news for UK tourists, he also noted that the average price of full economy fares to the region fell by 15 per cent over the quarter, making Asia a more affordable destination for any eager to explore China, Hong Kong, or Singapore.

Travellers currently in the region may find it difficult to keep away from Vietnam this week, meanwhile, as the Miss Vietnam beauty contest begins at the beach resort town of Nha Trang.