TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — EVA Air held an investor conference on Monday, where Chief Executive Vice President Liao Chi-wei (廖至維) said multiple variables are affecting the aviation industry this year, creating more challenges and contributing to higher airfare.

Liao was cautiously optimistic about the airline’s performance, noting that global demand for passenger travel and air freight remains strong. Revenue is expected to grow 4.4% year-on-year and exceed US$1 trillion (NT$30.15 trillion) for the first time, per UDN.

Regarding ticket prices, Liao said that rising costs and strong demand make discounted fares unlikely. He added that prices are more likely to rise than fall, with the trend expected to continue for the foreseeable future.

Airfare has increased by 40% compared to pre-COVID levels in 2019. The largest declines have been seen on routes to Hong Kong, Macao, and China, while prices on North American routes have dropped by less than 2%.

Despite the introduction of tariffs by former US President Donald Trump, summer vacation bookings have continued to grow year-on-year. Demand for tourism and family visits to Europe and the US remains strong, while Australia is also seeing growing momentum.

Bookings in Southeast Asia are active, and demand in Northeast Asia remains strong. EVA Air will continue to expand its route network, including the recently added service to Kobe, Japan.

North American routes will see added flights to Seattle during the summer travel season, and a new route to Dallas will launch in October. These additions aim to boost the density of EVA Air’s North American network and capture market opportunities from Southeast Asian passengers transiting through the US

Liao said appreciation of the Taiwan dollar has also boosted outbound travel, as citizens benefit from stronger purchasing power abroad. Currency appreciation has further reduced fuel costs for the airline, as fuel is priced in US dollars.