Airports in Asia-Pacific and Middle East to invest $240 billion in expansion by 2035

Airports in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East are set for a combined investment of US$240 billion between 2025 and 2035, targeting both the upgrade of existing facilities and construction of new airports. This was revealed by Airports Council International Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID), representing over 600 airports across 46 countries and territories.

Details on Middle East and Asia airports’ investment 

A recent ACI APAC & MID survey of more than 30 key airports outlined two strategic focuses: brownfield (modernising existing infrastructure) and greenfield (new airport development). Brownfield projects will account for US$136 billion, creating capacity for 680 million additional passengers and 14 million tonnes of cargo. Greenfield projects will see US$104 billion invested to add capacity for 562 million passengers and 57 million tonnes of cargo.

The total increase—1.24 billion passengers and 71 million tonnes of cargo—is equivalent to 13 Dubai International Airports in passenger volume and 14 times Hong Kong International Airport’s cargo throughput. This growth will help meet anticipated demand in the region.

SGK Kishore, President of ACI APAC & MID, said: “The US$240 billion investment is not just about concrete and runways, it’s about socio-economic development in the region.”

Stefano Baronci, Director General of ACI APAC & MID, added: “In today’s increasingly complex economic landscape, we need the continuous support of governments to further liberalise air transportation and streamline visa policies across region.”

By 2053, airports in these regions are projected to serve nearly 11 billion passengers, up from 3.9 billion in 2024. The investment strategy remains closely aligned with market demand, ensuring sustainability and operational efficiency. Financial sustainability will also rely on balanced adjustments to airport charges to recover capital costs while remaining affordable.

Looking ahead, sustainability and digitalisation will define airport evolution—enabling reduced carbon footprints and more efficient passenger experiences. This investment marks a pivotal shift in infrastructure planning, balancing resilience, innovation, and growth across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.

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