AAPA Appoints Wong Hong as Director General, Succeeding Subhas Menon
The Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) has announced a significant leadership transition, with Wong Hong appointed as the organization’s new Director General effective April 1, 2026. He will succeed Subhas Menon, who has led AAPA since March 2020.
Wong’s appointment reflects a strategic choice grounded in extensive international aviation credentials. With more than 22 years of industry experience, Wong has held senior commercial positions at two of the world’s largest carriers. At Singapore Airlines, he developed expertise in network planning, revenue management, and sales operations. Most recently, he served as Delta Air Lines’ President for China, based in Shanghai, where he spearheaded the carrier’s growth strategy through a partnership with China Eastern Airlines.
His regional footprint is particularly relevant to AAPA’s mission. Wong has held postings across China, India, Thailand, and Vietnam—key markets for Asia Pacific aviation. Earlier career positions at SATS in ground handling and catering, combined with roles in distribution and financial services at IATA, provide him with comprehensive industry knowledge spanning operations, commercial strategy, and regulatory engagement.
“I am honoured to be entrusted with this role and look forward to working closely with our member airlines and industry stakeholders,” Wong stated. “The Asia Pacific region is central to global aviation, and I am committed to building on AAPA’s strong foundation as we work together to support the sustainable growth and competitiveness of our region’s industry.”
Menon’s tenure represents a transformative period for the trade association. Joining AAPA during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Menon demonstrated resilience in expanding membership to 18 airlines despite unprecedented industry headwinds. Throughout his six years, he strengthened AAPA’s advocacy capabilities and deepened relationships with regulators and industry partners—critical functions as the Asia Pacific region navigates sustainability mandates, capacity recovery, and evolving geopolitical dynamics.
Menon, who brings 35 years of experience from the Singapore Airlines Group, is recognized throughout the aviation community for his communicative approach and industry engagement, including his notably witty speeches at international aviation forums.
Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, AAPA Chairman 2025 and President of Bangkok Airways, praised Menon’s contributions while endorsing Wong’s appointment. “Under his guidance, AAPA has strengthened its advocacy efforts and deepened engagement with regulators and industry partners during a period of significant change,” Prasarttong-Osoth said. He added that Wong’s “extensive regional experience, strategic insight and deep industry knowledge” position AAPA well for future challenges.
APA’s role as the trade association for international carriers in the Asia Pacific region has grown increasingly significant as the world’s largest aviation market faces evolving regulatory pressures, sustainability requirements, and competitive dynamics. Wong’s leadership arrives at a critical juncture for industry recovery and adaptation.
Source ID: SRCE-2025-1764601246239-1041