EVA Air's Response to U.S. Tariff Policies: Adjusting Flight Routes and Adding Cargo Flights to Southeast Asia
In response to the U.S. reciprocal tariff policy, EVA Air is closely monitoring the changes in passenger demand during the summer and anticipates a shift in some cargo volume from China to Southeast Asia. The company has launched a route adjustment plan, aiming to add cargo flights to destinations like Penang, Hanoi, and Bangkok. General Manager Sun Chia-ming mentioned that passenger transport saw growth in the first quarter, while the cargo market is adjusting its routes due to supply chain shifts, allowing for a flexible response to market changes.
Key Updates
04/30 09:02
EVA Air's Response to U.S. Tariff Policies: Adjusting Flight Routes and Adding Cargo Flights to Southeast Asia
In response to the U.S. reciprocal tariff policy, EVA Air is closely monitoring the changes in passenger demand during the summer and anticipates a shift in some cargo volume from China to Southeast Asia. The company has launched a route adjustment plan, aiming to add cargo flights to destinations like Penang, Hanoi, and Bangkok. General Manager Sun Chia-ming mentioned that passenger transport saw growth in the first quarter, while the cargo market is adjusting its routes due to supply chain shifts, allowing for a flexible response to market changes.
Passenger Demand: Growth in the First Quarter, Uncertain Summer Outlook
EVA Air's General Manager, Sun Chia-ming, stated at the "BizFam Global Corporate Travel Rewards Program" launch on April 30, 2025, that despite the uncertainty in the market caused by the U.S. reciprocal tariff policy, passenger demand in the first quarter of this year was still better than the same period last year, indicating that business and family travel demands have not been significantly affected. He noted, "Passenger demand in the first half of this year is still growing healthily, with the first quarter showing growth compared to the same period last year, including business and family travel."
However, regarding the upcoming summer travel peak season, Sun Chia-ming admitted that travelers might delay bookings due to concerns, and overall demand remains in a wait-and-see phase. He emphasized that the current U.S. tariff policy has a 90-day grace period, and the company is closely monitoring market dynamics, maintaining an optimistic attitude towards the final negotiation results.
Cargo Market: Stable Chinese Cargo Volume but Clear Trend of Shifting
In terms of cargo, Sun Chia-ming pointed out that mainland China remains the most significantly affected region in Asia for export cargo volume, but cargo flights from China are still operating at high capacity. He said, "Currently, cargo flights from mainland China are still full, not only flying to the U.S. but also to many other Asian countries."
Nevertheless, EVA Air has observed that some shippers are beginning to adjust their supply chains, shifting some cargo volume from China to Southeast Asian countries. Sun Chia-ming stated, "It is anticipated that some cargo volume may shift from China, and EVA's cargo flights will also adjust routes accordingly, such as increasing flights to Southeast Asian destinations like Penang, Hanoi, or Bangkok."
This trend aligns with the recent global supply chain restructuring phenomenon, especially under the backdrop of high tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Chinese goods, prompting many companies to relocate production and shipping bases to regions less affected by tariffs.
Route Realignment and Capacity Deployment
To respond to changes in the cargo market, EVA Air has initiated a route realignment plan. Sun Chia-ming revealed that the company is considering increasing cargo flight frequencies to Southeast Asian destinations, particularly Penang, Hanoi, and Bangkok. He noted that these areas are not only emerging manufacturing centers but also have good logistics infrastructure, effectively accommodating cargo volume shifted from China.
Additionally, EVA Air anticipates that with the return-to-school and school opening waves in the second and third quarters, the air cargo market may experience congestion. Sun Chia-ming stated that the company will continue to monitor market demand and adjust flights and capacity allocation as needed.
Charter Flights and E-commerce Cargo: Limited Impact from May Day Holiday
Regarding the cancellation of some charter flights in early May, Sun Chia-ming explained that the main reason was flight adjustments during China's May Day holiday, not a decline in market demand. He emphasized, "The charter operations are proceeding smoothly, with no reductions or cancellations."
As for e-commerce cargo, although the U.S. still retains the $800 small exemption policy in May, which may affect some e-commerce shipments, overall cargo contracts have not seen a significant reduction. Sun Chia-ming noted that e-commerce operators are actively adjusting strategies to respond to policy changes.
New Aircraft Deliveries and Capacity Expansion
In terms of capacity deployment, EVA Air still has 53 new aircraft awaiting delivery, including Boeing 787, Airbus A350-1000, and A321neo models. These new aircraft will help the company continue to expand capacity in both passenger and cargo markets, enhancing route flexibility and service capabilities.
