Broadband access to the Internet in the airline passenger cabin is spreading rapidly. Many passengers want it and are willing to pay for it. Technology enables it at lower costs and with higher quality. Airlines want to please passengers and make money, either directly by charging for Internet access, or indirectly by filling more seats or receiving higher fares.

IATA said airlines globally can expect to see the record profit levels achieved in 2015 again this year, but with major variations across different regions.

Tony Tyler took up the position as the sixth IATA Director General and CEO in July 2011 with the challenge of how to build further on a strong foundation. In his close to five years at the association, there is resounding agreement across the industry that his exemplary leadership has achieved just that.

It seems to me that a signature of your leadership style at IATA is partnership. Was that a deliberate policy starting out?

When it comes to the environment, Lufthansa Group and Frankfurt Airport operator Fraport demonstrate how working together can greatly increase the dividends.

For Air New Zealand, living up to the very high environmental standards expected by New Zealanders and by visitors to this unique country is a huge responsibility.

Juneyao Airlines is a role model among privately held carriers in China. While some other domestic airlines are struggling financially, Juneyao has been profitable since it launched in 2006.