Analysis The COVID-19 pandemic has sent many airlines spinning into financial ruin, and some will not survive the industry’s largest crisis. However, there are still a handful of Asia-Pacific start-up airlines that are defying the bleak environment and persevering with plans to launch operations. In Hong Kong, Vietnam, South Korea and Pakistan, new airlines are pushing ahead with their market entrances. In most cases the pandemic has delayed their plans, either due to disruptions to their own preparations, slower regulatory approvals, or changes to aircraft delivery schedules. There is no doubt they are entering service during extremely challenging market conditions. However, they do have some advantages.