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The International Air Transport Association (Iata) has set a challenge for Asia to boost its presence within the worldwide aviation industry.

Giovanni Bisignani, the association's director general, called on airlines based in the region to 'join in the race' for industry leadership.

Mr Bisignani outlined three challenges facing the Asian air travel sector – competition from the Middle East, a shortage of skilled personnel and declining profitability.

However, there are also three opportunities that the industry can take advantage of, the Iata head claimed – liberalisation, security and the environment.

If these elements of the market can be used to its advantage, Asia could be one of the most important regions within world aviation within two years, Mr Bisignani claimed.

'Asia has over 50% of the world's population and will be our largest single market by 2010,' he said, speaking at the inaugural Singapore Airshow Aviation Leadership Summit.

'Asia needs to be part of the race to lead the industry with sound policies and innovation, along with the commercial race for market share.'

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