Routes Asia kicked-off in style yesterday with an engaging and thought-provoking Strategy Summit that debated some of the key topics impacting the aviation business across the region, including a debate on what Asia needs right now, enlightening presentations on the value of aviation in the region and how Asian travellers book travel and great insight on network connections and connections to networks and what the future looks like for aviation partnerships. Look out for stories from the afternoon’s sessions, below, while more will appear in tomorrow’s final event newsletter as well as in the traditional weekly newsletter send.

The Strategy Summit preceded last night’s Welcome Reception at the SM Mall of Asia in Bay City, Pasay, Philippines. Speaking to Routesonline at the event, Katie Bland, Director of Routes for UBM EMEA said: "The Philippines has gained an influential position within the aviation industry by hosting Routes Asia 2016. The Asian market is growing and there is scope to improve the country’s international air connectivity with new services.”

Here's some of the highlights from day one of the event...