SubscribeThe rise of European 'low cost' airlines and new 'point to point' air services have had a significant impact for smaller airports in 2004.
There was growth of around 10% in seats at smaller airports in Europe in 2004. Larger airports with over 5m seats, who face all the challenges of infrastructure and delays as well as dependence on flag carriers saw average capacity growth of around 6%.
This higher growth rate for smaller airports was not without casualties, with the rate of discontinuation of services also higher. These findings come from a recent analysis of European airline capacity trends 2003-4 by Airclaims International Transport and Tourism Consultancy (ITTC), which shows that overall intra - European scheduled departing seats were up 7.5% in 2004.
When analysed in terms of expanded services, new services or discontinued services, the changes shown for small airports were the most volatile. The level of discontinued seats was almost 1/3 of the level of additional seats in 2004. These additional seats were fairly evenly split between expanded and new services (see chart)
Within each airport group there were very big differences seen, with the following airports being some of those registering notable changes:
Change in departing seats 2004 vs. 2003, Intra Europe services
A more detailed report on individual airports can be obtained free of charge from ittc@airclaims.com
Airclaims International Transport and Tourism Consultancy (ITTC), based in London and Montreal, carries out research, market analysis and forecasting for airports, airlines, industry suppliers and other leading clients. Further details from: http://www.airclaims.com/Ittc/IttcHome.aspx
