Rebound in air traffic levels in Europe, recovery approaching pre-pandemic levels

Wednesday, July 12, 2023

The European Travel Commission (ETC) has published its “European Tourism: Trends & Prospects” report for the second quarter of 2023, which provides a detailed overview of the region’s most recent tourism and macroeconomic trends.

In terms of air travel, in 2022 and early 2023, the rebound in air traffic levels lagged behind consumer demand across Europe. However, the tide appears to be changing, with data up to June indicating that recovery is approaching pre-pandemic levels.

This is due to additional airline capacity on both European and international airlines, which will be available in time for the peak summer months.

This summer, European flight schedule is reverting to pre-pandemic 2019 levels, with seat capacity projected at 96%. According to the most recent data, European international Revenue Passenger Kilometres (RPKs) have maintained their gradual recovery, reaching 90.8% of 2019 levels in April.

It remains to be seen if airline capacity will be sufficient to fulfil demand this summer, while current schedules indicate that it will be. At the same time, possible interruptions from aviation strikes, workforce shortages, and war-related airspace closures continue to be a source of concern for the industry.

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