Intra-European airlines have recorded passenger growth of 8.2% while growth in the number of flights has slowed from 3% to 1.3% in 2006, proving that passenger growth can be accommodated while…
Intra-European airlines have recorded passenger growth of 8.2% while growth in the number of flights has slowed from 3% to 1.3% in 2006, proving that passenger growth can be accommodated while reducing the environmental impact of aviation, an important factor in the battle against climate change.
Figures released today by the European Regions Airline Association (ERA) also report average passenger loads of 63.9%, an almost 2.5 point rise over 2005 and the highest load factor recorded for year end results since ERA began collecting data in 1987. Average aircraft seating capacity has also grown steadily throughout the year, reaching 70 seats in December 2006. In short, ERA airlines are carrying more passengers, but on fewer flights and in slightly larger aircraft.
In contrast to this positive growth, yields have been consistently lower in 2006 than in 2005.
“ERA airlines have a history of meeting challenges head on and the issue of climate change is one we take very seriously,” says ERA director general, Mike Ambrose. “By exercising prudent cost-containment strategies, these airlines have demonstrated that environmentally sustainable growth is achievable.”
“Flying is one of the more efficient forms of transport. Global airline CO2 efficiency per passenger improved by nearly 20% in the last decade and at least 25% additional improvement is expected by 20201. No other form of transport has made such consistently huge strides in limiting its environmental impact, nor is constantly seeking ways to improve even further,” says Ambrose.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
