Europe’s Regional Airlines Leading to Sustainable Growth

Intra-European airlines have recorded passenger growth of 8.2 percent while growth in the number of flights has slowed from 3 percent to 1.3 percent 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 percent, 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.