Regional airlines in Europe recorded scheduled passenger growth of 7.1% for the first half of the year – up from 2.9% for the same period in 2010
The latest figures from the European Regions Airline Association (ERA), which represents 65 airlines, suggest regional carriers are beginning to climb out of recession.
While the volcanic ash disruptions in April last year created a distorted growth figure for the first half of 2011, “current indications suggest that intra-European airlines are beginning to show signs of recovery from the global economic crisis,” the organisation said.
But economic uncertainty in Europe and anticipated regulatory proposals “continue to cloud future prospects”.
Director general Mike Ambrose told the ERA general assembly in Rome: “Once again intra-European airlines demonstrate that they are resilient, resourceful and required by the citizens of Europe.
“However, the industry’s stability is threatened by considerable economic uncertainty in Europe compounded by a series of forthcoming regulatory proposals which includes airport slots, emissions trading, VAT on air fares and even bankruptcy protection for consumers.
“It is time for Europe’s regulatory bodies to recognise intra-European airlines as economic enablers for Europe and to work with us, not against us, towards common goals on Europe’s economy, mobility, competitiveness and social cohesion.”
ERA airlines recorded a reduction of fuel burn per passenger kilometre, illustrating the use of more fuel efficient aircraft.
Average flight sector distance increased to 629km for the period, up from 622km a year earlier, with average seating capacity rising by one seat to 77. Passenger load factor rose from 64% to 64.7% at the same time.