In 2024, who is responsible for the introduction of more than 1,300 new flight connections in Europe?

IN BRIEF In 2024, over 1,300 new air connections were opened in Europe. Ryanair created the highest number of new routes with 208 openings. easyJet follows with 155 new lines. The connections include seasonal and recurring openings. The majority of openings come from low-cost airlines. Norwegian Airlines and Wizz Air are also among the notable players. Intra-European flights dominate the landscape of new connections. Low-cost airlines adopt a flexible and responsive model to test markets.

In 2024, European aviation is experiencing a true explosion with the opening of over 1,300 new air connections. This expansion is not a coincidence but rather the result of a dynamic orchestrated by several airlines, notably the low-cost carriers that dominate the market. Through this analysis, we will delve into the fascinating world of air carriers to discover who is pulling the strings of this growth and the economic and environmental implications of these new openings.

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In 2024, the European airline industry experienced a true explosion with the opening of over 1,300 new air connections. This dynamic raises questions about the driving forces behind this impressive growth. Several airlines, notably the low-cost carriers, have largely contributed to these developments, seeking to expand into new markets while responding to increasing traveler demands. In this article, we will explore the companies that stand out in this expansion and the reasons behind this proliferation of new air routes.

Ryanair, the undisputed leader #

When discussing the new openings of routes in Europe, the name Ryanair inevitably comes to mind. In 2024, the Irish carrier alone opened 208 new routes, confirming its status as a market leader. This dynamic is particularly noteworthy given the context where other companies, although significant, struggle to achieve such a volume of openings.

The strategy of Ryanair is based on flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to market opportunities. Indeed, the company is not afraid to test new connections, even those that may seem risky, and does not hesitate to close them if they are not profitable. This bold approach allows it not only to expand its network but also to maintain a competitive position in European skies.

easyJet, a serious competitor #

In second place is easyJet, which is not far behind with 155 new connections opened in 2024. The British carrier continues to focus on popular destinations while innovating with new routes to attract travelers seeking new experiences.

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Just like Ryanair, easyJet adopts a strategy focused on customer satisfaction, seeking to provide a quality service while maintaining affordable prices. This model allows it to stand out in the European aviation market where competition remains fierce.

Other players in aviation #

After the two low-cost giants, several other companies distinguish themselves to varying degrees in this adventure. Norwegian Airlines recorded 62 new openings, while Wizz Air added 57 to its network. These companies, although less known than the market leaders, actively participate in this expansion.

The French carrier Transavia, a subsidiary of Air France, also contributed to this new annual total with 51 new lines, highlighting the growing importance of the low-cost sector in the French and European market. The fact that these companies are primarily focused on intra-European connections allows them to bypass certain administrative constraints, thus facilitating the opening of new routes.

An economic calculation #

The reason for this explosion in the number of air connections is also economic. Low-cost carriers, with their reduced fares and flexible operational structure, meet a growing demand from travelers wishing to explore new destinations without breaking the bank.

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This phenomenon is accentuated by an increased mobility of consumers who, after years of restrictions related to the Covid-19 pandemic, are eager to travel again. Airlines have understood this well, and many are not hesitating to expand their networks to capture this demand.

Moreover, the competitiveness of prices and the increase in capacity at certain airports favor this dynamics of opening new connections, allowing companies to test routes where competition is still limited.