In 2023, air passenger transport in the European Union (EU-27) amounted to some 976.4 million passengers. This was a significant increase of 19 percent compared to the previous year. However, the 2023 value still slightly below the pre-pandemic year's figure due to the ongoing effects of the coronavirus pandemic, the cost of living crisis and rising energy and jet fuel prices. Altogether, they put pressure on airlines and air passengers.

Monthly number of passengers carried (arrivals plus departures), broken down by airport and by type of transport (national, international, intra- and extra-EU). Passengers carried are (1) all passengers on a particular flight (with one flight number) counted once only and not repeatedly on each individual stage of that flight, (2) all revenue and non-revenue passengers whose journey begins or terminates at the reporting airport and transfer passengers joining or leaving the flight at the reporting airport. Excludes direct transit passengers.

Between 2013 and 2019, the passenger traffic on commercial airlines in Europe was mostly stable. However, due to the coronavirus pandemic, passenger traffic declined by 70 percent in 2020 compared to the pre-pandemic year of 2019. In the following years, the year-on-year passenger traffic growth figures increased again, specifically in 2022, this figure increased by 104 percent compared to the previous year. In 2024, the number of passengers was estimated to increase by 8.7 percent and by seven percent in 2025.

Europe's airline industry continued to evolve, with Ryanair securing its position as the continent's leading carrier based on flight traffic. The Irish low-cost airline operated an impressive 95,892 flights in 2024, far outpacing its closest competitors. This dominance reflected the ongoing shift in European air travel preferences and the growing influence of budget carriers in the market. Market dynamics and passenger demand In 2023, global aviation passenger demand increased by over 36 percent compared to the previous year, with forecasts projecting a further 12 percent growth in 2024. This upward trajectory has been particularly beneficial for low-cost carriers, which held a 33 percent market share in European air traffic in 2023. Industry landscape and future outlook While Ryanair leads in flight numbers, the European airline industry remained diverse and competitive. Mainline operators still maintain the largest market share at 35 percent, operating 9,787 flights in 2023 compared to low-cost airlines' 9,154. The global airline industry's market size reached 762.8 billion U.S. dollars in 2023, marking a five percent increase from the previous year. This growth demonstrated a resilient recovery from the pandemic's impact and indicated potential for further expansion in the global aviation market.

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Europe Aviation Market Size 2025-2029

The europe aviation market size is forecast to increase by USD 117 billion at a CAGR of 6% between 2024 and 2029.

The European aviation market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing efficiency of aircraft and the integration of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. RFID implementation in aircraft maintenance and operations enhances operational efficiency, reduces maintenance costs, and improves safety. However, this market expansion is not without challenges. Regulatory hurdles impact adoption, as stringent aviation regulations necessitate thorough testing and certification processes. Furthermore, fluctuations in oil and gas prices pose a challenge, as they significantly influence the cost structure of aviation fuel, a substantial operating expense for airlines. To capitalize on market opportunities and navigate challenges effectively, companies must stay informed of regulatory developments and invest in technology solutions that optimize fuel consumption and maintenance processes.

What will be the size of the Europe Aviation Market during the forecast period?

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The European aviation market is experiencing dynamic shifts, with advancements in technology shaping the industry's future. Wide-body aircraft and business jets continue to dominate long-haul routes, while charter airlines and low-cost carriers (LCCs) favor single-aisle aircraft for short-haul operations. Flight tracking, mobile boarding passes, and passenger reservation systems streamline the travel experience. Biometric authentication and facial recognition enhance security. Turboprop aircraft and regional aircraft cater to smaller markets, while full-service airlines invest in aircraft maintenance scheduling, route optimization, and flight management software for operational efficiency. Noise reduction technologies and self-service check-in improve passenger comfort. Hydrogen fuel cells and carbon offsetting initiatives address sustainability concerns. Air taxi services and air ambulance services expand accessibility in remote areas. Smart baggage systems and aircraft performance monitoring optimize logistics and reduce downtime. Airport management systems ensure seamless operations and passenger flow.

How is this market segmented?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. Revenue StreamPassengerFreightTypeCommercial aircraftMilitary aircraftGeneral aircraftComponentAircraftMROGround handling servicesGeographyEuropeFranceGermanySpainUK

By Revenue Stream Insights

The passenger segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The European aviation market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing economic prosperity, rising disposable incomes, and evolving travel trends. In Q1 2023, European airports carried 179 million passengers, marking a 56% increase from the previous year. This surge in demand led to over 820 million air travelers in 2022, according to the European Commission (EC). Europe's popularity as a tourist destination continues to attract millions of international visitors. To cater to this growing demand, the aviation industry invests in advanced technologies and infrastructure. Aviation regulations ensure safety and security, while ground-to-air communication systems facilitate seamless coordination. Flight simulators and pilot licensing programs train the next generation of aviators. Aviation safety regulations and airborne radar systems maintain safety in the skies. Electric aircraft and hybrid-electric aircraft are gaining traction, contributing to green aviation initiatives. Big data analytics and machine learning optimize flight operations, aircraft financing, and airport capacity. Cargo aviation and supply chain management are also evolving, with cargo screening and airborne communication systems streamlining the process. Air traffic control, air navigation services, and weather forecasting ensure efficient air travel. Aviation cybersecurity and artificial intelligence (AI) enhance security and risk management. Flight management systems, maintenance training, and fuel efficiency improve operational efficiency. Business aviation and private aviation cater to diverse needs, while commercial aviation addresses the bulk of the demand. Passenger experience is a priority, with passenger processing, passenger comfort, and passenger aviation focusing on enhancing traveler satisfaction. Aviation insurance, baggage handling, and freight forwarding address the logistical aspects of air travel. Airport infrastructure and terminal operations are continually upgraded to accommodate the increasing passenger volume. In conclusion, the European avia

No of Air Flight: EU 27 excl UK data was reported at 2,130,005.000 Unit in Jun 2019. This records an increase from the previous number of 1,668,213.000 Unit for Mar 2019. No of Air Flight: EU 27 excl UK data is updated quarterly, averaging 1,765,837.000 Unit from Mar 2008 (Median) to Jun 2019, with 46 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 2,282,810.000 Unit in Sep 2018 and a record low of 1,371,000.000 Unit in Mar 2014. No of Air Flight: EU 27 excl UK data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Eurostat. The data is categorized under Global Database’s European Union – Table EU.TA010: Eurostat: Air Statistics: No of Air Flight. [COVID-19-IMPACT]

The CAA collects statistics from more than 60 UK Airports. Information is supplied on each individual air transport flight with other movements, for example Private or Aero Club, being reported as a block monthly total.

From the individual flight records it is possible to build up pictures of the activity at each reporting airport. In addition the traffic and capacity on each route to/from the airport can be assessed. Airport statistics are available as monthly or annual publications or you may commission reports to suit your particular needs.

In 2023, the revenue of the flight market in Europe amounted to over 138.4 billion U.S. dollars, a 31 percent increase compared to the previous year's figure. From 2007 to 2023, the revenue in the market overall increased, despite the downward trend caused by the coronavirus pandemic. It is expected that the European flight market will grow slightly over the years and reach 148.6 billion U.S. dollars in 2027.

The table shows the monthly number of passengers carried in Europe (arrivals plus departures), broken down by airport and by type of transport (national, international, intra- and extra-EU). The table aims at presenting the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on air transport, therefore the latest data (16 months) is available in the table. For longer time series and the data at different periodicity, please refer to Air passenger transport by main airports in each reporting country [avia_paoa] Eurobase table. Passengers carried: - are all passengers on a particular flight (with one flight number) counted once only and not repeatedly on each individual stage of that flight. - are all revenue and non-revenue passengers whose journey begins or terminates at the reporting airport and transfer passengers joining or leaving the flight at the reporting airport. - excludes direct transit passengers.

Graph and download economic data for Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices: Passenger Transport by Air for European Union (27 Countries from 2020) (CP0733EU272020M086NEST) from Dec 2000 to Apr 2025 about passenger, EU, air travel, travel, harmonized, Europe, transportation, CPI, price index, indexes, and price.

In 2023, mainline operators were the leading factor in European air traffic, with a total flights of 9,787. Low-cost airlines ranked second on the list, with 9,154 flights.

Switzerland Air Transport: Direct Flight: Freight: Europe: Latvia data was reported at 15,181.000 kg in Mar 2020. This records a decrease from the previous number of 20,099.000 kg for Dec 2019. Switzerland Air Transport: Direct Flight: Freight: Europe: Latvia data is updated quarterly, averaging 4,249.000 kg from Dec 2006 (Median) to Mar 2020, with 54 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 27,089.000 kg in Jun 2019 and a record low of 5.000 kg in Dec 2006. Switzerland Air Transport: Direct Flight: Freight: Europe: Latvia data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Swiss Federal Statistical Office. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Switzerland – Table CH.TA011: Air Transport: Freight Statistics.

Annual Profit and Loss, Airline Appropriation & Balance Sheet statistics are collected from all major UK Airlines (those whose total fleet exceeds 200 Tonnes maximum take off weight authorised). Data is reported and published according to airlines financial year ends.

From the monthly airline data we collect we also publish annual Operating and Traffic Statistics based on the airlines financial year ends in this suite of tables.

The global market for Big Data-based flight operations is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing need for enhanced operational efficiency, predictive maintenance, and improved passenger experience within the airline industry. The market's expansion is fueled by the adoption of advanced analytics to optimize flight scheduling, fuel consumption, and resource allocation. Airlines are leveraging big data to gain real-time insights into flight performance, weather patterns, and passenger preferences, leading to significant cost savings and improved decision-making. The cloud-based segment is experiencing faster growth compared to on-premises solutions due to scalability, cost-effectiveness, and accessibility. International flights currently dominate the application segment, reflecting the complexity and data intensity associated with long-haul operations. However, the domestic flight segment is expected to witness substantial growth as airlines increasingly adopt big data analytics for efficient domestic route management and passenger service improvement. The Asia-Pacific region, particularly China and India, is projected to be a key growth driver due to the rapid expansion of the aviation sector in these markets. Competitive pressures among airlines are further accelerating the adoption of big data technologies to achieve operational excellence and maintain a competitive edge. Challenges remain, including data security concerns, integration complexities, and the need for skilled professionals to manage and interpret the vast amounts of data generated. Despite these challenges, the long-term outlook for the Big Data-based flight operations market remains positive, promising substantial growth over the forecast period. The market’s growth trajectory is expected to be influenced by several factors. Technological advancements continue to push the boundaries of data analysis capabilities, enabling more sophisticated applications. Government regulations promoting data-driven improvements in aviation safety and efficiency are providing further impetus. The increasing adoption of Internet of Things (IoT) devices in aircraft is further enriching the data pool, providing richer insights. However, potential restraints include the high initial investment costs associated with implementing big data infrastructure, the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data, and the ongoing need for skilled data scientists and analysts to interpret the complex data sets. Nevertheless, the substantial benefits in terms of cost optimization, improved operational efficiency, and enhanced passenger experience are expected to outweigh these challenges, driving sustained market growth in the coming years. We estimate a market size of approximately $2.5 billion in 2025, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% through 2033.

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Commercial Airlines Market Size 2025-2029

The commercial airlines market size is forecast to increase by USD 430.2 billion, at a CAGR of 8.7% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven primarily by the increasing air passenger traffic. This trend is expected to continue as the global population grows and disposable income increases, leading to an expansion in the number of people traveling for business and leisure purposes. Another key driver is the rising preference for smart airports, which offer enhanced passenger experiences through advanced technology and improved infrastructure. However, this market is not without challenges. Operating expenses are on the rise due to factors such as fuel costs, labor expenses, and maintenance fees. These costs can put pressure on airlines' profitability and require strategic planning to mitigate their impact.
Additionally, the industry faces regulatory challenges, including safety regulations and environmental concerns, which can impact operational efficiency and require significant investments in compliance. To capitalize on market opportunities and navigate challenges effectively, airlines must focus on optimizing their operations, investing in technology, and building strong partnerships with industry stakeholders.

What will be the Size of the Commercial Airlines Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The commercial aviation market continues to evolve, with dynamic market activities shaping various sectors. Aviation security remains a top priority, with continuous advancements in technology and regulations. Freight forwarding is experiencing growth, driven by the increasing demand for efficient supply chain management. Customer service is a key differentiator, with full-service carriers investing in personalized travel experiences and loyalty programs. Fuel efficiency is a major focus, with the adoption of smart airports, cloud computing, and in-flight entertainment systems. Hybrid aircraft and electric aircraft are emerging technologies, offering potential for reduced carbon emissions and cost savings. Route planning and hub airports are essential components of fleet management, with real-time data analysis and optimization techniques improving operational efficiency.

Autonomous aircraft and artificial intelligence are transforming aircraft leasing and maintenance, enabling predictive maintenance and fleet optimization. Cargo flights and air cargo are integral to business travel and e-commerce, with the integration of biometric authentication streamlining the passenger experience. Flight cancellations and delays are ongoing challenges, with digital transformation and real-time communication tools improving response times and reducing disruptions. Safety regulations and air traffic control remain critical, with ongoing collaboration between stakeholders ensuring a safe and efficient aviation industry. Airline alliances and low-cost carriers are shaping the competitive landscape, with online ticketing and baggage handling services enhancing the passenger experience.

The aviation industry is a complex and ever-changing ecosystem, with ongoing innovation and adaptation essential for success.

How is this Commercial Airlines Industry segmented?

The commercial airlines industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Revenue Stream

  Passenger
  Cargo


Type

  International
  Domestic


Range Outlook

  Short-haul
  Medium-haul
  Long-haul
  Ultra-long haul


Fuel Efficiency

  Conventional Jet Fuel
  Biofuels
  Electric Propulsion
  Hydrogen-powered


Operation Model

  Scheduled Flights
  Charter Flights
  Wet Leasing


Business Model

  Network Carriers
  Point-to-Point Carriers
  Ultra-Low-Cost Carriers (ULCCs)


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    Egypt
    KSA
    Oman
    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Argentina
    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

.

By Revenue Stream Insights

The passenger segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market experienced significant activity in 2024, with the passenger segment leading the growth. The surge in air travel, particularly in the APAC region, drove this trend, resulting in approximately 4.6 billion passenger footfalls in airports, marking a 28.3% increase. In response, major aircraft Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are upgrading their production facilities to meet

Switzerland Air Transport: Direct Flight: Freight: Europe data was reported at 7,970,248.000 kg in Jun 2020. This records a decrease from the previous number of 12,015,070.000 kg for Mar 2020. Switzerland Air Transport: Direct Flight: Freight: Europe data is updated quarterly, averaging 11,568,290.000 kg from Mar 2005 (Median) to Jun 2020, with 62 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 14,622,521.000 kg in Dec 2017 and a record low of 117,909.000 kg in Sep 2006. Switzerland Air Transport: Direct Flight: Freight: Europe data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Swiss Federal Statistical Office. The data is categorized under Global Database’s Switzerland – Table CH.TA011: Air Transport: Freight Statistics.

The Europe General Aviation Market is segmented by Sub Aircraft Type (Business Jets, Piston Fixed-Wing Aircraft, Others) and by Country (France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Russia, Spain, Turkey, UK). Key Data Points observed include air passenger traffic, air transport freight, defense spending, military aircraft active fleet, revenue passenger kilometers, high-net worth individuals, and inflation rate.

Data on flight movements, passengers, cargo and mail at Dutch airports.

Summary of the contents of the EU figure in this publication: The composition of the European Union (EU-15) until 2004: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and United Kingdom. In 2005 the European Union (EU-25) expanded with: Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia. In 2007 Bulgaria and Romania have been added (EU-27). In 2014 Croatia was added (EU-28). As of February 2020 the United Kingdom has left the European Union.

Data available from: Annual figures available from 1997; monthly figures available from January 1999.

Status of the figures: The figures are final up to and including 2023, 2024 and for the current year are provisional.

Up to and including December 2020 the figures of EU countries include data for the UK. This to guarantee the comparability of the data. As of January 2021 data for the UK are included in the figures of "other Europe".

As of 8 November 2022 the figures for Eindhoven airport for the reporting period April, May and June 2022 have been adjusted as a result of additional information. As a result, the marginal totals for the months of April, May and June 2022 have also been adjusted.

Due to renovation work on the runway at Maastricht Aachen Airport, there was no air traffic at this airport from 8 May 2023 to 30 June 2023.

Changes as of 3 June 2025: The figures for April 2025 have been added.

When will figures become available? The monthly figures are published as a rule 1 month after the end of the reporting month.

The CAA collects statistics from all United Kingdom airlines. Monthly aggregate information is supplied on each route served together with quarterly returns of fleet and personnel data and, for the major carriers, annual standardised profit and loss accounts and balance sheets.

From the individual route level data it is possible to build up pictures of the activity of each airline. In addition the traffic and capacity on each route can be assessed. Airline statistics are available as monthly or annual publications or you may commission reports, within certain confidentiality constraints, to suit your particular needs.

Graph and download economic data for Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices: Transport Services for Euro Area (20 Countries) (CP073MI15EA20M086NEST) from Dec 1999 to Apr 2025 about passenger, air travel, travel, Euro Area, World, Europe, and transportation.