Worry Over Future of Small European Airports Due to Energy Crisis

The future of regional air connectivity across Europe hangs precariously in the balance, as small airports grapple with the severe economic fallout from the ongoing energy crisis. The Airports Council International Europe (ACI Europe) has issued a stark warning: these vital hubs, often the lifeblood of their local economies, are facing an 'existential threat' due to soaring fuel costs and airlines' increasing focus on profitability.

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The current fuel prices and the prospect of a new crisis in purchasing power mean that many of our continent's regional airports risk facing a supply and demand shock at the same time.

ACI Europe's Director General, Olivier Jankovec, articulated the gravity of the situation, explaining that the combination of high aviation fuel prices and a potential decline in consumer spending power could trigger a simultaneous supply and demand shock. This dual blow is particularly damaging to regional airports, which are inherently less profitable for airlines. As carriers rationalize their networks, these smaller airports are disproportionately vulnerable to route cancellations and service reductions.

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For many of these airports, the situation constitutes an existential threat.

The recent decision by Lufthansa to cease operations of its regional subsidiary, CityLine, serves as a chilling example. This move, which impacted routes connecting major hubs like Munich and Frankfurt to cities such as Bordeaux, Naples, and Birmingham, underscores the fragility of regional air transport. The data is clear: while larger airports are recovering passenger numbers, regional airports lag significantly behind, with traffic remaining 30% below 2019 levels.

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At the time of reviewing or eliminating options, airlines have more opportunities to do so on lines serving regional airports.

From our perspective at Ta Nea, this is not just an aviation industry issue; it's a matter of European cohesion and economic development. These smaller airports are crucial for maintaining regional accessibility, supporting local businesses, and fostering tourism. The disparity in recovery between large and small airports highlights a growing divide within the European air transport landscape. We urge European governments and the EU to heed ACI Europe's calls for support, whether through the abolition of ticket taxes or continued operational aid, to safeguard these essential gateways and prevent a significant disruption to regional connectivity.

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There is a clear gap between small regional airports, whose passenger traffic remains 30% lower than 2019 levels, and larger airports, which are recording an increase of more than 16%.