Introduction
The aviation industry has been hard hit by the coronavirus pandemic, with many carriers reducing operations or going out of business altogether. But two of Europe’s leading budget airlines, Ryanair and Wizz Air, have bucked the trend and seen a surge in passenger numbers in the first month of 2021. This is a testament to their low fares and robust strategies for managing the disruptions caused by Covid-19.
Ryanair and Wizz Air Passenger Numbers Soar
Ryanair, Europe’s largest budget airline, saw a 5% increase in passenger numbers in January compared to the same period last year. This brought the total number of passengers to 8.3 million, despite the fact that the airline was operating at only 40% of its normal schedule. Meanwhile, Budapest-based Wizz Air reported an impressive 15.1% jump in passenger numbers, totalling 4.5 million.
The success of both airlines can be attributed to their competitive prices and focus on safety during the pandemic. Ryanair has implemented stringent guidelines such as mandatory face masks, regular disinfection of aircraft, and contactless check-ins. Wizz Air has taken similar steps, as well as offering Covid-19 insurance to give passengers added peace of mind.
European Budget Airlines Enjoy Record January
The strong showing from Ryanair and Wizz Air has been echoed across the budget airline sector. EasyJet, Europe’s second largest budget airline, reported 9.4 million passengers in January, a 4.1% increase on the same period last year. This is an indication that, despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, there is still strong demand for budget flights.
Elsewhere, Norwegian Air has seen a 9% jump in passenger numbers in January, reaching 1.9 million. The airline has benefited from a joint venture with EasyJet and is now well positioned to benefit from a resurgence in travel as the pandemic recedes. Finally, Vueling, Spain’s largest budget airline, reported a 6.6% rise in passengers, to 3.1 million.
Low Fares Attract Travellers Despite Covid Disruptions
The success of the leading European budget airlines in January is a testament to their ability to offer competitive prices while still ensuring the safety of passengers. Ryanair and Wizz Air have both been quick to adapt to the new normal of travel, rolling out new protocols to protect passengers and crew.
This has enabled them to attract customers who are looking for good value flights despite the disruption caused by the pandemic. With vaccines being rolled out across Europe, it is likely that there will be an increase in demand for flights in the coming months, and Ryanair, Wizz Air, and the other European budget carriers are well positioned to take advantage of the situation.
Conclusion
The January figures from leading European budget airlines show that despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, there is still strong demand for flights. Ryanair and Wizz Air have both seen an increase in passenger numbers thanks to their competitive prices and robust safety protocols. As the pandemic recedes, this trend is likely to continue, with passengers increasingly looking for good value flights.
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