New Study: Aviation Taxes, Charges, & Fees Have Limited Impact on Passenger Numbers - CleanTechnica

A recent study commissioned by the green group Transport & Environment (T&E) and conducted by economists Prof. Friedrich Thießen and Prof. Christoph Brützel finds that aviation demand is primarily influenced by airline strategies, market trends, and travel behavior rather than national aviation taxes, charges, and fees. Analyzing 101 European airports in 2024, the study reveals only a weak correlation between location-based costs and passenger numbers. For example, Heathrow Airport, despite having the highest costs, also has the highest passenger volume in Europe. The research also shows that changes in ticket prices have had limited impact on passenger demand historically, with factors such as airline business models, hub status, and international agreements playing a more significant role. The study highlights that demand in aviation is mainly supply-driven, with airlines setting flight schedules well in advance and adjusting prices to fill seats. It also notes that external factors like hotel costs and the global decline in business travel post-COVID have influenced passenger numbers. Leisure travel has increased