A 7.1% rise in passenger number for the first half of 2011 was today (September 29) reported by the European Regions Airline Association (ERA).
The Association, which represents 65 intra-European carriers, said the corresponding figure for 2010 was just 2.9%, although it said numbers then were distorted by the volcanic ash cloud over the continent.
ERA said the latest figures suggested that its members were “beginning to show signs of recovery from the global economic crisis.”
But it warned that economic uncertainty and anticipated regulatory proposals clouded future prospects.
Mike Ambrose, ERA’s director general, told its general assembly in Rome today that the figures showed intra-European airlines were “resilient, resourceful and required by the citizens of Europe.”
But he added: “However, the industry’s stability is threatened by considerable economic uncertainty in Europe compounded by a series of forthcoming regulatory proposals which includes Airport Slots, Emissions Trading, VAT on airfares and even bankruptcy protection for consumers.
“It is time for Europe’s regulatory bodies to recognise intra-European airlines as economic enablers for Europe and to work with us, not against us, towards common goals on Europe’s economy, mobility, competitiveness and social cohesion.”