OAG’s FACTS (Frequency and Capacity Trend Statistics) report for November 2013 shows a global net increase of 10.8m international seats compared to November 2012 (an increase of 5.5%). This figure reflects the addition of 11.8m seats across 48 country markets (64% of total markets); only 16 country markets will see lower volumes (a combined reduction of 900,000 seats). As a region, Asia-Pacific will account for the greatest increase, led by Thailand and China, which will both add almost 1m international seats this month. However, as a country, the UAE will be the global leader, with 1.2m extra international seats offered.
In contrast, the global market for domestic seats will see a net increase of only 8.1m seats (growth of 4.2% versus November 2012). While carriers will offer 10m new domestic seats in the month compared to November 2012, this increase is partly offset by a reduction of 1.9m seats across certain regions. Decreases are particularly marked in western Europe, where nearly three quarters of markets will see domestic seat capacity fall by an average 13%. Globally, Spain will see the greatest reduction in domestic seats this month, while Italy, France and the UK will also see notable reductions. In contrast, strong growth in Asian markets will see 7.2m extra domestic seats operated, with China alone adding 3.7m extra seats (a rise of 11%).
John Grant, executive vice president, OAG, comments: “The Asia-Pacific region continues a well-established pattern in driving growth in both domestic and international seat capacity. In contrast, the picture in Europe is more mixed: Spain, Italy, France and the UK - four of the five largest markets - will see domestic seat volumes decline, although each will also see an increase in international seats. This situation appears to reflect continued economic challenges in Europe and the importance of exports for economic recovery.”
