In the second quarter of 2020, the number of passengers carried by airlines decreased by over 96% in all 19 EU member states for which data is available, compared to the same period in 2019, according to data published by the European Statistical Office (Eurostat).
To prevent the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, countries around the world adopted various restrictive measures.
The 19 EU member states for which data is available are Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Ireland, Spain, France, Croatia, Italy, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, Portugal, Slovenia, Slovakia, and Finland.
The most significant annual decline in the number of passengers carried was recorded in the second quarter of 2020 in Spain (minus 99%), Germany (minus 97%), France (minus 97%), Italy (minus 98%), the Netherlands (minus 96%), Portugal (minus 97%), Ireland (minus 98%), Austria (minus 98%), and Denmark (minus 97%).
Frequently Asked Questions
How much did EU air traffic decrease in Q2 2020?Air passenger numbers dropped by over 96% across 19 EU member states compared to the previous year.
Which EU country saw the largest decline in air passengers?Spain recorded the most significant drop, with a 99% decrease in passenger numbers during the second quarter of 2020.
What caused the massive drop in European air transport?The decline was primarily caused by restrictive measures and travel bans implemented globally to curb the COVID-19 pandemic.