How The Middle East LCCs Will Change Asia To Europe Long Haul

Asia Pacific has been a pioneer in the development of the low cost long haul model, having had such flights for 12 years, or seven years longer than any other region. Nearly 40% of low cost long haul routes touch Southeast Asia and nearly 15% touch Australia, making them the world’s largest low cost long haul markets.

However, LCC growth in the Middle East has fuelled speculation this region could tap into the long haul low cost market and completely redefine Asia to Europe long haul. Flydubai has grown the fastest of the Middle Eastern carriers, expanding its fleet from 35 aircraft in Apr-2014 to 47 aircraft in Apr-2019 (or 58 aircraft when its 11 737MAX 8s are included). Air Arabia has added nine aircraft over the past five years, from 31 A320s in Apr-2014 to 40 A320s in Apr-2019 (according to the CAPA Fleet Database). Flynas’ fleet has been flat over the past five years but the airline is planning to resume expansion over the next few years as it takes delivery of new A320neos.

• What long haul Asia and Middle East markets are poised for LCLH growth?
• Are the Middle East LCCs targeting long haul routes?
• What impact will Middle East routes have on Asia?