How regional low-cost carriers are flying high amid travel recovery

How regional low-cost carriers are flying high amid travel recovery

Traditionally viewed as exotic and luxurious holiday destinations, Middle Eastern countries are trying to recover tourism without diluting their ‘luxury’ appeal. A report by data analytics and consulting firm, , predicts that the Middle East is set for a low-cost carrier (LCC) boom, as the region experiences demand for affordable luxury. As such, countries like the UAE, Bahrain and Kuwait are diversifying into mainstream leisure markets with the help of low-cost carriers. The premise is simple: travel cheap, but still holiday in luxury. With the onset of the pandemic, low-cost fares have become valuable and perhaps the most influential factor in booking a holiday as shown in a . Fifty-eight per cent of the survey’s respondents pointed toward the cost factor. Amongst UAE-based respondents, 57 per cent agreed with this sentiment. Both numbers high-light the demand for affordable holidays along with a demand for low-cost airlines from both inbound and outbound tourists. With passengers facing the pressures of grow-ing inflation, budget airlines with fares costing up to 60 per cent less than average full-service carriers have become the preferred choice for a majority of travellers. From top-line growth to expanding networks and fleets, the region’s budget carriers have demonstrated an