Air Charter Guide has reported in its European market survey that charter bookings continue to show consistent growth. European operators report an average overall gain of six per cent for January 2002 over January 2001.

The company’s survey of 72 operators from 19 countries across Europe showed that jet aircraft, the preferred option for business travel, is leading industry growth.

Bookings for medium-sized jets are up 12.7 per cent over last year, light jets are up 9.1 per cent, and heavy jets are up 7.5 per cent.

“This growth in jet aircraft bookings in Europe confirms that increase in demand, particularly from business travellers, is an international trend.

“Executives are finding increased value in the timesavings and convenience offered by air charter,” said Meara McLaughlin, vp for Air Charter Guide’s e-services. “Commercial air travel is plagued with delays and more complex security, and travellers are opting more and more for air charter."

Charter brokers have historically driven the European air charter market and the survey reveals that brokers remain an important link in the charter chain.\r

Operators report a solid five per cent gain in wholesale business from brokers. Retail growth, where operators sell directly to their customers, is also up.

Most notable is the fact that in the UK, where the reported average of total business growth exceeds

10 per cent, growth in retail demand and bookings has increased 16.9 per cent.

“As the internet becomes more accessible in Europe, it is natural that customers will seek their own information about air charter travel options,” continued McLaughlin. “Real-time quoting and booking, through systems such as our CharterX Network, will facilitate this next growth opportunity for charter operators and brokers.”

Full details of the European survey and market analysis will be distributed at EBACE 2002.