IATA has warned that European air connectivity growth stalled in 2025 as rising regulatory pressures costs and operational challenges affected airline route development.
International Air Transport Association (IATA) has warned that European air connectivity growth effectively stalled during 2025 as airlines faced increasing regulatory and operational pressures.
According to new industry data released by IATA, the total number of airline routes connecting Europe grew by only one per cent during the year.
IATA warns European air connectivity growth has stalled
The aviation industry body said European connectivity growth fell below the long term average annual growth rate of 1.5 per cent recorded over the previous decade.
IATA reported that 1,127 routes across the European Union were cancelled during 2025, while 1,281 routes were launched or restored.
This resulted in a net increase of only 154 routes across Europe’s air network, bringing the total number of routes operating across the continent to 14,797.
The organisation stated that the slow growth reflects a difficult operating environment for airlines, including rising costs, regulatory burdens and broader economic challenges affecting European competitiveness.
Thomas Reynaert said airlines continue facing frustration over European aviation policy, particularly surrounding passenger rights regulation and rising operational costs.
IATA highlighted concerns regarding proposed revisions to EU261 passenger rights legislation, arguing that current rules are increasing financial pressure on airlines and limiting route viability.
The association estimated that EU261 currently costs airlines around €8 billion annually.
Alongside regulatory concerns, IATA also warned that high Sustainable Aviation Fuel costs, increasing airport and air navigation charges, and national passenger taxes are placing further strain on airline operations.
The organisation called on European policymakers to implement reforms including increased compensation thresholds under EU261, reduced Sustainable Aviation Fuel costs, more flexible airport slot rules and the removal of national passenger taxes.
IATA stated that aviation and aviation related tourism currently support more than 9.2 million jobs and contribute around €760 billion to European Union gross domestic product.
According to the association, improving aviation policy and reducing operational burdens could help strengthen airline connectivity growth while supporting economic development and mobility across Europe.
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