Assessing operational efficiency of airports with high levels of low-cost carrier traffic

The past few years have seen a significant increase in low-cost carrier traffic that has in several ways, affected airport operations. Only limited analysis, however, of the connection between airport efficiency and low-cost carriers has been conducted. We use data from 10 Greek airports that handle approximately 85% of low-cost carrier demand in the country, to investigate this connection. We find that low-cost carrier traffic, with its highly seasonal characteristics, significantly affects efficiency findings.

► The paper examines connections between airport efficiency and low-cost carriers.
► We find that low-cost carrier traffic, with its highly seasonal characteristics, significantly affects airport efficiency.
► Airport infrastructure underutilization varies considerably in Greece.