Measuring the size of an airport’s catchment area

Although much empirical research exists on the factors that drive passenger airport choice, not much is known about the related topic of airport catchment area size. This paper presents a novel methodology to assess the size of airport catchment areas and the airport’s market shares therein using a MNL passenger choice model. The methodology is applied to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The results show that the size of its catchment area differs considerably by destination. Schiphol’s market share within its catchment area declined between 2005 and 2011 due to increased competition from airports located to the south and southeast. Airports may use the presented methodology to evaluate the spatial nature of their catchment areas to understand passenger airport choice and the competitive forces in their respective hinterland regions. In addition, the methodology shows airports the effects of changes to service level offerings (in terms of frequencies and fares) on their catchment area and the market shares therein. Furthermore, the methodology may be of use to policymakers to estimate the competitive position of airports in the OD-markets served and to assess the effects of infrastructure investments on catchment area size and airport market shares.

► Novel methodology to measure airport catchment area size and market shares therein.
► Measuring catchment area size on the level of specific destinations.
► Effects on catchment areas of investments in airside and landside accessibility.
► Catchment area of Schiphol airport decreased to south and (south)east since 2005.
► Airport catchment area size differs significantly by destinations offered.