Socio-economic effects of banning domestic flights
24032
2024
This study examined the socio-economic impact of a possible ban on domestic flights by jet or turboprop aircraft. TML analysed the impact of this measure on affected target groups and society, focusing on flight movements, economic and social impacts, and environmental effects.
This study analysed the socio-economic impact of a ban on domestic flights by jet or turboprop aircraft, with a focus on the environmental impact of such a ban. Aviation in general accounts for a significant proportion of CO2 emissions. Flights over very short distances make up only a small proportion of all flights but contribute disproportionately to these emissions. Moreover, for these very short flights there are generally good alternative ways to travel. Thus, considering the climate objectives to which Belgium has committed, a ban on domestic flights is a measure that, although limited, could have a relatively large impact.
TML identified the potential effects of the measure for the various target groups involved and for society as a whole. To answer that question, we first wanted to get a good understanding of exactly what the measure does and what the effects on the number of flight movements would be. In summary, the study tried to answer four questions:
We collected and analysed available data on flight movements and motives between Belgian airports. We also conducted several interviews with industry stakeholders such as airport operators, charter companies, private jet operators, and regulatory authorities.
We then analysed the direct and indirect effects of the measure, particularly the effects on the number of aircraft movements, economic effects, social effects, and environmental effects.
The results of the analyses were compiled in a final report for the client.
This study analysed the socio-economic impact of a ban on domestic flights by jet or turboprop aircraft, with a focus on the environmental impact of such a ban. Aviation in general accounts for a significant proportion of CO2 emissions. Flights over very short distances make up only a small proportion of all flights but contribute disproportionately to these emissions. Moreover, for these very short flights there are generally good alternative ways to travel. Thus, considering the climate objectives to which Belgium has committed, a ban on domestic flights is a measure that, although limited, could have a relatively large impact.
TML identified the potential effects of the measure for the various target groups involved and for society as a whole. To answer that question, we first wanted to get a good understanding of exactly what the measure does and what the effects on the number of flight movements would be. In summary, the study tried to answer four questions:
- How many domestic flights are there currently, for which uses, and what is the expected evolution under unchanged policies?
- Why are these domestic flights operated?
- What effect is a ban expected to have on aviation and travel by other modes?
- How will these changes affect the economy, society, and the environment?
We collected and analysed available data on flight movements and motives between Belgian airports. We also conducted several interviews with industry stakeholders such as airport operators, charter companies, private jet operators, and regulatory authorities.
We then analysed the direct and indirect effects of the measure, particularly the effects on the number of aircraft movements, economic effects, social effects, and environmental effects.
The results of the analyses were compiled in a final report for the client.
