The 2025 Airport Industry Connectivity Report published by ACI EUROPE (Airports Council International) once again confirmed İGA Istanbul Airport’s leadership in global aviation. According to the report, Istanbul Airport ranked first in Europe for direct connectivity and maintained its position as the world’s top airport for hub connectivity—leading in two major categories.
Record Increase in Connectivity from Istanbul Airport
Since 2019, Istanbul Airport has increased its direct connections by 13% and global hub connectivity by an impressive 59%, surpassing Frankfurt to reach the top of the global rankings. This confirms that Istanbul Airport is not just a transfer point, but a major centre for international passenger traffic and global air commerce.
Türkiye: Regional Leader in Connectivity Growth
İGA’s success reflects Türkiye’s broader performance. The report highlights Türkiye as one of the leading countries for connectivity growth in non-EU markets, with a 36% increase. Türkiye was followed by Uzbekistan (+73%), Albania (+56%), and Bosnia and Herzegovina (+40%).
Sustainable Growth and the Advantage of Strategic Location
Istanbul Airport’s success stems from its geographic location, modern infrastructure, expansive flight network, and high service quality. Located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Istanbul strategically leverages its position through Turkish Airlines’ growing transfer network.
These developments provide Türkiye with a competitive edge not only in passenger transportation but also in air cargo, tourism, investment, and international trade.
ACI EUROPE 2025 Connectivity Report: European Aviation Faces New Realities
Based on indexes developed by Amsterdam Economics, the report underscores the critical role air connectivity plays in Europe’s competitiveness, strategic autonomy, and global positioning.
Air Connectivity Still Below Pre-Pandemic Levels
Although total air connectivity (direct + indirect) across Europe rose by 7% in 2025 compared to the previous year, it remains 9% below 2019 levels. This contrasts with the post-pandemic rebound in passenger numbers and indicates that travellers continue to face fewer and more expensive travel options.
Geopolitical Risks and Policy Misalignment Weaken Connectivity
The report warns that inconsistent aviation policies, geopolitical tensions, and structural market shifts are significantly impacting airline connectivity. Particularly sharp declines in Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine have caused average connectivity in non-EU countries to lag 12% behind. Israel also experienced a notable loss (-21%) due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
ACI EUROPE Director General Olivier Jankovec issued the following warning:
“Air connectivity is not just about ease of travel—it’s a vital element for Europe’s economic vitality, global reach, and even geopolitical power. However, fragmented policies, punitive taxes, and shifting market dynamics are putting these links at risk.”
The report also reminds readers that every 10% increase in direct air connectivity corresponds to a 0.5% rise in per capita GDP, meaning that connectivity gaps represent tangible economic losses for European citizens.
LCCs on the Rise, Traditional Carriers in Decline
The report shows that direct connectivity offered by ultra-low-cost carriers (LCCs) has increased by 19% since 2019, while that provided by full-service carriers (FSCs) has decreased by 15%. This trend reflects the growing dominance of leisure and VFR (visiting friends and relatives) travel, which traditional hub-based carriers are struggling to keep up with.
Western Europe Falling Behind
Major EU countries like France (-14%), Germany (-21%), Sweden (-33%), and Finland (-30%) have seen significant drops in connectivity. Only Spain, with a tourism-driven model, managed to surpass its 2019 level (+3%). These declines are attributed to aviation taxes, weak demand, and geopolitical restrictions.
© AeroHaber.com / Mevlüt Zor – mevlutzorr@gmail.com
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